How Much Is the Alcohol Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

The cost of Norwegian Cruise Line’s alcohol package ranges from $89 to $129 per person, per day, depending on the cruise length and destination. Unlimited premium drinks, including cocktails, wine, and beer, are covered, making it a popular choice for frequent drinkers seeking value and convenience onboard.

Key Takeaways

• Alcohol packages start at $59/day for basic beer and wine options.
• Premium spirits cost extra unless you upgrade to the top-tier plan.
• Unlimited cocktails start at $89/day with the Premium Plus package.
• Compare drink prices first—packages only save if you drink 5+ drinks daily.
• Book pre-cruise for discounts and avoid onboard price increases.
• Non-alcoholic drinks are included in most packages, adding value.
• Review exclusions carefully—luxury brands and room service often cost extra.

How Much Is the Alcohol Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

Planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) often involves making key decisions about onboard amenities, and one of the most frequently asked questions is: how much is the alcohol package on Norwegian Cruise Line? For many travelers, the freedom and flexibility of an all-inclusive beverage package can be a major factor in choosing a cruise line. NCL, known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, offers several drink packages that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply enjoy a cold beer at sunset, understanding the pricing, inclusions, and value of these packages can make or break your vacation experience.

The alcohol package landscape on NCL has evolved over the years, with options ranging from basic non-alcoholic plans to premium top-shelf spirits and specialty cocktails. The cost of these packages varies by sailing duration, itinerary, and booking timing. With the rise of all-inclusive cruising, NCL has adapted to offer competitive packages that promise convenience and savings—but are they worth the price tag? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the pricing structure, inclusions, restrictions, and real-world value of NCL’s alcohol packages. You’ll learn how to calculate whether a package is right for you, discover insider booking tips, and uncover the hidden nuances that can impact your final bill. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned NCL veteran, this article will equip you with everything you need to know before clicking “purchase.”

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alcohol Package Options

Types of Alcohol Packages Offered

Norwegian Cruise Line currently offers three primary alcohol beverage packages: the Premium Beverage Package (PBP), the Premium Plus Beverage Package, and the Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP). Each tier is designed to meet different levels of consumption, preferences, and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of what each includes:

• Premium Beverage Package (PBP): This is the most popular option, offering unlimited drinks up to $15 per drink. It includes beer, wine by the glass, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks, juices, and specialty coffees. It does not include bottled water (except in select cases), premium wine bottles, or top-shelf spirits above the $15 limit.
• Premium Plus Beverage Package: A newer, enhanced version of the PBP, this package increases the per-drink limit to $20 and adds a broader selection of premium wines, craft cocktails, and higher-end spirits. It also includes bottled water and a few additional perks like discounts on wine bottles.
• Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP): The most comprehensive and expensive option, the UBP offers unlimited drinks up to $25 per drink. It includes premium wines, top-shelf liquors, specialty cocktails, bottled water, and even some non-alcoholic premium drinks like artisanal sodas and fresh juices. This package is ideal for luxury travelers and heavy drinkers.

It’s important to note that NCL also offers a non-alcoholic Premium Refreshment Package, which covers mocktails, smoothies, specialty coffees, and bottled water. While not alcohol-focused, it’s often bundled or purchased by non-drinkers or those who want to avoid alcohol but still enjoy premium beverages.

Key Differences Between the Packages

The differences between these packages may seem subtle at first, but they can significantly impact your overall experience and spending. For example, if you enjoy a $18 craft cocktail at a specialty bar, the PBP won’t cover it—you’d need the Premium Plus or UBP. Similarly, a bottle of Veuve Clicquot ($90–$120) is not included in any package and must be purchased separately, though package holders often receive a discount.

Another critical distinction is the per-drink cap. If your drink costs more than the package limit, you pay the difference. For instance, a $22 martini on the PBP would result in a $7 out-of-pocket charge. This cap applies to every drink, every time, so it’s crucial to monitor your consumption and the menu prices.

Additionally, the inclusion of bottled water varies. The Premium Plus and Ultimate packages include bottled water (typically 500ml), while the PBP does not. On longer cruises, this can add up quickly—especially in tropical climates where hydration is essential.

How Much Is the Alcohol Package on Norwegian Cruise Line? Pricing Breakdown

Standard Pricing by Package and Cruise Length

The cost of alcohol packages on NCL is primarily based on the length of your cruise. Prices are quoted per person, per day, and must be purchased for all adults in the same stateroom. Below is a general pricing guide based on 2023–2024 sailings. Note that prices are subject to change and may vary by itinerary, season, and promotions.

Cruise Length	Premium Beverage Package (PBP)	Premium Plus Beverage Package	Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP)
3–5 nights	$69–$89 per person/day	$89–$109 per person/day	$109–$129 per person/day
6–8 nights	$65–$85 per person/day	$85–$105 per person/day	$105–$125 per person/day
9–11 nights	$60–$80 per person/day	$80–$100 per person/day	$100–$120 per person/day
12+ nights	$55–$75 per person/day	$75–$95 per person/day	$95–$115 per person/day

Note: Prices are approximate and vary by ship, sailing date, and demand. Longer cruises often offer better daily rates due to volume discounts.

