The Real Cost of Cruise Drink Packages
Ah, the allure of a cruise drink package—a seemingly magical wristband that promises endless refills without the need to whip out your wallet every time you get thirsty. But before you set sail under the influence of fuzzy marketing promises, let’s dive deep and figure out if these packages actually float your financial boat. Spoiler alert: The answer isn’t always a resounding yes.
How Drink Packages Are Priced
Cruise drink packages are typically priced per person, per day, and often come with a hefty sticker shock. Here’s a look at some of the major players:
- Carnival: Around $59.95 per day plus 18% gratuity.
- Royal Caribbean: Varies widely but averages about $63 to $89 per day with gratuity.
- Norwegian: The Premium Beverage Package is about $99 per day including gratuity.
- Disney: Doesn’t offer a drink package, but alcohol packages for wine start at $89 for 3 bottles.
- MSC: Around €26 (roughly $30) for an Easy Package, escalating for premium options.
These prices don’t take into account port-intensive itineraries where you’ll be off the ship more often than on it. Keep in mind that the cruise lines want these packages to sound like a better value than they often are, especially after the third mojito hits.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Here’s the real tea: To make these packages worth your while, you need to drink a certain number of beverages per day. Here’s where it gets a bit mathy.
Cruise Line-Specific Break-Even Analysis
Let’s crunch some numbers, assuming an average cocktail price of $12 (which is generous, because reality bites):
- Carnival: At $59.95/day, you need about 5 drinks per day to break even.
- Royal Caribbean: Assuming a $75/day package, you’d need around 6 drinks per day.
- Norwegian: With a $99/day package, you’re looking at a hefty 8 drinks per day.
- MSC: At $30/day, you’d only need about 3 drinks, but remember, their package isn’t unlimited for top-shelf spirits.
Consider that sea days are when you’d likely sip more, and port days—if you’re out exploring—you likely will consume far less.
Factoring in the Non-Alcoholic Options
Most packages also include sodas, specialty coffees, and mocktails. If you’re someone who isn’t just about the booze, these additional inclusions can, in theory, help you hit your break-even point. But let’s be real, how many Frappuccinos can you guzzle before your caffeine-addled heart starts racing?
Hidden Costs and Restrictions
Yes, even the drink package comes with a few strings attached. Here’s a rundown of what you might not realize until it’s too late:
- Sharing is a No-Go: Cruise lines have strict policies against sharing drink packages. Be prepared to pay for each adult in the same stateroom to have a package, especially on lines like Royal Caribbean.
- Port Day Limitations: As previously noted, if you’re out late exploring Santorini, you’re missing out on those high-priced drinks included on board.
- Time Restrictions: Some lines won’t let you order drinks on the last night of your cruise, even though you paid for the package on a per-day basis.
For all the juicy details on extra fees and restrictions, check out our specialized pages for each line’s drink packages, like this one for Carnival Hidden Costs.
Should You Buy It or Skip It?
The drink package isn’t for everyone. Here’s a quick checklist to consider:
When It’s Worth It
- You plan to stay onboard during port days and make the most of those frozen daiquiris.
- You’re a soda or coffee fiend and plan to indulge in non-alcoholic drinks that are included.
- You’re on a short cruise where you plan to party hard every day and night.
When to Say No
- You have an itinerary packed with port days, leaving less time to sip away on board.
- Your idea of a drink is a glass of wine with dinner, not six mojitos a day.
- You don’t mind sticking to the included beverages like water, basic coffee, and juice.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, whether the drink package is worth it comes down to your drinking habits, travel itinerary, and how much you value convenience over cost. We’ve laid out the cold numbers, but remember, the cruise lines are banking on you overestimating how much you’ll drink.
For a detailed rundown of each cruise line’s offerings, navigate to our Cruise Line Dossiers. And while you’re at it, check out our Ship Rankings to avoid sipping your cocktail on a ship with a less-than-sterling cleanliness record. You’re welcome.
So next time you’re tempted by the sweet siren call of an all-you-can-drink package, do the math before you dive in headfirst. Or better yet, let your liver thank you by paying à la carte and putting that extra cash toward another cruise adventure.
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