What Does Open Bar Mean on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

On Norwegian Cruise Line, “open bar” means unlimited complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included for all guests in select fare packages. This perk covers cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks at most bars and lounges fleet-wide—no per-drink charges. It’s a standout value, especially on longer sailings, but verify your specific booking’s inclusions, as terms vary by promotion and stateroom category.

Key Takeaways

• Open bar includes select beers, wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Premium drinks cost extra beyond the standard open bar package.
• Book early to save on open bar packages and promotions.
• Drink limits apply for safety and responsible consumption onboard.
• Room service excluded from open bar benefits and charges apply.
• Kids get alternatives like mocktails and sodas with open bar.

Understanding the Concept of Open Bar on Norwegian Cruise Line

When planning a cruise, one of the most exciting perks to consider is the open bar experience. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), known for its Freestyle Cruising concept, has redefined the vacation experience by offering flexible dining, entertainment, and—most notably—alcohol packages that include open bar options. But what does “open bar” really mean on Norwegian Cruise Line? For first-time cruisers or even seasoned travelers, the term can be ambiguous, often leading to confusion about what’s included, how it works, and whether it’s worth the investment.

An open bar on NCL isn’t just about unlimited drinks—it’s a curated experience designed to enhance your cruise with convenience, variety, and value. Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine at dinner, or toasting under the stars, understanding the nuances of NCL’s open bar offerings can significantly impact your onboard experience. This guide dives deep into the mechanics, benefits, limitations, and insider tips to help you make the most of your open bar package. From the types of drinks included to how it integrates with NCL’s loyalty programs, we’ll cover everything you need to know before booking your next voyage.

What Exactly Is Included in NCL’s Open Bar Packages?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage packages, but the most popular and comprehensive is the Premium Plus Beverage Package, which is often referred to as the “open bar” option. While the term “open bar” is used colloquially, NCL’s open bar is not an all-you-can-drink free-for-all. Instead, it’s a structured package with specific inclusions and exclusions designed to balance guest satisfaction with operational feasibility.

Drinks Covered by the Premium Plus Beverage Package

The Premium Plus Beverage Package is the closest thing NCL has to a true open bar. It includes:

• Unlimited premium spirits, cocktails, and liqueurs (up to $15 per drink)
• Domestic and imported beers (bottled and draft)
• Wines by the glass (up to $15 per glass)
• Sparkling and non-alcoholic wines
• Freshly squeezed juices, specialty coffees, and premium bottled waters (up to $15)
• Soft drinks, energy drinks, and bottled beverages (up to $15)
• 15% discount on bottles of wine and champagne (minimum 50% off retail)

For example, if you order a $12 mojito at the pool bar, it’s covered. A $14 glass of Pinot Noir at a specialty restaurant? Included. But if you order a $25 bottle of Dom Pérignon, you’ll pay the difference—though the 15% discount helps.

Exclusions and Limitations

While the package is generous, it’s not all-encompassing. Here are the key exclusions:

• Drinks priced above $15 (e.g., premium champagne, rare whiskies, specialty craft cocktails)
• Bottled wines over $150 (though the 15% discount still applies)
• Room service drinks (unless ordered through the NCL app with a beverage package)
• Mini-bar items (these are charged separately)
• Specialty coffee drinks with alcohol (e.g., Irish coffee, espresso martini) may have restrictions
• Drinks at private events or VIP lounges may require additional payment

Pro Tip: If you’re a wine lover, consider pairing the Premium Plus package with NCL’s Wine & Dine program, which offers curated wine pairings at specialty restaurants for an additional fee—but the 15% discount on bottles still applies.

How Does the Open Bar Work Onboard: Practical Mechanics

Understanding the logistics of how the open bar operates can save you time, money, and frustration. NCL’s system is designed for ease of use, but there are nuances that every cruiser should know.

Activation and Usage Process

Once you purchase the Premium Plus Beverage Package (either pre-cruise or onboard), it’s automatically linked to your Sail & Sign card. This is your cruise ID and payment method. When ordering a drink:

• Present your Sail & Sign card at any bar, restaurant, or lounge.
• The server will scan your card and check your package status.
• If the drink is within the $15 limit, it’s automatically covered—no tip required (more on gratuities below).
• If the drink exceeds $15, you’ll pay the difference at the time of service.

