Which Cruise Lines Have Unlimited Alcohol A Complete Guide

Several major cruise lines now offer unlimited alcohol packages, making it easier than ever to enjoy premium drinks without worrying about the bill. Lines like Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages provide all-inclusive options that cover cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits—often with tiered pricing based on drink preferences. Whether you’re sipping poolside or toasting at dinner, these packages deliver convenience and value on the high seas.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises: Premium drink package includes unlimited cocktails, wine, and beer.
• Royal Caribbean: Deluxe Beverage Package covers all alcohol under $15 per drink.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Ultimate Beverage Package offers unlimited premium drinks for flat fee.
• Virgin Voyages: All-inclusive fares include unlimited alcohol, no extra cost surprises.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Cheers! Package includes unlimited drinks up to $20 each.
• MSC Cruises: Easy Plus Package covers unlimited wine, beer, and select cocktails.
• Compare packages: Check inclusions and exclusions before booking your cruise.

Which Cruise Lines Have Unlimited Alcohol? A Complete Guide

Cruise vacations are synonymous with relaxation, adventure, and indulgence. For many travelers, the ability to enjoy unlimited drinks—especially alcohol—without constantly reaching for their wallets is a game-changer. The idea of sipping a cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, or toasting under the stars without worrying about the bill can elevate a cruise from a getaway to a truly luxurious experience. But which cruise lines offer unlimited alcohol, and what do these packages actually include? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the cruise lines that provide all-inclusive or unlimited alcohol options, helping you choose the perfect voyage for your drinking preferences and budget.

From budget-friendly lines to ultra-luxury experiences, the cruise industry has evolved to cater to every kind of traveler. While some cruise lines include drinks in the base fare, others offer optional beverage packages that can be added for a flat daily rate. The key is understanding the nuances—what’s included, what’s excluded, and whether the package is worth the cost. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a connoisseur, this guide will walk you through the top cruise lines with unlimited alcohol, compare their offerings, and provide insider tips to maximize your value. So, grab your favorite drink (on us, metaphorically speaking) and let’s set sail on this spirited journey.

1. Cruise Lines with Truly All-Inclusive Alcohol (No Extra Cost)

For travelers who want to leave their wallets behind and enjoy drinks without any additional charges, these cruise lines include unlimited alcohol in the base fare. These are the holy grail of all-inclusive cruising, where premium cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits are available at no extra cost.

Silversea: Ultra-Luxury with No Limits

Silversea is a leader in ultra-luxury cruising, and their all-inclusive model sets the gold standard. Every fare includes:

• Unlimited premium wines, spirits, and cocktails
• Champagne and sparkling wines (e.g., Veuve Clicquot)
• Mini-bar stocked with your preferences (replenished daily)
• No drink limits or time restrictions

Insider Tip: Silversea’s butler service can customize your mini-bar with your favorite brands. Don’t hesitate to ask for rare or high-end labels—they often accommodate requests.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Done Right

Regent’s “Free Unlimited” package is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. The base fare includes:

• Unlimited cocktails, wines, and spirits (including premium brands like Grey Goose and Johnnie Walker Black)
• Free specialty dining at all onboard restaurants
• Shore excursions included in most itineraries

Regent’s beverage program is particularly generous for wine lovers. Their sommeliers often host wine tastings with rare vintages, and guests can enjoy multiple bottles per day without charge.

Oceania Cruises: Gourmet Drinks Included

Oceania’s all-inclusive model focuses on culinary and beverage excellence. While not as flashy as Silversea or Regent, their offering is robust:

• Unlimited premium wines and spirits
• Free specialty dining (e.g., Jacques Pépin’s restaurant)
• No drink limits, but premium brands (e.g., Dom Pérignon) may incur a small corkage fee

Note: Oceania’s “Free Unlimited Beverage Package” is included on select sailings. Always confirm at booking.

Why Choose All-Inclusive?

These lines are ideal for travelers who:

• Prefer a “no surprises” vacation
• Plan to drink frequently (e.g., multiple cocktails daily)
• Value luxury and personalized service

Cost Comparison: While the upfront price of these cruises is higher, the included drinks, dining, and excursions often make them competitive with “a la carte” lines when you factor in added expenses.

2. Premium Cruise Lines with Optional Unlimited Alcohol Packages

Many mainstream and premium cruise lines don’t include alcohol in the base fare but offer optional unlimited drink packages. These are ideal for travelers who want flexibility—you can choose to add the package based on your drinking habits.

