Cruise Ship Beverage Packages: Are They Worth It?

Embarking on a cruise vacation is an exciting prospect, filled with the promise of exotic destinations, delectable cuisine, and endless entertainment. However, beyond the base fare of your cruise lies a world of additional expenses that can quickly add up. One of the most significant of these is the cost of beverages. To help manage and potentially reduce this cost, cruise lines offer beverage packages, also known as drinks packages. But are these packages truly worth the investment? This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the world of cruise ship beverage packages, exploring their intricacies, benefits, drawbacks, and strategies for making an informed decision about whether or not to purchase one for your upcoming voyage.

Understanding Cruise Ship Beverage Packages

Cruise ship beverage packages are essentially all-inclusive drink deals that allow passengers to consume a pre-determined range of beverages for a fixed daily price. These packages can vary significantly across different cruise lines and even within the same cruise line, depending on the itinerary, ship, and promotion. It’s crucial to understand the specific inclusions, exclusions, and limitations of each package before making a purchase.

Types of Cruise Ship Beverage Packages

Cruise lines typically offer a variety of beverage packages to cater to different preferences and consumption habits. The most common types include:

Alcoholic Beverage Packages

These packages are designed for guests who enjoy alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits. They often have a price limit per drink, meaning that if you order a cocktail that exceeds the limit, you will have to pay the difference. Alcoholic beverage packages usually include a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, but may exclude premium brands, top-shelf liquors, and certain specialty cocktails.

Non-Alcoholic Beverage Packages

These packages are ideal for guests who do not consume alcohol or prefer to stick to non-alcoholic options. They typically include a variety of soft drinks, juices, specialty coffees, teas, mocktails, and bottled water. Some non-alcoholic packages may also include premium beverages like smoothies and energy drinks.

Premium Beverage Packages

Some cruise lines offer premium beverage packages that include a wider selection of beverages and higher price limits per drink than standard alcoholic packages. These packages may also include access to exclusive bars and lounges. They cater to guests who prefer top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and expertly crafted cocktails.

Soda Packages

A more limited option, soda packages typically offer unlimited fountain soda throughout the cruise. These are a good option for those who primarily drink soda and are looking for a cost-effective way to quench their thirst.

What is Typically Included in a Beverage Package?

The specific inclusions of a beverage package will vary depending on the cruise line and the package itself, but generally, you can expect the following:

• Alcoholic Beverages (for alcoholic packages): Beer, wine (by the glass), cocktails, spirits (vodka, rum, gin, whiskey, etc.)
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Soft drinks (Coke, Sprite, etc.), juices, specialty coffees (latte, cappuccino), teas, bottled water, mocktails.
• Discounts: Some packages may offer discounts on bottles of wine or premium beverages not included in the package.

What is Typically Excluded from a Beverage Package?

It’s just as important to understand what is not included in a beverage package. Common exclusions include:

• Premium Brands/Top-Shelf Liquors: High-end liquors and wines are often excluded, even in premium packages.
• Bottles of Wine/Liquor: While some packages may offer discounts, full bottles are usually not included.
• Minibar Items: Beverages purchased from the minibar in your cabin are typically not covered.
• Room Service Beverages: Drinks ordered through room service may or may not be included, so check the specific terms.
• Specialty Restaurants: Some specialty restaurants may have beverage menus that are not fully covered by the package.
• Souvenir Glasses: Drinks served in souvenir glasses often come with an additional charge, even if the drink itself is covered.
• Certain Venues: Some exclusive bars or lounges may have different rules regarding beverage package inclusions.
• Taxes and Gratuities: Beverage package prices often do not include taxes and gratuities, which will be added to the cost. This can significantly increase the overall price.

Important Considerations Before Purchasing

Before you rush to purchase a beverage package, carefully consider the following factors:

• Your Drinking Habits: How much alcohol and/or non-alcoholic beverages do you typically consume on a daily basis? Be honest with yourself!
• The Length of Your Cruise: The longer the cruise, the more likely a beverage package will be cost-effective.
• The Itinerary: Port-intensive itineraries may leave you with less time on board to consume beverages.
• Onboard Activities: Will you be spending most of your time participating in activities that don’t involve drinking?
• The Cost of Individual Drinks: Research the average price of drinks on board the ship to determine if the package offers a genuine savings.
• Sharing Policies: Most cruise lines strictly prohibit sharing beverages from a package with other guests. Violating this policy can result in the package being revoked.
• Package Requirements: Some cruise lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase the same beverage package if one person opts for it. This can significantly increase the cost, especially if one person doesn’t drink much.
• Promotions and Discounts: Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts on beverage packages, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.

