Which Cruise Line Has Best Drink Package Revealed

Carnival Cruise Line takes the crown for the best drink package with its affordable, inclusive “Cheers!” program, offering unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, and soda for a flat daily rate. With the broadest selection and fewest restrictions, it outperforms competitors like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, making it the top choice for value and variety.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean wins: Most flexible premium drink package with wide alcohol coverage.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Best for unlimited cocktails, beers, and wines under one flat rate.
• Celebrity Cruises excels: Premium spirits and craft cocktails included at no extra cost.
• Disney Cruise Line: Best for families with kid-friendly drinks bundled in value.
• Costco perks: Book select sailings for exclusive drink package discounts and extras.

Introduction: The Quest for the Best Cruise Drink Package

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most exciting—and often confusing—decisions travelers face is whether to purchase a drink package. For many cruisers, the allure of sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, or indulging in premium spirits without worrying about the tab is irresistible. But with so many cruise lines offering a variety of beverage packages, each with its own pricing, inclusions, exclusions, and fine print, how do you determine which cruise line has the best drink package for your needs?

The answer isn’t as simple as comparing prices. The best cruise drink package depends on your drinking habits, the type of cruise you’re taking, your budget, and even the destinations you’ll be visiting. Some packages offer unlimited premium cocktails, while others cap your daily allowance or exclude top-shelf brands. Others may include non-alcoholic beverages, coffee, or bottled water, adding significant value for families or non-drinkers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the top cruise lines, compare their drink packages side by side, and reveal which ones truly deliver the best value, flexibility, and overall experience. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a wine lover, or someone who just wants to enjoy a cold beer without sticker shock, we’ve got you covered.

What to Look for in a Cruise Drink Package

Understanding the Key Features

Before comparing individual cruise lines, it’s essential to understand what makes a drink package truly valuable. Not all packages are created equal, and the best cruise drink package isn’t always the most expensive. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Price and Daily Rate: Most packages are priced per person, per day. Look for deals that offer discounts when booked in advance or bundled with other amenities.
• Alcohol Inclusions: Check which types of alcohol are covered—beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, and whether premium brands are included.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Many packages include bottled water, soda, specialty coffee, and even fresh juices. This is especially important for families or non-drinkers.
• Daily Spending Limit: Some packages cap the value of drinks you can consume per day (e.g., $75 worth of drinks). If you’re a heavy drinker, this could be a dealbreaker.
• Exclusions and Fine Print: Watch out for blackout periods, port-day restrictions, or mandatory gratuities (often 15–18% added to the package price).
• Flexibility and Transferability: Can you share the package with a partner? Can you use it on private islands or specialty restaurants?

Matching Your Drinking Habits to the Right Package

Not every cruiser wants to drink the same way. A couple on a romantic getaway might prioritize premium wine and cocktails, while a family with kids might value unlimited soda, juice, and bottled water. Here’s how to match your habits:

• Light Drinkers: If you enjoy 1–2 drinks per day, a basic package or à la carte purchases may be more cost-effective.
• Moderate Drinkers: Those consuming 3–5 drinks daily will likely break even or save with a mid-tier package.
• Heavy Drinkers: If you plan to enjoy cocktails, wine, and spirits throughout the day, a premium or unlimited package is usually worth it.
• Non-Drinkers: Some lines offer non-alcoholic packages (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Refreshment Package), which include specialty coffee, smoothies, and mocktails.

Pro Tip: Calculate your potential daily drink cost by averaging your usual consumption. For example, if you typically spend $40 per day on drinks, a $55/day package could save you money—especially if it includes premium brands and no daily cap.

Top 6 Cruise Lines Compared: Drink Package Breakdown

1. Royal Caribbean International – The Ultimate Beverage Package

Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP) is often hailed as one of the most comprehensive in the industry. Priced at around $89–$99 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity), it includes:

• Unlimited premium cocktails, spirits, beer, and wine (up to $13 per drink)
• All bottled water, soda, fresh juice, and specialty coffee
• No daily spending limit—drink as much as you want
• Available on all ships, including private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay

One standout feature is that UBP includes drinks at specialty restaurants and bars, such as the Schooner Bar and Izumi Hibachi. The package also covers non-alcoholic options, making it ideal for couples where one person drinks and the other doesn’t.

Best For: Heavy drinkers, couples, and families seeking maximum flexibility.

Tip: Royal Caribbean frequently offers “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deals on UBP, especially for early bookings. Always check promotions before purchasing.

2. Celebrity Cruises – Classic and Premium Beverage Packages

Celebrity offers two main options: Classic Beverage Package ($65–$75/day) and Premium Beverage Package ($85–$95/day), both with 18% gratuity.

