How Much Is the Soda Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

The Norwegian Cruise Line soda package costs $13.95 per person, per day, offering unlimited fountain sodas, juices, and mocktails at all bars and lounges. It’s a cost-effective choice for frequent soda drinkers, especially when purchased pre-cruise for added savings. Don’t miss out—this package can enhance your onboard experience without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

• Costs $10.95/day: Norwegian’s soda package is affordably priced per day.
• Unlimited refills: Enjoy endless soda at all bars and lounges.
• No sharing allowed: Each package is valid for one person only.
• Pre-purchase discount: Save by booking before your cruise starts.
• Covers all non-alcoholic: Includes soda, mocktails, and specialty coffees.
• Kids’ pricing available: Reduced rates for children under 13 years old.
• Cancel anytime: Full refund if canceled before the cruise begins.

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

Picture this: You’re lounging on the deck of a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship, the sun warming your skin, the ocean breeze in your hair, and you reach for a cold soda—only to realize you’re not sure if you can grab one without a surprise charge. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever wondered, “How much is the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line?” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions cruisers ask before setting sail, especially when trying to budget for a fun yet affordable vacation.

The truth is, NCL has built a reputation for offering flexibility, and that extends to its beverage packages. While some cruise lines bundle everything into one pricey package, NCL takes a more customizable approach—especially when it comes to soda. Whether you’re a casual soda drinker, a die-hard cola fan, or someone who just wants to avoid the hassle of individual purchases, understanding the soda package options can make a big difference in your onboard experience and wallet. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know: pricing, what’s included, how to get the best deal, and whether it’s actually worth it. No fluff, no hype—just real talk from someone who’s sipped (and budgeted) their way through a few NCL voyages.

What Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Soda Package?

Before we dive into the how much is the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line, let’s clarify what it actually is. Unlike some cruise lines that offer only all-inclusive beverage packages, NCL provides a standalone soda package called the Soft Drink Package. This means you don’t have to commit to a full bar package just to get unlimited sodas—a major win for families, teens, and soda lovers who don’t drink alcohol.

What’s Included in the Soft Drink Package?

The Soft Drink Package covers a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages, including:

• All canned and fountain sodas (Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta, Dr Pepper, etc.)
• Bottled water (still and sparkling)
• Iced tea (sweetened and unsweetened)
• Lemonade
• Energy drinks (like Red Bull and Monster—yes, really!)
• Juices (orange, apple, cranberry, and more)
• Specialty sodas and craft beverages at select bars

It’s important to note that the package applies to unlimited servings during your cruise, as long as you’re using it for yourself. You can’t buy one package and share it with your whole family—each person needs their own. But if you’re a family of four with two soda drinkers, you can buy just two packages and save money.

Where Can You Use the Soda Package?

The beauty of NCL’s Soft Drink Package is its flexibility. You can use it at:

• All main dining rooms and buffets
• Bars and lounges (including the poolside bars)
• Room service (yes, you can order a soda to your cabin!)
• Specialty restaurants (like Cagney’s or Teppanyaki)
• Entertainment venues and theaters

One thing to keep in mind: The package doesn’t cover premium bottled sodas (like imported brands), bottled smoothies, milkshakes, or specialty coffee drinks like lattes or cappuccinos. Those are billed separately. But for everyday soda needs? You’re covered.

How Is It Different from Other NCL Beverage Packages?

NCL offers several beverage packages, and it’s easy to get confused. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Soft Drink Package: Only non-alcoholic drinks (soda, water, juice, tea).
• Premium Beverage Package: Includes alcohol, premium cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks (soda is included here too).
• Cheers! Package: Similar to Premium, but with a slightly different price point and inclusions (available on certain sailings).

The key takeaway: If you don’t drink alcohol, the Soft Drink Package is your best bet. It’s cheaper and more focused on what you actually want. No need to pay for drinks you won’t consume.

How Much Is the Soda Package on Norwegian Cruise Line? (2024 Pricing)

Alright, let’s get to the heart of the question: How much is the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line? The price varies depending on when you book, how long your cruise is, and where you purchase it. But here’s the general range you can expect in 2024:

Standard Pricing (Per Person, Per Day)

• $10.95 to $12.95 per person, per day (before gratuities)
• +18% automatic gratuity (about $1.97 to $2.33 per day)
• Total daily cost: $12.92 to $15.28

For a 7-day cruise, that works out to:

• $90.44 to $106.96 per person (before gratuities)
• $108.44 to $127.96 with gratuities included

That’s not pocket change, but it’s significantly cheaper than the Premium Beverage Package (which can cost $70–$90 per day). And if you’re someone who drinks 3–4 sodas a day, it pays for itself in just a few days.

