Cruise Drinking 101: Ultimate Guide to Packages, Prices, and Drink Rules

Planning your dream cruise? Let’s talk about the real MVP—cruise drinks! Many cruise lines offer cruise drink packages that let you enjoy unlimited beverages, making your trip worry-free when it comes to drink prices.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about drinking on cruises. From understanding cruise drink prices and packages to tips on how to maximize your value with a cruise drink package calculator, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share recommendations for must-try cocktails and signature drinks available at sea. By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank and make the most of your cruise vacation. Cheers to that!

Cruise Drinking Packages: What’s Included and How They Work 

Cruise drink packages are prepaid plans that allow guests to enjoy a range of beverages onboard without worrying about paying for each drink individually. Types of Drink Packages:

1. All-Inclusive Drink Packages: These include unlimited access to alcoholic beverages (cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits) as well as non-alcoholic options like soda, specialty coffee, and bottled water. Popular on many cruise lines, this is perfect for those who enjoy several drinks a day.
2. Alcoholic-Only Packages: These cover beer, wine, and spirits, but not necessarily coffee, soda, or water. If you’re primarily interested in alcoholic beverages, this package might save you a bit of money.
3. Non-Alcoholic Packages: Ideal for those who don’t drink alcohol, these packages offer unlimited soda, specialty coffees, teas, and other non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a great option for families or those who want a caffeine boost during the trip.

Price Range:

Prices for drink packages can vary depending on the cruise line and type of package. On average, an all-inclusive package can cost $60–$100 per day. A cheapest cruise drink package, typically for non-alcoholic beverages, may be as low as $20–$30 per day.

Restrictions:

Most cruise lines impose daily limits on alcoholic drinks, often around 15 per day. Additionally, some premium beverages, like high-end liquors or specialty cocktails, may not be included in the standard package and could come with an extra charge. It’s important to read the fine print when choosing a package to avoid any surprises later on.

Cruise Line Drink Packages:

Different cruise lines offer various packages to cater to different passenger preferences. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Offers “Deluxe Beverage Packages” covering cocktails, wine, beer, premium coffee, and bottled water.
• Carnival: Offers “Cheers!” which includes alcoholic beverages, sodas, energy drinks, and specialty coffee.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Has a “Unlimited Open Bar Package” that includes top-shelf liquor, premium wines, and unlimited soft drinks and juices.
• MSC Cruises has packages ranging from a simple non-alcoholic option to a premium offering that includes champagne and luxury spirits.

Cruise Drinking Prices: What You Can Expect to Pay

The cost of drinks onboard a cruise can add up quickly if you’re paying per drink. Cruise drink prices vary depending on the cruise line, the type of drink, and even the region you’re cruising in. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Cocktails: $10–$15 each.
• Beer: $6–$9 each.
• Wine by the glass: $8–$12.
• Soft drinks: $2–$4.
• Specialty coffee: $4–$6.

Most cruise lines also apply an additional gratuity, typically around 18–20%, on top of the listed drink prices, which can make your bar tab larger than you might anticipate.

Comparison Across Cruise Lines:

While many cruise lines offer similar drink prices, there are subtle differences worth noting:

• Royal Caribbean generally has slightly higher prices for specialty cocktails but offers more extensive non-alcoholic options.
• Carnival is known for being a bit more budget-friendly, with reasonably priced beer and wine selections.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has premium options, especially for wine and specialty cocktails, which can push up prices.

Keep in mind that some ships operate in duty-free zones, so alcohol purchased at the onboard shops may be cheaper than in regular stores back home, but you won’t be allowed to drink it on board.

Tips to Save on Drink Costs:

If you don’t opt for a drink package, there are still ways to save:

• Happy Hour Deals: Some ships offer reduced prices during happy hours at certain bars.
• Stick to Free Drinks: If you’re happy with water, tea, and basic coffee, you won’t spend much on drinks at all.
• Bring Your Own: Some cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard for free (see “Can You Bring Alcohol on a Cruise?” below).

Cruise Drinking Package Calculator: Is Package Worth It 

A big question for many cruisers is whether a cruise drink package is actually worth the price. The answer often depends on how much you plan to drink and what types of drinks you enjoy. Using a cruise drink package calculator can help you determine if the upfront cost of a drink package will save you money in the long run.

Examples of Cruise Drink Packages

By comparing the daily cost of a package to your estimated consumption using a cruise drink calculator, you can see if buying a package will save you money or not.

