Featured image for which cruise line includes drink package
Image source: highseascruising.com
Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises lead the pack in 2024 by including complimentary drink packages on select sailings. These top picks stand out for offering all-inclusive perks like premium cocktails, wine, and beer at no extra cost, giving travelers unmatched value and convenience. If a hassle-free, drink-inclusive vacation is your goal, these cruise lines deliver without hidden fees.
Key Takeaways
- Celebrity Cruises includes premium drink packages on all 2024 sailings.
- Royal Caribbean offers free drink packages with select suite bookings.
- Norwegian Cruise Line bundles unlimited open bar in their Free at Sea promo.
- MSC Cruises provides drink packages only on European itineraries.
- Carnival Cruise Line requires separate purchase but offers flexible options.
- Book early to secure drink package deals before promotions expire.
- Compare inclusions—some packages exclude premium wines and top-shelf liquors.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Drink Packages Matter on Your Cruise Vacation
- Top Cruise Lines That Include Drink Packages in 2024
- All-Inclusive Luxury Lines: Drink Packages Built Into the Fare
- Value-Oriented Options: Budget-Friendly Drink Inclusions
- How to Choose the Right Drink Package for Your Cruise
- Data Table: 2024 Cruise Line Drink Package Comparison
- Final Thoughts: Which Cruise Line Includes Drink Package in 2024?
Why Drink Packages Matter on Your Cruise Vacation
When planning a dream cruise vacation, travelers often focus on destinations, itineraries, and onboard entertainment. However, one crucial detail can make or break your budget—drink packages. For many cruisers, especially those who enjoy a cocktail by the pool, a glass of wine at dinner, or a specialty coffee in the morning, the cost of drinks can quickly add up. In 2024, the cruise industry has evolved to meet this demand, with several major cruise lines now offering inclusive or highly competitive drink packages. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a cocktail lover, or a non-alcoholic beverage connoisseur, knowing which cruise line includes drink package options can save you hundreds of dollars and elevate your overall experience.
The concept of a “drink package” isn’t new, but its integration into cruise pricing models has changed dramatically in recent years. What was once an expensive add-on is now a standard inclusion on select sailings or a competitively priced option across many fleets. The key is understanding which cruise line includes drink package in their base fare, which offers it as a free perk with certain bookings, and which provides the best value for your drinking preferences. From all-inclusive luxury lines to family-friendly mainstream brands, the 2024 landscape is more diverse than ever. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the top cruise lines with drink packages, compare their offerings, highlight hidden benefits, and help you decide which one aligns best with your vacation style and budget.
Top Cruise Lines That Include Drink Packages in 2024
1. Celebrity Cruises: The “Classic Beverage Package” – Included with Select Fares
Celebrity Cruises has redefined value in 2024 by offering the Classic Beverage Package as a complimentary perk with many of its sailings, especially when booking through promotions or loyalty programs. This package includes unlimited beer, wine by the glass (up to $15), spirits, cocktails, sodas, bottled water, and premium coffees. It’s automatically applied when you book a “Cruise with More” fare, which also includes gratuities, Wi-Fi, and a $200 onboard credit per stateroom.
Visual guide about which cruise line includes drink package
Image source: cruisewithgambee.com
- What’s Included: All non-alcoholic drinks, beer, wine (up to $15), spirits, cocktails (up to $15), bottled water, and specialty coffee.
- Best For: Couples, luxury cruisers, and those who enjoy mid-tier cocktails and wines.
- Tip: If your preferred drink exceeds $15, you’ll pay the difference, but the package still covers the base price.
For example, a 7-night Caribbean cruise on Celebrity Reflection priced at $1,899 per person (Cruise with More fare) includes the beverage package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities—making it one of the most value-packed deals in the industry. The package is transferable between adults in the same stateroom, so both travelers can enjoy unlimited drinks without extra charges.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Free at Sea – Drink Package as a Perk
NCL’s Free at Sea promotion is a game-changer. When you book a qualifying cruise, you can choose one (or more) of five free perks, including the Unlimited Open Bar Beverage Package. This package covers all drinks up to $15 per serving, including cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, soda, and bottled water. It’s one of the most generous inclusions among mainstream cruise lines.
- What’s Included: All drinks up to $15, including premium cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and martinis.
- Best For: Families, groups, and budget-conscious travelers who want flexibility.
- Tip: The package is only free if you select it as your Free at Sea perk. Otherwise, it costs around $99–$119 per person, per day.
A 10-night Mediterranean cruise on Norwegian Escape priced at $1,499 per person with Free at Sea can include the open bar, Wi-Fi, shore excursion credit, and more. For a family of four, this could save over $1,200 in drink costs alone. The package is also valid at specialty restaurants and bars, making it ideal for foodies who want to pair wine with gourmet meals.
