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The Carnival Cruise Line drink package costs between $59.95 and $89.95 per person, per day, depending on the length of your cruise and whether you choose the standard or premium option. This all-inclusive package covers cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and specialty drinks, offering significant savings for frequent imbibers—just be sure to book early for the best rates and check for current promotions.
Key Takeaways
- Compare packages: Choose between CHEERS! and Bottomless Bubbles based on your drinking preferences.
- Daily cost: CHEERS! costs $59.95/day, excluding gratuities and taxes.
- Pre-purchase savings: Buy before sailing for a discount vs. onboard pricing.
- Coverage details: CHEERS! includes cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks under $15.
- Family-friendly option: Bottomless Bubbles offers unlimited sodas and juices for $9.95/day.
- Review exclusions: High-end bottles and specialty coffees aren’t covered by CHEERS!.
📑 Table of Contents
- How Much Is the Drink Package on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed
- Understanding Carnival Cruise Line’s Drink Package Options
- How Much Is the Cheers! Beverage Program? Pricing Breakdown
- Is the Cheers! Package Worth It? Real-World Scenarios & Calculations
- Hidden Costs, Restrictions, and Fine Print You Should Know
- Tips to Maximize Your Drink Package Value
- Data Table: Carnival Drink Package Comparison (7-Day Cruise, 2024 Pricing)
- Final Thoughts: Is the Carnival Drink Package Right for You?
How Much Is the Drink Package on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed
When planning a Carnival Cruise, one of the most frequently asked questions by guests is: “How much is the drink package on Carnival Cruise Line?” Whether you’re sipping a piña colada on the Lido Deck, enjoying a craft cocktail during a sunset, or grabbing a beer at the pool bar, having a drink package can dramatically simplify your vacation experience. For many travelers, the convenience, cost savings, and peace of mind of an all-inclusive beverage plan make it a worthwhile investment. But with multiple options, fluctuating prices, and fine print to consider, understanding the true value of Carnival’s drink packages requires a deeper dive.
Carnival Cruise Line offers several beverage packages tailored to different drinking preferences, from casual soda drinkers to wine connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts. The cost of these packages varies based on cruise length, sailing date, itinerary, and when you purchase them. Unlike some cruise lines that offer a one-size-fits-all model, Carnival provides tiered options, allowing guests to choose a plan that best fits their consumption habits. This blog post will break down the pricing, inclusions, exclusions, and real-world value of each drink package, helping you make an informed decision before you set sail. From the Bottomless Bubbles for soda lovers to the premium Cheers! Beverage Program, we’ll reveal everything you need to know to maximize your onboard experience and avoid unexpected bar bills.
Understanding Carnival Cruise Line’s Drink Package Options
Carnival Cruise Line doesn’t offer a single “one-size-fits-all” drink package. Instead, it provides a tiered selection of beverage plans, each designed for different types of guests. Knowing the distinctions between these packages is crucial to avoid overspending or underutilizing your investment. Below are the main drink packages available, along with their core features.
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The Bottomless Bubbles Package
This is Carnival’s most affordable drink package, ideal for guests who primarily consume non-alcoholic beverages. The Bottomless Bubbles package includes unlimited fountain soda, juice, lemonade, iced tea, and hot chocolate. It’s perfect for families with children, designated drivers, or those who prefer to skip alcohol.
- Price: Typically $11.95 per person, per day (prices may vary by cruise length and sailing date).
- Best for: Kids, non-drinkers, and guests who want unlimited soft drinks.
- Exclusions: Bottled water, specialty coffees (e.g., lattes), milkshakes, and alcoholic beverages.
Tip: If you plan to drink soda or juice more than 3–4 times per day, this package pays for itself. For example, a 7-day cruise would cost $83.65 per person, but if you’d normally buy 5 sodas daily at $2.50 each, that’s $87.50 in out-of-pocket costs—so you save $3.85.
The Cheers! Beverage Program (Premium Alcohol & Non-Alcohol)
The Cheers! Beverage Program is Carnival’s flagship drink package, offering the most comprehensive selection. It includes:
- Alcoholic drinks up to $20 per drink (beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, and shots).
- All non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juice, bottled water, specialty coffees, milkshakes).