For example, if a drink package costs $70 per day and you typically drink three cocktails ($15 each), one glass of wine ($10), and two bottles of water ($3 each), you’re already spending around $61 daily. With gratuities added, you’d easily exceed the cost of the package, making it a worthwhile investment.

Best Drinks to Order on a Cruise

One of the joys of cruising is the opportunity to sample a variety of drinks that you might not usually try at home. Whether you prefer cocktails, wine, beer, or mocktails, there’s always something delicious on the menu.

Cocktails and Signature Drinks

Cruise ships are known for their tropical and exotic cocktails. Some of the most iconic drinks you should try onboard include:

• Piña Colada: A cruise favorite, this tropical blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice is perfect for lounging by the pool.
• Mojito: Refreshing and minty, this cocktail is a great way to cool down on a hot day.
• Mai Tai: Known for its strong rum flavor with hints of lime, orange, and almond, it’s a staple for tropical vacations.
• Margarita: Whether frozen or on the rocks, a tangy margarita is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Frozen Daiquiri: Another fruity favorite, the frozen daiquiri comes in flavors like strawberry or banana and is a refreshing option for a warm afternoon.

Each cruise line often has its own signature drinks that you can only find onboard. For example, Royal Caribbean is known for its Lava Flow—a delicious blend of strawberry daiquiri and piña colada. On Carnival Cruises, you’ll want to try their signature Fun Ship Special, a fruity rum-based drink that’s perfect for first-timers.

Non-Alcoholic Options

If you’re not a fan of alcohol or just want to take a break from drinking, there are plenty of non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy. Some popular choices include:

• Virgin Piña Colada: Get all the tropical goodness without the alcohol.
• Shirley Temple: A fun, sweet drink for all ages, made with grenadine and soda.
• Fresh Juices and Smoothies: Many cruise ships offer freshly made juices and smoothies, especially in the morning.
• Specialty Coffees: From lattes to cappuccinos, most cruise lines have cafes offering premium coffee drinks, perfect for a morning pick-me-up.

Local Flavors

If your cruise is sailing through the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or other exotic locales, take advantage of the opportunity to try local beverages. For example:

• Rum Punch in the Caribbean.
• Limoncello in the Mediterranean.

Cruise lines often feature local specialties on their menus, especially during port days, so don’t hesitate to ask what’s on offer based on your destination.

Fan Favorites from Travelers

Many cruisers love to share their favorite onboard drinks in forums and reviews. A few fan-favorite recommendations include:

• The Kiss on the Lips from Royal Caribbean: A fruity frozen cocktail made with mango puree and rum.
• The Miami Vice: A half piña colada, half strawberry daiquiri that’s a popular choice across many cruise lines.
• The Alchemy Bar Cocktails: Carnival’s Alchemy Bar is a hit with passengers, known for its custom cocktails mixed to order like Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini.

Whatever your preference, cruising is the perfect time to try new and exciting beverages!

Free Drinks on a Cruise: What Can You Get Without a Package? 

One of the most common questions cruisers ask is: What drinks are free on a cruise? Luckily, you don’t need to purchase a drink package to stay hydrated and enjoy some basic beverages while onboard. While specialty drinks come at an extra cost, most cruise lines offer a range of free drinks included in the cruise fare.

Cruise Free Drink Package:

Technically, there isn’t a formal cruise free drink package, but every cruise line includes certain drinks for free, such as:

• Tap Water: Available at restaurants, buffets, and bars.
• Basic Coffee and Tea: Regular (non-specialty) coffee and hot tea are typically available for free in dining areas and buffet stations.
• Iced Tea and Lemonade: These refreshing drinks are often complimentary and can be found at self-serve beverage stations.
• Milk and Hot Chocolate: Typically available for free during meals, or at select stations.

These options cover the basics, so if you’re not a heavy drinker or you’re satisfied with these simple beverages, you might not need to buy a package at all.

Non-Alcoholic Inclusions:

In addition to water, coffee, and tea, many cruise lines also offer non-alcoholic drinks like juices, especially during breakfast, and some soft drinks may also be available at no extra charge.

On higher-end or luxury cruises, you might find that more beverages are included in your fare. For example, premium lines like Seabourn or Silversea offer complimentary alcoholic drinks, including wine and cocktails, without needing a drink package. These lines aim to provide a more all-inclusive experience for their passengers.

Luxury Cruise Options:

Luxury cruise lines often include drinks such as fine wines, beers, and cocktails at no extra charge. On these ships, the need for an additional drink package is rare because most beverages are already covered, which elevates the guest experience.

