What Is Unlimited Open Bar on Norwegian Cruise Line Explained

The Unlimited Open Bar on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a premium drink package that lets you enjoy unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages for a flat daily rate. It’s designed for guests who want hassle-free indulgence, with access to most bars and lounges fleet-wide, including top-shelf options—perfect for maximizing your cruise experience. Ideal for frequent drinkers, this package can save you money while keeping the drinks flowing all voyage long.

Key Takeaways

• Unlimited Open Bar offers premium drinks for a fixed daily price on Norwegian Cruise Line.
• Covers cocktails, wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks up to $15 per serving.
• Book early to save—pricing is lower when purchased before your cruise.
• Excludes gratuities—a 20% service charge is added to your final bill.
• Not all drinks included; premium bottles and specialty coffees cost extra.
• Shareable with family—same cabin guests can split the package cost.

What Is Unlimited Open Bar on Norwegian Cruise Line?

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most exciting—and often confusing—decisions travelers face is whether to purchase a beverage package. Among the most popular options in the industry is the Unlimited Open Bar package offered by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), a perk that has become synonymous with the brand’s “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy. But what exactly does “unlimited open bar” mean, and is it worth the investment? For many cruisers, the idea of sipping a cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine at dinner, or toasting to a sunset without worrying about the bill is incredibly appealing. Yet, the fine print, pricing, and limitations can leave even seasoned travelers scratching their heads.

Norwegian Cruise Line has long been a trailblazer in the cruise industry, redefining what a vacation at sea can be with flexible dining, casual dress codes, and a la carte experiences. The Unlimited Open Bar package is a cornerstone of this model, designed to enhance guest enjoyment by removing the stress of per-drink charges. Whether you’re a casual drinker, a cocktail enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to indulge without counting every dollar, understanding the ins and outs of this package is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from what’s included and excluded, to pricing, booking strategies, and real-world value. By the end, you’ll be equipped to decide whether the Unlimited Open Bar is the right choice for your next NCL adventure.

Understanding the Basics: What Does “Unlimited Open Bar” Really Mean?

Defining the Package

The Unlimited Open Bar package on Norwegian Cruise Line is a prepaid beverage plan that allows guests to enjoy an extensive selection of drinks at no additional cost during their cruise. Unlike traditional open bar setups that might limit you to specific bars or times, NCL’s version is designed to be as inclusive and flexible as possible. Once purchased, the package covers most alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages across the ship, including bars, lounges, restaurants, and even room service (with some restrictions).

It’s important to note that “unlimited” doesn’t mean *anything* goes. There are caps on high-end items and rules about sharing, but the core offering is impressively broad. For example, you can order a mojito at the pool bar, a glass of Cabernet with your steak at Cagney’s, and a craft beer at the pub—all covered under the same package. The goal is to let guests enjoy their vacation without constantly checking their onboard account.

What’s Included: A Closer Look

To truly understand the value of the package, let’s break down what’s covered:

• Alcoholic Beverages:
  • Beer (domestic and imported, including craft beers)
  • Wine (by the glass, up to $15 retail value)
  • Cocktails, mixed drinks, and spirits (up to $15 per drink)
  • Liqueurs and cordials
• Non-Alcoholic Options:
  • Soft drinks, juices, and bottled water
  • Specialty coffees (e.g., lattes, cappuccinos)
  • Mocktails and virgin cocktails
• Additional Perks:
  • Discounts on bottled wine and premium spirits (e.g., 20% off bottles over $15)
  • Access to exclusive bars (e.g., The District Lounge on newer ships)

For example, if you order a $12 mojito, a $14 glass of Malbec, or a $10 craft IPA, all are covered. Even non-alcoholic drinks like a $7 iced latte or a $5 bottle of sparkling water are included. This flexibility is a major selling point for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

What’s Not Included: The Fine Print

While the package is generous, there are notable exclusions:

• Premium Spirits: Drinks priced above $15 per glass (e.g., top-shelf scotch, rare cognac) are not covered. You’ll pay the difference.
• Bottled Wine: Bottles over $15 are discounted but not free. A $50 bottle would cost $40 with the 20% discount.
• Room Service: Alcoholic drinks ordered via room service are covered, but non-alcoholic beverages (e.g., bottled water) are not.
• Specialty Venues: Some pop-up bars or events (e.g., wine tastings, mixology classes) may require separate fees.

Tip: Always check the daily Freestyle Daily newsletter for drink specials and happy hours. Many bars offer “package-friendly” promotions, like $5 margaritas, which can stretch your value even further.