Celebrity Cruises: The Classic Choice

Celebrity’s Classic Beverage Package is a top seller, offering:

• Unlimited cocktails, wines, and beers up to $15 per drink
• Premium upgrades (e.g., $20–$30 drinks) for a small fee
• No daily drink limit

Pricing: $60–$80 per person per day (varies by sailing). Discounts are often available for early bookings.

Pro Tip: Celebrity’s “Sail All Inclusive” promotion frequently includes the package for free on select sailings—watch for these deals!

Royal Caribbean: The Drink Package Giant

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package is one of the most popular in the industry. It includes:

• Unlimited cocktails, wines, and beers up to $15
• Premium brands (e.g., Patron, Hendricks) for an additional fee
• Non-alcoholic drinks (soda, bottled water, specialty coffees)

Pricing: $63–$75 per person per day. Royal Caribbean often runs “Buy One, Get One Free” promotions for the package.

Insider Tip: The package is valid at all bars, lounges, and restaurants—even specialty venues like Chops Grille.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The “Free at Sea” Model

NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage Package is part of their “Free at Sea” program, which bundles drinks with other perks (e.g., shore excursions, specialty dining). The package includes:

• Unlimited drinks up to $15 (including premium brands)
• No daily limit
• 15% discount on bottles of wine

Pricing: $99 per person per day, but often included free with “Free at Sea” promotions.

Note: NCL’s package has a 15-drink daily limit (rarely enforced), but it’s technically in place.

When to Buy a Package?

Consider a drink package if:

• You plan to drink 4+ alcoholic drinks per day
• You prefer premium brands (e.g., top-shelf liquor)
• You’re traveling with a group (discounts for multiple packages)

Warning: Read the fine print! Some packages exclude mini-bar items, room service, or certain bars.

3. Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines with Alcohol Deals

Not all unlimited alcohol options require a luxury budget. These cruise lines offer affordable ways to enjoy drinks without breaking the bank.

MSC Cruises: The “Easy” Package

MSC’s Easy Drink Package is a budget-friendly option:

• Unlimited house wines, beers, and cocktails up to $10
• Non-alcoholic drinks included
• No daily limit

Pricing: $20–$30 per person per day (varies by sailing).

Pro Tip: MSC often includes the package free for kids, making it a great value for families.

Carnival Cruise Line: The “Cheers!” Package

Carnival’s Cheers! Beverage Program is a favorite for casual drinkers:

• Unlimited drinks up to $20 (including premium brands)
• No daily limit
• 15% discount on bottles of wine

Pricing: $59.95 per person per day (pre-purchase discount available).

Insider Tip: Carnival’s package includes “frozen drinks” (e.g., piña coladas)—a rare perk!

Princess Cruises: The “Plus” Package

Princess’ Plus Beverage Package balances affordability and quality:

• Unlimited drinks up to $15 (premium upgrades for a fee)
• Non-alcoholic drinks included
• 15% discount on wine by the glass

Pricing: $60–$70 per person per day (discounts for early booking).

Note: Princess often runs promotions like “Free Plus Package” on select sailings.

Budget vs. Premium: What’s the Difference?

Budget packages typically exclude:

• Ultra-premium brands (e.g., Macallan 18)
• Mini-bar items
• Room service drinks

Tip: If you’re a casual drinker, a budget package can save you 30–50% compared to buying drinks à la carte.

4. Niche and Specialty Cruise Lines with Unique Alcohol Offers

For travelers seeking unique experiences, these niche cruise lines offer creative alcohol-inclusive options.

Viking Cruises: Wine and Beer Focus

Viking’s all-inclusive model includes:

• Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Premium cocktails and spirits available for purchase (no unlimited package)

Why It’s Unique: Viking emphasizes cultural immersion, with complimentary wine tastings and beer pairings during excursions.

Virgin Voyages: The “Sailor Loot” System

Virgin’s innovative approach uses “Sailor Loot” (credit) for drinks:

• All drinks are à la carte, but Sailor Loot covers most cocktails, wines, and beers
• No traditional unlimited package, but the credit system feels “all-inclusive”

Pricing: Base fare includes $300–$600 in Sailor Loot (varies by cabin category).

Pro Tip: Virgin’s bars use “dynamic pricing,” so drink prices fluctuate based on demand.

Windstar Cruises: Intimate and Inclusive

Windstar’s small ships create a personalized experience:

• Unlimited house wines, beers, and cocktails
• Premium brands available for a fee
• Free wine with dinner

Note: Windstar’s “All-Inclusive” pricing (base fare + $99/day) is optional but highly recommended for drinkers.