While free drinks may be more basic on standard cruises, they provide a solid range of options for passengers who don’t wish to splurge on a drink package but still want to enjoy beverages throughout the day.

Can You Bring Alcohol or Other Drinks on a Cruise?

While cruises offer a wide variety of beverages onboard, many travelers wonder if they can save money by bringing their own drinks. The answer is: Yes, but with restrictions. Each cruise line has its own policy regarding bringing alcohol and other drinks, and it’s important to understand these rules before packing your bags.

Cruise Bring Alcohol Policy:

Most cruise lines allow guests to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard, typically in the form of wine or champagne. For example, Royal Caribbean permits passengers to bring two 750 ml bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom, while Carnival has a similar policy. However, hard liquor and beer are generally prohibited and will be confiscated if discovered during embarkation.

It’s worth noting that some cruise lines charge a corkage fee if you choose to drink your wine in one of the ship’s restaurants or bars. This fee can range from $10 to $25 per bottle, depending on the cruise line.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages:

Cruise lines also have policies regarding non-alcoholic beverages. Many ships allow you to bring a limited quantity of soft drinks, bottled water, or juice in your carry-on luggage. For example, Carnival allows passengers to bring up to 12 cans or cartons of non-alcoholic beverages (not exceeding 12 ounces each) per person. Norwegian Cruise Line, on the other hand, prohibits guests from bringing any drinks onboard, including bottled water and soda.

Pro Tips for Cruise Drinking:

• Bring Wine or Champagne: If your cruise line allows it, bringing a bottle or two of your favorite wine can enhance your cruise experience, especially if you enjoy a nice drink with dinner.
• Corkage Fees: Be mindful of corkage fees. If you plan to drink your wine in your stateroom, you can avoid these extra charges.
• Water Bottles: Consider bringing a reusable water bottle that you can fill onboard at free beverage stations. This is especially useful for staying hydrated on excursions.

Understanding the cruise bring alcohol policy of your specific cruise line will help you avoid surprises at the port and allow you to make the most of your onboard experience without unnecessary hassle.

Drinking Rules on Cruise Ships: Age, Restrictions, Responsible Drinking

Before you start sipping your way through the cocktail menu, it’s important to be aware of the drinking rules on cruise ships, including age restrictions and limits on how much alcohol you can consume. Each cruise line has its own policies, and they can vary depending on the region you’re cruising in.

Drinking Age on Cruises:

The legal drinking age on most cruises departing from the United States is 21 years old, but this can change based on the destination. For example:

• Royal Caribbean and Carnival require passengers to be 21 or older to consume alcohol on sailings from the U.S.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has a similar policy but allows passengers who are 18 or older to drink beer and wine when sailing in international waters (with parental consent if under 21).

For cruises departing from Europe or other regions, the drinking age is often lower, typically 18 years old. However, passengers should always check the rules of their specific cruise and itinerary.

Onboard Rules for Alcohol Consumption:

Cruise lines often place limits on how much you can drink, especially if you’ve purchased a drink package. For instance, most packages restrict guests to 15 alcoholic drinks per day, which is more than enough for most passengers.

In addition, cruise lines may monitor guests to ensure responsible drinking. Overconsumption can lead to being cut off from further alcohol service, and in extreme cases, it may even result in removal from the ship.

Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It? 

The big question for many cruisers is whether cruise drink packages are worth it. The answer largely depends on your drinking habits, the cost of drinks on board, and the type of package you’re considering.

Determining Value:

To determine if a drink package will save you money, start by estimating how many drinks you typically consume in a day. Then compare the total cost of those drinks to the daily price of the drink package, factoring in taxes and gratuities.

For example, if you generally have:

• 3 cocktails ($12 each),
• 2 glasses of wine ($10 each),
• and a few bottles of water ($3 each)**,

That’s roughly $63 per day. If the drink package costs $70 per day, you’re close to breaking even. Add in specialty coffee or a few extra drinks, and the package might be worth it.

Who Benefits Most from Drink Packages:

Certain types of passengers can get the most value from a drink package:

• You Drink Regularly: If you enjoy several cocktails, beers, or specialty coffees each day, the package can easily pay for itself.
• Sea Days: On days when you’re at sea and staying onboard, you’re more likely to indulge in drinks by the pool or at the bar, maximizing the value of the package.
• Specialty Drink Lovers: If you enjoy premium cocktails, fine wines, or specialty coffees, a drink package that includes these options could be a great deal.
• You Want Peace of Mind: For many, the convenience of paying upfront and not worrying about tracking a bar tab throughout the trip is reason enough to opt for a drink package.

Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?