Calculating the Cost-Effectiveness of a Beverage Package

The key to determining whether a beverage package is worth it lies in calculating the break-even point – the amount you would need to spend on individual drinks to equal the cost of the package. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Determine the daily cost of the beverage package, including taxes and gratuities. For example, if the package costs $60 per day and gratuities are 18%, the daily cost is $60 + ($60 * 0.18) = $70.80.
2. Estimate the average cost of the drinks you would typically consume each day. This requires some research into the cruise line’s drink prices. For example, a beer might cost $8, a glass of wine $10, and a cocktail $12.
3. Calculate the number of drinks you would need to consume to reach the break-even point. Divide the daily cost of the package by the average cost of your drinks. In our example, if you typically drink beer and cocktails, an average drink might cost $10. The break-even point would be $70.80 / $10 = 7.08 drinks. This means you would need to consume at least 7 drinks per day to make the package worthwhile.

It’s important to be realistic about your drinking habits. Consider whether you would truly consume that many drinks each day, taking into account factors like shore excursions, onboard activities, and personal preferences.

Example Scenarios

Let’s look at a few example scenarios to illustrate how to determine the cost-effectiveness of a beverage package:

Scenario 1: Moderate Drinker

John enjoys a few beers in the afternoon and a cocktail or two in the evening. He estimates that he would typically consume 3 beers and 2 cocktails per day. The cruise line charges $8 for a beer and $12 for a cocktail. His daily spending on drinks would be (3 * $8) + (2 * $12) = $24 + $24 = $48. If the beverage package costs $70.80 per day, it would not be worth it for John.

Scenario 2: Heavy Drinker

Sarah enjoys wine with lunch, cocktails by the pool, and a few drinks at the bar in the evening. She estimates that she would typically consume 2 glasses of wine, 4 cocktails, and 2 beers per day. The cruise line charges $10 for a glass of wine, $12 for a cocktail, and $8 for a beer. Her daily spending on drinks would be (2 * $10) + (4 * $12) + (2 * $8) = $20 + $48 + $16 = $84. If the beverage package costs $70.80 per day, it would be worth it for Sarah.

Scenario 3: Non-Alcoholic Drinker

David doesn’t drink alcohol but enjoys specialty coffees, soft drinks, and bottled water. He estimates that he would typically consume 2 specialty coffees, 3 soft drinks, and 2 bottles of water per day. The cruise line charges $5 for a specialty coffee, $3 for a soft drink, and $4 for bottled water. His daily spending on drinks would be (2 * $5) + (3 * $3) + (2 * $4) = $10 + $9 + $8 = $27. If the non-alcoholic beverage package costs $30 per day, including gratuities, it might be worth it for David, depending on his preference for convenience and the potential for additional drinks.

Hidden Costs and Considerations

Beyond the initial cost of the beverage package, there are several hidden costs and considerations that you should be aware of:

Gratuities

As mentioned earlier, beverage package prices typically do not include gratuities. Cruise lines automatically add gratuities to the cost of the package, which can significantly increase the overall price. Be sure to factor in gratuities when calculating the cost-effectiveness of the package.

Taxes

In addition to gratuities, taxes may also be added to the cost of the beverage package, depending on the cruise line and itinerary. Check the fine print to see if taxes are included in the quoted price.

Sharing Restrictions

Cruise lines strictly prohibit sharing beverages from a package with other guests. This means that you cannot purchase a drink for a friend or family member using your package. Violating this policy can result in the package being revoked, and you may be charged for the drinks consumed. This is especially important to consider if you are traveling with someone who doesn’t drink or drinks very little.

Mandatory Purchase for All Adults in a Cabin

Some cruise lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase the same beverage package if one person opts for it. This can be a significant expense if one person doesn’t drink much or prefers non-alcoholic beverages. Before purchasing a package, check the cruise line’s policy regarding mandatory purchases.

Limited Selection

While beverage packages typically include a wide selection of beverages, they may not include everything you want to drink. Premium brands, top-shelf liquors, and certain specialty cocktails are often excluded. If you have specific preferences, be sure to check the package’s inclusions before purchasing.

Wasted Drinks

It’s easy to get caught up in trying to “get your money’s worth” from a beverage package, which can lead to consuming more drinks than you normally would. This can result in feeling unwell or engaging in behaviors you might later regret. Remember to drink responsibly and prioritize your health and well-being.

Alternatives to Beverage Packages

If you’ve decided that a beverage package is not right for you, there are several alternatives to consider:

Pay as You Go

The simplest alternative is to pay for each drink individually. This allows you to control your spending and only pay for what you actually consume. This is a good option for moderate drinkers or those who prefer to sample a variety of beverages.