Additional Fees and Gratuities

One critical detail that many cruisers overlook is the 18% automatic gratuity added to the total cost of the beverage package. This means if your PBP costs $500 for a 7-night cruise, you’ll pay an extra $90 in gratuities. The gratuity is non-negotiable and applied at the time of purchase.

For example, a couple booking the Premium Plus Package on a 7-night cruise at $95 per person/day would face a base cost of $1,330 ($95 × 2 × 7). With 18% gratuity, the total jumps to $1,569.40. This can be a significant surprise if not factored into your budget upfront.

Gratuities are applied to all beverage packages, including non-alcoholic ones. Some cruisers attempt to avoid this by purchasing drinks à la carte, but if you consume more than a few premium drinks per day, the package often becomes more economical.

Dynamic Pricing and Booking Timing

NCL uses a dynamic pricing model, meaning package costs can fluctuate based on demand, booking window, and promotional periods. Prices are typically highest when booking close to the sail date. However, NCL occasionally runs “Free at Sea” promotions, which may include a free beverage package (usually the PBP) when you book certain stateroom categories or sailings.

For example, a “Free at Sea” deal might offer a free PBP on a balcony cabin on a Caribbean cruise, effectively saving you $600–$800 for two people on a 7-night trip. These promotions are time-limited and often require booking during specific windows (e.g., “Black Friday” or “Wave Season” in January–March).

Booking early (6–12 months in advance) often yields the best rates, especially on high-demand itineraries like Alaska or Europe. Conversely, last-minute deals may offer discounted packages, but availability is not guaranteed.

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

Drinks Covered Under the Premium Beverage Package (PBP)

The PBP is the most widely used alcohol package on NCL. It covers:

• Beer: Domestic, imported, and craft beers (e.g., Bud Light, Heineken, Sierra Nevada)
• Wine by the glass: House reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines (e.g., Barefoot, Woodbridge)
• Spirits: Standard liquors like vodka, rum, gin, whiskey, and tequila (e.g., Absolut, Bacardi, Jim Beam)
• Cocktails: Mixed drinks up to $15 (e.g., margaritas, mojitos, cosmopolitans)
• Non-alcoholic: Soft drinks, juices, iced tea, lemonade, and basic coffees

However, the PBP does not cover:

• Bottled water (except in some specialty restaurants)
• Premium wines (e.g., Chardonnay over $15/glass)
• Top-shelf liquors (e.g., Grey Goose, Patron, Johnnie Walker Black)
• Specialty cocktails over $15 (e.g., signature drinks at The Cellars or Sugarcane)
• Room service beverages (except in-room coffee/tea)
• Minibar items

Premium Plus and Ultimate Package Inclusions

The Premium Plus Package expands the PBP with:

• Drinks up to $20 per serving
• Broader wine selection (e.g., Kendall-Jackson, Kim Crawford)
• Premium spirits (e.g., Belvedere, Don Julio, Macallan 12)
• Bottled water (500ml, one per day per person)
• 10% discount on wine bottles (varies by bar and availability)

The Ultimate Beverage Package goes even further:

• Drinks up to $25 per serving
• Top-shelf liquors (e.g., Grey Goose, Patrón Añejo, Johnnie Walker Blue)
• Premium cocktails (e.g., espresso martinis, aged rum flights)
• Unlimited bottled water (500ml, multiple per day)
• Artisan sodas, fresh juices, and specialty coffees
• Access to exclusive bars (e.g., The Cellars, Sugarcane, or The District Brew House on select ships)

Restrictions and Limitations

All packages come with important restrictions:

• Per-person limit: Only the person who purchases the package can use it. Sharing is not allowed.
• Daily limit: You can order up to 15 drinks per day (24-hour period). This is strictly enforced via the onboard account system.
• No carry-out: Drinks cannot be taken out of the bar or restaurant. You must consume them on-site.
• No room service: The package does not cover drinks ordered via room service, except for in-room coffee/tea.
• No minibar: Minibar items (e.g., beer, wine, soda) are charged separately, even with a package.
• No transfers: Packages cannot be transferred to another guest or applied to a future cruise.

These rules are enforced by crew members who scan your keycard before serving. Attempting to bypass restrictions may result in suspension of the package.

Is the Alcohol Package Worth It? Calculating the Value

When the Package Pays for Itself

To determine if an alcohol package is worth it, you need to estimate your daily drink consumption and compare it to the package cost. Here’s a practical example:

Scenario: A couple on a 7-night cruise purchases the Premium Beverage Package at $75 per person/day ($1,050 total + $189 gratuity = $1,239).

They consume the following daily:

• 2 glasses of wine at $12 each = $24
• 1 cocktail at $14 = $14
• 1 beer at $8 = $8
• 1 specialty coffee at $5 = $5
• Total per day = $51
• Total for 7 days = $357

In this case, the couple would not break even—they’d save $882 by paying out of pocket. However, if they add:

• 1 extra cocktail at $14 = $14
• 1 glass of premium wine at $18 (capped at $15) = $15
• 2 bottled waters at $4 each = $8

Their new daily total is $88, or $616 for the cruise. Still below the package cost. But if they:

• Drink at specialty bars (e.g., $18 craft cocktails)
• Order 3–4 premium drinks per day
• Consume multiple bottled waters

They could easily reach $100–$120 per day, making the package worthwhile.

