How Much Is Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package in 2024

The Norwegian Cruise Line drink package in 2024 starts at $99 per person, per day, offering unlimited premium cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Prices vary by sailing length and destination, with discounts often available when purchased in advance or as part of a promotion. This all-inclusive option is ideal for cruisers seeking convenience and value without constant bar tab surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Costs start at $99/day: Base price for the Unlimited Open Bar package in 2024.
• Premium upgrades available: Add top-shelf liquor for $20–$30 more per day.
• Book early for discounts: Pre-cruise purchases often save 10–20% vs. onboard rates.
• Exclusions apply: Bottled water, specialty coffees, and mini-bar items aren’t included.
• Kids’ packages exist: Non-alcoholic options start at $25/day for under-21 guests.
• Gratuities included: 18–20% service charge automatically added to package price.
• Compare itineraries: Prices vary by cruise length and destination—check your specific voyage.

How Much Is Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package in 2024

Imagine sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon, or enjoying a glass of fine wine during a romantic dinner at sea. For many travelers, the ability to indulge in unlimited drinks is a game-changer when planning a cruise vacation. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is renowned for its Freestyle Cruising concept, offering guests flexibility and choice—including a range of drink packages designed to suit every taste and budget. But how much is Norwegian Cruise Line drink package in 2024? This comprehensive guide will answer that question and more, diving deep into pricing, inclusions, value, and insider tips to help you make the most informed decision for your next NCL cruise.

With rising costs across the travel industry, understanding the true value of a drink package is more important than ever. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a cocktail enthusiast, knowing the details of NCL’s drink packages—such as the Ultimate Beverage Package, Premium Beverage Package, and specialty add-ons—can save you hundreds of dollars and enhance your onboard experience. From pricing trends and seasonal discounts to hidden perks and limitations, this article covers everything you need to know before booking. Let’s explore the world of Norwegian Cruise Line drink packages in 2024 and determine whether they’re worth the investment.

Overview of Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages in 2024

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several drink packages to cater to different guest preferences, from casual drinkers to connoisseurs. In 2024, the core offerings remain the Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP) and the Premium Beverage Package (PBP), with additional options for soda, coffee, and specialty add-ons. Each package is designed to provide value, convenience, and flexibility, aligning with NCL’s “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy—where you can dine, drink, and relax on your own terms.

Types of Drink Packages Available

• Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP): The most comprehensive option, including premium cocktails, wines by the glass, beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. This is the go-to choice for guests who plan to drink multiple alcoholic beverages daily.
• Premium Beverage Package (PBP): A slightly scaled-back version of the UBP, offering a wide selection of drinks but with a lower price point. Ideal for guests who enjoy a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks but don’t consume premium spirits or top-shelf cocktails daily.
• Soda Package: A budget-friendly option for guests who primarily want unlimited soda, juice, and water. Often bundled with other packages or purchased separately.
• Specialty Coffee & Tea Package: Includes unlimited premium coffees, lattes, espressos, teas, and hot chocolate. Great for coffee lovers who want to skip the daily $5 latte.
• Water Package: A set number of bottled waters delivered to your stateroom or available at bars. Useful for health-conscious travelers or those in warm climates.

Key Features and Benefits

All drink packages are valid for the duration of your cruise and can be used at most bars, lounges, and restaurants across the ship. Some key benefits include:

• Unlimited access to included beverages (within package limits).
• Use at specialty restaurants, bars, and poolside service.
• Discounts on bottles of wine and champagne (typically 25% off).
• No service charges or gratuities on drinks covered by the package.
• Ability to share the package with others in your stateroom (subject to NCL policies).

Eligibility and Restrictions

Drink packages are available to guests aged 21 and over (18+ in some international markets). The package must be purchased for all adults in a stateroom if one adult buys it—this is a common rule across most cruise lines. For example, if you’re traveling with a spouse and a 21-year-old child, all three must purchase the same package if one does. Exceptions exist for non-drinkers, who can opt for the soda or water package instead.

