How Much Is the Drink Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

The Norwegian Cruise Line drink package costs between $99 and $129 per person, per day, depending on the sailing and package tier selected. It includes unlimited premium cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks, offering significant savings for frequent drinkers—especially on longer voyages. Always check for promotions, as NCL often waives or discounts the package during special booking deals.

Key Takeaways

• Costs start at $99/day: Base price for the Premium Beverage Package.
• Kids’ packages available: Affordable options for non-alcoholic drinks for children.
• Gratuities included: 18–20% service charge already added to package price.
• Max value per drink: Covers beverages up to $15; pay difference for pricier items.
• Book early for deals: Pre-cruise discounts often available online.
• Check restrictions: Excludes specialty venues and minibar purchases.

How Much Is the Drink Package on Norwegian Cruise Line? Let’s Break It Down

So, you’re planning your dream cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and you’re already picturing yourself sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool or enjoying a glass of wine with dinner under the stars. But then reality hits: “How much is the drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line?” It’s a question every cruiser asks—and honestly, the answer isn’t always straightforward. I remember my first cruise, standing at the bar, staring at a cocktail menu with prices that made my wallet whimper. That’s when I realized: a drink package might be worth it. But is it? And more importantly, how much does it really cost?

Drink packages can make or break your vacation budget. On one hand, they offer convenience and peace of mind—no surprise bills at the end of the trip. On the other, they can feel like a gamble. Are you really going to drink enough to justify the cost? And what about the fine print? In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about NCL’s drink packages: the prices, the perks, the limitations, and whether it’s truly worth it for you. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a cocktail enthusiast, by the end of this post, you’ll have a clear answer to that burning question: how much is the drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Packages

The Basics: What’s Included?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers two main drink packages: the Premium Beverage Package (PBP) and the Premium Plus Beverage Package (PPBP). Think of them as “good” and “great” options. The PBP is the most popular, covering a wide range of drinks, while the PPBP is the upgraded version for those who want premium spirits, top-shelf wines, and even some non-alcoholic options.

Here’s what you get with each:

• Premium Beverage Package (PBP): Beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, spirits, sodas, juices, bottled water, and specialty coffee. Most drinks under $15 are included.

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• Premium Plus Beverage Package (PPBP): Everything in the PBP, plus premium spirits, top-shelf wines (up to $15 per glass), and select bottled water. Most drinks under $18 are included.

Both packages cover unlimited drinks during your cruise—no daily limits (though NCL reserves the right to refuse service, of course). They’re valid at all bars, lounges, restaurants, and even the mini-bar in your room.

What’s Not Included? The Fine Print

Now, let’s talk about the things that aren’t covered—because this is where many cruisers get caught off guard. Here’s what’s not included in either package:

• Bottles of wine or champagne (you’ll still pay retail price).
• Room service drinks (except for bottled water and non-alcoholic options).
• Drinks at private events (like weddings or corporate functions).
• Tips and gratuities (more on this later).
• Drinks above the price cap (e.g., a $20 cocktail with the PBP).

One thing I learned the hard way: if you order a drink that’s slightly over the limit (say, a $16 cocktail with the PBP), you’ll pay the difference. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Who’s Eligible? Age and Booking Rules

To purchase a drink package, you must be 21 or older (or 18+ in certain regions like Europe). Everyone in your stateroom must buy the same package—no mixing and matching. This is a common rule across most cruise lines, and NCL is no exception. If you’re traveling with friends or family, make sure everyone’s on the same page before booking.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling solo, you’re in luck—you can buy the package just for yourself. But if you’re in a double-occupancy room, both guests must purchase the same package. NCL does this to prevent sharing (which they don’t allow).

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

Standard Pricing (Per Person, Per Day)

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how much is the drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line? The cost depends on the package and how far in advance you book. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Premium Beverage Package (PBP): $89–$99 per person, per day.
• Premium Plus Beverage Package (PPBP): $129–$139 per person, per day.