Example: You order a $18 craft cocktail at a specialty bar. The $15 is covered by your package; you pay $3 cash or charge it to your account.

Gratuities and Service Charges

A common misconception is that open bar packages eliminate gratuities. Not quite. NCL automatically adds an 18–20% service charge (gratuity) to all beverage package purchases. This covers the staff who serve your drinks. However:

• You are not expected to tip extra for drinks covered by the package.
• If you receive exceptional service, additional tips are appreciated but optional.
• For drinks above $15, the gratuity is applied only to the portion you pay (e.g., $3 on an $18 drink).

Tip: Pre-booking the package online often locks in a lower gratuity rate (e.g., 18%) versus booking onboard (20%).

Sharing and Guest Limitations

The package is per person, not per cabin. Each guest must purchase their own package to use it. However:

• Children under 21 can purchase non-alcoholic versions of the package.
• Guests in the same stateroom can share a package only if both purchase it—NCL’s system tracks individual usage.
• Sharing with non-paying guests is strictly prohibited and can result in suspension of privileges.

Cost vs. Value: Is the Open Bar Package Worth It?

One of the biggest questions cruisers ask: Is the open bar worth the cost? The answer depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and preferences. Let’s break it down.

Pricing Structure and Discounts

The Premium Plus Beverage Package costs approximately $109–$129 per person, per day (varies by cruise and demand). However, NCL frequently offers promotions:

• Pre-book discounts: 10–20% off when purchased before the cruise (e.g., $89/day vs. $109).
• Group discounts: Buy 4+ packages and get 1 free (common on 7+ day cruises).
• Loyalty perks: Latitude Rewards members (especially Platinum and above) get exclusive package rates.
• Early booking bonuses: Free package upgrades (e.g., Premium Plus for the price of Premium).

Example: On a 7-day cruise, the package costs $763/person at $109/day. With a 15% pre-book discount: $648.55—a savings of $114.45.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: When It Pays Off

To determine if the package is worth it, calculate your potential spending:

• Moderate drinker (3–4 drinks/day): 3 cocktails ($12–$15 each) + 1 wine ($12) = $51/day. Package cost: $109 → Not worth it.
• Heavy drinker (6+ drinks/day): 4 cocktails, 2 wines, 2 beers = $90–$120/day → Package saves $10–$40/day.
• Social drinker (specialty venues): 2 cocktails at a jazz bar ($14 each) + 1 wine at dinner ($15) = $43. But add a $20 craft beer at a brewpub → $63. Package covers it, and you avoid $20+ in gratuities.

Insider Tip: Use the NCL app to track your daily drink spending. If you hit 60% of the package cost by Day 3, buy it immediately—it’s likely to save you money.

Hidden Value Beyond Drinks

The package’s value isn’t just in drinks. Consider:

• Convenience: No fumbling for cards or cash—just tap and enjoy.
• Stress-free socializing: Host a cabin party without worrying about the bill.
• Specialty dining perks: Some restaurants (e.g., Cagney’s) waive corkage fees for bottles purchased with the package.

Comparing NCL’s Open Bar to Other Cruise Lines

How does Norwegian’s open bar stack up against competitors like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC? Here’s a detailed comparison.

Coverage and Pricing

Cruise Line	Package Name	Daily Cost	Drink Limit	Notable Exclusions
Norwegian (Premium Plus)	Premium Plus Beverage Package	$109–$129	$15	Champagne >$150, room service
Royal Caribbean (Deluxe)	Deluxe Beverage Package	$105–$135	$15	Mini-bar, specialty coffee with alcohol
Carnival (Cheers!)	Cheers! Beverage Program	$59.95–$69.95	$20	None (covers all drinks up to $20)
MSC (Easy Drink)	Easy Drink Package	$39–$49	$10	Premium cocktails, wine >$10

Key Takeaway: NCL’s package is mid-tier in price but offers strong value due to its $15 limit and 15% discount on bottles. Carnival’s Cheers! has a higher $20 limit, but NCL’s broader coverage of premium spirits and specialty coffees balances the scale.

