How Much Is Drink Package on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed

The cost of Carnival Cruise Line’s drink packages starts at $59.95 per person, per day, offering unlimited access to cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and specialty coffee. Prices vary by cruise length and destination, with premium options like the Bottomless Bubbles soda package available for families and non-alcoholic drinkers. These packages provide significant savings for frequent drinkers, but require all adults in a cabin to purchase one if anyone opts in.

Key Takeaways

• Compare pricing: Carnival drink packages range from $50–$100+ per day, depending on inclusions and cruise length.
• Maximize value: Choose the Cheers! package if you consume 5+ drinks daily for savings.
• Review inclusions: Premium packages cover cocktails, wine, and specialty coffee, unlike basic soda-only options.
• Book early: Pre-purchase packages online for discounts versus onboard pricing.
• Check restrictions: Some drinks over $20 are excluded from most packages—read fine print.
• Group deals: All adults in a cabin must purchase a package if one does—plan accordingly.

How Much Is Drink Package on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed

Imagine this: You’re lounging by the pool, the sun warming your skin, a tropical breeze in the air, and a refreshing cocktail in hand. On a Carnival Cruise Line vacation, this isn’t just a fantasy—it’s part of the experience. But for many cruisers, the question of how much a drink package costs on Carnival Cruise Line looms large, especially when trying to budget for a stress-free getaway. After all, who wants to be surprised by a hefty bar tab at the end of the week?

Carnival Cruise Line, known for its fun-filled, casual atmosphere, offers several drink packages designed to simplify beverage choices and potentially save money. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a beer lover, or someone who enjoys specialty coffees and smoothies, understanding the pricing, inclusions, and limitations of these packages is crucial. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the cost of Carnival drink packages, compares them to other cruise lines, breaks down the fine print, and offers expert tips to help you decide if a package is worth it for your next cruise. We’ll reveal not just the price tags, but the real value behind each option, ensuring you can sip smartly and enjoy every moment of your Carnival adventure.

Understanding Carnival Cruise Line’s Drink Package Options

Carnival doesn’t offer just one “drink package”; instead, they provide a tiered system designed to cater to different drinking habits, budgets, and preferences. Knowing the specifics of each is the first step in determining how much you might spend on a drink package on Carnival. The core offerings are the Cheers! Beverage Program and the Bottomless Bubbles Soda Package. Let’s break down what each includes and their key differences.

The Cheers! Beverage Program: The Premium Choice

This is Carnival’s flagship drink package, designed for guests who enjoy a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s the most comprehensive option and the one most travelers consider when asking about Carnival drink package prices.

• What’s Included:
  • Alcoholic Beverages: Up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, spirits, shots, and specialty drinks). The daily limit is strictly enforced.
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Unlimited premium non-alcoholic options including specialty coffees (like lattes, cappuccinos), fresh juices, bottled water (still and sparkling, including premium brands like Evian, Perrier, San Pellegrino), energy drinks (Red Bull, Monster, Rockstar), and soft drinks (Coke products, including diet and zero-sugar options).
  • Other Inclusions: 20% discount on bottles of wine and champagne (purchased in the dining room or bar).
• What’s NOT Included (Important Limitations):
  • Drinks priced over $20.00 (e.g., premium bottles of wine, rare spirits, some specialty cocktails).
  • Room service drinks (charged separately).
  • Mini-bar drinks.
  • Bottled water purchased in the gift shop (though unlimited bottled water is included in bars and dining areas).
  • Drinks at private island venues (e.g., Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays) are often not included and must be purchased separately.
  • Gratuities: A 18% service charge is automatically added to the package cost.
• Daily Limit: The 15 alcoholic drink limit is per person, per day, and resets at midnight. This is a hard limit, not a suggestion. Attempting to exceed it will result in the drink being charged to your onboard account.

Example: You enjoy 2 cocktails at lunch, 3 beers at the pool, 2 glasses of wine with dinner, 1 cocktail at the piano bar, 1 shot, 2 more cocktails, and 2 glasses of wine. That’s 13 drinks. You could have 2 more before hitting the limit.

Bottomless Bubbles Soda Package: The Non-Alcoholic Option

Perfect for families with kids, designated drivers, or non-drinkers who want unlimited soft drinks without the cost of individual purchases.

