How Much Is Alcohol Pass Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

The Norwegian Cruise Line alcohol pass, called the “Premium Plus Beverage Package,” starts at $99 per person, per day, offering unlimited drinks including premium cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits. It’s a cost-effective choice for frequent drinkers, but pricing can vary by itinerary and demand—book early for the best rates.

Key Takeaways

• Compare pass tiers: Choose from basic to premium alcohol packages based on your drinking preferences.
• Book early: Save up to 20% by purchasing your pass before boarding the ship.
• Check inclusions: Some passes exclude specialty cocktails or top-shelf liquor—read terms carefully.
• Daily limits apply: Most passes cap drinks per day to prevent excessive consumption.
• Group discounts: Buy passes for 3+ guests to unlock exclusive savings on NCL cruises.

How Much Is Alcohol Pass Norwegian Cruise Line? Let’s Break It Down

So you’ve booked a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) vacation—congrats! You’re in for a treat with their “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which means no set dining times, relaxed dress codes, and a ton of onboard activities. But as you start planning your trip, you might be asking yourself: *How much is alcohol pass Norwegian Cruise Line?* It’s a fair question, especially when you’re trying to budget for a vacation that already includes flights, excursions, and souvenirs.

Alcohol packages, or “drink passes,” are a big deal on cruises. For many travelers, sipping a cocktail by the pool or enjoying a glass of wine with dinner is part of the vacation vibe. But unlike some all-inclusive resorts, most cruise lines—including Norwegian—don’t include alcohol in the base fare. Instead, they offer optional drink packages. The cost, inclusions, and value of these packages can vary, so understanding what you’re getting (and what you’re paying) is essential. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Norwegian Cruise Line’s alcohol pass options, including pricing, what’s included, how to get the best value, and whether it’s worth it for your travel style. I’ll even share a few personal tips from my own NCL cruise experience.

What Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Alcohol Pass?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several drink packages designed to make your onboard beverage experience easier—and potentially more affordable. The main alcohol pass is called the Premium Beverage Package (PBP), but there are also options for non-alcoholic drinks, wine, and specialty coffee. Let’s explore what each includes and how they work.

Premium Beverage Package (PBP): The Most Popular Choice

The PBP is the go-to alcohol pass for most cruisers. It’s designed for adults who want to enjoy a wide variety of drinks without worrying about the per-drink cost. Here’s what you get:

• All drinks up to $15 in value
• Includes beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages
• Valid at bars, lounges, restaurants, and poolside areas
• Covers gratuities (tips) on drinks
• Available for purchase for the entire cruise or per day

For example, if you order a $12 mojito, a $14 glass of Cabernet, or a $15 craft beer, they’re all covered. But if you order a bottle of Dom Pérignon (which costs more than $15), you’ll pay the difference.

Other Drink Packages: Niche Options for Specific Tastes

Not everyone wants a full alcohol pass. Norwegian offers a few alternatives:

• Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package: Covers sodas, juices, bottled water, specialty coffee, and mocktails. Great for families or non-drinkers.
• Wine Package: Offers a curated selection of wines by the glass or bottle, often with discounts. Ideal for wine lovers who want variety without the full PBP.
• Specialty Coffee & Tea Package: Covers lattes, espressos, cappuccinos, and premium teas. A hit with coffee enthusiasts.

Each package has its own pricing and rules, so it’s worth comparing based on your preferences. For instance, if you’re a soda-and-coffee person, the non-alcoholic package might be a better fit than the PBP.

How the Alcohol Pass Works: Daily vs. Full-Cruise Purchase

You can buy the Premium Beverage Package in two ways:

• Full-cruise purchase: Buy the package for the entire duration of your trip. This is usually the most cost-effective if you plan to drink every day.
• Daily purchase: Buy the pass day-by-day. This is flexible but often more expensive per day. It’s a good option if you’re on a shorter cruise or only plan to drink on certain days.