Pricing and Value: Is the Unlimited Open Bar Worth It?

Cost Breakdown and Booking Options

The price of the Unlimited Open Bar package varies based on the cruise length, destination, and booking window. As of 2024, the standard rates are:

Cruise Length	Per Person Per Day	Total for 2 People (7-Day Cruise)
3-5 days	$70–$90	$490–$630
6-8 days	$60–$80	$840–$1,120
9+ days	$55–$75	$1,155–$1,575

Key considerations:

• Early Booking Discounts: NCL often offers 20–30% off beverage packages if booked 60+ days before departure. A 7-day cruise at $70/day drops to $49/day with a discount.
• Free at Sea Promotions: During special sales, NCL may include the package for free with certain stateroom categories (e.g., balcony or suite).
• Children’s Rates: Kids under 12 pay 50% of the adult price, making it family-friendly.

Calculating Your Break-Even Point

To determine if the package is cost-effective, compare your typical drink spending to the package price. Here’s a real-world example:

• Scenario: A couple on a 7-day cruise consumes:
  • 4 cocktails/day ($12 each) = $336
  • 3 beers/day ($7 each) = $147
  • 2 glasses of wine/day ($14 each) = $196
  • Total without package: $679
• With Unlimited Open Bar: $80/day x 7 days x 2 people = $1,120

In this case, the package isn’t a savings—but it adds convenience and predictability. However, if they add 1 premium cocktail/day ($18 with a $3 upcharge) and 2 specialty coffees/day ($6 each), the total without the package jumps to $805, making the $1,120 price tag less daunting. Tip: Track your spending during the first day of the cruise. If you hit $50–$60 in drink costs, the package likely pays off by day 2.

When the Package Saves Money (and When It Doesn’t)

• Save Money If You:
  • Drink 5+ alcoholic drinks/day
  • Enjoy wine with dinner (glasses average $12–$15)
  • Frequent bars/lounges (e.g., solo cruisers or social drinkers)
• Skip the Package If You:
  • Only drink beer or soda
  • Prefer bottled water or coffee from your stateroom
  • Are a light drinker (1–2 drinks/day)

Pro Tip: Share the package with a friend. NCL allows two guests in the same stateroom to split a package, reducing the cost to $35/day per person—ideal for moderate drinkers.

How to Maximize Your Unlimited Open Bar Experience

Strategic Drinking: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

To truly maximize the package, adopt a “strategic” approach:

• Order Higher-Value Drinks: A $15 cocktail gives you more value than a $7 beer. Opt for premium mixers (e.g., craft sodas) or complex cocktails (e.g., Old Fashioned).
• Time Your Orders: Many bars offer “happy hour” discounts (e.g., 2-for-1 cocktails). Use these to sample premium drinks at no extra cost.
• Explore the Menu: Ask bartenders for recommendations. They often have off-menu specials that are package-friendly.
• Wine Pairing at Dinner: Restaurants like Le Bistro offer wine pairings where each glass is covered if under $15. A $14 glass of Chardonnay with your lobster bisque? Yes, please.

Example: A group of friends on a 5-day cruise orders 2 $15 margaritas/day at the pool bar (total $150). Without the package, this would cost $300—a 50% savings.

Navigating Exclusions and Upcharges

Even with the package, you’ll encounter upcharges. Here’s how to handle them:

• Premium Spirits: A $18 glass of Macallan scotch costs $3 extra. Ask for a smaller pour (e.g., 1.5 oz instead of 2 oz) to stay under the $15 limit.
• Bottled Wine: A $60 bottle costs $48 with the 20% discount. Split the cost with another couple for even more savings.
• Room Service: Order a $10 cocktail via room service (covered), but skip the $4 bottled water (not covered). Bring your own reusable bottle instead.

Insider Tip: Bartenders appreciate guests who tip well. A $1–$2 tip per drink can lead to free upgrades (e.g., a better whiskey or larger pour).

Leveraging NCL’s Bar Scene

NCL ships feature diverse bars, each with unique offerings:

• The District Lounge (Breakaway/Encore class): Craft cocktails and live music—perfect for evening drinks.
• Sugar Beach (Escape class): Swim-up bar with tropical drinks (e.g., piña coladas).
• Pub (All ships): British-style pub with imported beers and pub grub.
• Atrium Bars: Central locations for quick drinks between activities.

Pro Tip: Visit bars during “off-peak” hours (e.g., 3–5 PM) for shorter lines and personalized service.

