How Much Is Water Cost on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed

Bottled water on Carnival Cruise Line costs between $2.50 and $5.50 per bottle, depending on size and location onboard. Free drinking water is available at designated stations, helping travelers stay hydrated without the added expense—making it easy to save while cruising.

Key Takeaways

• Free water is available at dispensers and dining areas.
• Bottled water costs $2-$5 per bottle onboard.
• Water packages start at $25 for 12 bottles—best for heavy drinkers.
• Bring sealed bottles to avoid paying premium prices.
• Specialty water is pricier; opt for tap to save money.
• Check promotions—discounts on water packages may be offered.

How Much Is Water Cost on Carnival Cruise Line: The Complete Breakdown

Let’s talk about something we all need—water. Not the kind you swim in (though Carnival has plenty of that), but the kind you drink. If you’re planning a Carnival cruise, you’ve probably wondered: How much is water cost on Carnival Cruise Line? It’s a fair question. After all, you’re paying for a vacation, not a hydration bill. I’ve been on a few Carnival cruises, and I’ve learned a thing or two about how they handle water—what’s free, what’s not, and how to stay hydrated without breaking the bank.

When I first boarded a Carnival ship, I made the rookie mistake of assuming water was free everywhere. Spoiler alert: it’s not. But it’s also not a rip-off. Carnival’s approach to water is a mix of convenience, upsells, and practicality. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler, a family with kids, or someone who just wants to stay hydrated without overthinking it, this guide will walk you through the real costs, the hidden options, and the smartest ways to save. Think of it as your insider’s cheat sheet to staying refreshed—without the sticker shock.

What’s Included: Free Water on Carnival Cruise Line

Let’s start with the good news: Carnival does provide free drinking water in several convenient ways. You don’t have to pay for every sip. In fact, the cruise line makes it easy to access clean, safe water throughout your trip. Here’s where you can get it—no extra charge.

At the Main Dining Room and Buffet

During meals, servers will bring you a glass of tap water without hesitation. Whether you’re at the Main Dining Room or the Lido Marketplace buffet, just ask for water. It’s typically served in a glass, and you can refill it as needed. I’ve never had a server push back or make me feel guilty for asking—even when I asked for a second glass before finishing the first. The water is filtered and safe to drink, just like in most U.S. cities.

Pro tip: If you’re dining at the buffet and want to keep water handy, grab a glass at the drink station near the food lines. Most buffets have self-serve water dispensers with ice and lemon slices. Use them!

At Bars and Lounges (With a Catch)

Here’s where it gets a little nuanced. If you’re at a bar or lounge, ordering a glass of tap water is technically free. But—and this is a big but—servers often expect you to order something else. I once asked for just water at a pool bar and got a slightly raised eyebrow. The server said, “Just water?” and then added, “We do have a great mojito special today.”

Don’t let that discourage you. You’re not doing anything wrong. But if you want to avoid the awkwardness, consider ordering a small juice or soda along with your water. Or, better yet, grab water from the buffet or dining room and carry it with you in a reusable bottle.

From Water Fountains and Dispensers

Many Carnival ships have water fountains or dispensers in high-traffic areas like near elevators, restrooms, and pool decks. These are perfect for refilling your own bottle. The water is filtered and chilled, and it’s completely free. I always pack a collapsible water bottle for this reason. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and saves me from buying bottled water every time I’m thirsty.

On the Carnival Breeze, I found dispensers near Deck 5’s restrooms and Deck 10’s pool area. They were clean, well-maintained, and rarely crowded. Just make sure your bottle is clean before refilling—crew members don’t wipe down the spigots between uses.

Bottled Water: Pricing, Options, and Where to Buy

If you prefer bottled water—or just want the convenience of grabbing a bottle and going—Carnival has you covered. But it’s not cheap. Bottled water is one of those “convenience items” that come with a cruise markup. Let’s break down the costs and your options.

Standard Bottled Water Pricing

At onboard stores and bars, you can expect to pay:

• 16.9 oz (500ml) bottle: $3.50–$4.00
• 1-liter bottle: $6.00–$7.00

Yes, that’s more than you’d pay on land. But remember: you’re on a ship. Everything is transported by sea, so prices reflect that. Still, $4 for a small bottle adds up fast if you’re drinking several a day.