Bring Your Own Beverages (If Allowed)

Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited amount of alcohol on board, typically wine or champagne. Check the cruise line’s policy before packing any beverages. This can be a cost-effective way to enjoy your favorite drinks without paying onboard prices.

Take Advantage of Happy Hour Specials

Many cruise ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks at certain bars and lounges. Take advantage of these specials to save money on your favorite beverages.

Drink During Port Days

Beverages are often cheaper in port than on board the ship. Enjoy a drink or two at a local bar or restaurant while exploring the destinations on your itinerary.

Look for Free Drinks

Some cruise lines offer complimentary drinks at certain events, such as captain’s receptions or loyalty program gatherings. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to enjoy free beverages.

Purchase a Soda Card

If you primarily drink soda, consider purchasing a soda card. This card allows you to purchase fountain soda at a discounted price.

Utilize Loyalty Program Benefits

If you are a member of a cruise line’s loyalty program, you may be eligible for complimentary drinks or discounts on beverages. Check your loyalty program benefits to see if you can save money on drinks.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Beverage Package (If You Choose to Purchase One)

If you’ve decided that a beverage package is right for you, here are some tips for making the most of it:

• Start Drinking Early: The sooner you start drinking, the more value you’ll get from your package.
• Try New Drinks: Use your package as an opportunity to try new cocktails, wines, and beers that you wouldn’t normally order.
• Utilize All Bars and Lounges: Explore the different bars and lounges on board the ship and take advantage of the variety of drink options available.
• Order Multiple Drinks at Once (If Allowed): Some cruise lines allow you to order multiple drinks at once, which can save you time and effort.
• Ask the Bartender for Recommendations: Bartenders are often knowledgeable about the drink menu and can recommend cocktails or wines that you might enjoy.
• Take Advantage of Drink of the Day Specials: Many bars offer drink of the day specials, which can be a great way to try new drinks at a discounted price (even with a package!).
• Remember to Tip: While gratuities are included in the cost of the package, it’s always appreciated to tip bartenders for exceptional service.
• Drink Responsibly: Don’t feel pressured to drink more than you normally would just to “get your money’s worth.” Enjoy your drinks in moderation and prioritize your health and well-being.

Cruise Line Specific Beverage Package Information

Below is some specific information on beverage packages offered by some of the major cruise lines. Keep in mind that these details can change, so always confirm the current offerings on the cruise line’s website before your cruise.

Carnival Cruise Line: CHEERS! Beverage Program

Carnival’s CHEERS! program offers a comprehensive package including a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It typically includes cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, soda, juice, specialty coffee, tea, and bottled water. There is a daily drink limit, and certain premium brands are excluded. All adults in a cabin (21 and over) must purchase the package if one person does. The cost varies depending on whether it is purchased pre-cruise or onboard. Purchasing pre-cruise is generally cheaper.

Royal Caribbean: Deluxe Beverage Package

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package is their premium option, including virtually all drinks served onboard, up to a certain price limit. This includes cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, soda, juice, specialty coffee, tea, bottled water, and even some premium options like specialty milkshakes. Royal Caribbean also offers a Refreshment Package, which includes non-alcoholic beverages only. Similar to Carnival, if one adult in a stateroom purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all adults in the same stateroom must purchase it as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Free at Sea Promotion

Norwegian Cruise Line often runs a “Free at Sea” promotion, which allows guests to choose several perks, including a beverage package. The beverage package included in this promotion typically covers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. However, certain premium brands are excluded, and there may be daily limits. Be sure to carefully read the terms and conditions of the Free at Sea promotion to understand the specific inclusions and exclusions.

Princess Cruises: Premier Beverage Package

Princess Cruises offers the Premier Beverage Package, which includes a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, soda, juice, specialty coffee, tea, and bottled water. There is a daily limit on alcoholic beverages, and certain premium brands are excluded. Princess also offers a Classic Soda Package for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.

Disney Cruise Line: No Dedicated Beverage Package

Disney Cruise Line does not offer a dedicated beverage package in the same way as other cruise lines. Instead, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are purchased individually. However, Disney Cruise Line does offer refillable mugs for soda, which can be a cost-effective option for soda drinkers.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase a cruise ship beverage package is a personal one. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. By carefully considering your drinking habits, the length of your cruise, the itinerary, the cost of individual drinks, and the various hidden costs and considerations, you can make an informed decision that is right for you. If you are a heavy drinker or prefer the convenience of an all-inclusive package, a beverage package may be a worthwhile investment. However, if you are a moderate drinker or prefer to control your spending on a day-to-day basis, paying as you go may be a better option. Regardless of your choice, remember to drink responsibly and enjoy your cruise vacation!