What Cruise Lines Offer Free Drink Packages in 2024

Several major cruise lines now offer free drink packages in 2024, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line, often bundled with premium suite bookings or special promotions. These complimentary packages typically cover select cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, adding significant value for guests seeking an all-inclusive experience. Always check terms, as availability varies by sailing, stateroom category, and booking window.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Includes free open bar in all suite bookings.
• Royal Caribbean: Offers free drinks via Crown & Anchor Society loyalty perks.
• Celebrity Cruises: Premium drink package included on select sailings.
• Virgin Voyages: All-inclusive pricing covers most drinks at no extra cost.
• MSC Cruises: Free drinks with their “Easy Plus” fare option.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Rare promotions; check for limited-time free package deals.

Why Free Drink Packages Matter in Cruise Travel

Cruising has long been synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and all-inclusive indulgence. Among the many perks that attract travelers, free drink packages stand out as a major draw. Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail at sunset, enjoying a craft beer at the onboard pub, or treating your kids to endless soda, drink packages can significantly enhance your vacation experience. In 2024, the cruise industry continues to evolve, with more lines offering complimentary beverage programs—either as standard inclusions, seasonal promotions, or loyalty perks.

For many cruisers, the cost of drinks can add up quickly. A single cocktail might run $15–$20, and over a week-long voyage, that can easily exceed $500 per person. That’s where free drink packages come in. These programs not only reduce out-of-pocket expenses but also encourage guests to fully embrace the onboard experience without constantly checking their tab. In this guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines offer free drink packages in 2024, the conditions attached, and how to make the most of these valuable inclusions. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or a luxury seeker, knowing where to find free drinks can make your next cruise even more unforgettable.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Complimentary Drink Packages

Not all cruise lines include free drink packages as a standard offering, but several major players have integrated them into their business models—either as part of their core value proposition or through targeted promotions. Below, we break down the top cruise lines that offer free drinks in 2024, including details on what’s covered, who qualifies, and how to access the benefit.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Free at Sea Program

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is one of the most well-known cruise lines for offering free drink packages through its Free at Sea promotion. This program is available on most sailings and allows guests to choose up to five complimentary perks, one of which is the Premium Beverage Package (PBP). The PBP includes:

• Unlimited cocktails, spirits, wines by the glass (up to $15 value)
• Beer, soft drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water
• Access to bars, lounges, and select onboard venues

To qualify, guests must book an eligible sailing (typically 3+ nights) and select the beverage package as one of their perks during the booking process. The package is valid for the entire cruise and applies to the primary guest and one companion in the same stateroom. Important note: Gratuities (typically 18–20%) are not included and are charged automatically to your account.

Tip: Book early—NCL often runs “Buy One, Get One Free” promotions that can further reduce your overall cost when paired with Free at Sea.

Celebrity Cruises: The All-Included Pricing Model

Celebrity Cruises has shifted its pricing strategy to include free drink packages on nearly all sailings starting in 2024. Their Always Included pricing model bundles the Classic Beverage Package into the base fare for all guests in all stateroom categories. This includes:

• Unlimited beer, wine by the glass (up to $15), and cocktails (up to $15)
• Soft drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water
• No gratuities added—already included in the fare

What sets Celebrity apart is the transparency: there’s no need to select a perk or worry about hidden fees. The package is automatically applied, making it ideal for first-time cruisers or families who want a stress-free experience. For those seeking premium options, upgrades to the Premium Beverage Package (covering drinks up to $20) or Ultimate Beverage Package (unlimited premium brands) are available for a small daily supplement.

Insider Tip: The Classic package covers most popular drinks, but if you love high-end spirits or premium wines, consider upgrading for just $10–$15 per person per day.

Royal Caribbean International: Drink Packages as Perks and Promotions

Royal Caribbean doesn’t include free drink packages in every fare, but it frequently offers them as part of limited-time promotions or loyalty benefits. For example, in 2024, Royal Caribbean has run “Buy One, Get One Free” deals where the second guest receives a complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package, which includes:

• Unlimited cocktails, beer, wine (up to $15), and non-alcoholic drinks
• Access to specialty bars and lounges
• 15% off wine bottles and premium spirits

Additionally, members of the Crown & Anchor Society (Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program) can earn free drink packages based on their tier. Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members receive one free drink package per sailing, while higher tiers may get two or more. These packages are typically the Deluxe Beverage Package and are valid for the entire cruise.

Pro Tip: Book during a “BOGO” promotion and combine it with a loyalty perk to potentially get two free packages—one for each traveler in a stateroom.

Virgin Voyages: All-Inclusive by Design

Virgin Voyages, the adults-only cruise line launched by Sir Richard Branson, redefines the cruise experience with a truly all-inclusive model. Unlike traditional lines, Virgin does not charge extra for most drinks. Their Bar Tab system works as follows:

• Every guest receives a $300 Bar Tab credit at the start of the cruise
• Drinks (cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, specialty coffees, and non-alcoholic options) are priced at $15 or less
• You can use the Bar Tab freely; once depleted, you can top up or pay as you go
• No gratuities—service charges are included in the fare

For most cruisers, $300 is more than enough to cover a week of drinks, especially since Virgin focuses on quality over quantity. The onboard bars feature craft cocktails, local spirits, and innovative non-alcoholic options. If you prefer, you can also opt to have the $300 refunded to your account and pay for drinks individually.