3. Princess Cruises: Princess Plus & Premier Packages – Drink Inclusion with Add-Ons
Princess Cruises doesn’t include a drink package in its base fare, but its Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages make drinks affordable and convenient. The Princess Plus package ($50 per person, per day) includes the Premier Beverage Package, which covers all drinks up to $15, gratuities, and Wi-Fi. The Princess Premier ($70 per person, per day) adds unlimited premium drinks (up to $20), specialty dining credits, and more.
- What’s Included (Princess Plus): Beer, wine (up to $15), spirits, cocktails (up to $15), soda, bottled water, and specialty coffee.
- What’s Included (Princess Premier): Everything in Plus, plus drinks up to $20, including top-shelf liquors and premium wines.
- Best For: Travelers who want a mid-tier luxury experience with flexible pricing.
For instance, a 14-night Alaska cruise on Royal Princess priced at $2,199 per person can be upgraded to Princess Premier for just $70 per day. Over two weeks, this adds $980 to the fare but saves over $1,500 in drink and dining costs. The package is especially valuable on longer cruises where daily drink consumption is high.
All-Inclusive Luxury Lines: Drink Packages Built Into the Fare
4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Truly All-Inclusive Experience
Regent Seven Seas Cruises takes “all-inclusive” to the next level. Unlike mainstream lines, every fare includes unlimited premium drinks—no packages, no limits, no extra charges. Whether you’re sipping a Dom Pérignon at dinner, enjoying a craft cocktail at the pool bar, or ordering a rare scotch in the lounge, it’s all covered.
- What’s Included: All premium wines, spirits, cocktails, beers, sodas, bottled water, specialty coffee, and even minibar items.
- Best For: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and those seeking a hassle-free experience.
- Tip: The minibar is restocked daily with premium spirits, mixers, and snacks—no need to carry a wallet.
<
Consider a 12-night Mediterranean cruise on Seven Seas Explorer priced at $12,999 per person. This includes all drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and airfare. The value is unmatched: a single bottle of Dom Pérignon can cost $250+, and over 12 days, you could easily consume $2,000+ in drinks alone. For luxury seekers, Regent delivers exceptional ROI.
5. Silversea Cruises: All-Inclusive with a Personal Touch
Silversea Cruises offers a similarly all-inclusive model. Every fare includes unlimited premium beverages, including champagne, fine wines, and top-shelf spirits. The experience is personalized—your butler knows your favorite drink, and the bar staff remembers your preferences.
- What’s Included: All drinks, including vintage champagnes, premium wines, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
- Best For: Discerning travelers, small-ship enthusiasts, and those who value personalized service.
- Tip: The “Suites with Service” program includes a dedicated butler who can arrange private wine tastings or cocktail parties.
On a 10-night South America cruise on Silver Spirit priced at $11,499 per person, you’ll enjoy unlimited drinks, gourmet dining, and shore excursions. The onboard wine cellar features over 300 labels, and sommeliers are available to guide pairings. For wine lovers, this is a dream come true.
Value-Oriented Options: Budget-Friendly Drink Inclusions
6. Virgin Voyages: “Sailor Loot” – Drink Credits and Inclusions
Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s adults-only cruise line, takes a unique approach. Instead of traditional drink packages, they offer free premium coffee, tea, juice, and water at all bars. For alcoholic drinks, they use a “Sailor Loot” system: a $300 onboard credit per person (included in base fare) that can be used for cocktails, wine, and beer.
- What’s Included: Unlimited non-alcoholic premium drinks (espresso, cold brew, fresh juices), $300 Sailor Loot per person.
- Best For: Millennials, solo travelers, and those who don’t drink heavily but want premium non-alcoholic options.
- Tip: Use Sailor Loot for specialty cocktails ($12–$18) or save it for wine pairings at specialty restaurants.
<
A 5-night Caribbean cruise on Scarlet Lady priced at $1,299 per person includes $300 Sailor Loot and free premium non-alcoholic drinks. If you spend $60 per day on drinks, you’re covered for the entire cruise. The line also offers “Bottomless Brunch” with free mimosas and Bloody Marys—perfect for brunch lovers.
7. Carnival Cruise Line: Cheers! Package – Affordable and Flexible
Carnival doesn’t include a drink package in base fare, but its Cheers! Beverage Program is one of the most affordable options in the industry. For $59.95 per person, per day (plus 15% gratuity), you get unlimited drinks up to $20—including cocktails, wine, beer, soda, and bottled water.
- What’s Included: All drinks up to $20, including premium cocktails and wines.
- Best For: Budget travelers, families, and those who want a no-frills package.
- Tip: Pre-purchase the package before sailing for a 10% discount. The package is not valid at the casino or room service.
On a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise on Carnival Horizon priced at $999 per person, adding Cheers! for $420 (7 days) is a smart move if you plan to drink daily. Carnival also offers “Bottomless Bubbles” for kids ($8.50/day) with unlimited soda and juice.
How to Choose the Right Drink Package for Your Cruise
Assess Your Drinking Habits
Before booking, estimate your daily drink consumption. Do you enjoy 2–3 cocktails per day? Prefer wine with dinner? Or do you mostly drink water and coffee? Calculate your potential savings: if you spend $25/day on drinks, a $60/day package only makes sense if you consume more than 2–3 premium drinks daily.