- 25% off drinks over $20 (e.g., premium wines and top-shelf liquors).
- 25% off bottled wine at dinner.
This package is ideal for guests who plan to drink alcohol regularly and want the flexibility to enjoy a variety of beverages without worrying about per-drink costs.
Wine & Dine Package (For Wine Lovers)
While not a standalone drink package, Carnival offers a Wine & Dine option for guests who enjoy wine with meals. This is often sold as an add-on or part of a dining package. It includes a selection of house wines by the glass during dinner, typically priced at a flat rate per cruise (e.g., $120–$180 for a 7-day sailing).
- Best for: Couples or guests who enjoy one or two glasses of wine with dinner.
- Limitation: Only valid during dinner in main dining rooms, not at bars or specialty restaurants.
Tip: If you only drink wine at dinner, this may be more cost-effective than the full Cheers! package, especially if you don’t consume other alcoholic drinks.
Specialty Coffee & Tea Package
For coffee lovers, Carnival offers a Specialty Coffee & Tea package, which includes unlimited espresso-based drinks (lattes, cappuccinos, mochas), hot chocolate, and premium teas. This is a niche option but valuable if you’re a daily latte drinker.
- Price: Around $14.95 per person, per day.
- Best for: Guests who visit the JavaBlue Café or enjoy specialty drinks multiple times daily.
No Package? Pay-As-You-Go Pricing
If you don’t purchase a package, you’ll pay per drink. Carnival’s standard drink prices are:
- Domestic beer: $6–$8
- Imported beer: $8–$10
- Cocktails: $10–$14
- Glass of wine: $9–$15
- Specialty coffee: $5–$7
- Bottled water: $2.50–$4
- Soda: $2.50–$3
For budget-conscious travelers, tracking your consumption is essential. Use a daily drink log to estimate whether a package will save you money.
How Much Is the Cheers! Beverage Program? Pricing Breakdown
The Cheers! Beverage Program is the most popular drink package on Carnival, but its price isn’t fixed. It varies based on several factors, including cruise length, sailing date, and when you purchase it. Below is a detailed breakdown of how much you can expect to pay.
Standard Pricing by Cruise Length
As of 2024, the base price for the Cheers! package is:
- 5-day cruise: $75.95 per person, per day
- 7-day cruise: $70.95 per person, per day
- 8–14-day cruise: $65.95 per person, per day
Note: The per-day cost decreases with longer sailings, offering better value for extended cruises. For example, a 7-day cruise would cost $496.65 per person, while an 8-day cruise would be $527.60—only $30.95 more for an extra day of drinks.
Early Booking & Pre-Purchase Discounts
Carnival often offers early bird discounts for guests who purchase the Cheers! package before their cruise. These can reduce the per-day cost by $5–$10. For example:
- Pre-purchase price (7-day): $60.95/day → $426.65 total
- Onboard price (7-day): $70.95/day → $496.65 total
Savings: $70 per person. That’s a significant difference, especially for a couple or family of four.