2024 Pricing Breakdown: How Much Does It Really Cost?

One of the most frequently asked questions is: *How much is Norwegian Cruise Line drink package in 2024?* The answer depends on several factors, including the length of your cruise, destination, time of year, and whether you book early or last-minute. Prices are typically quoted per person, per day, and can vary significantly.

Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP) Pricing

The UBP is the most popular and widely used drink package on NCL ships. In 2024, the standard pricing is:

• 7-day cruise: $99–$109 per person per day (pppd)
• 10-day cruise: $95–$105 pppd
• 14-day cruise: $90–$100 pppd

Note: Prices are lower for longer cruises due to economies of scale. For example, a 14-day cruise at $95 pppd equals $1,330 per person, while a 7-day cruise at $105 pppd equals $735—so the longer the cruise, the better the daily rate.

Premium Beverage Package (PBP) Pricing

The PBP is a cost-effective alternative with slightly fewer inclusions. Pricing in 2024 is:

• 7-day cruise: $79–$89 pppd
• 10-day cruise: $75–$85 pppd
• 14-day cruise: $70–$80 pppd

This package is ideal for guests who enjoy wine, beer, and mid-shelf cocktails but don’t plan to order premium spirits or top-shelf liquors daily.

Soda, Coffee, and Water Packages

• Soda Package: $15–$20 pppd
• Specialty Coffee & Tea Package: $25–$35 pppd
• Bottled Water Package: $10–$15 pppd (includes 12–24 bottles, depending on cruise length)

These are often bundled with other promotions or purchased as add-ons to the main drink package.

Seasonal and Promotional Pricing

NCL frequently runs promotions that can reduce the cost of drink packages. In 2024, common deals include:

• Free or reduced-price drink packages with “Free at Sea” promotions (e.g., “Buy One, Get One Free” on UBP).
• Discounts for early bookings: Up to 20% off if booked 6–12 months in advance.
• Military, senior, and past passenger discounts: Additional savings for eligible travelers.
• Group booking perks: Groups of 8+ may receive free drink packages or onboard credits.

Example: Calculating Total Cost for a 7-Day Caribbean Cruise

Let’s say you’re booking a 7-day cruise from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean for two adults:

• UBP at $105 pppd = $105 × 7 days × 2 people = $1,470 total
• PBP at $85 pppd = $85 × 7 × 2 = $1,190 total
• Soda Package at $18 pppd = $18 × 7 × 2 = $252 total

With a “Free at Sea” promotion offering a free UBP with balcony stateroom booking, the effective cost drops to $0—a massive savings!

What’s Included (and What’s Not) in NCL Drink Packages

Understanding the inclusions and exclusions of Norwegian Cruise Line drink packages is crucial to determining their true value. While the packages are generous, there are important limitations to keep in mind.

Inclusions: What You Can Drink

• Alcoholic Beverages:
  • Premium cocktails (up to $15 value per drink)
  • Wines by the glass (up to $15 value)
  • Beer, including craft and imported brews
  • Spirits and liqueurs (mid-shelf and premium brands)
  • Sparkling wine and champagne (by the glass)
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
  • Soft drinks, juices, and bottled water
  • Specialty coffees and teas (included in UBP and PBP)
  • Energy drinks and smoothies
• Where You Can Use It:
  • All bars, lounges, and poolside service areas
  • Most onboard restaurants (including specialty dining)
  • Room service (limited to non-alcoholic drinks and beer/wine)

Exclusions: What’s Not Covered

• Drinks over $15: If a cocktail or glass of wine exceeds $15, you’ll pay the difference. For example, a $18 mojito would cost $3 extra.
• Bottled wine and champagne: While you get a 25% discount, you must pay the full price (minus discount) to take a bottle to your table or stateroom.
• Mini-bar items: Drinks in your stateroom fridge are not included.
• Shore excursions and port bars: Packages only apply while the ship is at sea or docked (not on land).
• Special events: Some themed parties or VIP experiences may require separate tickets or drink purchases.