• What’s Included:
  • Unlimited soft drinks (Coke products, including diet and zero-sugar options) from any bar, lounge, or dining venue.
  • Unlimited fountain soda at the buffet (Lido Deck).
  • Unlimited soda at the pool bars.
  • Unlimited soda at the main dining room (MDR) and specialty restaurants (if they offer soda service).
• What’s NOT Included:
  • Bottled soft drinks (e.g., 20oz bottles from the gift shop).
  • Specialty coffees, juices, bottled water, or energy drinks (unless purchased separately).
  • Alcoholic beverages.
  • Gratuities: A 18% service charge is automatically added.
• Key Feature: Truly unlimited – no daily cap.

Example: A family of four with two kids who drink 3-4 sodas each per day will likely save money compared to buying individual drinks, especially if they also enjoy fountain soda at the buffet.

Key Differences Summary

The Cheers! package is for those who want a mix of alcoholic and premium non-alcoholic drinks with a daily alcoholic limit. The Bottomless Bubbles package is solely for unlimited soft drinks, ideal for non-drinkers or those who only want soda. The price difference reflects the breadth of inclusions.

How Much Does a Carnival Drink Package Actually Cost? (Pricing Breakdown)

This is the core question: How much is a drink package on Carnival Cruise Line? The cost isn’t a single fixed number; it fluctuates based on several factors. Understanding these variables is crucial for accurate budgeting.

Base Pricing (Per Person, Per Day)

Carnival lists base prices, but these are often the starting point. As of late 2023/early 2024, the typical base prices are:

• Cheers! Beverage Program: Approximately $59.95 – $64.95 per person, per day.
• Bottomless Bubbles Soda Package: Approximately $9.95 – $11.95 per person, per day.

Important: These are base prices. The final cost you pay will almost always be higher due to mandatory add-ons.

Mandatory 18% Gratuity (Service Charge)

This is non-negotiable and added automatically to the base price. This significantly impacts the total cost.

• Cheers! Example: $64.95 base + ($64.95 * 0.18) = $64.95 + $11.69 = $76.64 per person, per day.
• Bottomless Bubbles Example: $11.95 base + ($11.95 * 0.18) = $11.95 + $2.15 = $14.10 per person, per day.

Over a 7-day cruise, this adds up quickly:

• Cheers! for one person: $76.64 * 7 = $536.48.
• Bottomless Bubbles for one person: $14.10 * 7 = $98.70.
• Cheers! for a couple: $536.48 * 2 = $1,072.96.

Dynamic Pricing: The Real Cost Fluctuator

This is where things get complex. Carnival uses dynamic pricing, meaning the Carnival drink package price can change based on:

• Booking Window: Prices are often higher if purchased close to the sail date (e.g., within 7-14 days). Booking early (sometimes 45-60 days pre-cruise) can offer lower prices or promotional discounts.
• Promotions and Discounts: Carnival frequently runs sales (e.g., “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” on Cheers!, or “50% Off Bottomless Bubbles”). These can dramatically reduce the effective daily rate. Always check the promotions page on Carnival.com before purchasing.
• Cruise Itinerary and Duration: Longer cruises (10+ days) might have different base rates or offer package extensions. Shorter cruises (3-4 days) might have slightly different pricing tiers.
• Cabin Category and Booking Source: Sometimes, guests booking suites or through certain travel agents might see different pricing or bundled deals.
• Time of Year: Peak season (summer, holidays) often has higher base prices.

Example of Dynamic Pricing Impact:

• Booking Cheers! 60 days pre-cruise with a “BOGO 50% Off” promo: Base rate $62.95. With 18% gratuity, ~$74.28/day. With the promo, you pay $74.28 for the first person and $37.14 for the second = $111.42/day for two (~$55.71/person/day), saving hundreds.
• Booking Cheers! 3 days pre-cruise: Base rate $69.95 + 18% gratuity = $82.54/day. No promo. Total for two people: $1,155.56 for 7 days – significantly more than the promo rate.