These prices are for standard bookings. But here’s the catch: NCL often runs promotions where you can get the PBP for as low as $59–$69 per day if you book early or during a sale. I once scored it for $55 during a flash deal—talk about a win!

Gratuities: The Hidden Cost

Here’s a sneaky one: gratuities are added to your final bill. NCL charges a 20% service fee on top of the package price. For example, if your PBP costs $89/day, you’ll pay an extra $17.80 in gratuities. That’s $106.80/day total. It’s not a surprise once you know, but it’s easy to overlook.

Let’s say you’re on a 7-day cruise with the PBP at $89/day. Your total would be:

• Package cost: $89 x 7 = $623
• Gratuities (20%): $124.60
• Total: $747.60

For the PPBP at $129/day, the math looks like this:

• Package cost: $129 x 7 = $903
• Gratuities (20%): $180.60
• Total: $1,083.60

Promotions and Discounts: How to Save

Want to lower the cost? Here’s how:

• Book early: NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion often includes a free PBP (with a 3+ night cruise). You’ll still pay gratuities, but the package itself is free.
• Look for flash sales: Check NCL’s website, travel agencies, or deal sites like CruiseSheet for discounts.
• Military and senior discounts: Some promotions offer reduced rates for these groups.
• Group bookings: If you’re traveling with 8+ people, ask about group discounts.

I once booked a 10-day cruise and got the PBP free through “Free at Sea.” The only cost was the $124.60 in gratuities—a huge savings!

Is the Drink Package Worth It? A Real-World Analysis

Breaking It Down: When You Come Out Ahead

So, is the drink package worth it? It depends on your drinking habits. Let’s do some math to see when you’d break even.

Assume the PBP costs $89/day (including gratuities). Here’s how many drinks you’d need to consume daily to break even:

• Cocktails: 4–5 drinks per day (avg. $12–$15 each).
• Wine: 6–7 glasses per day (avg. $10–$12 each).
• Beer: 8–10 beers per day (avg. $6–$8 each).
• Mixed drinks: 5–6 drinks per day (avg. $10–$12 each).

For example, if you enjoy 4 cocktails ($14 each = $56), 2 glasses of wine ($12 each = $24), and a beer ($7), that’s $87—just $2 shy of the package cost. Add a soda or coffee, and you’ve broken even. If you drink more (or prefer pricier drinks), you’ll save.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

But what if you’re a light drinker? Here are scenarios where the package might not be worth it:

• You only drink at dinner: If you have 1–2 drinks per day, you’ll likely spend less à la carte.
• You prefer non-alcoholic drinks: Sodas, juices, and bottled water are cheap on their own.
• You’re on a short cruise: On a 3–4 day trip, even heavy drinkers might not break even.
• You’re traveling with kids: Kids’ drinks (sodas, milkshakes) aren’t included in the package.

My friend Sarah only drinks wine with dinner. On her 7-day cruise, she spent $140 on 14 glasses of wine. The PBP would’ve cost $747.60—a huge loss. For her, paying per drink made more sense.

Special Considerations: Groups, Solo Travelers, and More

Here’s where it gets tricky:

• Groups: If everyone drinks heavily, the package is a no-brainer. But if some don’t drink much, they’ll feel pressured to buy it.
• Solo travelers: You only pay for yourself, so it’s easier to justify.
• Non-drinkers: NCL offers a “Coffee & More” package ($25–$35/day) for non-alcoholic drinks, but it’s not always worth it.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, track your drinking habits at home. Do you have 3+ drinks per day on vacation? The package might pay off.

Tips to Maximize Your Drink Package Value

Drink Smart: Get the Most for Your Money

Want to make every dollar count? Here’s how:

• Order pricier drinks: If you have the PBP, go for $15 cocktails instead of $10 ones. With the PPBP, splurge on $18 top-shelf drinks.
• Use it for non-alcoholic options: Bottled water, specialty coffee, and fresh juices add up quickly.
• Visit bars with premium offerings: Some lounges have better selections (e.g., the Observation Lounge on newer ships).
• Take advantage of happy hour: Even with a package, happy hour can mean better service or exclusive drinks.