• Classic: Covers beer, wine by the glass (up to $10), cocktails (up to $13), soda, juice, and bottled water.
• Premium: Adds top-shelf spirits, premium wines (up to $15), and premium cocktails (up to $15).

The Premium Package is a favorite among wine lovers, as it includes access to Celebrity’s Cellar Masters program, where you can taste and purchase fine wines. Unlike Royal Caribbean, Celebrity’s packages have a daily spending cap (typically $75–$100), which could limit heavy drinkers.

Best For: Wine enthusiasts, moderate drinkers, and those who appreciate curated beverage experiences.

Pro Tip: Celebrity’s packages include gratuities in the advertised price on some sailings—check the fine print to avoid double-charging.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP)

NCL’s Ultimate Beverage Package ($99–$109/day + 18% gratuity) is one of the most generous in terms of drink value. It includes:

• Unlimited beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails (up to $15 per drink)
• All soda, bottled water, fresh juice, and specialty coffee
• No daily spending limit
• Available on all ships, including Great Stirrup Cay (private island)

One major advantage: NCL’s UBP covers drinks at all onboard venues, including specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro. The package also includes premium brands like Grey Goose, Patrón, and Johnny Walker Black Label.

Best For: Cocktail lovers, large groups, and cruisers who want top-shelf access without limits.

Tip: NCL often includes the UBP for free on select sailings (e.g., “Free at Sea” promotions). Always compare the value of these offers against à la carte pricing.

4. Carnival Cruise Line – Cheers! Beverage Program

Carnival’s Cheers! Beverage Program ($59.95–$64.95/day + 15% gratuity) is one of the most affordable options, but with some limitations:

• Covers beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, soda, juice, and bottled water (up to $15 per drink)
• Daily spending cap of $75 per person
• Excludes top-shelf brands like Dom Pérignon and Johnnie Walker Blue
• Available on all ships and private destinations (Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays)

The Cheers! package is ideal for budget-conscious cruisers who still want to enjoy drinks without constant worry about the bill. The $75 daily cap means you could theoretically consume up to $75 worth of drinks per day—but if you exceed it, you’ll pay out of pocket.

Best For: Budget travelers, families, and cruisers who want predictability.

Pro Tip: Carnival’s package includes gratuities in the advertised price on some sailings. Always confirm this to avoid confusion.

5. Princess Cruises – Premier Beverage Package

Princess Cruises’ Premier Beverage Package ($84.99/day + 18% gratuity) offers excellent value for wine and cocktail lovers:

• Unlimited beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits (up to $12 per drink)
• All soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, and fresh juice
• Daily spending cap of $75 per person
• Includes access to the Wine & Spirits Tasting events

One unique feature: Princess’s package includes a “Drink of the Day” promotion, where you can try a new cocktail at a discounted rate. The package also covers drinks at specialty dining venues, including Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria.

Best For: Wine lovers, cruisers who enjoy curated experiences, and those who appreciate mid-tier pricing with solid inclusions.

Tip: Princess often bundles the Premier Package with other amenities (e.g., Wi-Fi, gratuities) in “MedallionClass” promotions.

6. MSC Cruises – Easy and Easy Plus Packages

MSC offers two main options: Easy ($39–$49/day) and Easy Plus ($59–$69/day), both with 15% gratuity.

• Easy: Covers beer, wine by the glass, cocktails (up to $8), soda, juice, and bottled water.
• Easy Plus: Adds premium spirits, cocktails (up to $12), and premium wines (up to $12).

MSC’s packages are among the most affordable, but the lower price comes with tighter drink value limits. The Easy Plus package is a good middle ground for moderate drinkers who want premium options without breaking the bank.

Best For: First-time cruisers, budget travelers, and those who prefer lighter drinking.

Pro Tip: MSC frequently offers “Buy One, Get One Free” deals on drink packages, especially for balcony and suite guests.

Hidden Costs and Fine Print: What Cruise Lines Don’t Tell You

Gratuities and Service Charges

One of the most overlooked aspects of cruise drink packages is the mandatory gratuity, typically 15–18% added to the package price. For example, a $99/day package with 18% gratuity actually costs $116.82 per day. This can add hundreds of dollars to your total bill over a 7-day cruise.

Tip: Always calculate the total cost (package + gratuity) when comparing options. Some lines, like Carnival and MSC, include gratuities in the advertised price on select sailings.

Daily Spending Caps

Many packages have a daily spending limit (e.g., $75 per day). If you consume more than this amount, you’ll pay out of pocket for additional drinks. For heavy drinkers, this can make the package less valuable.

• No Cap: Royal Caribbean UBP, NCL UBP
• Cap: Carnival Cheers! ($75), Princess Premier ($75), Celebrity ($75–$100)

Pro Tip: If you plan to drink more than $75 worth of beverages per day, opt for a package with no cap or consider à la carte purchases.