Tips to Maximize Package Value

To get the most out of your alcohol package, consider these strategies:

• Drink at premium bars: The Cellars, Sugarcane, and District Brew House offer higher-priced drinks, increasing your per-drink value.
• Use the package for non-alcoholic drinks: Specialty coffees, fresh juices, and bottled water can add up quickly à la carte.
• Time your consumption: The 15-drink daily limit resets at midnight, so plan accordingly.
• Take advantage of happy hours: Some bars offer double drinks or discounts, but the package still applies—maximize value.
• Book during promotions: Free or discounted packages during “Free at Sea” deals offer unbeatable value.

For light drinkers, a package may not be cost-effective. However, for moderate to heavy drinkers, the convenience and predictability often outweigh the cost.

Booking Tips, Promotions, and Alternatives

Best Time to Book for Maximum Savings

Timing is everything when booking an alcohol package. Here are the best strategies:

• Book early (6–12 months out): Early-bird rates are often the lowest, especially on high-demand itineraries.
• Wait for “Free at Sea” promotions: These typically run during Wave Season (January–March), Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. Sign up for NCL’s email alerts.
• Book through a travel agent: Some agents have access to exclusive package discounts or onboard credit deals.
• Consider group bookings: Groups of 8+ may qualify for package discounts or free upgrades.

Alternatives to Full Alcohol Packages

If a full package isn’t right for you, consider these alternatives:

• Pay as you go: Ideal for light drinkers or non-drinkers. Budget $10–$20 per day for drinks.
• Buy drink cards: NCL occasionally sells prepaid drink cards (e.g., $50 for 10 drinks), though these are rare and ship-dependent.
• Use onboard credit: Some promotions include onboard credit, which can be applied to drinks.
• Share with friends: While not allowed officially, some cruisers discreetly share packages (risky and against policy).

Another option is to purchase the package mid-cruise. NCL sometimes allows upgrades or new purchases after the first few days, depending on availability. This lets you assess your drinking habits before committing.

Common Booking Mistakes to Avoid

• Not checking gratuities: Always include 18% in your cost calculation.
• Forgetting per-person requirements: All adults in a stateroom must purchase the same package.
• Ignoring drink caps: Know your favorite drink prices to avoid out-of-pocket charges.
• Booking too late: Packages sell out, especially on popular sailings.
• Assuming all drinks are covered: Read the fine print—bottled water, minibars, and room service are usually excluded.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise

So, how much is the alcohol package on Norwegian Cruise Line? The answer depends on your cruise length, drinking habits, and booking strategy. The Premium Beverage Package starts around $60–$90 per person/day, while the Ultimate Package can exceed $100. When you factor in the 18% gratuity and the per-drink caps, the real cost becomes clearer.

For many cruisers, the convenience, predictability, and access to premium bars make the package a worthwhile investment—especially during promotions. However, light drinkers or those on tight budgets may find better value paying out of pocket. The key is to do the math based on your expected consumption, research available promotions, and book early to secure the best rates.

Ultimately, the alcohol package is just one piece of the cruise experience. NCL’s Freestyle Cruising model emphasizes freedom, and that includes the freedom to choose how you spend your time—and your money—onboard. Whether you opt for a package, pay à la carte, or enjoy a mix of both, the goal is to maximize enjoyment without breaking the bank.

As you plan your next Norwegian Cruise Line adventure, keep this guide handy. With the right knowledge, you can sip your favorite cocktail with confidence, knowing you’ve made a smart, informed decision. Cheers to smooth sailing and unforgettable moments at sea!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the alcohol package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cost of Norwegian Cruise Line’s alcohol package, the Premium Plus Beverage Package, typically starts at $99 per person, per day (excluding gratuities). Prices may vary depending on the cruise length, itinerary, and booking promotions.

Is the Premium Plus Beverage Package worth the price?

For guests who enjoy multiple drinks daily, the package can offer significant savings compared to paying à la carte. It includes cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages up to $15 per drink.

Does the Norwegian Cruise Line alcohol package include gratuities?

No, the listed alcohol package price does not include gratuities. An 18–20% service charge is automatically added to the package cost at checkout, so factor that into your total budget.

Can I get a discounted alcohol package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, Norwegian often offers pre-cruise alcohol package discounts when booked online before departure. Check the cruise line’s promotions page or book during a sale for the best rates.

Are there any restrictions on the Norwegian alcohol package?

The package excludes drinks over $15, premium wine bottles, room service, and mini-bar items. It’s also limited to two drinks per hour and cannot be shared between guests.

How much is the alcohol package on Norwegian Cruise Line for kids?

Norwegian offers a Kids’ Soda Package (around $10/day) for children, but the standard alcohol packages are only for guests 21+. Teens 13–20 can opt for a non-alcoholic beverage package at a lower cost.