What Cruise Lines Include Drink Package in 2024

Most major cruise lines now include drink packages in their 2024 base fares or offer them as complimentary perks for suite guests and loyalty members. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Celebrity Cruises lead the way with inclusive beverage options on select sailings, while others like Carnival and Princess provide them as paid upgrades or elite-tier freebies—making it easier than ever to enjoy premium drinks without surprise costs.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean includes drink packages in select suite bookings.
• Celebrity Cruises offers complimentary packages for all suite guests.
• Norwegian Cruise Line bundles drinks in their Free at Sea promotion.
• MSC Cruises includes packages in their “Easy Plus” fare option.
• Carnival Cruise Line requires separate purchase but offers early-bird discounts.
• Book suites for the best chance at free drink packages.
• Check promotions—some lines offer limited-time inclusive deals.

What Cruise Lines Include Drink Package in 2024

Imagine sipping a handcrafted cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of fine wine with dinner, or toasting to a stunning sunset at sea—all without worrying about the tab. For many travelers, the allure of a cruise lies not just in the destinations but in the convenience of an all-inclusive experience. One of the most sought-after perks is the drink package, a feature that can dramatically enhance your vacation while potentially saving you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. But not all cruise lines include drink packages in their base fares, and the ones that do often have specific terms, conditions, and limitations. In 2024, the landscape of beverage inclusions is evolving, with some brands offering generous inclusions while others maintain a pay-as-you-go model. Understanding which cruise lines include drink packages—and how they compare—can be the key to unlocking a more luxurious, stress-free, and enjoyable vacation.

As cruise lines compete for passengers, many are reevaluating their value propositions, and drink packages have become a major differentiator. From luxury lines offering premium spirits and fine wines to mainstream brands introducing tiered beverage plans, the options are more diverse than ever. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a cold beer after a day of excursions, knowing what’s included—and what’s not—can help you make an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which major cruise lines include drink packages in 2024, the nuances of their offerings, how to maximize your value, and what to watch out for when booking. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or your tenth, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the best option for your travel style and budget.

1. Luxury and Premium Cruise Lines: All-Inclusive by Design

Luxury and premium cruise lines have long set the standard for all-inclusive experiences, and in 2024, many continue to include drink packages as part of their base fare. These brands prioritize guest satisfaction, aiming to deliver a seamless, worry-free vacation where every detail is taken care of—from gourmet dining to premium beverages. Unlike mainstream lines, where drink packages are often add-ons, luxury lines bake them into the overall value proposition, making them a compelling choice for travelers seeking a high-end, inclusive experience.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: The Gold Standard

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is often hailed as the gold standard for all-inclusive cruising. On every voyage, passengers enjoy a fully inclusive beverage package that covers:

• Premium spirits, including top-shelf brands like Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Blue, and Hennessy XO
• Fine wines by the glass or bottle, curated by sommeliers
• Domestic and imported beers
• Non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty coffees, juices, and bottled water
• Minibar stocked with premium drinks (refreshed daily)

Unlike many competitors, Regent does not impose per-drink price caps or require reservations for premium wines. Guests can enjoy unlimited pours without extra charges—ideal for those who appreciate variety and quality. For example, on a 10-night Mediterranean cruise, a guest could enjoy a different bottle of French Bordeaux each evening without incurring additional costs.

Crystal Cruises: Elevated Inclusions with a Focus on Experience

Crystal Cruises, relaunched in 2023 under new ownership, has revamped its all-inclusive model for 2024. The base fare now includes:

• Unlimited premium cocktails, wines, and spirits
• Open bar in all lounges and restaurants
• Complimentary wine pairings at specialty dining venues
• Minibar with premium beverages and snacks

What sets Crystal apart is its emphasis on experiential drinking. Guests can participate in wine tastings, mixology classes, and sommelier-led seminars—all included. For instance, a 14-day transatlantic cruise might feature a Champagne tasting hosted by a Moët & Chandon ambassador. This focus on education and engagement adds value beyond mere consumption.