Note: Virgin Voyages is adults-only (18+), so this is ideal for couples, solo travelers, or friend groups looking for a vibrant, inclusive experience.

How to Get Free Drink Packages Through Promotions and Loyalty Programs

Even if a cruise line doesn’t offer free drinks as standard, savvy travelers can often secure them through strategic booking, promotions, and loyalty programs. In 2024, cruise lines are more competitive than ever, using drink packages as incentives to fill ships and reward repeat customers.

Seasonal and Limited-Time Promotions

Throughout the year, cruise lines run special promotions that include free drink packages. These are often tied to:

• Holiday sailings (e.g., Christmas, New Year’s, Fourth of July)
• Anniversary events or ship launches
• “BOGO” (Buy One, Get One) deals
• Early booking discounts (book 6–12 months in advance)

For example, in early 2024, Carnival Cruise Line offered a “Free Drink Package” promotion for select 4–7 night sailings to the Caribbean. Guests who booked an oceanview or suite stateroom received the Bottomless Bubbles package (unlimited soda and juice) or the Cheers! Beverage Program (alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks) for free—valued at over $60 per person per day.

Tip: Sign up for cruise line newsletters and follow them on social media to get early access to these deals. Third-party travel sites like Vacations To Go and Cruise Critic also aggregate promotions.

Loyalty Program Perks

If you’re a frequent cruiser, your loyalty status can unlock free drink packages. Most major cruise lines have tiered loyalty programs, and higher tiers offer increasingly valuable benefits:

• Celebrity Cruises (Captain’s Club): Elite and Zenith members receive free drink packages on every sailing.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (Latitudes Rewards): Platinum and above members get free drink packages on select sailings.
• Princess Cruises (Captain’s Circle): Elite members receive a free Premier Beverage Package on every cruise.
• Holland America Line (Club Orange): Orange members receive a free drink package as part of their suite benefits.

To maximize benefits, consider concentrating your cruises with one or two lines to accelerate tier progression. For example, just 15 nights with NCL can earn you Platinum status, unlocking free drinks, priority embarkation, and other perks.

Group and Incentive Travel

Cruise lines often offer free drink packages for group bookings (typically 8+ cabins). If you’re planning a family reunion, wedding, or corporate retreat, ask your travel agent about group incentives. These may include:

• One free drink package per cabin
• Onboard credit that can be used for drinks
• Complimentary upgrades or specialty dining

Additionally, some travel agencies and tour operators partner with cruise lines to offer exclusive packages. For example, a luxury travel agency might bundle a free drink package with a balcony cabin on a 7-night Mediterranean cruise—adding hundreds of dollars in value.

Understanding the Fine Print: What’s Covered and What’s Not

While free drink packages sound like a dream, it’s crucial to understand the terms, limitations, and exclusions before assuming everything is included. Not all drinks are created equal, and some packages have strict rules that could impact your enjoyment.

Coverage Limits and Price Caps

Most free drink packages include drinks up to a certain value. For example:

• NCL and Celebrity: $15 per drink
• Royal Caribbean: $15 per drink
• Princess: $14 per drink

This means if you order a $25 craft cocktail or a bottle of Dom Pérignon, you’ll pay the difference. Always check the drink menu for “package-included” labels. Premium brands (e.g., Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Blue, Veuve Clicquot) are typically not covered and require an upgrade or separate payment.

Non-Alcoholic and Specialty Drinks

Most packages include:

• Soda, juice, bottled water, and specialty coffees
• Non-alcoholic cocktails and mocktails
• Milkshakes and smoothies (on select ships)

However, some lines exclude bottled water or charge extra for premium brands (e.g., Fiji, Perrier). Always ask the bartender if your drink is covered. For families, note that soda packages for kids may be separate or limited in scope.

Gratuities and Service Charges

One of the biggest surprises for cruisers is the automatic gratuity added to drink packages. Even if the package is “free,” you’ll likely pay:

• 18–20% gratuity per package per day (e.g., $12–$15 for a $60 package)
• Charged to your onboard account, regardless of usage

For example, if you receive a free $65/day drink package, you’ll still pay about $13/day in gratuities. This is non-refundable, so if you don’t use the package, you’re still charged. Pro tip: If you’re not a heavy drinker, calculate whether the package (including gratuities) is worth it. Sometimes paying per drink is cheaper.

Usage Restrictions and Venues

Free drink packages may not be valid at all onboard venues. Common exclusions include:

• Specialty restaurants (e.g., steakhouse, sushi bar)
• Room service (though some lines allow one drink per order)
• Private bars or VIP lounges (e.g., suite-only lounges)
• Shore excursions and port-side bars

Additionally, packages are usually per person per stateroom and cannot be shared. Each adult in the room must have their own package. Minors may receive a non-alcoholic version (e.g., soda or juice package).

