What Cruise Lines Include Alcohol in Their Packages

Most major cruise lines now include alcohol in their base fares or offer all-inclusive packages, making it easier than ever to enjoy drinks without surprise bills. Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages lead the pack with premium open bars, while others like Royal Caribbean and Carnival provide drink packages or perks for suite guests. Whether you’re sipping poolside or at a specialty bar, these options deliver serious value for thirsty travelers.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean includes premium drinks in its deluxe beverage package.
• Celebrity Cruises offers an Always Included fare with select alcohol.
• Norwegian Cruise Line bundles free open bar in its Free at Sea deals.
• Carnival Cruise Line provides drink packages but rarely includes alcohol upfront.
• Virgin Voyages includes basic drinks; premium alcohol costs extra.
• MSC Cruises bundles wine and beer in its Easy Plus package.

What Cruise Lines Include Alcohol in Their Packages

Imagine setting sail on a luxury cruise, the ocean breeze in your hair, a refreshing cocktail in hand, and the sun setting over the horizon. For many travelers, the allure of cruising lies not just in the destinations but in the onboard experience—fine dining, entertainment, and yes, alcohol included in the cruise fare. Gone are the days when a cruise meant paying extra for every glass of wine or cocktail. Today, several cruise lines have embraced the all-inclusive model, offering packages where drinks flow freely, allowing guests to unwind without worrying about the bill at the end of the trip.

But not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to alcohol inclusion. Some offer premium open bars, others provide drink packages with daily allowances, and a few even include top-shelf liquor in their base fare. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose the right cruise that matches your drinking preferences and budget. This comprehensive guide dives deep into what cruise lines include alcohol, comparing policies, highlighting best-value options, and offering insider tips to maximize your onboard beverage experience. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a connoisseur of fine spirits, this post will help you find the perfect cruise where your glass is always half full—or refilled.

1. All-Inclusive Luxury: Cruise Lines with Open Bars

For travelers seeking a truly hassle-free experience where every cocktail, wine, and spirit is included from the moment you board, several luxury cruise lines have redefined the standard by offering open bars with premium liquor, fine wines, and specialty cocktails at no extra cost. These lines cater to high-end travelers who value convenience, quality, and exclusivity.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: The Gold Standard of Inclusion

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is often hailed as the leader in all-inclusive cruising. Their Free Unlimited Beverages policy includes:

• Premium spirits (e.g., Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Black, Patrón)
• Top-shelf wines by the glass and bottle (including Champagne like Veuve Clicquot)
• Craft cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
• Room service with included alcoholic drinks

Guests can order any drink from the menu without additional charges. Even specialty coffee drinks and bottled water are included. This policy extends to all bars, restaurants, and lounges across the fleet, including the exclusive Connoisseur Club.

Seabourn: Intimate Luxury with a Free Pour

Seabourn’s All-Inclusive Fare includes:

• Unlimited premium spirits, wines, and Champagne
• Daily cocktail parties with complimentary drinks
• Personal suite host who can stock your minibar with preferred drinks
• No tipping required—staff are salaried and service-focused

Seabourn’s smaller ships (600–1,000 guests) enhance the personalized experience. The line also offers curated wine tastings and mixology classes where guests can sample rare vintages and craft cocktails—all included.

Silversea: Elegance with a Global Touch

Silversea’s All-Inclusive Luxury package features:

• Free premium wines, spirits, and Champagne by the glass
• Bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty coffee
• Onboard sommelier service for wine pairings
• Included gratuities and butler service

What sets Silversea apart is its global itineraries and destination-focused experiences. Whether you’re sipping a French Bordeaux in the Mediterranean or a Japanese whisky in Tokyo, the drinks are always on the house.

Insider Tip:

When booking with these luxury lines, look for early-bird promotions or “Free Airfare” deals, which can offset the higher base fare. Since alcohol is included, you’ll save significantly compared to mainstream lines where drinks add $50–$100 per day.

2. Premium Mainstream Lines with Inclusive Drink Packages

Not everyone wants to splurge on a luxury cruise, but many travelers still desire a high-quality experience with generous alcohol inclusion. Several premium mainstream cruise lines have responded by offering base fares that include select drinks or by making their top-tier drink packages more accessible.

Celebrity Cruises: The “Always Included” Revolution

In 2021, Celebrity Cruises launched its Always Included pricing, which bundles:

• The Classic Beverage Package (valued at $60/day)
• Basic Wi-Fi
• Gratuities

The Classic Beverage Package covers:

• Wines by the glass up to $15
• Beers, cocktails, and spirits up to $15
• Non-alcoholic drinks and specialty coffee

For an upgrade (typically $30–$40 more per day), guests can opt for the Premium Beverage Package, which includes:

• Wines up to $25 (e.g., Napa Valley Cabernet)
• Top-shelf spirits (e.g., Hennessy XO, Beluga Vodka)
• Specialty cocktails like the “Celebrity Martini”

This model has been a game-changer, making Celebrity one of the most competitive lines for value-conscious travelers who still want a premium experience.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Free at Sea with Alcohol Options

NCL’s Free at Sea program offers five “perks,” with Unlimited Open Bar being one of the most popular. When you book a qualifying fare, you can select the Premium Beverage Package (valued at $120/day) at no extra cost. This package includes:

• Wines, beers, cocktails, and spirits up to $15
• Specialty coffee and bottled water
• 20% discount on bottles of wine over $100

Note: The open bar perk is only available on sailings of 3+ days and must be selected at booking. Other perks include free specialty dining, shore excursion credits, and Wi-Fi.