Total Cost Calculation: A Real-World Scenario

Let’s calculate the cost for a family of four (2 adults, 2 teens who only want soda) on a 7-day cruise:

• Option 1: Cheers! for Adults, Bottomless Bubbles for Teens
  • Adults (Cheers!): $76.64/person/day * 2 * 7 = $1,072.96
  • Teens (Bottomless Bubbles): $14.10/person/day * 2 * 7 = $197.40
  • Total: $1,270.36 (No promo)
• Option 2: Same, with “BOGO 50% Off Cheers!” and “50% Off Bottomless Bubbles” Promos
  • Adults (Cheers!): ($76.64 + $38.32) * 7 = $799.56
  • Teens (Bottomless Bubbles): ($14.10 + $7.05) * 7 = $148.05
  • Total: $947.61 (Saving $322.75)

This highlights the massive importance of checking for promotions!

Is a Carnival Drink Package Worth It? The Value Analysis

Knowing the price of a Carnival drink package is only half the battle. The real question is: Is it worth the cost? The answer depends entirely on your personal drinking habits, preferences, and budget. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a detailed cost-benefit analysis can help you decide.

Calculating Your Break-Even Point (The Key Metric)

This is the most important calculation. Determine how many drinks you’d need to consume daily to justify the package cost.

• Step 1: Calculate your daily package cost (base + 18% gratuity). (e.g., $76.64/day for Cheers!).
• Step 2: Estimate the average cost of a drink you’d buy without the package.
  • Domestic beer: $7.00 – $8.00
  • Import beer: $8.00 – $9.00
  • Well liquor cocktail: $10.00 – $12.00
  • Call liquor cocktail: $12.00 – $15.00
  • Premium cocktail: $15.00 – $18.00
  • Glass of wine: $10.00 – $14.00
  • Specialty coffee: $5.00 – $6.00
  • Bottled water (premium): $4.00 – $5.00
  • Energy drink: $5.00 – $6.00
• Step 3: Divide your daily package cost by your average drink cost.
  • Example: $76.64 / $12.00 (avg cocktail) = 6.4 drinks per day.
  • Example: $76.64 / $8.00 (avg beer) = 9.6 drinks per day.
  • Example: $76.64 / $14.00 (avg wine) = 5.5 glasses per day.

Break-Even Rule: If you plan to consume more than your break-even number of drinks (and the types of drinks included), the package likely pays for itself. If you consume fewer, you’ll likely spend more on the package than you would buying drinks a la carte.

Example: If your break-even is 6.4 cocktails/day, but you only plan 4 cocktails and 2 beers (total cost ~$60), buying drinks separately is cheaper.

When a Package is Likely Worth It

Consider a Cheers! package if you:

• Enjoy 7+ alcoholic drinks per day (easily hitting the 15 limit).
• Love premium non-alcoholic drinks (specialty coffees, premium bottled water, energy drinks) and plan to consume several daily.
• Want to enjoy cocktails at the piano bar, during the “Happy Hour” specials, or at multiple pool bars without worrying about cost.
• Plan to purchase bottles of wine in the dining room (the 20% discount can add up).
• Value convenience and budget predictability (no surprise bar tab).
• Are on a longer cruise (7+ days) where the daily savings compound.
• Can take advantage of a significant promotion (like BOGO 50% Off).

When a Package is Likely NOT Worth It

Avoid a Cheers! package if you:

• Are a light drinker (e.g., 1-2 drinks/day). You won’t recoup the cost.
• Only drink beer or wine and prefer cheaper options (well liquor, house wine).
• Primarily drink free beverages (water, soda, coffee from the buffet, tea).
• Have health reasons to limit alcohol.
• Are on a very short cruise (3-4 days) where the break-even point is hard to hit.
• Plan to spend most of your time on shore excursions or at private islands (where drinks are often not included).
• Have a very tight budget and the package cost would strain it, even if it saves money.

Bottomless Bubbles: This is almost always worth it for families with kids who drink multiple sodas daily or for designated drivers. The break-even is very low (~$10/day for 2-3 sodas).

Hidden Value and Psychological Benefits

Beyond pure cost, consider:

• Convenience: No need to pull out your card for every drink. Just show your card and order.
• Budget Certainty: No end-of-cruise bar tab shock.
• Trying New Things: The package encourages trying different cocktails or premium coffees without added cost.
• Social Lubrication: Makes it easier to buy drinks for friends.

For some, these intangible benefits outweigh a slightly higher cost.