Where to Buy Bottled Water

You’ll find bottled water at:

• Gift shops and onboard stores (like the Ship’s Store)
• Bars and lounges (pool bars, sports bars, piano lounges)
• Room service (yes, they’ll deliver it to your stateroom)

I once ordered two 1-liter bottles via room service. The total was $14 plus a 15% service charge—ouch. Lesson learned: room service is for emergencies, not daily hydration.

Brands and Quality

Carnival typically stocks well-known brands like Dasani or Aquafina—both are filtered municipal water, similar to what you’d get at home. Some ships may carry sparkling water (like Perrier or San Pellegrino) at higher prices—$6–$8 per bottle.

Don’t expect luxury brands like Evian or Fiji unless it’s a special event or high-end bar. And if you’re picky about water taste (I know a few of you are), bring your own water filter bottle or stick to the free options.

Water Packages and Drink Plans: Are They Worth It?

Now we’re getting to the heart of the matter: water packages. Carnival offers several drink plans, but only one includes unlimited bottled water. Let’s look at the options and whether they’re a good deal for you.

The Cheers! Beverage Program

This is Carnival’s most popular drink plan. It costs $59.95 per person, per day (as of 2024) and includes:

• Unlimited bottled water (16.9 oz and 1-liter)
• Non-alcoholic drinks (sodas, juices, mocktails)
• Alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails, spirits) up to $20 per drink

So, does the water alone justify the cost? Let’s do the math.

If you drink four 16.9 oz bottles per day at $3.75 each, that’s $15 in bottled water. Add a soda ($3.50) and a cocktail ($12), and you’re already at $30.50. The Cheers! plan pays for itself if you consume more than that daily.

But—if you only want water and don’t drink alcohol or soda, Cheers! is overkill. You’d be paying $60 a day just for water, which is absurd. Save your money and use free water instead.

Water-Only Packages (Limited Availability)

As of now, Carnival doesn’t offer a standalone “unlimited water” package. However, on select sailings (especially longer cruises or special promotions), they may run limited-time deals like:

• “Stay Hydrated” package: 10 bottles of water for $25
• “Family Water Bundle”: 20 bottles for $45 (great for families)

These are usually advertised in the Fun Times daily newsletter or at onboard kiosks. I saw a 10-for-$25 deal on a 7-day Caribbean cruise. That’s $2.50 per bottle—a 25% savings. Not bad, but still not as cheap as free.

Smart Tip: Pre-Purchase vs. Onboard

If you know you’ll want bottled water, buy a package before boarding. Carnival often offers a 10–15% discount on drink plans when booked in advance. I saved $12 on my Cheers! plan by booking it online 60 days before departure. Plus, you avoid the temptation of buying bottles one at a time at inflated prices.

Smart Ways to Save: Free and Low-Cost Water Hacks

You don’t have to spend a dime on water if you’re smart about it. Here are my top tips for staying hydrated without overspending—based on real experiences from multiple Carnival cruises.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

This is my #1 recommendation. A stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottle pays for itself in days. I use a 24-oz Hydro Flask. It keeps water cold for 12+ hours, even in the Caribbean sun.

Refill it at:

• Buffet drink stations
• Water fountains near restrooms
• Main dining room (ask the server to fill it)

Pro tip: Add a slice of lemon or cucumber for flavor. Many buffet stations have fresh fruit you can take for free.

Use the “Water Refill Station” App Feature

Carnival’s HUB app has a map showing water refill stations across the ship. Just open the app, tap “Dining,” then “Beverage Stations.” It’s super handy, especially on larger ships like the Carnival Celebration or Mardi Gras.

Ask for Water in Your Cabin

Housekeeping will leave a pitcher of ice water in your stateroom each evening—usually around 8 PM. It’s free and perfect for nighttime hydration. If you’re out late, you can call housekeeping and ask them to leave one. I’ve done this after a long night at the casino, and they always deliver.

Buy a Case at Port

On port days, stop by a local supermarket (like a Walmart in Cozumel or a convenience store in Nassau) and buy a case of water. A 24-pack of 16.9 oz bottles costs $5–$8—less than two bottles onboard. Bring it back to the ship in your carry-on. Just make sure it’s unopened and sealed (customs rules).