Unique NCL Advantages

• Freestyle Cruising: No fixed dining times mean more flexibility to use your package anytime.
• Specialty bars: Access to venues like the Spice H2O (adults-only pool bar) or Mixx (jazz lounge) without extra fees.
• Loyalty integration: Latitude Rewards members get faster package activation and priority service.

Maximizing Your Open Bar Experience: Pro Tips and Strategies

Getting the most out of your open bar requires strategy. Here’s how to optimize every sip.

Timing Your Purchase

Pre-book: Buy online 60+ days before sailing for the best rates. Avoid last-minute onboard purchases, which are often 10–15% more expensive.

Wait for promotions: NCL frequently runs “Free at Sea” deals where beverage packages are included with certain cabin types (e.g., balcony or suite). Book during these sales for maximum savings.

Smart Ordering Tactics

• Stick to the $15 limit: Avoid “splurge” drinks unless you’re okay paying the difference. Ask servers for recommendations within budget.
• Order bottles strategically: Buy a $150 bottle of wine at dinner and get 15% off—effectively paying $127.50. Split among 4 people = $31.88 each (vs. $37.50 without the package).
• Use the NCL app: Order drinks from your phone and skip lines. Great for poolside service.

Leveraging Loyalty Programs

If you’re a Latitude Rewards member:

• Platinum+ members get free package upgrades (e.g., Premium for the price of Classic).
• Earn points for package purchases (1 point per $10 spent).
• Access exclusive lounges (e.g., The Haven) with complimentary premium drinks.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• Don’t share packages: NCL’s system flags unusual usage patterns. Stick to your own card.
• Check mini-bar prices: These are never covered. Stock up on free bottled water at ports.
• Monitor your spending: Use the app to track daily usage and avoid “package fatigue.”

Final Tip: Combine the open bar with NCL’s Free at Sea offers (e.g., free specialty dining, shore excursions) for a truly all-inclusive experience without breaking the bank.

Conclusion: The Open Bar as a Game-Changer

The open bar on Norwegian Cruise Line is more than a perk—it’s a strategic tool to elevate your cruise. With the Premium Plus Beverage Package, you gain access to a world of premium drinks, seamless service, and hidden savings that go beyond the bar. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a cocktail connoisseur, understanding the package’s mechanics, cost structure, and smart usage strategies ensures you’re not just drinking—you’re winning.

From pre-booking discounts to leveraging loyalty perks, the key is planning ahead and using every feature to your advantage. NCL’s open bar isn’t just about unlimited drinks; it’s about freedom, convenience, and the joy of knowing your vacation budget is under control. So, as you plan your next voyage, ask yourself: Can you afford to cruise without it? For many, the answer is a resounding no. Cheers to that!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does open bar mean on Norwegian Cruise Line?

On Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), “open bar” refers to a drink package that allows guests unlimited access to select alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for a fixed price. It typically includes beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, soda, and bottled water, but excludes premium brands and specialty drinks.

Is the open bar package worth it on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The value of the open bar package depends on your drinking habits—if you consume multiple drinks daily, it can save money compared to paying à la carte. However, casual drinkers may find the cost exceeds their actual usage, so consider your preferences before purchasing.

What drinks are included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s open bar package?

The open bar package covers most standard cocktails, domestic and imported beer, house wines, spirits, soft drinks, and bottled water. Premium labels, specialty coffees, and minibar items are excluded and charged separately.

Can I share my Norwegian Cruise Line open bar package with others?

No, the open bar package is non-transferable and only valid for the named guest who purchased it. Norwegian Cruise Line enforces strict ID checks to prevent sharing or misuse of the drink package.

Does the open bar package work on Norwegian Cruise Line’s private destinations?

Yes, the open bar package is valid at most bars and restaurants on board, including Great Stirrup Cay (NCL’s private island). However, some pop-up venues or special events may have restrictions, so check the terms before ordering.

When should I buy the open bar package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

You can purchase the open bar package before your cruise (recommended for discounts) or on board during the first 2–3 days. Buying early often secures lower rates, but last-minute deals may occasionally be offered.