Special Notes on Wine and Champagne

NCL allows you to order a bottle of wine or champagne and receive a 25% discount. For example, a $100 bottle would cost $75. However, you cannot “drink the whole bottle” under the package—each glass poured from the bottle is counted as one drink, and you must finish it at the table. This is a great perk for wine lovers, but it doesn’t equate to unlimited wine.

Tips to Maximize Your Package

• Check drink menus in advance: Use the NCL app to view bar menus and identify which drinks fall within the $15 limit.
• Order strategically: If you want a $20 cocktail, ask for it in a $15 base (e.g., “I’ll take a classic mojito, but with a premium rum upgrade for $5 more”).
• Use it at specialty restaurants: Many specialty dining venues (like Cagney’s Steakhouse or Le Bistro) allow package use—don’t pay extra for wine there!

Is the Norwegian Drink Package Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Deciding whether to purchase a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package comes down to your drinking habits, cruise length, and overall budget. Here’s a detailed analysis to help you determine if it’s a smart financial move.

Break-Even Point: When the Package Pays for Itself

To calculate the break-even point, divide the total package cost by the average price of a drink.

• UBP ($735 for 7 days): $735 ÷ $15 per drink = 49 drinks to break even
• PBP ($595 for 7 days): $595 ÷ $12 per drink = 49.6 drinks to break even

That means you need to drink about 7 drinks per day to justify the cost. But remember: this includes non-alcoholic drinks, which are free anyway. For alcohol-only consumption, the threshold is higher.

Real-World Drinking Scenarios

Scenario 1: The Casual Drinker

You enjoy 2–3 drinks per day (e.g., a cocktail at dinner, a beer by the pool, a glass of wine). Total: ~15 drinks for 7 days.

• Cost without package: 15 × $12 = $180
• UBP cost: $735 → Not worth it
• Recommendation: Pay as you go or use onboard credit.

Scenario 2: The Social Drinker

You drink 5–6 drinks daily (happy hour, dinner, late-night bar). Total: ~40 drinks.

• Cost without package: 40 × $14 = $560
• UBP cost: $735 → Close call
• Recommendation: UBP may be worth it if you value convenience and variety.

Scenario 3: The Heavy Drinker / Celebration Cruise

You’re celebrating a milestone and plan to drink 8–10 drinks daily (including premium cocktails and wine). Total: ~65 drinks.

• Cost without package: 65 × $15 = $975
• UBP cost: $735 → Save $240 + enjoy unlimited access
• Recommendation: Highly recommended

Additional Value Beyond Drink Costs

The package offers intangible benefits that are hard to quantify:

• No bill anxiety: You can order freely without checking prices.
• Convenience: No need to sign a check or carry cash.
• Enhanced experience: More freedom to try new cocktails, wines, and bars.
• Group dynamics: Easier to share drinks with friends or family.

When to Skip the Package

• You’re a light drinker or prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
• You’re on a short 3–4 day cruise (hard to reach break-even).
• You plan to spend most days in port (drink packages don’t apply on shore).
• You have onboard credit from a promotion that covers most of your drinks.

Insider Tips and Tricks to Save Money on NCL Drink Packages

Even if you decide to buy a drink package, there are smart strategies to reduce the cost and maximize value. Here are expert tips from seasoned cruisers and industry insiders.

1. Book Early and Watch for Promotions

NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotions are the best way to get a free or discounted drink package. These typically run:

• 3–6 months before departure
• During holiday seasons (Christmas, New Year, summer)
• For new ship launches or repositioning cruises

Sign up for NCL’s email alerts and follow cruise deal websites to catch these offers.

2. Use Onboard Credit Wisely

Many promotions include $100–$500 in onboard credit (OBC). Use this to:

• Pay for part of the drink package (e.g., $100 off UBP)
• Cover drinks not included in the package (e.g., bottled wine)
• Buy specialty packages (coffee, soda) without using OBC on main drinks

3. Share the Package (If Allowed)

While all adults in a stateroom must purchase the same package, you can “share” it by:

• Using your package to buy drinks for friends (within reason—no reselling!)
• Splitting costs with travel companions who drink similarly

4. Avoid Last-Minute Purchases

Buying the package onboard is always more expensive than booking in advance. Onboard prices are typically 10–20% higher. Always buy online or through your travel agent before departure.