Many cruisers on Reddit and Quora share that drink packages are particularly valuable on longer trips or cruises with multiple sea days. Passengers who participated in onboard activities like trivia or karaoke enjoyed having unlimited drink options without constantly thinking about the cost. However, those who spent most of their time in ports found that they didn’t drink enough onboard to make the package worthwhile.

Break Even Point:

To calculate your break-even point, use a cruise drink package calculator or manually add up the cost of drinks based on your cruise line’s pricing. If your daily consumption of beverages is close to or exceeds the package cost, it’s likely a good deal.

Can You Bring Liquids on a Cruise? What to Know Before You Pack

While cruises provide plenty of beverages onboard, many travelers like to bring their own drinks. But can you bring liquids on a cruise, and if so, what are the rules?

Liquids Allowed:

Each cruise line has its own policies regarding bringing liquids onboard, and these rules can vary between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

• Water and Soft Drinks: Many cruise lines, such as Carnival, allow passengers to bring a limited number of non-alcoholic beverages, such as up to 12 sealed cans or cartons of soda, water, or juice. These items must typically be brought in your carry-on luggage.
  However, Norwegian Cruise Line has stricter rules and generally doesn’t allow guests to bring any non-alcoholic beverages onboard, including water.
• Alcoholic Beverages: As mentioned earlier, most cruise lines allow guests to bring a small amount of wine or champagne (usually one or two bottles per stateroom). Hard liquor and beer are generally prohibited.

Packing Tips:

• Seal Your Liquids: Make sure all drinks are sealed and unopened when you pack them. Opened bottles or cans will likely be confiscated.
• Use Carry-On Luggage: Any liquids you bring onboard, whether water, soda, or alcohol, must typically be carried on, not packed in checked luggage.
• Plan for Port Purchases: If you purchase liquids (like bottled water or wine) at a port, be prepared to store them with the cruise line until the end of your trip, as many ships don’t allow external purchases to be consumed onboard.

Understanding the rules for bringing liquids on a cruise will ensure you’re prepared and avoid any hassle during the boarding process.

Maximizing the Value of Your Cruise Drink Package

Once you’ve decided that a cruise drink package is worth the investment, the next step is learning how to make the most of it. Whether you want to indulge in high-end cocktails or just ensure you get your money’s worth, there are several strategies to maximize the value of your drink package.

Timing and Strategy:

One of the best ways to maximize your drink package is by strategically timing your drink consumption.

• Sea Days: These are the best days to take full advantage of your drink package since you’ll likely spend the entire day onboard. Many cruisers use sea days to enjoy multiple cocktails by the pool, specialty coffees, and refreshing drinks in the evening.
• Embarkation Day: Most drink packages activate as soon as you board the ship. Grab a drink as you explore the ship or relax by the pool to kick off your vacation in style.
• Avoiding Port Days: On days when you’re off the ship exploring destinations, you may not drink as much. Consider skipping the package on short sailings where you’ll spend a lot of time in port and won’t have as much time onboard to enjoy the drinks.

Drink Smart:

To get the best bang for your buck, focus on high-value drinks. Since many drink packages include unlimited cocktails, premium liquors, and specialty beverages, take advantage of these offerings. For instance:

• Order Cocktails and Specialty Drinks: Stick to drinks that are more expensive individually. Cocktails, wine, and premium spirits typically offer the best value per drink compared to soft drinks or water.
• Take Advantage of Specialty Coffees: If your package includes non-alcoholic beverages, treat yourself to premium coffee drinks like cappuccinos and lattes in the mornings.
• Avoid Low-Cost Beverages: Soft drinks, water, and basic coffee are often included for free or available at a lower price without a package. Save those for when you aren’t using your drink package.

Pro Tips from Frequent Cruisers:

• Refill Early: If your cruise allows unlimited refills for non-alcoholic drinks, keep a full water bottle handy throughout the day.
• Room Service Drinks: Some cruise lines allow drink package usage for room service, so you can enjoy a drink without leaving your stateroom. Always double-check the specific rules of your cruise line.
• Share the Experience: Drink packages are usually individual, but traveling with friends or family can make it more fun to try different drinks and explore new beverages together.

Sip, Savor, and Sail Away with the Best Cruise Drinks

Cruising offers an incredible opportunity to explore not only new destinations but also exciting and delicious beverages. By understanding the options available—whether it’s taking advantage of cruise drink packages, trying unique local beverages, or simply knowing what’s included in your fare—you can sip, savor, and enjoy every moment of your trip. Cheers to smooth sailing and unforgettable sips!