For example, on a 7-night cruise, the full-cruise PBP might cost $79 per person per day, while the daily rate could be $85. That’s a $42 difference for two people—money that could go toward a shore excursion or a spa treatment.

How Much Is Alcohol Pass Norwegian Cruise Line? Pricing Breakdown

Now, let’s get to the heart of your question: How much is alcohol pass Norwegian Cruise Line? Pricing can vary based on the ship, itinerary, time of year, and whether you book early or late. But here’s a general breakdown based on recent data and traveler reports.

Premium Beverage Package (PBP) – 2024-2025 Rates

As of 2024, the standard price for the PBP is:

• $79–$95 per person per day for full-cruise purchase
• $85–$105 per person per day for daily purchase

Prices tend to be higher on newer ships (like the Norwegian Prima or Encore) and during peak seasons (summer, holidays). For example, a 7-night Caribbean cruise might have a $79/day rate, while a 10-night Alaska cruise could be $95/day.

Additional Fees and Taxes

Keep in mind that the listed price isn’t always the final price. Norwegian adds:

• 18% automatic gratuity (service charge) on the package cost
• Taxes (varies by port and itinerary)

So, if the base PBP is $79/day, the total with gratuity is about $93.22 per person per day. For a couple on a 7-night cruise, that’s $1,305.08 before taxes. That’s a significant chunk of change, so budget accordingly.

Special Discounts and Promotions

The good news? Norwegian often offers discounts and promotions that can lower the cost. These include:

• Early Booking Discounts: Book your cruise 6–12 months in advance, and you might get the PBP at $69/day instead of $79.
• Onboard Credit (OBC): Use OBC from promotions to offset the cost. For example, if you get $200 OBC, you can apply it to the PBP.
• Military, Senior, or Past Passenger Discounts: Eligible guests can save 10–20% on drink packages.
• “Free at Sea” Promotions: These often include a free or discounted PBP with your cruise fare. For example, “Free Open Bar” is a common perk.

Pro tip: Always check the NCL website or ask your travel agent about current promotions. A “Free at Sea” deal with a free PBP can save you hundreds.

Example: Cost for a 7-Night Caribbean Cruise

Let’s say you’re a couple on a 7-night cruise with a base PBP rate of $79/day and an 18% gratuity.

• Base cost: $79 x 7 days x 2 people = $1,106
• Gratuity (18%): $199.08
• Total (before taxes): $1,305.08
• With taxes (~$50): ~$1,355

If you book during a “Free at Sea” promotion with a free PBP, you save the entire amount. If you use $200 OBC, your out-of-pocket cost drops to $1,155.

Is the Alcohol Pass Worth It? A Value Analysis

Now that you know the price, let’s tackle the big question: Is the Norwegian Cruise Line alcohol pass worth it? The answer depends on your drinking habits, budget, and cruise style. Let’s break it down.

When the PBP Makes Sense (The “Yes” Cases)

The PBP is a great value if you:

• Plan to drink 5+ alcoholic beverages per day
• Enjoy specialty cocktails, premium wines, or craft beers
• Want to avoid the hassle of tracking per-drink costs
• Like to socialize at bars, lounges, or poolside areas
• Are traveling with a group (the package covers everyone at the table)

For example, if you order:

• 2 cocktails at $14 each = $28
• 1 glass of wine at $13 = $13
• 1 beer at $10 = $10
• 1 soda at $3 = $3
• Total: $54/day

At $79/day (with gratuity), you’re still saving money compared to paying à la carte. Plus, you get unlimited non-alcoholic drinks—great if you want a soda or juice between cocktails.

When to Skip the PBP (The “No” Cases)

The PBP might not be worth it if you:

• Only drink 1–2 beverages per day
• Prefer budget-friendly options (like domestic beer or house wine)
• Plan to spend most of your time off the ship (drinks in port are often cheaper)
• Are a non-drinker or light drinker
• Want to try local drinks in port (e.g., rum in the Caribbean, wine in Europe)

For instance, if you only drink one $12 cocktail and one $10 beer per day, that’s $22/day. At $79/day, you’d need to drink nearly 4x more to break even. In this case, paying per drink or using a cheaper package (like the non-alcoholic one) might be smarter.