5. Combine with Specialty Dining

If you’re booking specialty restaurants, use your drink package there to save on wine and cocktails. A $15 glass of wine at Le Bistro would normally cost $15—but with the package, it’s free. This adds up quickly!

6. Track Your Spending

Use the NCL app to monitor your drink consumption. If you’re not reaching your break-even point by day 3, consider canceling (within the refund window) and switching to pay-as-you-go.

Data Table: 2024 Norwegian Drink Package Pricing & Value Comparison

Package	7-Day Price (pppd)	14-Day Price (pppd)	Daily Break-Even (Drinks)	Best For	Key Exclusions
Ultimate Beverage Package	$99–$109	$90–$100	~7 drinks	Frequent drinkers, celebrations, luxury seekers	Drinks >$15, bottled wine, mini-bar
Premium Beverage Package	$79–$89	$70–$80	~6 drinks	Moderate drinkers, couples, families	Premium spirits, top-shelf cocktails
Soda Package	$15–$20	$13–$18	~10 sodas	Kids, non-drinkers, budget travelers	Alcohol, specialty drinks
Specialty Coffee & Tea	$25–$35	$22–$30	~7 coffees	Coffee lovers, early risers, remote workers	Alcohol, bottled drinks
Bottled Water (12-pack)	$12	$24	12 bottles	Health-conscious, warm climates	Tap water, refillable bottles

Note: All prices are approximate and subject to change. Promotions and discounts may significantly reduce effective cost.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise

So, how much is Norwegian Cruise Line drink package in 2024? The answer ranges from $70 to $110 per person per day, depending on the package, cruise length, and timing of your purchase. While the sticker price may seem high, the real value lies in convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind—especially for guests who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal habits and cruise goals. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, love trying new cocktails, or simply want to avoid bill shock, the Ultimate Beverage Package is likely worth it. For more moderate drinkers, the Premium Beverage Package or even pay-as-you-go with onboard credit may be a better fit.

Remember to:

• Book early to lock in the best rates and promotions.
• Calculate your break-even point based on your expected consumption.
• Use the package strategically at bars, restaurants, and events.
• Take advantage of discounts on bottled wine and specialty dining.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink packages are more than just a financial transaction—they’re a gateway to a more relaxed, enjoyable, and indulgent cruise experience. By understanding the 2024 pricing, inclusions, and smart booking strategies, you can sip with confidence and make the most of your time at sea. Cheers to that!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is Norwegian Cruise Line drink package in 2024?

The Norwegian Cruise Line drink package ranges from $20 to $120 per person per day, depending on the plan (e.g., soda-only to premium alcohol). Pricing varies by cruise length, destination, and when you book—early promotions can save you up to 20%.

What’s included in the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package?

The package covers unlimited beverages up to $15 per drink, including cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, specialty coffee, and bottled water. Premium drinks above $15 require an additional fee, and gratuities are automatically added.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package worth it?

It’s worth it if you typically spend more than $50–$60 daily on drinks. For casual drinkers, individual purchases may be cheaper—calculate your consumption before booking.

Can I get a discount on the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package?

Yes! Norwegian often offers pre-cruise discounts or “Free at Sea” deals that include the package. Booking early or during sales (like Black Friday) can reduce the cost by 10–20%.

Does the Norwegian drink package cover non-alcoholic drinks?

Absolutely. The package includes unlimited soda, juices, mocktails, specialty coffee, and bottled water. A dedicated soda-only package is also available for non-alcohol drinkers.

How much is the gratuity for the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package?

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to the total cost of the drink package. For a 7-day cruise at $60/day, that’s an extra $84 per person.