Imagine relaxing on the deck of a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, ocean breeze in your hair, but then the question hits you: how much do drinks cost on an NCL cruise? It’s a common concern. Onboard expenses, especially drinks, can add up quickly. This guide breaks down the drink prices on NCL, explains their beverage packages, and offers tips for saving money so you can enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. We’ll explore all the options, so you can make informed decisions before you set sail.
Understanding Drink Prices on NCL
Knowing the standard prices for various drinks is essential for budgeting on an NCL cruise. Understanding the pricing structure helps you decide whether a beverage package is right for you. These prices are subject to change, but this section gives you a good general guideline for your planning.
Standard Drink Prices
- Sodas and Juices: Usually range from $3 to $5 per drink. These are often available at various bars and dining venues onboard. Knowing this baseline is important as it helps to see if a soda package makes sense.
For instance, a family with children who frequently consume sodas might find the soda package very beneficial, given these individual prices.
- Beers: Typically priced between $6 and $8, depending on the brand and if it’s domestic or imported. Craft beers may also be available at a higher price point in some bars.
A beer enthusiast might want to compare the cost of several beers a day with the daily cost of a package.
- Wines by the Glass: You can expect to pay around $9 to $15 per glass of wine. The price will vary depending on the quality and type of wine.
Wine lovers should note these costs, particularly if they tend to enjoy a glass or two with dinner.
- Cocktails: Mixed drinks typically cost between $10 and $15. Premium cocktails with top-shelf liquor may be priced higher.
These prices are significant, and regular cocktail drinkers should consider the packages closely.
- Water Bottles: Individual bottles of water usually cost around $3 to $5. Staying hydrated is important, and this cost can add up if purchased individually.
Consider bringing your own refillable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste.
Factors Affecting Drink Prices
Several factors can influence the final price of drinks on an NCL cruise. This includes the specific bar or venue, the type of drink, and whether or not a gratuity is automatically added. Being aware of these factors can help you manage your budget effectively.
- Gratuities: NCL automatically adds a gratuity to each beverage purchase. This is usually around 20% of the drink price.
This automatic gratuity needs to be factored into your budgeting since it will be added to every drink purchase.
- Specialty Bars: Certain bars onboard may have higher prices due to the unique ambiance or premium ingredients used in their cocktails.
For instance, a martini bar with a wide selection of premium vodkas and gins might charge more than a standard bar.
- Promotional Offers: NCL occasionally runs promotions where certain drinks are discounted or offered as part of a special.
Keep an eye out for these promotions to potentially save money on your drink purchases.
- Package Inclusions: Beverage packages cover a range of drinks up to a certain price point. Drinks exceeding that price will incur an additional charge.
It’s important to know the price limit of the drinks included in your package to avoid unexpected charges.
Exploring NCL’s Beverage Packages
Norwegian Cruise Line offers various beverage packages that can offer significant savings if you plan to consume several drinks each day. These packages come at a fixed daily rate and cover a variety of beverages, making budgeting much easier. Understanding what each package includes is essential.
Premium Beverage Package
The Premium Beverage Package is NCL’s most popular drink package. It includes a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This package can be a good value if you enjoy a variety of drinks. The package covers cocktails, beers, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, and specialty coffees.
- Cost: Typically around $99 to $138 per day, plus gratuities.
This daily rate needs to be weighed against your anticipated drink consumption to determine if it’s worthwhile.
- Inclusions: Covers drinks up to $15 in value. This includes a wide range of cocktails, beers, and wines.
Most standard cocktails and beers fall within this price range, providing ample choices.
- Benefits: Unlimited drinks within the price limit, no need to worry about individual drink costs, and easy budgeting.
This package offers peace of mind and can prevent bill shock at the end of the cruise.
- Limitations: Some very high-end drinks are not included. You’ll need to pay extra for drinks exceeding $15.
If you prefer top-shelf liquors or premium wines, this package might not cover all your choices.
Premium Plus Beverage Package
The Premium Plus Beverage Package offers even more inclusivity. This package includes top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and even bottles of water and energy drinks. It’s the most comprehensive option for those looking for the widest variety of drinks.
- Cost: Generally around $129 to $167 per day, plus gratuities.
This higher daily rate is justified by the inclusion of premium beverages.
- Inclusions: Includes virtually all drinks onboard, with no price limit. This means top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and specialty drinks are covered.
This package caters to those with refined tastes and preferences.
- Benefits: The widest selection of drinks, no price restrictions, and covers premium beverages.
Ideal for those who want to enjoy the very best without worrying about costs.