Special Considerations: Families, Solo Travelers, and Groups

Families with Teens and Kids

The package isn’t just for adults. Teens (13–17) can enjoy non-alcoholic options like:

• Mocktails (e.g., “Virgin Mojito” or “Sunshine Spritzer”)
• Specialty coffees (e.g., caramel lattes)
• Bottled juices and sodas

Tip: Kids under 12 get the package at half price, making it a budget-friendly way to keep the whole family hydrated and happy.

Solo Travelers

Solo cruisers often worry about “wasting” the package if they’re not social drinkers. However:

• The package covers all drinks—even if you only want one beer/day.
• It’s a great way to meet people at bars (e.g., striking up a conversation while waiting for a cocktail).
• Non-alcoholic perks (e.g., coffee, water) still add value.

Example: A solo traveler on a 7-day cruise uses the package for 2 beers/day ($140 value) and 3 specialty coffees/day ($147 value). Total value: $287—close to the $490 package cost (with early booking discount).

Group Travel

For groups, the package simplifies budgeting:

• No need to split checks or track who drank what.
• Encourages bonding over shared drinks (e.g., a round of shots at the end of the cruise).
• Groups can pool their “discounts” on premium bottles.

Pro Tip: Book the package together during a group sale (e.g., NCL’s “Friends & Family” promotion) for additional savings.

Alternatives and Add-Ons: Beyond the Unlimited Open Bar

Other Beverage Packages

NCL offers alternatives for different needs:

• Premium Plus: $10–$15 more/day. Covers drinks up to $25, including premium spirits and bottled wine under $50.
• Non-Alcoholic Package: $30–$40/day. Covers soft drinks, coffee, and bottled water.
• Specialty Dining + Drink Combo: Some restaurants (e.g., Ocean Blue) include a complimentary drink with dinner.

Tip: If you’re a wine lover, the Premium Plus package may save money on bottles. For non-drinkers, the non-alcoholic package is a better fit.

Add-Ons to Enhance Your Experience

• Wine Tastings: $25–$50/person. Sample premium wines with a sommelier (package discounts apply).
• Mixology Classes: $30/person. Learn to make cocktails (ingredients covered by the package).
• Loyalty Perks: Latitudes members get free package upgrades (e.g., Unlimited Open Bar to Premium Plus).

Example: A couple adds a $50 wine tasting (with 20% discount = $40) and a $30 mixology class. The package covers the ingredients, making these experiences more affordable.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise

The Unlimited Open Bar package on Norwegian Cruise Line is more than just a drink plan—it’s a tool to enhance your vacation experience. Whether you’re a social butterfly who loves trying new cocktails, a wine enthusiast pairing vintages with gourmet meals, or a family looking to simplify your budget, the package offers flexibility and value. By understanding what’s included, calculating your break-even point, and strategizing your drink choices, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vacation style.

Remember, the key to maximizing the package lies in how you use it. Seek out happy hours, explore diverse bars, and don’t hesitate to ask bartenders for recommendations. For some travelers, the convenience and predictability of the package are worth every penny, even if the math doesn’t break even. For others, skipping it and paying per drink might make more sense. Ultimately, the “right” choice depends on your habits, budget, and priorities. One thing is certain: on an NCL cruise, the freedom to relax with a drink in hand—without worrying about the bill—is a luxury worth considering. So raise a glass (covered by your package, of course) to a vacation where the only limit is your imagination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the unlimited open bar on Norwegian Cruise Line include?

The unlimited open bar on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) covers a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, soda, and bottled water. Premium brands and specialty drinks may incur an additional charge.

Is the unlimited open bar worth it on a Norwegian cruise?

For frequent drinkers, the unlimited open bar package can save money compared to paying à la carte prices, especially on longer cruises. Consider your consumption habits and the package’s daily rate to determine if it’s a good fit.

Can I share my unlimited open bar package with others?

No, the unlimited open bar is non-transferable and only valid for the named guest who purchased it. Norwegian Cruise Line enforces strict usage policies to prevent sharing or misuse.

Are there any restrictions with the unlimited open bar on NCL?

Yes, the package excludes premium bottles, room service, mini-bar items, and specialty coffee drinks. It also doesn’t apply to gratuities, which are automatically added to your account.

Do I have to buy the unlimited open bar for my entire cruise?

The package must be purchased for the full duration of the cruise and is activated on the first day. You cannot buy it for select days or add it mid-cruise.

Does the unlimited open bar include gratuities on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Gratuities (service charges) are automatically added to your bill when you purchase the unlimited open bar package. These fees are separate from the package price and cover crew compensation.