Princess Cruises: Drink Package Bundles

Princess doesn’t include alcohol in the base fare but offers the Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages, which can be added for a flat daily rate (typically $50–$70/day).

• Princess Plus: Includes the Premier Beverage Package (wines up to $15, cocktails up to $16), premium Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
• Princess Premier: Adds unlimited specialty dining, photo packages, and priority embarkation.

This “a la carte” bundling allows guests to customize their experience. For heavy drinkers, the cost savings are substantial—drinks alone could exceed $100/day without the package.

Pro Tip:

Always compare the value of the included package to the cost of buying drinks à la carte. For example, if you consume 5–6 drinks per day on NCL, the Free at Sea open bar perk pays for itself in just two days.

3. Budget-Friendly Lines with Smart Alcohol Inclusion

Even budget-conscious cruisers can enjoy included alcohol—if they know where to look. While most mass-market lines charge extra for drinks, some have introduced innovative models to attract value-seeking travelers.

MSC Cruises: The “Easy Drink” Package with Inclusive Perks

MSC Cruises offers a “Easy Drink” package for as low as $20–$30/day (varies by region and season), which includes:

• Wines by the glass (up to $10)
• Beers, cocktails, and spirits (up to $10)
• Non-alcoholic drinks and soft drinks

But here’s the catch: MSC often runs promotions where the Easy Drink package is included for free when you book a “Sail & Stay” package (e.g., cruise + hotel). This turns a budget line into a surprisingly inclusive option.

Carnival Cruise Line: “Cheers!” with a Cap

Carnival’s Cheers! Beverage Program is a flat-rate package (~$59.95/day) that includes:

• Up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (cocktails, wine, beer, spirits)
• Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
• 50% discount on bottles of wine over $40

While not included in the base fare, Carnival frequently offers “Buy One, Get One Free” deals on the Cheers! package, effectively cutting the cost in half. For families or groups, this can be a smart way to manage drink expenses.

Royal Caribbean: “Deluxe Drink Package” with Daily Limit

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package (~$70–$85/day) covers:

• Wines, cocktails, and spirits up to $15
• Specialty coffee and bottled water
• 20% off wine bottles over $100

Royal Caribbean sometimes includes this package in “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” promotions, making it more affordable. Additionally, the line offers “Happy Hours” with 2-for-1 drink specials, which can supplement the package.

Smart Strategy:

For budget travelers, book during promotional periods (e.g., Black Friday, “Sail-Away” sales) when drink packages are discounted or bundled. Also, consider shorter cruises (3–5 days) to minimize package costs while still enjoying the benefits.

4. Themed and Niche Cruise Lines with Alcohol Inclusion

Beyond mainstream and luxury lines, several themed or niche cruise operators have carved out a space by offering unique experiences—often with generous alcohol inclusion to enhance the vibe.

Viking Ocean Cruises: Cultural Immersion with Included Wine

Viking doesn’t offer an open bar, but they include:

• Wine and beer with lunch and dinner
• Complimentary specialty coffee and tea all day
• Free water bottles in staterooms

This policy reflects Viking’s focus on cultural enrichment and relaxed, adult-oriented cruising. The included wine is often regional (e.g., Italian Chianti on Mediterranean cruises), adding authenticity to the experience. While cocktails and premium spirits are extra, the daily wine and beer inclusion can save $20–$30 per person.

Virgin Voyages: “Sailor” Perks with a Modern Twist

Virgin’s “Sailor Loot” model is unique: every guest receives a daily $300 onboard credit (varies by sailing), which can be used for drinks, dining, spa, or excursions. Alcohol is not included in the base fare, but the credit effectively subsidizes it.

• Cocktails range from $12–$18
• Wine by the glass: $10–$20
• Beer: $8–$12

Virgin also offers “Happy Hours” and themed parties (e.g., “Red Party”) with free drink samples. The line’s adult-only policy and modern vibe appeal to younger travelers.

Windstar Cruises: Small-Ship Luxury with Included Cocktails

Windstar’s “All-Inclusive” package (available on select sailings) includes:

• Premium cocktails, wines, and spirits
• Daily cocktail party with hors d’oeuvres and free drinks
• Complimentary water sports (e.g., kayaking, paddleboarding)

Windstar’s small ships (148–342 guests) create an intimate, yacht-like atmosphere. The included cocktail parties are a highlight, offering guests a chance to mingle with the captain and crew over free drinks.