Silversea Cruises: Boutique Luxury with Global Flair

Silversea Cruises, known for its intimate ships and global itineraries, includes a complimentary beverage package on all sailings. The offering includes:

• Premium wines, spirits, and cocktails (no price cap)
• Champagne and sparkling wine by the glass
• Minibar with local and international brands
• Complimentary in-room dining with full beverage service

Silversea also tailors its offerings to regional tastes. On a cruise through Southeast Asia, for example, guests might enjoy complimentary Thai-inspired cocktails or Japanese sake pairings. This cultural customization enhances the immersive experience, making the drink package not just inclusive but contextually rich.

2. Mainstream Cruise Lines: Tiered and Optional Packages

While luxury lines offer inclusive drinks, mainstream cruise lines—such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian—typically do not include drink packages in the base fare. Instead, they offer a range of optional beverage packages that passengers can purchase before or during the cruise. In 2024, these packages have become more flexible and tiered, catering to different drinking habits and budgets. Understanding the options and calculating potential savings is essential to avoid overpaying or missing out on value.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The “Premium Plus” and “Unlimited Open Bar” Tiers

NCL offers two primary drink packages:

• Premium Plus Beverage Package: Includes premium cocktails, wines by the glass (up to $15), beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks. Priced around $99 per person per day.
• Unlimited Open Bar Package: A more affordable option at ~$79 per day, covering house wines, standard cocktails, beers, and soft drinks (up to $15 per drink).

Key considerations:

• Both packages require all adults in a stateroom to purchase the same plan (the “all-or-nothing” rule).
• Gratuities of 18–20% are automatically added to the package cost.
• Specialty drinks (e.g., Dom Pérignon, $25+ cocktails) are excluded.

Pro Tip: If you plan to drink more than 5–6 drinks per day, the Premium Plus package often pays for itself. For example, on a 7-day cruise, consuming six $12 cocktails daily would cost $504 without the package—compared to $693 for the package (including gratuity). However, if you drink less, the savings diminish.

Royal Caribbean International: “Deluxe” and “Refreshment” Packages

Royal Caribbean’s beverage program includes:

• Deluxe Beverage Package: Covers all drinks up to $15 (including premium cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits). Priced at ~$89 per person per day.
• Refreshment Package: Non-alcoholic option with premium coffees, smoothies, and bottled water (~$35 per day).

Unique features in 2024:

• Free package for suite guests (varies by promotion and ship).
• Discounts for booking online pre-cruise (up to 20% off).
• Specialty drink credits for Diamond+ loyalty members.

Example: A family of four on a 5-day cruise could save $1,200 by booking the Deluxe package online at $71.20/day instead of onboard at $89/day. However, the “all adults must purchase” rule still applies.

Carnival Cruise Line: “Cheers!” Program with Flexibility

Carnival’s “Cheers!” program offers:

• Unlimited drinks up to $20 per serving (~$59 per day).
• Includes premium cocktails, wines, beers, and non-alcoholic options.
• Gratuities of 18% added automatically.

What’s new in 2024:

• Option to purchase the package for only the days you plan to drink heavily (e.g., port days).
• Discounts for booking during “Sail-Away” promotions.

Tip: Carnival’s lower per-day cost makes it attractive for moderate drinkers. If you consume 4–5 drinks per day, the package breaks even. For light drinkers, it may not be cost-effective.

3. River and Expedition Cruises: Small Ships, Big Inclusions

River and expedition cruises, known for their intimate settings and immersive itineraries, often include drink packages as part of their value proposition. With smaller passenger counts and longer port stays, these lines emphasize guest experience over volume, making all-inclusive beverages a natural fit. In 2024, many river and expedition operators continue to offer generous drink inclusions, though the scope varies by brand and region.

AmaWaterways: All-Inclusive with a European Twist

AmaWaterways, a leader in luxury river cruising, includes:

• Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Complimentary house cocktails and spirits in lounges
• Premium wine and champagne tastings (included on select itineraries)
• Minibar with local beverages (refilled daily)

Example: On an 8-day Rhine River cruise, guests enjoy a complimentary wine tasting at a German vineyard, paired with regional dishes. The inclusion of local beverages—such as Riesling or Kölsch beer—adds cultural authenticity.