Smart Tips to Maximize Value

Even if you buy the PBP, you can stretch its value:

• Drink during happy hours: Many bars offer 2-for-1 or discounted drinks during certain hours. With the PBP, you can still enjoy them at no extra cost.
• Use it for non-alcoholic drinks: Sodas, juices, and bottled water are included—great for staying hydrated in the sun.
• Share with your table: The PBP covers all guests at your table, so if you’re with friends, you can all order drinks without extra charges.
• Check for “premium” upgrades: Some drinks (like champagne or top-shelf liquor) cost more than $15. You’ll pay the difference, but it’s often less than the full retail price.

One traveler I met on my NCL cruise used her PBP to order a $15 mojito and a $3 soda—then shared the soda with her friend. “It felt like a win,” she said. “I got my cocktail, and we both stayed hydrated.”

How to Buy the Alcohol Pass: Booking Tips and Tricks

Now that you’ve decided (or are still deciding), let’s talk about how to buy the alcohol pass—and how to do it smartly.

Booking Before Your Cruise (Best for Savings)

You can buy the PBP in two ways before your cruise:

• Online via NCL’s website: Log into your cruise planner, go to “Add-Ons,” and select the package. You’ll see the price, terms, and any discounts.
• Through a travel agent: Some agents have access to exclusive promotions or can bundle the PBP with other perks.

Booking early has several advantages:

• You lock in the best price (rates often rise as the cruise date approaches)
• You can use onboard credit or discounts
• You avoid last-minute stress

Pro tip: Set a reminder to check for promotions 30–60 days before your cruise. NCL often releases new deals during this window.

Buying Onboard (More Expensive, But Flexible)

If you’re unsure about your drinking plans, you can buy the PBP on the first day of the cruise. But there are downsides:

• Higher daily rates (usually $5–$15 more per day)
• No access to pre-booking discounts
• You miss out on “Free at Sea” perks (if applicable)

That said, buying onboard lets you assess your habits. For example, if you only plan to drink on sea days, you can buy the package for those days only.

What to Watch Out For

Before you buy, keep these rules in mind:

• All adults in a cabin must purchase the PBP: If you’re in a room with a partner or friend, and one of you buys the PBP, the other must too. This is to prevent sharing (NCL’s “no sharing” policy).
• Age verification: You must be 21+ to buy the PBP (or 18+ in some regions like Europe).
• Refund policy: The PBP is non-refundable, but you can cancel it within a certain window (usually 24–48 hours before the cruise).
• Port restrictions: The PBP doesn’t cover drinks purchased in port (e.g., at a beach bar in Nassau).

One couple I met tried to buy the PBP for just one of them to save money. They were told both had to purchase it—or neither could. “We ended up buying it, but we didn’t drink enough to make it worth it,” the husband said. Lesson learned.

Alternatives to the Alcohol Pass: Smart Ways to Save

If the PBP feels too expensive or unnecessary, don’t worry—there are other ways to enjoy drinks without breaking the bank.

Paying à La Carte: When It’s Cheaper

If you only drink 1–2 beverages per day, paying per drink might save you money. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Domestic beer: $7–$10
• Imported beer: $9–$12
• House wine: $10–$13
• Cocktails: $12–$15
• Spirits: $10–$15
• Non-alcoholic drinks: $2–$5

For example, two $12 cocktails and one $10 beer = $34/day. Over 7 days, that’s $238 for two people—less than a quarter of the PBP cost.

Using Onboard Credit (OBC) for Drinks

Many NCL promotions include OBC, which you can use for drinks. For example:

• Book a balcony cabin and get $200 OBC
• Refer a friend and get $50 OBC

You can use OBC to buy the PBP or pay for individual drinks. Just note that OBC can’t be used for gratuities, so you’ll still need to tip (usually 18% of the drink price).