Insider Insight:

Check for “All-Inclusive” itineraries on niche lines—they’re often priced similarly to standard sailings but offer significantly more value. For example, a Windstar all-inclusive Mediterranean cruise might cost $4,000 but includes $1,500+ in drinks, dining, and activities.

5. How to Maximize Your Alcohol Inclusion (Smart Tips & Tricks)

Knowing which cruise lines include alcohol is just the first step. To get the most value and enjoyment from your drink policy, use these proven strategies:

1. Compare Package Values

Calculate the daily cost of drinks without a package versus the included or bundled rate. For example:

• On NCL, 6 cocktails at $12 each = $72/day
• Free at Sea open bar = $0 extra cost
• Savings: $72/day × 7 days = $504

Even if the cruise fare is $200 higher, you’re still ahead.

2. Book Early for Best Perks

Many lines offer “Free at Sea” or “Always Included” perks only to early bookers. For example, NCL’s open bar perk is often unavailable for last-minute bookings.

3. Use Onboard Credits Wisely

Lines like Virgin Voyages and Royal Caribbean give onboard credit. Use it for:

• Premium bottles of wine (often 20–30% off with package discounts)
• Specialty drinks (e.g., molecular cocktails, rare spirits)
• Spa treatments or excursions (if you’re a light drinker)

4. Take Advantage of Happy Hours

Most cruise lines offer daily “Happy Hour” specials (2-for-1, 50% off). These are perfect for trying new drinks without using your package allowance.

5. Ask About Regional Specialties

On luxury lines, sommeliers and bartenders can recommend local wines or craft cocktails included in your package. For example, on a Silversea cruise in Japan, try a sake flight—it’s free!

6. Check for “Drink of the Day”

Many bars feature a discounted or free “Drink of the Day” (e.g., “Margarita Monday”). These are often high-quality and a great way to sample new flavors.

7. Share Packages (When Allowed)

Some lines, like Carnival, allow couples to share a Cheers! package. This cuts the cost in half for two people drinking moderately.

6. Comparison Table: Alcohol Inclusion by Cruise Line

Cruise Line	Alcohol Included?	What’s Covered	Daily Value	Best For
Regent Seven Seas	✅ Full Open Bar	Premium spirits, fine wines, Champagne, cocktails	$150+	Luxury travelers, all-inclusive seekers
Seabourn	✅ Full Open Bar	Top-shelf liquor, global wines, daily cocktail parties	$140+	Intimate cruising, personalized service
Silversea	✅ Full Open Bar	Premium drinks, sommelier service, butler	$130+	Global itineraries, cultural experiences
Celebrity Cruises	✅ Classic Beverage Package (included in base fare)	Drinks up to $15; upgrade to Premium for $25–$40/day	$60 (Classic) / $100 (Premium)	Value-conscious luxury travelers
NCL	✅ Unlimited Open Bar (with Free at Sea perk)	Drinks up to $15; 20% off wine bottles over $100	$120	Families, groups, budget luxury
MSC Cruises	✅ Easy Drink (free with Sail & Stay)	Drinks up to $10; soft drinks, coffee	$30	Budget travelers, European itineraries
Viking Ocean	✅ Wine & Beer at Meals	Regional wine and beer at lunch/dinner	$25	Cultural cruisers, adult-only

Choosing a cruise based on alcohol inclusion isn’t just about saving money—it’s about enhancing your overall experience. Whether you’re sipping a martini in a luxury lounge, enjoying a sunset cocktail on a private balcony, or toasting with new friends at a themed party, the right drink policy can make your vacation feel truly carefree. By understanding the nuances of each line’s offerings and using smart booking strategies, you can find the perfect cruise where the drinks flow as freely as the ocean waves. Cheers to your next adventure—on the house!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines include alcohol in their base fare?

Most mainstream cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line do not include alcohol in their base fare, but they offer drink packages. Luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, and Silversea include select premium alcohol in their all-inclusive pricing.

What cruise lines include alcohol for free in their packages?

Luxury and premium cruise lines like Seabourn, Viking, and Azamara include complimentary beer, wine, and spirits in their standard packages. These lines emphasize all-inclusive experiences, making them ideal for travelers who want alcohol covered upfront.

Are there any affordable cruise lines that include alcohol?

While most budget-friendly lines don’t include alcohol in the base fare, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea promotion occasionally bundles drink packages. Alternatively, Carnival’s Cheers! program can be pre-purchased for a flat daily rate.

Do family-friendly cruise lines include alcohol for adults?

Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean don’t include alcohol in their base fare, but both offer tiered drink packages for adults. Disney’s packages are more limited, while Royal Caribbean provides broader options, including premium cocktails.

What cruise lines include alcohol and gratuities in their pricing?

Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Crystal Cruises include both alcohol and gratuities in their upfront pricing. This all-inclusive approach simplifies budgeting and enhances the onboard experience.

Can I bring my own alcohol on cruise lines that include drinks?

Most cruise lines, including those that include alcohol (e.g., Viking, Oceania), prohibit passengers from bringing their own alcohol onboard. Exceptions are rare and typically limited to one bottle of wine per guest, often with a corkage fee.