Viking River Cruises: Simplicity and Consistency

Viking includes:

• Wine and beer with lunch and dinner
• Soft drinks and juices throughout the day
• Open bar in the lounge (house cocktails and spirits)

Note: Premium spirits and cocktails (e.g., Grey Goose, premium scotch) require an additional fee. However, the base inclusions cover most casual drinking needs. Viking also offers complimentary shore excursions, enhancing the overall value.

Expedition Cruises: Aurora Expeditions and Lindblad Expeditions

For polar and remote destinations, expedition lines like Aurora and Lindblad include:

• Unlimited beer, wine, and spirits
• Complimentary hot beverages and soft drinks
• Minibar with premium drinks (on select ships)

Why it matters: In remote areas like Antarctica or the Galápagos, onboard comfort is crucial. Having a drink after a day of zodiac cruising or wildlife viewing is part of the experience—and these lines ensure it’s stress-free.

4. All-Inclusive Resorts at Sea: The Rise of Hybrid Concepts

In 2024, a growing number of cruise brands are adopting “resort-style” all-inclusive models, blurring the line between land-based resorts and sea-based vacations. These hybrid concepts often include drink packages, gourmet dining, and premium amenities in the base fare, appealing to travelers who want a seamless, high-value experience without hidden costs.

Virgin Voyages: “Sail All Inclusive” for Adults-Only Cruising

Virgin Voyages, known for its modern, adults-only ships, includes:

• Unlimited premium cocktails, wines, and spirits (no price cap)
• Non-alcoholic beverages, including cold-pressed juices and specialty coffees
• Complimentary minibar with premium drinks
• Free access to most onboard dining venues (no cover charges)

Key differentiators:

• No “all adults must purchase” rule—each guest chooses their own package.
• No automatic gratuities (tipping is optional and encouraged).
• Focus on wellness and mixology—e.g., kombucha cocktails and zero-proof options.

Example: A 4-night “Fire & Sunset Soirees” cruise in the Caribbean includes unlimited drinks, making it ideal for social travelers who want to socialize without budgeting for every cocktail.

MSC Cruises: “Easy Plus” and “Easy Premium” Inclusions

MSC has introduced tiered all-inclusive packages:

• Easy Plus: Includes wine, beer, and soft drinks with meals, plus select cocktails (~$45 per day).
• Easy Premium: Adds premium spirits, cocktails, and minibar access (~$75 per day).

In 2024, MSC is offering complimentary Easy Plus on select 7-night sailings—effectively making the base fare all-inclusive. This promotion is a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers seeking value.

Disney Cruise Line: Inclusive for Families (with Limits)

Disney includes:

• Unlimited soft drinks, juice, and water (available 24/7)
• Complimentary beer and wine with dinner (one glass per adult)

Note: Premium drinks require an additional package (~$75/day). However, the family-friendly inclusions—such as free milkshakes and character-themed mocktails—add significant value for families with children.

5. Maximizing Value: Tips, Tricks, and What to Watch For

Even when a cruise line includes a drink package, there are nuances that can affect your experience and savings. To get the most value in 2024, consider the following strategies and pitfalls.

Calculate Your Break-Even Point

Before purchasing a package, estimate your daily consumption. Use this formula:

• Daily drink cost without package = (Number of drinks per day) × (Average price per drink)
• Compare to package price (including gratuity)

Example: If you drink 4 cocktails at $12 each ($48), a $79 package (with gratuity) may not save money. But if you drink 6, the package breaks even.

Watch for “All Adults Must Purchase” Rules

Most mainstream lines require all adults in a stateroom to buy the same package. If one person doesn’t drink, this can inflate costs. Solutions:

• Book a single stateroom for non-drinkers.
• Choose a line with individual purchase options (e.g., Virgin, Carnival).