- Light Drinkers: Look for lines with free non-alcoholic drinks (Virgin Voyages) or packages with lower limits (Princess Plus).
- Moderate Drinkers: NCL’s Free at Sea or Celebrity’s Cruise with More are ideal.
- Heavy Drinkers: All-inclusive luxury lines (Regent, Silversea) or Carnival’s Cheers! offer the best value.
Consider the Cruise Duration
Longer cruises (7+ nights) make drink packages more valuable. For example, a $100/day package on a 14-night cruise costs $1,400 but could save $2,000+ in drink costs. On shorter 3–5 night cruises, packages may not break even unless you’re a heavy drinker.
Check for Restrictions and Exclusions
Not all drinks are covered. Common exclusions include:
- Mini-bar items (except on Regent/Silversea)
- Room service drinks (varies by line)
- Bottled wines (only by-the-glass)
- Casino bars (on Carnival and NCL)
Pro Tip: Read the fine print. Some lines (like Princess) allow sharing between adults in the same room, while others require each guest to purchase a package.
Data Table: 2024 Cruise Line Drink Package Comparison
| Cruise Line | Package Name | Cost (Per Person/Day) | Drink Limit | Included in Base Fare? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Cruises | Classic Beverage Package | $0 (with “Cruise with More”) | Up to $15 | Yes (with promotion) | Luxury cruisers, couples |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Unlimited Open Bar | $0 (Free at Sea perk) | Up to $15 | Yes (with perk selection) | Families, budget travelers |
| Princess Cruises | Premier Beverage Package | $50 (Princess Plus) / $70 (Premier) | Up to $15 / $20 | No (add-on) | Mid-tier luxury seekers |
| Regent Seven Seas | All-Inclusive | $0 | Unlimited premium | Yes | Luxury travelers |
| Virgin Voyages | Sailor Loot + Non-Alc Drinks | $0 (non-alc), $300 credit (alcohol) | No limit (credit-based) | Yes | Millennials, non-heavy drinkers |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Cheers! Program | $59.95 + gratuity | Up to $20 | No | Budget travelers, families |
Final Thoughts: Which Cruise Line Includes Drink Package in 2024?
Choosing the right cruise line with a drink package in 2024 depends on your travel style, budget, and drinking preferences. For luxury and true all-inclusive value, Regent Seven Seas and Silversea are unmatched, offering unlimited premium drinks without extra charges. If you’re looking for a mainstream line with inclusive perks, Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line lead the pack with their “Cruise with More” and “Free at Sea” programs, respectively.
For budget-conscious travelers, Carnival’s Cheers! and Princess’s Princess Plus offer flexible, cost-effective options. And for those who prioritize non-alcoholic drinks and a modern vibe, Virgin Voyages’ Sailor Loot system is a refreshing alternative. The key is to do the math: calculate your expected drink consumption, compare package costs, and factor in cruise duration. Remember, a drink package isn’t just about saving money—it’s about enhancing your vacation experience with convenience, freedom, and peace of mind.
As the cruise industry continues to innovate in 2024, more lines are recognizing that inclusive drink packages are no longer a luxury—they’re an expectation. Whether you’re sipping a mojito in the Caribbean, a glass of champagne in the Mediterranean, or a craft cocktail in Alaska, knowing which cruise line includes drink package can transform your journey from good to unforgettable. Bon voyage and bottoms up!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise line includes drink package deals in 2024?
Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) lead in 2024 by including premium drink packages on select sailings, often as part of “free at sea” promotions or suite perks. Always check the specific promotion terms, as inclusions vary by itinerary and stateroom category.
Are there any all-inclusive cruise lines with unlimited drinks?
Yes, luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises include unlimited premium drinks in their base fares, covering cocktails, wine, and spirits. Mainstream options like Virgin Voyages also include basic drinks (soda, coffee, and select cocktails) in their all-inclusive pricing.
Does Disney Cruise Line include drink packages for families?
Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer traditional drink packages but includes unlimited soda, juice, and non-alcoholic beverages at meals and onboard. Adults can purchase wine/beer packages separately, but the focus is on family-friendly inclusions.
Which budget-friendly cruise lines include drink packages?
NCL’s “Free at Sea” promo often includes a basic open bar package on discounted fares, while Carnival Cruise Line offers bundled drink deals on select sailings. Look for seasonal promotions to maximize value without upgrading to suites.
Can I get a free drink package on a luxury cruise?
Yes, luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea routinely include premium drink packages (covering top-shelf brands and champagne) with all suite bookings. Some even offer pre-cruise perks like wine tastings and hosted bar events.
Do any cruise lines include drink packages for solo travelers?
Virgin Voyages and NCL frequently include drink perks for solo cruisers, such as discounted bar tabs or complimentary cocktails during social events. Solo cabins on these lines often come with added incentives to offset higher fares.