On my last cruise, I bought a case in Jamaica and saved about $30. The crew didn’t bat an eye when I brought it on board.

Special Situations: Families, Health, and Dietary Needs

Not everyone has the same water needs. Families with kids, seniors, or travelers with health conditions may need more water—or specific types. Here’s how to handle special cases.

Families with Kids

Kids drink a lot of water, especially in hot climates. Carnival is family-friendly, but bottled water costs add up fast for a family of four. My advice:

• Use free water at the buffet (kids love the lemon slices)
• Bring insulated kids’ water bottles (like Contigo or CamelBak)
• Buy a 20-bottle bundle if available—saves 20–30%

Also, note that Carnival’s Camp Ocean program provides free water to kids during activities. Ask the counselors!

Health and Dietary Restrictions

If you have a medical condition that requires purified or alkaline water, bring it with you. Carnival’s tap and bottled water meet U.S. safety standards, but they don’t offer specialty waters like alkaline or distilled. You can bring a small supply onboard (check Carnival’s policy for limits).

For travelers with kidney issues or low-sodium diets, Carnival’s water is generally safe—but check with your doctor first.

Pregnant Travelers

Staying hydrated is extra important during pregnancy. Carnival’s free water options are safe and accessible. I’ve seen crew members go out of their way to help pregnant guests refill bottles or bring water to their seats by the pool. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Data Table: Water Costs on Carnival Cruise Line (2024)

Type of Water	Size	Price (USD)	Best For
Free tap water	Glass or bottle	$0.00	Meals, buffet, fountains
Bottled water (onboard)	16.9 oz (500ml)	$3.50–$4.00	Convenience, port days
Bottled water (onboard)	1 liter	$6.00–$7.00	Long-term use, families
Sparkling water (onboard)	11 oz (330ml)	$6.00–$8.00	Special occasions, non-alcoholic
Cheers! Drink Plan	Unlimited	$59.95/day	Heavy drinkers, mixed beverages
10-bottle package (promo)	16.9 oz x 10	$25.00	Moderate water drinkers
24-bottle case (port purchase)	16.9 oz x 24	$5.00–$8.00	Best value, families, budget travelers

Final Thoughts: How Much Is Water Cost on Carnival Cruise Line?

So, how much is water cost on Carnival Cruise Line? The answer is: it depends. If you’re smart, you can drink free water all week. If you want convenience, bottled water is available—but at a premium. And if you’re a heavy drinker (of both water and cocktails), the Cheers! plan might save you money.

My take? Skip the bottled water unless you really need it. Use the free options: dining room water, fountains, and your own bottle. It’s healthier (less plastic), cheaper, and just as safe. And if you’re traveling with kids or need extra water, buy a case at port—it’s the best deal by far.

Carnival isn’t trying to gouge you on water. They make it easy to stay hydrated. But like any cruise, the extras add up. With a little planning, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about your water bill. Stay smart, stay hydrated, and have the time of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is water cost on Carnival Cruise Line per bottle?

Bottled water on Carnival Cruise Line typically costs between $2.50 and $4.50 per bottle, depending on the size and brand. Specialty or imported water may be priced higher onboard.

Is tap water free on Carnival Cruise Line?

Yes, tap water is free and available at all dining venues, buffets, and bars. It’s safe to drink and included in your cruise fare.

Can I bring my own water on Carnival Cruise Line?

Carnival allows passengers to bring one sealed 12-pack of bottled water or soda per person. Additional bottles may be confiscated at embarkation.

Does Carnival Cruise Line offer a water package?

Yes, Carnival sells a “Bottomless Bubbles” package that includes unlimited bottled water, soda, and juice for a flat daily fee. This can be cost-effective if you drink multiple bottles daily.

Why is bottled water so expensive on Carnival Cruise Line?

Bottled water is marked up due to onboard logistics and convenience. The cost covers storage, handling, and premium pricing for specialty brands.

Are water dispensers available on Carnival ships?

Yes, water dispensers with cups are available near buffets, pools, and fitness centers. Bringing a reusable bottle can help you save money and stay hydrated.