Is a Cruise Drinks Package Worth It? How to Decide (with prices)

When booking a cruise, you might wonder, "Is a drinks package worth it?" With all-inclusive meals and activities, many travelers debate whether adding a drinks package enhances the experience or is just an extra cost. In this post, we’ll break down the benefits, drawbacks, and factors to consider when deciding if a cruise drinks package is worth your money.

Benefits of a Cruise Drinks Package: Is It Worth It?

1. Convenience and Cost Savings
   For many, the biggest perk is the convenience. A drinks package gives you access to unlimited beverages without worrying about the cost. If you enjoy cocktails, wine, or specialty drinks, having this option can save you from racking up a big bill. But is it worth it for light drinkers? That depends on how often you indulge.

2. Budget Control
   One of the top reasons people search "is a drinks package worth it?" is to avoid unexpected costs. With a drinks package, you can stick to a set budget and enjoy your drinks without financial surprises at the end of the cruise.

3. Access to Premium Beverages
   Depending on the cruise line, drinks packages often include more than just alcohol. Is it worth it? For those who love specialty coffees, bottled water, and smoothies, a premium package might be a great deal.

When a Cruise Drinks Package Isn’t Worth It

1. For Light Drinkers
   If you only drink a couple of beverages a day, you might not find a drinks package to be worth the expense. Ask yourself: how often will you be on the ship, and will you get value from the package?

2. Short Cruises
   On a short itinerary, you may not have time to take full advantage of the package. Instead of asking "Is a drinks package worth it?" consider if you’ll even be onboard enough to use it.

Drinks Package Prices by Cruise Line

• Ambassador Cruise Line

  • Explorer Package: £39 per day for cruises of 5-29 nights when booked in advance. Onboard purchases are about 25% higher.
  • Expedition Package: £45 per day under similar conditions. Prices may vary for shorter or longer cruises.

• Carnival

  • Cheers! Package: $59.95 per day for cruises of 6+ days when purchased in advance, or $64.95 onboard. For cruises of 5 days or less, it's $69.95 per day in advance, rising to $74.95 onboard.
  • Bottomless Bubbles Package (non-alcoholic): $11.21/day for adults, $8.20/day for children.

• Celebrity Cruises

  • Classic Package: $89 per day.
  • Premium Package: $109 per day. Prices may fluctuate depending on the drinks included.

• Cunard

  • Drinks packages cost between $50-$85.50 per day, depending on cruise length. Booking onboard typically adds around 10% to the cost.

• Fred Olsen

  • Drinks Package: £25/day for cruises of 6 nights or more; £35/day for 5 nights or less. Add £10/day if purchased onboard. It excludes cocktails, most wines, and specialty teas or coffees.

• Holland America

  • Signature Beverage Package: $54.95/day.
  • Elite Package: $59.99/day.
  • Quench Package (non-alcoholic): $17.95/day.

• MSC Cruises

  • Easy Package: Approximately £30/day.
  • Easy Plus Package: Around £40/day.
  • Premium Extra Package: About £56/day, depending on the region.

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

  • Premium Beverage Package: $109/day.
  • Premium Plus Package: $138/day.
  • Soda Package: $9.95/day.
  • Hawaii Beverage Package: $109/day.

• P&O Cruises

  • Deluxe Package: £60.50/day.
  • Classic Package: £48.45/day.
  • Alcohol-Free Package: £26.95/day.
  • Refresh Package: £14.45/day. Booking in advance offers a 10% discount.

• Princess Cruises

  • Plus Beverage Package: $64.99/day, with gratuities bringing it to $76.70.
  • Premier Package: $84.99/day, totaling $100.30 with gratuities.
  • Princess Plus Fare: $60/day, includes drinks, WiFi, gratuities, and more.
  • Princess Premier Fare: $80/day, offering additional perks over the Plus Fare.

• Royal Caribbean

  • Deluxe Beverage Package: $63 to $115/day, depending on the sailing and when it's purchased.

Are You Sure You Have Everything You Need For Your Upcoming Cruise? Click Here To Check Out Our List Of Top Cruise Essentials And Accessories

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Final Verdict: Is a Cruise Drinks Package Worth It?

Ultimately, whether a cruise drinks package is worth it depends on your personal habits and the cruise line's offerings. If you plan to enjoy several beverages a day, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, a package could provide great value and peace of mind. For others, paying as you go may be the more economical choice.