Look for Pre-Cruise Discounts and Promotions

Many lines offer 15–20% off drink packages when booked online. For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Buy Early, Save More” promotion can save $100+ per person on a 7-day cruise.

Check for Exclusions and Caps

Even “unlimited” packages often exclude:

• Bottles of wine over $15–20
• Premium brands (e.g., Dom Pérignon, Macallan)
• Room service or minibar (on some lines)

Always review the fine print—or ask your travel agent.

Consider Loyalty Perks

Repeat cruisers can earn free or discounted drink packages. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Diamond+ members receive daily drink credits (~$10–15 value).

6. Comparative Overview: 2024 Drink Package Inclusions at a Glance

Cruise Line	Base Inclusion	Optional Package (Price/Day)	Gratuities	Notes
Regent Seven Seas	Yes (premium spirits, wines, minibar)	None	No extra	No price caps; all-inclusive
Silversea	Yes (unlimited premium drinks)	None	No extra	Regional beverage pairings
Virgin Voyages	Yes (all drinks included)	None	Optional	Adults-only; no mandatory purchase
Norwegian (NCL)	No	Premium Plus: $99	18–20% added	All adults must purchase
Royal Caribbean	No	Deluxe: $89	18% added	Discounts for online booking
Carnival	No	Cheers!: $59	18% added	Flexible daily purchase option
AmaWaterways	Yes (wine/beer at meals, lounge drinks)	None	No extra	Premium tastings included
MSC (select sailings)	Yes (Easy Plus included)	Easy Premium: $75	15% added	Promotional all-inclusive deals

Conclusion

As we navigate the 2024 cruise landscape, the inclusion of drink packages has become a defining factor in the value and experience of a vacation. Whether you’re drawn to the all-inclusive luxury of Regent and Silversea, the flexible tiers of Norwegian and Royal Caribbean, or the innovative models of Virgin and MSC, there’s a beverage offering tailored to every traveler. Luxury lines continue to lead with generous, no-cap inclusions, while mainstream brands are enhancing flexibility and discounts to compete. River and expedition cruises offer cultural and experiential depth through their beverage programs, and hybrid resort-style concepts are redefining what “all-inclusive” means at sea.

The key to maximizing your experience lies in understanding your drinking habits, calculating break-even points, and leveraging promotions and loyalty perks. Don’t let the allure of “unlimited drinks” blind you to the fine print—caps, exclusions, and mandatory purchases can erode value if not carefully considered. Ultimately, the best drink package is the one that aligns with your preferences, budget, and travel style. As you plan your 2024 cruise, use this guide to make an informed choice—and raise a glass to a vacation where every sip is included, every moment is savored, and every dollar is well spent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines include a drink package in 2024?

Several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Carnival, offer drink packages as part of their 2024 promotions or as optional add-ons. Some luxury lines like Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises also include premium drink packages on select sailings.

Do any cruise lines automatically include a drink package?

Yes, certain high-end and luxury cruise lines, such as Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Oceania, automatically include a premium drink package with all fares. Mainstream lines like Virgin Voyages also include select drinks in their base pricing, eliminating the need for a separate purchase.

Are drink packages included on Carnival Cruise Line in 2024?

Carnival does not include a drink package by default, but they offer the “Cheers!” beverage package for an additional fee. In 2024, Carnival occasionally bundles the Cheers! package with promotions, especially on longer or specialty itineraries.

What cruise lines include drink package perks with loyalty status?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer complimentary or discounted drink packages to high-tier loyalty members (e.g., Diamond level and above). These perks vary by status level and are often included as part of onboard benefits for repeat cruisers.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line include a drink package in 2024?

NCL does not include a drink package in standard fares but offers the “Premium Plus Beverage Package” for purchase. However, their 2024 “Free at Sea” promotion may include a free or reduced drink package on qualifying bookings.

Are kids’ drink packages included on family-friendly cruise lines?

Lines like Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer non-alcoholic drink packages for kids, often included in family promotions. These typically cover sodas, juices, and mocktails, while adult packages remain separate unless bundled in a special offer.