Promotions & Flash Sales
Carnival occasionally runs promotions such as:
- “Buy 3 Days, Get 2 Free” (limited-time offers)
- “Free Cheers! for 2nd Guest” on select sailings
- “$100 Off Cheers!” with certain promotions
Tip: Monitor Carnival’s website, email newsletters, and travel agent deals. Signing up for Carnival’s loyalty program, VIFP Club
If you wait to buy the package onboard, you’ll pay the standard rate (or higher during peak times). Additionally, Carnival requires the package to be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise—you can’t activate it for just 3 days. This makes pre-purchasing the smarter financial move. All drink packages include a 15–18% gratuity automatically added to the total. For example, a $496.65 Cheers! package for a 7-day cruise would include approximately $74.50 in gratuities. This is standard across all Carnival beverage programs. Determining whether the Cheers! package is worth it depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and budget. Let’s analyze real-world scenarios to help you decide. Example: A couple on a 7-day cruise who enjoy 1 cocktail at lunch, 1 beer at dinner, and 1 wine with dinner. Cheers! Cost (pre-purchased): $426.65 per person ($853.30 for two) Verdict: Not worth it. They’d spend $636.30 more with the package. However, if they also consume specialty coffee ($6/day), bottled water ($3/day), and soda ($2.50/day), those add up: Still below the package cost. Only worth it if they drink more or add premium items. Example: A group of friends on a 7-day cruise who enjoy poolside cocktails, beer at dinner, and after-dinner drinks. Cheers! Cost (pre-purchased): $426.65 Verdict: Close call. But if they add: Now, the Cheers! package saves them $14.35 per person. Add in the 25% off premium drinks, and the value increases further. Example: A couple who enjoy craft cocktails ($14), imported beer ($10), and a bottle of wine ($40) every other day. Cheers! Cost: $426.65 Savings: $167.35 per person. Plus, they get 25% off additional bottles of wine, which could save another $20–$30. Verdict: Absolutely worth it. They also gain unlimited access to non-alcoholic drinks and specialty coffees. Example: A family of four (2 adults, 2 kids) on a 5-day cruise. Cheers! Cost (5-day, pre-purchased): $75.95 x 5 x 2 = $759.50 (adults only) Bottomless Bubbles (kids): $11.95 x 5 x 2 = $119.50 Total package cost: $879 Verdict: Not worth it for alcohol alone, but if adults drink more or add specialty items, the value improves. Alternatively, adults could buy Cheers! and kids get Bottomless Bubbles—saving $180 vs. pay-as-you-go. While Carnival’s drink packages offer great value, there are important limitations and rules that can affect your experience. Being aware of these will help you avoid frustration and maximize your investment. The Cheers! package includes up to 15 drinks per day. This is a hard cap enforced by the cruise line. Once you reach 15, you’ll need to pay out of pocket. This is designed to prevent overconsumption and ensure responsible drinking. Tip: Track your consumption using the Carnival Hub app or a simple notepad. Spread your drinks evenly throughout the day. Not all drinks are covered under Cheers! The following are excluded: However, you do get a 25% discount on drinks over $20, which helps offset the cost. Drink packages are non-transferable. You cannot buy a package for someone else, and you cannot “gift” drinks to another guest. Each person must purchase their own package if they want full access. Exception:Onboard Pricing & Late Purchase
Taxes and Gratuities
Is the Cheers! Package Worth It? Real-World Scenarios & Calculations
Scenario 1: The Casual Drinker (2–3 Drinks Per Day)
Scenario 2: The Social Drinker (4–6 Drinks Per Day)
Scenario 3: The Premium Drinker (Top-Shelf & Wine Enthusiast)
Scenario 4: Family with Kids
Hidden Costs, Restrictions, and Fine Print You Should Know
Daily Limit: 15 Drinks Per Day
Exclusions: What’s Not Included
Sharing & Gifting Restrictions
Port Days & Drink Allowance
On port days, you can still use your package at onboard bars, but you cannot consume alcohol purchased in port until the ship departs. Any alcohol bought ashore must be surrendered to the cruise line and stored until the end of the cruise (or until you return to your cabin after departure).
Refunds & Cancellations
Drink packages are generally non-refundable. If you cancel your cruise, the package cost is lost unless you have travel insurance that covers pre-paid expenses. Carnival may offer a partial refund in rare cases (e.g., medical emergency), but this is not guaranteed.
Age Restrictions
Guests must be 21+ to purchase the Cheers! package. For guests under 21, the Bottomless Bubbles or Specialty Coffee packages are the only options.
Tips to Maximize Your Drink Package Value
Getting the most out of your Carnival drink package requires strategy. Here are expert tips to stretch your dollar and enhance your experience.
1. Pre-Purchase for the Best Price
As mentioned, pre-purchasing the Cheers! package can save you $70–$100 per person on a 7-day cruise. Set a calendar reminder to buy it as soon as your final payment is due (usually 75–90 days before sailing).
2. Use the 25% Off Perk Wisely
Take advantage of the 25% discount on premium drinks. Order a $25 bottle of wine at dinner and pay only $18.75. This perk alone can save $10–$20 per person on a week-long cruise.
3. Visit Multiple Bars
Different bars offer different drink options. For example:
- RedFrog Pub: Craft beer, rum cocktails
- Alchemy Bar: Mixology, signature cocktails
- JavaBlue Café: Specialty coffee, smoothies
Exploring various venues keeps your experience fresh and maximizes variety.