- Limitations: It’s the most expensive option, so it might not be cost-effective if you don’t drink high-end beverages.
Assess your drinking habits to determine if the added benefits justify the extra cost.
Soda Package
For non-alcoholic drinkers or those traveling with children, the soda package can be a great value. This package provides unlimited sodas and juices throughout the cruise. It’s an affordable way to stay hydrated.
- Cost: Typically around $9.95 per day, plus gratuities.
A relatively low daily rate makes it a good option for regular soda drinkers.
- Inclusions: Unlimited fountain sodas, juices, and non-alcoholic beverages.
This is a great option for those who primarily drink these beverages.
- Benefits: Affordable, convenient, and helps avoid high individual drink costs.
It’s a worthwhile investment for families with children who drink a lot of sodas.
- Limitations: Doesn’t include alcoholic beverages or specialty coffees.
If you consume alcohol, you’ll need to purchase it separately or consider a different package.
Calculating the Value of a Beverage Package
Deciding whether to purchase a beverage package requires careful consideration. To make an informed decision, calculate your potential daily drink consumption and compare it to the cost of the package. This will help you determine if the package offers good value for your specific situation.
Estimate Your Daily Drink Consumption
Start by estimating how many drinks you would typically consume each day. Consider your preferences and usual drinking habits. Factor in any days you might drink more or less. Think about what a typical vacation day looks like for you – would you have a mimosa with brunch? A beer by the pool? A cocktail before dinner? Understanding your drinking habits is key.
- List Your Usual Drinks: Create a list of the types of drinks you typically enjoy on vacation.
This will give you a clear idea of what you’re likely to order onboard.
- Estimate Quantities: Estimate how many of each type of drink you would consume daily.
Be realistic about your consumption to get an accurate assessment.
- Consider Special Occasions: Factor in any special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, where you might drink more.
Special occasions can significantly impact your overall drink consumption.
Compare Package Cost to Individual Drink Prices
Once you’ve estimated your daily drink consumption, compare the total cost of individual drinks to the cost of the beverage package. This will help you determine if the package is financially beneficial.
- Calculate Individual Drink Costs: Multiply the estimated quantity of each drink by its standard price.
This will give you a total cost for your daily drinks if purchased individually.
- Add Gratuities: Remember to factor in the 20% gratuity that is automatically added to each drink purchase.
Gratuities can significantly increase the overall cost of individual drinks.
- Compare Total Costs: Compare the total cost of individual drinks to the daily cost of the beverage package.
If the package is cheaper than purchasing individual drinks, it’s likely a good value.
Real-Life Example: Package vs. Individual Drinks
Let’s consider a real-life example to illustrate the value of a beverage package. Suppose you typically drink 2 cocktails, 1 beer, and 2 sodas each day.
- Cocktails: 2 cocktails at $12 each = $24.
- Beer: 1 beer at $7 = $7.
- Sodas: 2 sodas at $4 each = $8.
The total cost of these drinks before gratuity is $39. Adding a 20% gratuity brings the total to $46.80. In this scenario, the Premium Beverage Package (around $99 to $138 plus gratuities) may not be worth it, especially if you stick to lower-priced drinks. However, if you opt for more expensive drinks or consume additional beverages, the package could become more cost-effective. Also, note that generally if one adult in a cabin purchases a beverage package, all adults in the cabin must purchase it as well.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a beverage package, there are several ways to save money on drinks during your NCL cruise. These tips can help you enjoy your vacation without overspending. From bringing your own beverages to utilizing happy hour specials, there are plenty of ways to reduce your onboard expenses.
Bring Your Own Beverages
NCL allows passengers to bring a limited amount of their own beverages onboard. This can be a great way to save money on drinks, especially water and soda. However, there are specific rules and restrictions you need to follow. It is also good to note that while you may bring your own drinks on board, they may only be consumed in your stateroom.
- Allowed Beverages: Passengers are typically allowed to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person. Sealed water bottles are also usually permitted.
Check NCL’s specific policies on their website before your cruise to ensure you comply with their rules.
- Restrictions: Hard liquor and beer are usually prohibited from being brought onboard. There are also limitations on the size and quantity of allowed beverages.
Violating these restrictions may result in confiscation of the beverages.
- Savings: Bringing your own water and a bottle of wine can save you a significant amount of money over the course of the cruise.
This is a simple way to reduce your onboard expenses without sacrificing your enjoyment.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour Specials
Many bars on NCL ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. Taking advantage of these specials can help you save money on alcoholic beverages. Check the daily schedule for happy hour times and locations.
