Which Cruise Line Has All Inclusive Alcohol You Need to Know

Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line lead the pack with truly all-inclusive alcohol packages, offering guests unlimited drinks—from cocktails to premium wines—for a flat daily rate. These cruise lines eliminate the guesswork and extra costs, making them top choices for travelers seeking a hassle-free, booze-inclusive vacation.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean offers all-inclusive alcohol via its Deluxe Beverage Package.
• Celebrity Cruises includes premium drinks in its “Always Included” pricing.
• Norwegian Cruise Line provides free alcohol with its Free at Sea perks.
• Carnival Cruise Line has affordable drink packages, not fully all-inclusive.
• Virgin Voyages includes basic drinks; premium alcohol costs extra.
• MSC Cruises offers all-inclusive packages but varies by sailing region.

Which Cruise Line Has All Inclusive Alcohol You Need to Know

Imagine stepping onto a sun-kissed deck, the ocean breeze in your hair, and a perfectly chilled cocktail in hand—without worrying about the bill at the end of your trip. For many travelers, the idea of an all-inclusive cruise with unlimited alcohol is the ultimate vacation fantasy. But here’s the catch: not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to boozy perks. While some offer open bars and premium drink packages as standard, others keep the corks tightly sealed until you pay extra. So, which cruise line has all-inclusive alcohol? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think, but the good news is that several top-tier lines have stepped up their game to offer truly inclusive experiences.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of all-inclusive cruise alcohol offerings. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a wine enthusiast, or someone who just wants to enjoy a cold beer by the pool without reaching for your wallet, we’ve got you covered. We’ll break down the major cruise lines that include alcohol in their base fare, explore the nuances of their policies, and provide practical tips to help you choose the best option for your next vacation. From luxury lines with premium spirits to affordable packages that stretch your dollar, this guide will help you navigate the high seas of inclusive drinking—responsibly, of course.

1. Luxury Cruise Lines with Truly All-Inclusive Alcohol

When it comes to all-inclusive alcohol, luxury cruise lines lead the pack. These high-end operators understand that their clientele expects premium experiences without hidden costs, and alcohol is a major part of that equation. The following lines don’t just offer “drink packages”—they include everything from top-shelf liquor to rare vintages in their base fare.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: The Gold Standard

Regent Seven Seas is often touted as the gold standard for all-inclusive cruising, and for good reason. Their “All-Inclusive” promise covers not just alcohol, but also gratuities, excursions, and even airfare on select sailings. The beverage program is extensive:

• Unlimited premium cocktails, wines, and spirits (including brands like Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Blue, and Dom Pérignon)

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• Open bar in all lounges, bars, and restaurants
• Complimentary minibar in every suite, restocked daily
• No limits on consumption—no need to track drink numbers

Example: On a 10-night Alaska cruise, you could enjoy a glass of 2018 Opus One at dinner, a mojito at the pool bar, and a nightcap of Macallan 18 in your suite—all without a single charge.

Silversea: Boutique Luxury with No Bar Tab

Silversea Cruises offers a similarly lavish experience. Their “All-Inclusive” model includes:

• Premium beverages from a curated list (think Hennessy XO, Beluga vodka, and Château Margaux)
• Complimentary room service with alcohol options
• No restrictions on bar access or drink quantity

One standout feature is their “Connoisseur’s List” of ultra-premium wines, which can be ordered at dinner for a small corkage fee—still a bargain compared to land-based restaurants. Silversea’s smaller ships (averaging 500 guests) also mean more personalized service, so your favorite cocktail is likely to be remembered and waiting for you at the same spot each day.

Seabourn: Where Every Drink Feels Personal

Seabourn’s all-inclusive alcohol program is designed to make guests feel like VIPs. Highlights include:

• Open bar with premium brands (e.g., Ketel One, Patrón, and Veuve Clicquot)
• Complimentary wine pairings at dinner
• Specialty drinks at the Seabourn Square café (e.g., espresso martinis)

Pro tip: Ask the bar staff to create a custom cocktail—they’re trained mixologists and love to experiment. Many guests leave with a personalized recipe card as a keepsake.

2. Premium Cruise Lines with Inclusive Alcohol (But Watch the Fine Print)

While luxury lines offer the most comprehensive alcohol inclusions, several premium cruise lines provide excellent value with their all-inclusive packages. However, the devil is in the details—some have limits or require add-ons.