Port-Day Restrictions

Some packages are only valid while the ship is at sea. For example, Carnival’s Cheers! package doesn’t cover drinks on private islands unless you’re on the ship. Others, like Royal Caribbean and NCL, include private destinations.

Tip: Check whether your package covers drinks during port days, especially if you’re visiting private islands or spending long days ashore.

Specialty Restaurant and Bar Exclusions

While most packages cover drinks at main dining rooms and casual bars, some exclude specialty restaurants (e.g., steakhouses, sushi bars) or premium lounges. Always confirm which venues are included.

Pro Tip: If you plan to dine at specialty restaurants, choose a package that covers drinks there (e.g., Royal Caribbean, NCL).

Value Comparison: Data Table of Top Cruise Drink Packages

Cruise Line	Package Name	Price (Per Day)	Gratuity	Daily Cap	Premium Brands Included?	Non-Alcoholic Included?	Specialty Restaurants?
Royal Caribbean	Ultimate Beverage	$89–$99	18%	None	Yes	Yes	Yes
Celebrity	Premium Beverage	$85–$95	18%	$100	Yes	Yes	Yes
NCL	Ultimate Beverage	$99–$109	18%	None	Yes	Yes	Yes
Carnival	Cheers!	$59.95–$64.95	15%	$75	No (top-shelf excluded)	Yes	Yes
Princess	Premier Beverage	$84.99	18%	$75	Yes (up to $12)	Yes	Yes
MSC	Easy Plus	$59–$69	15%	None	Yes (up to $12)	Yes	Yes

Final Verdict: Which Cruise Line Has the Best Drink Package?

After analyzing pricing, inclusions, exclusions, and real-world value, the answer to “which cruise line has the best drink package” depends on your priorities. Here’s our breakdown:

• Best Overall Value & Flexibility: Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Beverage Package wins for its no-daily-cap policy, inclusion of premium brands, and coverage at all onboard venues. It’s ideal for heavy drinkers and couples.
• Best for Wine & Culinary Experiences: Celebrity’s Premium Beverage Package stands out for its curated wine selections and access to specialty dining. Perfect for wine lovers.
• Best for Cocktail Enthusiasts: NCL’s Ultimate Beverage Package offers the highest drink value ($15 per drink) and no cap, making it a top choice for those who love premium cocktails.
• Best Budget-Friendly Option: Carnival’s Cheers! Program delivers solid value at a lower price, though the $75 daily cap limits heavy drinkers.
• Best for First-Time Cruisers: MSC’s Easy Plus Package is affordable and includes premium options, with frequent BOGO deals.
• Best for Families & Non-Drinkers: Royal Caribbean’s Refreshment Package (non-alcoholic) includes specialty coffee, smoothies, and bottled water—perfect for kids and designated drivers.

Ultimately, the best cruise drink package is the one that aligns with your drinking habits, budget, and cruise style. Don’t just go for the cheapest or most expensive option—do the math, read the fine print, and take advantage of early-bird promotions. Whether you’re sipping a mojito on a Caribbean beach or enjoying a glass of Champagne at sunset, the right drink package can elevate your cruise experience from great to unforgettable.

Final Tip: Always book your drink package early. Cruise lines frequently offer discounts for pre-purchase, and some promotions (like “Free at Sea” or BOGO) are only available before departure. Happy sailing—and cheers to finding the perfect pour!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line has the best drink package for 2024?

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises are top contenders for the best drink package in 2024, offering premium cocktails, wines, and spirits with daily limits. Both include non-alcoholic options and have transparent pricing, making them ideal for diverse drinkers.

Are cruise drink packages worth the cost?

Drink packages are worth it if you consume more than 4-5 drinks daily, as they offer unlimited or high-volume access at a fixed price. However, casual drinkers may save money by purchasing à la carte.

Which cruise line has the best drink package with the fewest restrictions?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) stands out for fewer restrictions, allowing purchases of premium wines and cocktails above the package’s price cap. Its “Premium Plus Beverage Package” covers most bars and lounges without blackout periods.

Do any cruise lines include free drink packages?

Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea offer complimentary unlimited drinks, including top-shelf liquors and champagne, as part of their all-inclusive fares. Mainstream lines rarely do but may include them in promotions.

Which cruise line has the best drink package for families?

Carnival Cruise Line’s “Cheers!” package is family-friendly, covering non-alcoholic drinks for kids at a discount. It also offers flexible sharing options between adults and teens.

Can I share my cruise drink package with others?

Most cruise lines prohibit sharing drink packages, requiring each adult to purchase their own. Exceptions include Carnival and Princess Cruises, which allow limited sharing within the same cabin under specific terms.