Smart Strategies: Maximizing Your Drink Package Value

Once you’ve decided a package is right for you, use these expert strategies to get the most bang for your buck and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Book Early and Hunt for Promotions

Do:

• Book your package as early as possible (45-60 days pre-cruise) to secure the best base rates.
• Regularly check the “Promotions” section on Carnival.com (under “Deals” or “Cruise Deals”) in the weeks leading up to your cruise. Set up email alerts if possible.
• Compare prices across different dates for the same itinerary – sometimes a shift of a few days unlocks a better deal.
• Consider booking through a reputable travel agent who might have access to exclusive promotions or group rates.

Don’t: Wait until the last minute. Prices almost always increase as the sail date approaches.

2. Understand and Respect the 15-Drink Limit (Cheers!)

Do:

• Keep track of your drinks. Use a notepad, app, or ask the bartender to mark a card (some do).
• Pace yourself. Don’t try to “make up” for a light day by bingeing the next day – you’ll hit the limit quickly.
• Use the limit strategically: Save your alcoholic drinks for evening events (dinner, shows, bars) and use non-alcoholic inclusions during the day.

Don’t: Assume you can exceed 15. The system is automated, and the 16th drink will be charged to your account. Bartenders cannot override this.

3. Maximize Non-Alcoholic Inclusions

Do:

• Order specialty coffees (lattes, cappuccinos, mochas) at the coffee bar – these cost $5-6 a la carte.
• Enjoy premium bottled water (Evian, Perrier) at bars and dining areas instead of buying from the gift shop.
• Grab energy drinks (Red Bull, Monster) from the bar instead of the gift shop.
• Order fresh juices (orange, pineapple, mango) at the buffet bar – these are included.

Don’t: Forget these are included! Many guests only focus on cocktails and miss out on the premium non-alcoholic savings.

4. Leverage the 20% Wine Discount

Do:

• Calculate the savings: A $60 bottle of wine gets a $12 discount with Cheers!.
• Order a bottle for dinner with friends – the discount benefits everyone at the table (the package holder pays with discount, others pay full price to the package holder).
• Ask your server about the wine list and identify bottles that offer the best value with the discount.

Don’t: Assume all wines are discounted – check with the server.

5. Know the Exclusions and Plan Accordingly

Do:

• Budget extra for drinks at private islands (Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays) – these are typically NOT included.
• Bring a reusable water bottle to refill with included bottled water (still/sparkling) to avoid buying water on shore.
• Understand that room service drinks are charged separately – use the package for bar/dining room drinks.
• If you hit the 15-drink limit, switch to free options (soda, water, coffee) or budget for additional drinks.

Don’t: Get caught off guard by excluded drinks. Always ask the bartender if a specific drink is included.

6. The “One Package, Two People” Strategy (If Applicable)

If you have a companion who is a very light drinker or doesn’t drink at all, consider:

• Buying the Cheers! package for the heavier drinker.
• Using the non-alcoholic inclusions (coffee, water, juice, energy drinks) for the non-drinker.
• Sharing the alcoholic drinks (e.g., the package holder buys two cocktails, shares one). This works within the 15 limit.
• Only buying a Bottomless Bubbles package for the non-drinker if they only want soda.

Comparing Carnival to Other Major Cruise Lines

To fully understand the value of Carnival’s drink packages, it’s helpful to compare them to competitors like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess. While Carnival’s base prices might seem competitive, the details matter.

Pricing Comparison Table (Approximate Base Rates + 18% Gratuity, Per Person, Per Day)

Cruise Line	Premium Drink Package Name	Approx. Daily Cost (Base + 18%)	Alcoholic Drink Limit	Non-Alcoholic Inclusions	Key Differences
Carnival	Cheers!	$76.64 – $82.54	15 per day	Unlimited premium (coffee, juice, bottled water, energy drinks, soda)	Lower base price, strict 15-drink limit, 20% wine discount, often strong promotions
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage Package	$89.00 – $99.00	15 per day (varies by ship)	Unlimited premium (similar to Carnival, plus some craft beer)	Higher base price, slightly broader inclusions, same 15-drink limit, fewer frequent promotions
Norwegian Cruise Line	Premium Plus Beverage Package	$98.00 – $108.00	Unlimited (no daily cap)	Unlimited premium (similar, plus some premium spirits)	Highest base price, no daily alcoholic limit, most expensive, fewer promotions
Princess Cruises	Premium Beverage Package	$84.00 – $94.00	15 per day	Unlimited premium (similar, plus some premium bottled water)	Mid-range pricing, similar inclusions, 15-drink limit, occasional promotions