Celebrity Cruises: “Always Included” with a Twist

Celebrity Cruises launched their “Always Included” pricing model in 2021, which bundles:

• Basic gratuities
• Unlimited drinks from the “Classic” menu (beers, house wines, select cocktails)
• Wi-Fi

But here’s the catch: the Classic menu excludes premium spirits, champagne, and specialty cocktails. For full access, you’ll need the “Premium Beverage Package” ($69–$89/day), which adds:

• Premium cocktails (e.g., Grey Goose, Don Julio)
• Sparkling wines and champagnes (up to $15 per glass)
• Specialty drinks at the Martini Bar

Example: On a 7-night Caribbean sailing, the Premium Package could save you 30–40% compared to paying à la carte. Use Celebrity’s “Drink Calculator” online to estimate your savings.

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

NCL’s “Free at Sea” program lets you choose one (or more) perks when you book, including:

• Unlimited Open Bar (Premium Plus Beverage Package)
• Specialty dining credits
• Shore excursion credits

The Premium Plus Package ($99/day) covers:

• Premium cocktails, wines, and spirits
• Beer, soda, and juice
• No daily limit (though staff may cut off visibly intoxicated guests)

Key tip: Book early—the Unlimited Open Bar perk often sells out on popular sailings. Also, note that the package excludes mini-bars and room service alcohol.

Oceania Cruises: Mid-Range Luxury with a Focus on Wine

Oceania’s “All-Inclusive” fare includes:

• Unlimited beer and house wine by the glass
• Premium wines and spirits (up to $15 per drink)
• Complimentary wine tastings

For a flat fee ($49/day), you can upgrade to the “Prestige Beverage Package”, which removes the $15 cap and adds champagne. Oceania’s strength? Their wine program—over 200 labels curated by a Master Sommelier.

3. Budget-Friendly Lines with All-Inclusive Alcohol (Yes, They Exist!)

Think you need deep pockets for inclusive alcohol? Think again. A few budget-friendly lines offer surprisingly generous programs.

MSC Cruises: “Easy Drinks” for the Thrifty

MSC’s “Easy Drinks Package” ($29–$39/day) is a standout for value. It includes:

• Unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails (from a set menu)
• Non-alcoholic drinks
• Discounts on premium bottles (e.g., 20% off champagne)

While the menu isn’t as extensive as luxury lines, it covers staples like Aperol spritzes, margaritas, and local craft beers. Pro tip: Book during MSC’s “Kids Sail Free” promotions—your savings can offset the package cost.

Virgin Voyages: “Sneaky Inclusive” for Millennials

Virgin Voyages (adults-only) includes:

• All drinks except premium bottles (e.g., Dom Pérignon)
• No drink packages needed—everything is à la carte but included
• Creative cocktails at themed bars (e.g., the “Pink Agave” tequila bar)

The catch? No free minibar or room service alcohol. But with 20+ bars and lounges, you’ll rarely be far from a free drink. Virgin’s “Sailor Loot” system (pre-loaded credit) also lets you pay for extras without a physical card.

Costa Cruises: European Flair with Local Favorites

Costa’s “All-Inclusive Premium” package ($59/day) includes:

• Unlimited drinks (including Italian wines, Aperol, and local beers)
• Complimentary espresso and cappuccino
• Discounts on premium bottles

Ideal for travelers who want a taste of Europe’s café culture at sea. Costa also offers free wine with lunch and dinner on select itineraries.

4. Specialty Cruises: All-Inclusive Alcohol Beyond the Mainstream

For niche travelers, these lines offer unique all-inclusive alcohol experiences.

Windstar Cruises: Yacht-Like Intimacy with Premium Pours

Windstar’s small ships (max 342 guests) include:

• Unlimited premium drinks (e.g., Hendrick’s gin, Patron tequila)
• Complimentary wine with meals
• Free minibar with local specialties (e.g., Greek ouzo, Caribbean rum)

Their “Star Collector’s” program even lets you bring your own wine to dinner—no corkage fee.

Ponant: Luxury Expedition Cruises with French Flair

Ponant’s French-owned ships include:

• Unlimited premium drinks (Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy)
• Complimentary minibar
• Free wine pairings on expedition cruises

Perfect for travelers who want to explore remote destinations without sacrificing a good Bordeaux.

Paul Gauguin Cruises: South Pacific Paradise with Polynesian Punch

Exclusively sailing French Polynesia, Paul Gauguin includes:

• Unlimited premium drinks (local rum, French champagne)
• Complimentary minibar
• Free cocktails during the weekly “Polynesian Night”

Their open-bar policy extends to the private island, where you can sip a mai tai under the palm trees.

5. How to Choose the Right All-Inclusive Alcohol Cruise for You

With so many options, selecting the best cruise line for your drinking preferences can be overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow it down.