Why Choose a Niche Line?

Niche cruise lines appeal to travelers who:

• Prefer smaller ships and personalized service
• Want unique itineraries (e.g., river cruises, expedition voyages)
• Value cultural or culinary experiences

5. How to Maximize Value and Avoid Pitfalls

Unlimited alcohol packages can be fantastic—but only if you use them wisely. Here’s how to get the most bang for your buck.

Calculate Your Break-Even Point

Before buying a package, estimate your daily drink consumption:

• Break-even for a $70/day package: 7 cocktails at $10 each
• If you drink 3–4 cocktails/day, a package may not be worth it

Example: On Royal Caribbean, a $75/day package requires 8 drinks/day to break even.

Watch for Promotions

Cruise lines frequently run deals:

• “Buy One, Get One Free” packages
• Free packages with suite bookings
• Early booking discounts (e.g., 20% off)

Pro Tip: Book during “Wave Season” (January–March) for the best deals.

Understand the Fine Print

Common exclusions:

• Mini-bar items
• Room service drinks
• Bottles of wine (some lines offer a 15% discount)
• Specialty bars (e.g., wine bars, cigar lounges)

Warning: Some lines limit the number of drinks per order (e.g., 2–3 at a time).

Group Bookings: Split the Cost

Traveling with a group? Many lines offer:

• Group discounts on packages
• Free packages for the 3rd/4th guest in a cabin

Example: NCL’s “Free at Sea” includes a free package for the 2nd guest.

6. Comparison Table: Top Cruise Lines with Unlimited Alcohol

Cruise Line	Package Name	Included Drinks	Daily Price (USD)	Best For
Silversea	All-Inclusive	Premium cocktails, wines, champagne, spirits	Included in fare	Luxury travelers
Regent Seven Seas	Free Unlimited	Premium cocktails, wines, spirits	Included in fare	All-inclusive enthusiasts
Celebrity	Classic Beverage	Drinks up to $15, premium upgrades	$60–$80	Premium drinkers
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage	Drinks up to $15, premium upgrades	$63–$75	Big-ship fans
NCL	Premium Plus	Drinks up to $15, no daily limit	$99 (often free)	“Free at Sea” deals
Carnival	Cheers!	Drinks up to $20, frozen drinks	$59.95	Budget-friendly fun

Conclusion

Choosing a cruise line with unlimited alcohol can transform your vacation from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you opt for the all-inclusive luxury of Silversea and Regent, the flexible packages of Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, or the budget-friendly deals of Carnival and MSC, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler and budget. The key is to assess your drinking habits, read the fine print, and take advantage of promotions to maximize value.

Remember, unlimited alcohol isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about the freedom to relax, socialize, and savor every moment of your cruise. So, whether you’re toasting at sunset, enjoying a wine-paired dinner, or sipping a cocktail by the pool, let the open bar be your companion on the high seas. Bon voyage—and cheers to the adventure ahead! 🍸⚓

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines have unlimited alcohol included in the fare?

Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Virgin Voyages offer unlimited alcohol packages included with certain fare tiers or as optional add-ons. These packages typically cover beer, wine, cocktails, and premium drinks up to a specific price limit.

Are there any all-inclusive cruise lines with truly unlimited drinks?

Yes, luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea include unlimited premium alcohol in their base fare. These high-end options provide top-shelf spirits, fine wines, and champagne without additional charges.

Which cruise lines have unlimited alcohol packages for families?

NCL’s Free Unlimited Open Bar package and Carnival’s Cheers! program cater to families by offering kid-friendly drink options alongside alcoholic beverages. These packages must be purchased for all adults in a cabin to qualify.

Do any budget cruise lines offer unlimited alcohol options?

Budget-friendly Carnival and Royal Caribbean provide unlimited alcohol through their paid drink packages (e.g., Cheers! and Deluxe Beverage Package). While not free, these are competitively priced for heavy drinkers.

Which cruise lines have unlimited alcohol with no daily caps?

Luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises have no spending limits on drinks, even for premium labels. Mainstream lines like NCL may impose per-drink caps ($15–$20) on unlimited packages.

Can I share unlimited alcohol packages on cruise lines that offer them?

Most cruise lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase the same unlimited alcohol package to prevent sharing. Exceptions are rare, but policies vary—check your line’s terms before booking.