Free Drinks and Happy Hours

NCL offers several ways to get free or discounted drinks:

• Welcome Aboard Cocktail: On the first day, many ships offer a free welcome drink (usually a simple cocktail or beer).
• Happy Hours: Look for 2-for-1 deals at pool bars or lounges. Times vary by ship.
• Special Events: Themed nights, trivia, or live music often include drink specials.
• Loyalty Perks: If you’re a repeat cruiser, you might get free drinks as part of your status.

On my last NCL cruise, I scored two free mojitos during a poolside happy hour. “It was the highlight of my day,” I told my husband. “And it didn’t cost a dime.”

Bringing Your Own Alcohol (With Limits)

NCL allows you to bring a limited amount of alcohol on board:

• One 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person (21+)
• No beer or spirits

You can drink it in your room or at a private dining table (with a $15 corkage fee). This is a great option if you have a favorite wine or want to celebrate a special occasion.

Final Thoughts: Is the Norwegian Alcohol Pass Right for You?

So, how much is alcohol pass Norwegian Cruise Line? The answer is: it depends. The Premium Beverage Package costs $79–$95 per person per day (plus gratuity), but with discounts and promotions, it can be much cheaper—or even free.

The key is to assess your drinking habits and budget. If you’re a social drinker who loves cocktails, wine, and craft beer, the PBP can save you money and stress. But if you’re a light drinker or prefer budget-friendly options, paying per drink or using alternatives might be smarter.

Here’s my final advice:

• Book early to lock in the best rates and use promotions
• Compare the PBP cost to your estimated à la carte spending
• Take advantage of free drinks, happy hours, and OBC
• Don’t feel pressured to buy the PBP just because others do

At the end of the day, your cruise should be about relaxation, adventure, and fun—not stressing over drink prices. Whether you go all-in with the PBP or sip smartly à la carte, the most important thing is to enjoy your vacation your way. Cheers to that!

Drink Package	Price (Per Person Per Day)	Best For	Gratuity
Premium Beverage Package (PBP)	$79–$95	Heavy drinkers, socializers, groups	18%
Non-Alcoholic Package	$25–$35	Families, non-drinkers, health-conscious	18%
Wine Package	$45–$65	Wine lovers, couples	18%
Coffee & Tea Package	$15–$25	Coffee enthusiasts, tea drinkers	18%

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is an alcohol pass on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cost of an alcohol pass (called the “Premium Plus Beverage Package”) on Norwegian Cruise Line typically starts at $99 per person, per day, but prices may vary based on the itinerary and promotions. This package includes unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits up to $15 per drink.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line alcohol pass worth the price?

For frequent drinkers, the alcohol pass can be cost-effective, especially if you plan to consume multiple drinks daily. However, if you drink less than 5-6 alcoholic beverages per day, a pay-as-you-go approach might be more budget-friendly.

What drinks are included in the Norwegian Cruise Line alcohol pass?

The Premium Plus Beverage Package covers cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, and spirits priced at $15 or less. Premium drinks above this limit require an additional fee, but the pass still offers a 20% discount on those.

Can I share my Norwegian Cruise Line alcohol pass with others?

No, the alcohol pass is non-transferable and only valid for the named purchaser. Norwegian Cruise Line enforces strict policies to prevent sharing, and IDs are checked at bars and lounges.

Are there any discounts or promotions for the alcohol pass on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, Norwegian often offers pre-cruise discounts or “free” beverage packages as part of promotional deals. Check the cruise line’s website or your travel agent for current offers tied to specific sailings.

Does the alcohol pass cover drinks in specialty restaurants or minibars?

The pass includes drinks in most onboard bars, restaurants, and lounges, but it does not cover minibar items or certain specialty venues like Starbucks or The Cellars Wine Bar. Always verify coverage at each location.