Step 1: Define Your Drinking Habits

• Cocktail lover? Prioritize lines with premium spirits (e.g., Regent, Silversea).
• Wine enthusiast? Look for curated cellars (Oceania, Seabourn).
• Beer drinker? Check for local/craft options (MSC, Costa).

Step 2: Calculate the Real Cost

Compare the total price of:

• Base fare + mandatory gratuities
• Drink package cost (if not included)
• Potential à la carte charges (e.g., minibar, room service)

Example: A 7-night NCL cruise with the Premium Plus Package ($99/day) costs $693 in drinks. If you’d spend $100/day à la carte, the package saves $7.

Step 3: Consider the Experience

• Want luxury? Regent, Silversea, Seabourn.
• Need family-friendly? NCL, MSC (with kid-friendly drink options).
• Prefer adults-only? Virgin Voyages, Oceania.

Step 4: Read the Fine Print

Watch for:

• Daily limits (rare but possible)
• Exclusions (e.g., minibar, room service)
• Age requirements (e.g., 21+ on most lines)

6. Data Table: All-Inclusive Alcohol Comparison (2024)

Cruise Line	All-Inclusive Alcohol?	Premium Brands Included	Minibar/Room Service	Best For
Regent Seven Seas	Yes (full)	Dom Pérignon, Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Blue	Yes (complimentary)	Luxury travelers, couples
Silversea	Yes (full)	Hennessy XO, Beluga, Château Margaux	Yes (complimentary)	Small-ship enthusiasts, wine lovers
Seabourn	Yes (full)	Veuve Clicquot, Ketel One, Patrón	Yes (complimentary)	VIPs, cocktail connoisseurs
Celebrity	Yes (Classic menu only)	Premium brands via add-on ($69–$89/day)	No (à la carte)	Value seekers, families
NCL	Yes (via “Free at Sea” add-on)	Premium brands via Premium Plus ($99/day)	No (à la carte)	First-time cruisers, groups
MSC	Yes (via “Easy Drinks” package)	Set menu (no premium brands)	No (à la carte)	Budget travelers, families
Virgin Voyages	Yes (except premium bottles)	Local craft beers, specialty cocktails	No (à la carte)	Millennials, adults-only

Choosing the right cruise line for all-inclusive alcohol isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about the entire experience. Luxury lines like Regent and Silversea offer unmatched indulgence, while budget-friendly options like MSC and Virgin Voyages prove you don’t need to break the bank for a carefree boozy vacation. The key is to align the line’s offerings with your personal preferences, whether that’s sipping Dom Pérignon in a suite or enjoying a local craft beer at a poolside bar.

Remember, all-inclusive alcohol can significantly enhance your cruise experience, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Consider the ship’s amenities, itinerary, and service quality to ensure your vacation is truly unforgettable. With the insights from this guide, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision—so raise a glass (or two) to your next high-seas adventure! Just don’t forget to drink responsibly and savor every moment—after all, the ocean isn’t going anywhere, but your vacation time is precious. Cheers to smooth sailing and even smoother drinks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line has all inclusive alcohol in their base fare?

Celebrity Cruises and Virgin Voyages include alcohol in their base fares, offering a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. Both brands aim to provide a seamless, worry-free experience with no surprise drink bills.

Are there any luxury cruise lines with all inclusive alcohol?

Yes, luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises offer all-inclusive alcohol packages, including premium spirits, champagne, and wine. These brands emphasize high-end service and unlimited drinks as part of their all-inclusive pricing model.

Do mainstream cruise lines offer all inclusive alcohol packages?

While most mainstream lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean) don’t include alcohol in base fares, they offer affordable all-inclusive drink packages. These can be added pre-cruise or onboard for unlimited access to beer, wine, and cocktails.

Which budget-friendly cruise lines have all inclusive alcohol?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and MSC Cruises occasionally include all-inclusive alcohol promotions for select sailings. MSC’s “Easy Plus” and NCL’s “Free at Sea” packages often bundle drinks, making them great value for budget-conscious travelers.

Can I bring my own alcohol on a cruise with all inclusive drinks?

Most all-inclusive cruise lines prohibit bringing your own alcohol, but policies vary. For example, Virgin Voyages bans outside alcohol, while Celebrity allows one bottle of wine per guest—check your line’s rules before packing.

Which cruise line has the best all inclusive alcohol selection?

Celebrity Cruises stands out for its curated wine lists, craft cocktails, and premium brands included in base fares. Regent Seven Seas and Silversea also excel with top-shelf options and sommelier-paired dining experiences.