- Discounted Drinks: Happy hour specials often include discounts on cocktails, beers, and wines.
These discounts can range from 20% to 50% off regular prices.
- Timing: Happy hour is usually offered during off-peak times, such as early evening or late afternoon.
Plan your drinking accordingly to take advantage of these specials.
- Locations: Check the daily schedule to find out which bars are offering happy hour specials.
Different bars may have different specials, so explore your options.
Look for Drink of the Day Deals
NCL often features a “drink of the day” at a discounted price. These drinks are a great way to try something new and save money at the same time. The drink of the day is usually promoted throughout the ship.
- Discounted Price: The drink of the day is typically offered at a lower price than other cocktails.
This is a great opportunity to try new drinks without breaking the bank.
- Variety: The drink of the day changes daily, offering a variety of options throughout the cruise.
You can sample different cocktails and find new favorites.
- Promotion: Look for signs and announcements promoting the drink of the day.
These are usually prominently displayed in bars and on the daily schedule.
Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Drink Costs
There are several common misconceptions about drink costs on cruises. Debunking these myths can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Myth 1: All Drinks Are Incredibly Expensive
While some drinks, particularly premium cocktails, can be pricey, not all beverages on a cruise are prohibitively expensive. Many standard beers, wines, and cocktails are reasonably priced, and non-alcoholic options like sodas and juices are also available at affordable rates. By being mindful of your choices and taking advantage of specials, you can manage your drink expenses without breaking the bank. Moreover, taking the time to explore different bars and venues onboard can reveal hidden gems with better pricing or promotional offers.
Myth 2: Beverage Packages Are Always Worth It
Beverage packages are not always the best option for every cruiser. While they can offer significant savings for heavy drinkers, those who consume only a few drinks each day may find that purchasing individual beverages is more cost-effective. To determine if a beverage package is worth it, carefully calculate your potential daily drink consumption and compare it to the cost of the package. Consider your drinking habits, preferences, and whether you’ll take advantage of the package’s offerings. Factors such as shore excursions and days spent off the ship can also impact the value of a beverage package.
Myth 3: You Can’t Bring Any Drinks Onboard
While there are restrictions, NCL does allow passengers to bring some beverages onboard. Typically, guests can bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person and sealed water bottles. However, hard liquor and beer are usually prohibited. It’s essential to check NCL’s specific policies before your cruise to ensure you comply with their rules. Taking advantage of this allowance can help you save money on drinks, especially water, and enjoy your favorite wine or champagne in the comfort of your cabin.
FAQ
How much is a beer on an NCL cruise?
The price of beer on an NCL cruise generally ranges from $6 to $8 for domestic and imported brands. Specialty or craft beers may be priced higher. Keep an eye out for happy hour specials that could reduce the cost, and remember that a 20% gratuity will be added to each purchase.
Is the NCL drink package worth it?
The value of an NCL drink package depends on your consumption habits. If you plan to have several alcoholic beverages each day, it can be cost-effective. Calculate your potential daily drink consumption and compare it to the package cost to determine if it offers good value. Also consider if all adults in your cabin will purchase the package.
Can I bring my own alcohol on an NCL cruise?
NCL allows passengers to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard. Hard liquor and beer are typically not permitted. Be sure to check the most current NCL policy before sailing as policies are subject to change. Remember, the alcohol you bring onboard can only be consumed in your stateroom.
What drinks are included in the NCL Premium Beverage Package?
The NCL Premium Beverage Package includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, such as cocktails, beers, wines by the glass (up to $15), sodas, juices, and specialty coffees. It offers a good selection for those who enjoy a variety of drinks without paying individual prices for each one.
Are there any discounts on drinks for NCL Latitudes Rewards members?
NCL Latitudes Rewards members may receive onboard credits or discounts that can be used towards drinks, depending on their loyalty tier. Check the specific benefits associated with your Latitudes Rewards level to see if any drink-related discounts apply. These rewards can help lower your overall onboard expenses.
How much is a bottle of water on an NCL cruise?
A bottle of water on an NCL cruise typically costs around $3 to $5. Purchasing individual bottles can add up, so consider bringing your own refillable water bottle and utilizing water stations onboard, or bringing your own sealed water bottles as allowed by NCL policy.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do drinks cost on an NCL cruise is vital for budgeting and maximizing your enjoyment. Whether you opt for a beverage package or pay as you go, knowing the prices, utilizing discounts, and bringing allowed beverages can help you control your spending. By planning ahead and being mindful of your consumption, you can savor your vacation without worrying about a hefty bill at the end of your cruise. Cheers to smooth sailing and smart spending!