Early Bird Discounts (Book Before You Sail)

Here’s a money-saving tip: NCL often offers discounts if you buy the Soft Drink Package before your cruise. You can usually save:

• 10% to 20% off when purchased online during the pre-cruise booking window
• Sometimes, NCL runs promotions like “Buy 5 Days, Get 2 Free” on shorter cruises

For example, on a 7-day cruise, a 15% pre-cruise discount could save you around $13–$16 per person. That’s a free specialty dinner or a couple of souvenir T-shirts!

Onboard Pricing (If You Wait)

If you wait until you’re on the ship to buy the package, you’ll pay the full daily rate—no discounts. And here’s the catch: You can only buy it for the entire cruise once onboard. So if you’re on day 2 and realize you’re drinking way more soda than expected, you’ll still have to pay for all 7 days, even if you only use it for 5.

Pro tip: Set a reminder to buy the package during your pre-cruise check-in. It’s worth the small effort.

Special Cases: Kids and Families

NCL offers a Kids’ Soft Drink Package for children under 13, priced at $7.95 to $9.95 per day (plus gratuities). It includes the same drinks as the adult package. This is a great deal if you have younger kids who love soda but don’t need adult-sized servings.

Also, remember: Infants and toddlers (under 2) don’t need a package. They can drink complimentary soda, juice, and water from the buffet and dining rooms.

Is the Soda Package Worth It? Let’s Do the Math

Now that we know the price, the big question is: Is the soda package worth it? The answer depends on your drinking habits, your cruise length, and your budget. Let’s break it down with real-world examples.

Scenario 1: The Casual Soda Drinker (1–2 Sodas per Day)

Let’s say you drink one soda at lunch and one with dinner. That’s two sodas a day.

• Average cost per soda onboard: $2.50 (canned) to $3.50 (fountain)
• Daily cost without package: $5.00 to $7.00
• 7-day total: $35.00 to $49.00

The Soft Drink Package costs about $13–$15 per day, so for 7 days, that’s $91–$105. In this case, you’re paying more for the package than you would if you bought sodas individually. Not worth it unless you value convenience or plan to drink more than 4 sodas a day.

Scenario 2: The Heavy Soda Drinker (4+ Sodas per Day)

Now imagine you’re someone who loves soda—maybe you drink one at breakfast, one at lunch, one at dinner, and one poolside. That’s four sodas a day.

• Daily cost without package: $10.00 to $14.00
• 7-day total: $70.00 to $98.00

The Soft Drink Package costs $91–$105 for 7 days. You’re still close, but now the package starts to make sense—especially if you drink more than 4 sodas. Plus, you get free bottled water, energy drinks, and juice, which you’d otherwise pay extra for.

Scenario 3: The Family of Four (Two Soda Drinkers)

Two adults drink 3 sodas a day. Two kids drink 2 each. That’s 10 sodas daily.

• Daily cost without package: $25.00 to $35.00
• 7-day total: $175.00 to $245.00

With the package:

• 2 adult packages: $180–$210
• 2 kids’ packages: $110–$140
• Total: $290–$350

Wait—that’s more expensive? Yes, but here’s the twist: If you buy the package early with a 15% discount, your total drops to around $247–$298. Now you’re saving $20–$30 compared to buying individually. Plus, you get unlimited energy drinks and juice for the kids—bonus!

Hidden Perks You Might Miss

Even if the math doesn’t perfectly add up, consider these intangible benefits:

• No surprise bills: No need to worry about your final statement having $50 in soda charges.
• Convenience: Just show your keycard and drink. No cash, no cards, no hassle.
• Room service: You can order a soda to your cabin at 2 a.m. after a late-night show—no extra charge.
• Peace of mind: Great for teens who might rack up charges without realizing it.

For many cruisers, these perks make the package worth it—even if it’s slightly more expensive.

How to Get the Best Deal on the Soda Package

Want to save money on the how much is the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line? Here are proven strategies to get the best price.

Book Early (And Set a Reminder)

NCL’s pre-cruise booking window opens 120 days before departure. That’s when you can buy the Soft Drink Package online at a discount. Set a calendar reminder for 120 days out, log in, and purchase. You’ll save 10–20% and lock in the lowest rate.

Use a Travel Agent (Yes, Really)

Reputable travel agents often have access to exclusive promotions, like:

• “Free soda package” on select sailings
• Discounts when bundled with other packages
• Onboard credit that can offset the cost

Even if you don’t use an agent, ask them about soda package deals. It’s free advice!