Comparing Free Drink Packages: A Data-Driven Overview

To help you compare options, here’s a data table summarizing the free drink packages offered by major cruise lines in 2024:

Cruise Line	Package Name	Drink Limit	Gratuities	Availability	Special Notes
Norwegian Cruise Line	Premium Beverage Package	$15 per drink	18–20% added	Select sailings via Free at Sea	Must select during booking; 1 per stateroom
Celebrity Cruises	Classic Beverage Package	$15 per drink	Included in fare	All sailings (Always Included)	Upgrades available for premium brands
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage Package	$15 per drink	18% added	Promotions & loyalty perks	BOGO deals common; loyalty tiers vary
Virgin Voyages	Bar Tab ($300 credit)	Drinks ≤$15	Included	All sailings	Adults-only; credit refundable
Princess Cruises	Premier Beverage Package	$14 per drink	18% added	Elite loyalty members	Free for Elite tier and above
Carnival Cruise Line	Cheers! Beverage Program	$15 per drink	18% added	Limited-time promotions	Often paired with BOGO deals

Tips to Maximize Your Free Drink Package Experience

Getting a free drink package is just the beginning. To truly maximize its value and enhance your cruise, follow these expert tips:

Know the Rules Before You Board

Review your cruise line’s drink package terms before departure. Download the cruise line app and check the “My Cruise” section for package details. Know:

• Which venues are included
• What brands are covered
• Gratuity policies
• Sharing restrictions

Print or screenshot the rules and keep them handy on your phone.

Time Your Orders Strategically

Drink packages are most valuable during peak hours. Use them for:

• Evening cocktails before dinner
• Poolside drinks during the day
• Happy hour specials (e.g., 2-for-1 deals)

Avoid using the package for low-cost items like tap water or basic soda—save it for premium drinks that exceed the per-drink value.

Upgrade Wisely

If you love high-end spirits or premium wines, consider upgrading to a higher-tier package. For example, Celebrity’s Premium Beverage Package covers drinks up to $20 and includes brands like Grey Goose and Moët & Chandon. The daily upgrade fee ($10–$15) is often worth it if you plan to drink more than one premium cocktail per day.

Use Your Package Off the Ship

Some cruise lines allow drink package usage on select shore excursions. For example, NCL’s Premium Beverage Package is valid at private islands like Great Stirrup Cay. Check with your cruise line to see if your package extends to private destinations.

Don’t Overindulge

Free drinks can lead to overconsumption, especially on a relaxing vacation. Pace yourself, stay hydrated with water, and enjoy the experience—not just the alcohol. Remember, the goal is to enhance your cruise, not to drink for the sake of drinking.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Free Drink Package for You

In 2024, the cruise industry continues to raise the bar with generous inclusions, and free drink packages are among the most valuable perks available. Whether you’re drawn to NCL’s customizable Free at Sea, Celebrity’s transparent Always Included model, or Virgin Voyages’ all-inclusive Bar Tab, there’s a package to match every traveler’s style and budget.

The key to success lies in planning, research, and smart decision-making. Understand the terms, leverage promotions, and use loyalty programs to unlock even greater value. Remember that “free” doesn’t always mean “no cost”—gratuities, exclusions, and usage limits can affect your overall savings. But with the right approach, a free drink package can turn an ordinary cruise into an extraordinary experience.

As you plan your next voyage, keep this guide handy. Compare options, book strategically, and raise a glass to a vacation filled with unforgettable moments—and even more unforgettable drinks. Cheers to sailing smarter in 2024!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines include free drink packages in 2024?

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, offer complimentary drink packages on select sailings in 2024. These promotions are often tied to promotions like “Free at Sea” or “Cruise the Drink” deals.

Do any luxury cruise lines offer free drink packages?

Yes, luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Silversea include premium drink packages standard on most sailings. These cover top-shelf liquor, wine, and cocktails with no extra cost to guests.

Is the free drink package on NCL really unlimited?

Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” promotion includes an open bar with unlimited drinks under $15. While not truly unlimited, it covers most cocktails, wines, and premium beverages with no daily cap.

Are free drink packages available on family-friendly cruise lines?

Absolutely! Royal Caribbean and Carnival frequently include free drink packages in kids-sail-free or BOGO promotions. These apply to adults and cover sodas, beer, wine, and select cocktails.

What’s included in Royal Caribbean’s free drink package?

Royal Caribbean’s “Deluxe Beverage Package” (often free during promotions) includes unlimited beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Premium spirits and specialty coffees are typically included, but some exclusions apply.

Can solo travelers get free drink packages on cruise lines?

Yes, many cruise lines like NCL and Princess offer free drink packages for solo travelers during single-supplement promotions. These often match the perks offered to couples, including unlimited drinks.