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

• Carnival is generally the most budget-friendly option for the base price of a premium drink package.
• Norwegian is the most expensive but offers the unique benefit of unlimited alcoholic drinks (no 15-drink cap). This is only worth it for very heavy drinkers.
• Royal Caribbean and Princess are in the mid-range, with slightly higher base prices than Carnival but similar inclusions and limits.
• Promotions are Carnival’s biggest differentiator. Their frequent “BOGO 50% Off” and other deep discounts can make their effective price significantly lower than competitors during sales periods.
• The 15-drink limit is common across Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess. Only Norwegian offers unlimited alcohol.
• Non-alcoholic inclusions are very similar across all lines, focusing on premium coffee, juice, bottled water, and energy drinks.

Bottom Line for Comparison: If you’re a moderate to heavy drinker who values value and can leverage promotions, Carnival’s Cheers! package offers excellent potential savings compared to Royal Caribbean and Princess, and is vastly cheaper than Norwegian’s unlimited option. However, if you’re an extremely heavy drinker (consuming well over 15 drinks daily), Norwegian might be the only viable unlimited option, despite the high cost.

Conclusion: Sip Smart, Cruise Happy

Determining how much a drink package on Carnival Cruise Line costs is just the beginning. The true value lies in understanding the nuances: the tiered options (Cheers! vs. Bottomless Bubbles), the mandatory 18% gratuity, the dynamic pricing influenced by booking time and promotions, the crucial 15-drink limit for Cheers!, the valuable non-alcoholic inclusions, and the key exclusions (private islands, room service).

There is no magic formula that works for every cruiser. The decision hinges on your personal habits. Calculate your break-even point meticulously. Are you a social butterfly enjoying multiple cocktails at the piano bar, savoring premium coffee each morning, and appreciating the convenience of unlimited bottled water? Then Cheers! likely pays for itself, especially if you snag a “BOGO 50% Off” deal. Are you a family with kids who guzzle soda all day? Bottomless Bubbles is a no-brainer. Are you a light drinker, a non-drinker, or on a tight budget? Buying drinks a la carte is probably smarter.

Remember the smart strategies: Book early, hunt relentlessly for promotions, respect the drink limit, maximize non-alcoholic inclusions, leverage the wine discount, and plan for exclusions. Don’t get caught off guard by the final cost – factor in the gratuity and the potential for higher last-minute pricing. Compare Carnival’s offerings to other lines to ensure you’re getting the best value for your drinking style.

Ultimately, the goal is to enhance your vacation, not create stress. A drink package should be a tool for enjoyment, not a source of anxiety over whether you’ve “gotten your money’s worth.” By understanding the Carnival drink package pricing structure, the inclusions and limitations, and using these expert tips, you can make an informed decision. Whether you choose the full Cheers! experience, the soda-focused Bottomless Bubbles, or opt to pay as you go, you’ll be equipped to sip smartly, stay within your budget, and fully embrace the fun, relaxed, and refreshing spirit of your Carnival cruise. Now, go enjoy that cocktail by the pool – you’ve earned it! (And you know exactly how much it’s costing you.)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a drink package on Carnival Cruise Line?

The cost of a Carnival drink package varies by cruise length and destination, but the popular Cheers! package typically ranges from $59.95 to $69.95 per person, per day. Prices may increase during peak seasons or for specialty drinks.

Is the Carnival Cheers! drink package worth the price?

The Cheers! drink package is worth it if you plan to consume more than 5–6 drinks daily, as it covers cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. However, casual drinkers might find à la carte purchases more cost-effective.

Does the Carnival drink package include gratuities?

Yes, the Cheers! drink package price includes an 18% gratuity automatically added at purchase. This covers service charges for all drinks included in the package, so no additional tipping is required.

Can I share my Carnival drink package with others?

No, the drink package on Carnival Cruise Line is non-transferable and only valid for the named purchaser. Each adult in a cabin who wants the package must buy their own.

Are there any restrictions on the Carnival drink package?

The Cheers! package excludes drinks over $20, premium wines, and bottled spirits. It’s also not valid for room service or in specialty dining venues, but covers most bars and lounges fleetwide.

When is the best time to buy a Carnival drink package?

You can pre-purchase the Carnival Cruise Line drink package online before your cruise for potential discounts or onboard during embarkation day. Prices may rise mid-cruise, so booking early is often cheaper.