Timing Matters: When to Buy

Don’t wait until the last minute! Here’s the best time to buy:

• Book early: The earlier you book, the more likely you’ll catch a promotion.
• Check pre-cruise offers: NCL often emails special deals 60–90 days before sailing.
• Wait for onboard pricing: Sometimes, NCL offers discounts onboard (but this is rare).

I once waited until boarding day to buy the PBP—and paid $99/day instead of the $69 I could’ve gotten with a promotion. Lesson learned!

Ask for Perks: How to Score Upgrades

Here’s a little-known tip: ask for an upgrade. If you’re a repeat cruiser or have a special occasion (birthday, anniversary), NCL might upgrade you to the PPBP for free. I’ve seen this happen more than once. Just be polite and ask!

Comparing NCL’s Drink Packages to Other Cruise Lines

How Does NCL Stack Up?

Let’s compare NCL to Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess:

Cruise Line	Package Name	Price (Per Person, Per Day)	Gratuities	Price Cap
Norwegian (PBP)	Premium Beverage Package	$89–$99	20%	$15
Norwegian (PPBP)	Premium Plus Beverage Package	$129–$139	20%	$18
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage Package	$89–$99	18%	$15
Carnival	Cheers! Beverage Program	$59.95–$69.95	15%	$20
Princess	Premium Beverage Package	$84–$94	18%	$15

NCL’s pricing is competitive, but Carnival’s “Cheers!” program often wins for budget-conscious cruisers. Royal Caribbean and Princess are similar in price, but NCL’s PPBP is one of the few with a higher price cap ($18).

Unique Perks of NCL’s Packages

What sets NCL apart?

• No daily limits: Unlike some lines, NCL doesn’t cap your daily drinks.
• Mini-bar access: You can use the package for mini-bar drinks (a rare perk).
• Specialty coffee: Includes drinks from Starbucks-style cafés on newer ships.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Drink Package?

So, how much is the drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line? The answer depends on your cruise length, drinking habits, and budget. If you’re a moderate to heavy drinker, the Premium Beverage Package is often worth it—especially with promotions. But if you only have a few drinks per day, you might save by paying à la carte.

Here’s my take: buy the package if…

• You enjoy 3+ drinks per day.
• You like variety (cocktails, wine, beer).
• You’re on a 7+ day cruise.
• You can snag a promotion (like “Free at Sea”).

Skip the package if…

• You’re a light drinker or prefer non-alcoholic options.
• You’re on a short cruise (3–4 days).
• You’re traveling with non-drinkers who won’t use it.

Remember, it’s not just about the cost—it’s about the experience. A drink package can make your vacation more relaxing (no bill anxiety!) and fun (try those fancy cocktails!). Just do the math, read the fine print, and decide what works best for you.

Happy sailing—and cheers to a great cruise!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cost of Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink packages varies by cruise length and destination, but the Premium Beverage Package typically ranges from $99–$129 per person, per day. Prices may include gratuities and fluctuate based on promotions or seasonal demand.

What drinks are included in Norwegian’s Premium Beverage Package?

This package covers unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and premium coffee up to $15 per drink. Exclusions include bottled wines, specialty drinks above $15, and mini-bar items.

Is the drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line worth it?

It depends on your drinking habits—if you consume 5+ alcoholic drinks daily, the package pays for itself. Casual drinkers may find à la carte pricing more cost-effective.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line offer discounts on drink packages?

Yes, NCL often provides pre-cruise discounts (up to 20–30% off) when booked before departure. Check their website or promotions like “Free at Sea” for bundled deals on the drink package.

Can I share the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package with someone else?

No, the package is non-transferable and only valid for the named guest. Each adult in a stateroom must purchase the package if one is selected (applies to all-inclusive promotions).

Are gratuities included in the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package price?

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to the base price of the package. This covers service charges but not additional tips for exceptional service onboard.