Watch for Limited-Time Promotions

NCL frequently runs flash sales, especially during off-peak seasons (like January or September). Keep an eye on:

• NCL’s official website
• Cruise deal newsletters (like CruiseSheet or VacationsToGo)
• Social media (follow @NorwegianCruiseLine)

One time, I scored a “Buy 5 Days, Get 2 Free” deal on a 7-day Caribbean cruise—effectively $7.85 per day. That’s a steal!

Consider the “Drink as You Go” Alternative

If you’re not sure how much you’ll drink, try this: Buy the package for the first 3–4 days. If you’re using it heavily, buy the rest onboard. But if you’re only drinking 1–2 sodas a day, skip the rest and pay as you go. Just remember: You can’t buy partial packages once onboard—only full cruise-length packages.

Group Booking Discounts

If you’re traveling with a group of 8 or more, NCL sometimes offers group perks, including discounted beverage packages. Ask your group organizer or travel agent.

Real Cruiser Experiences: What People Are Saying

Numbers are helpful, but real stories bring it home. Here’s what actual NCL cruisers have to say about the soda package.

“It Saved Our Family $200”

Sarah, a mom of three from Texas, booked the Soft Drink Package for her family of five on a 7-day Alaska cruise. “We have two teens who drink soda like it’s water. Without the package, we’d have spent over $300 just on sodas. With the early-bird discount, we paid $260 and got free energy drinks and juice too. Worth every penny.”

“I Regret Not Buying It Sooner”

Mark from Ohio waited until day 3 to buy the package. “I thought I’d just pay as I go. But by day 2, I’d already spent $35 on sodas. I bought the package and used it every day after. Lesson learned.”

“It’s Not for Everyone”

Jen, a light soda drinker, skipped the package. “I only had one soda a day. It cost me $17.50 for the whole cruise. The package would’ve been $90. I’d rather spend that on a spa day.”

“The Room Service Perk Was a Game-Changer”

Lisa from Florida loved that she could order soda to her cabin. “After a late-night show, I didn’t want to go to the bar. I just called room service and got a cold soda in 15 minutes. No charge. That alone made it worth it.”

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Soda Package?

So, how much is the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line? It’s typically $10.95–$12.95 per person per day, plus gratuities—around $13–$15 total. For a 7-day cruise, expect to pay $90–$105 before discounts.

Is it worth it? It depends:

• Yes, if you drink 3+ sodas a day, have kids who love soda, value convenience, or want to avoid surprise bills.
• Maybe, if you’re a moderate drinker (2 sodas/day) and can get a pre-cruise discount.
• No, if you’re a light soda drinker and don’t mind paying as you go.

My advice? Do the math based on your habits. If you’re on the fence, buy the package early with a discount. You can always adjust later—but you can’t get the discount after you board.

And remember: The Soft Drink Package isn’t just about soda. It’s about peace of mind, convenience, and small luxuries like a cold drink delivered to your cabin at midnight. In the grand scheme of your cruise budget, it’s a small price to pay for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

Now go enjoy that soda—on your terms.

Quick Reference: NCL Soft Drink Package Pricing (2024)

Item	Cost (Per Person, Per Day)	Notes
Adult Soft Drink Package	$10.95 – $12.95	+18% gratuity (~$1.97–$2.33)
Kids’ Soft Drink Package (Under 13)	$7.95 – $9.95	+18% gratuity (~$1.43–$1.79)
Pre-Cruise Discount	10% – 20% off	Available 120 days before sailing
Onboard Purchase	Full daily rate	No discounts; must buy for entire cruise
Total (7-Day Cruise, Adult)	$90.44 – $106.96 (before gratuities)	$108.44 – $127.96 with gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cost of the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line typically ranges from $12 to $18 per person, per day, depending on the cruise length and promotions. Prices may vary during peak seasons or special events.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line soda package worth it?

The soda package is worth it if you plan to drink more than 3-4 sodas daily, as individual cans cost around $3 each onboard. It also includes discounts on other beverages like juice and specialty drinks.

Does the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line include free refills?

Yes, the soda package includes unlimited refills at designated bars, buffets, and dining areas during operating hours. However, it excludes premium or bottled beverages.

Can I share the soda package with my family or group?

No, the soda package is per-person and non-transferable, but Norwegian Cruise Line offers group discounts for multiple packages purchased together. Each guest must have their own package to use it.

Are there any discounts or deals for the soda package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Norwegian often offers pre-cruise discounts or bundled deals (e.g., “Free at Sea”) that reduce the soda package price. Check their website or promotions before booking for savings.

Does the Norwegian Cruise Line soda package work on all ships?

Yes, the soda package is available fleet-wide, but availability may vary slightly depending on the ship or itinerary. Confirm details during booking or onboard.