4. Attend Drink Tastings & Events
Carnival hosts wine tastings, mixology classes, and beer samplings—all of which are free with a Cheers! package. These events are a great way to sample premium drinks you might not try otherwise.
5. Use the Carnival Hub App
The app allows you to:
- Track your daily drink count
- Find bar locations and drink menus
- Order drinks from your phone (select ships)
6. Share Non-Alcoholic Drinks with Kids
While the package is non-transferable, you can order non-alcoholic drinks for your children under 21. This is a great way to keep them hydrated and happy without buying a separate package.
7. Consider a Hybrid Approach
If you’re unsure, buy Cheers! for adults and Bottomless Bubbles for kids. Or, purchase the package for the first 4 days and switch to pay-as-you-go if your consumption slows.
Data Table: Carnival Drink Package Comparison (7-Day Cruise, 2024 Pricing)
| Package | Per Day Cost (Pre-Purchase) | Total (7 Days) | Alcohol Included? | Non-Alcohol Included? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheers! Beverage Program | $60.95 | $426.65 | Yes (up to $20) | Yes (unlimited) | Social drinkers, wine lovers |
| Bottomless Bubbles | $11.95 | $83.65 | No | Yes (soda, juice, tea) | Kids, non-drinkers |
| Specialty Coffee & Tea | $14.95 | $104.65 | No | Yes (espresso, tea) | Coffee enthusiasts |
| Wine & Dine (Add-On) | ~$25 (flat rate) | $175 (est.) | Yes (wine at dinner) | No | Wine with meals |
| Pay-As-You-Go (Estimate) | ~$50–$80/day | $350–$560 | Yes (per drink) | Yes (per drink) | Light drinkers |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change. Pre-purchase rates require booking before cruise. Taxes and gratuities (15–18%) are included in final cost.
Final Thoughts: Is the Carnival Drink Package Right for You?
So, how much is the drink package on Carnival Cruise Line? The answer depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and willingness to plan ahead. The Cheers! Beverage Program starts at around $60.95 per day when pre-purchased, offering exceptional value for guests who consume 4+ drinks daily, enjoy premium beverages, or want the convenience of unlimited non-alcoholic drinks. For casual drinkers, the Bottomless Bubbles or a pay-as-you-go approach may be more cost-effective.
The key to maximizing value lies in planning early, understanding the restrictions, and aligning your package choice with your lifestyle. Pre-purchasing, tracking your consumption, and using perks like the 25% off premium drinks can turn a seemingly expensive package into a smart financial decision. Remember, the goal isn’t just to save money—it’s to enhance your vacation experience with stress-free, guilt-free indulgence.
Whether you’re sipping a mojito at the RedFrog Tiki Bar, enjoying a craft beer at the Alchemy Bar, or treating yourself to a cappuccino at JavaBlue, a drink package can elevate your Carnival cruise from great to unforgettable. Now that you have the full picture of pricing, inclusions, and real-world scenarios, you’re equipped to make the best choice for your next adventure at sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the drink package on Carnival Cruise Line?
The cost of Carnival’s drink packages starts at $59.95 per person, per day (excluding gratuities), with options like the Cheers! Beverage Package covering cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary by sailing length and destination.
Does Carnival’s drink package include premium drinks?
The Cheers! Package includes drinks up to $20 in value, covering most cocktails, spirits, and bottled wines, but excludes premium brands like Dom Pérignon or specialty coffees. Review the terms for exclusions before purchasing.
Is the Carnival drink package worth it for me?
If you consume 5+ alcoholic drinks daily or enjoy premium sodas/specialty coffees, the package often pays for itself. Calculate your typical daily spend to determine savings.
Can I share my Carnival drink package with others?
No, the Cheers! Package is non-transferable and only valid for the named purchaser. Each guest over 21 must buy their own package if desired.
How much is the drink package on Carnival for kids?
Carnival offers a non-alcoholic package called “Bottomless Bubbles” for $9.95 per day (excluding gratuities), covering unlimited sodas, juices, and mocktails for guests under 21.
When should I buy the Carnival drink package to save money?
Book the Cheers! Package pre-cruise online for potential discounts or promotions. Buying onboard may cost more, and availability isn’t guaranteed.