Princess Cruises Drink Packages

Princess Cruises Drink Packages: A Sip or Skip?

Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a soda sipper, Princess Cruises has you covered with their drink packages. But like a good cocktail, there’s a mix of ingredients to consider here. I’m talking package types, pricing, what’s included and excluded, and whether these packages really deliver bang for your buck.

Princess Cruises Drink Package Types and Pricing

Princess Cruises offers three main drink packages: the Premier Beverage Package, the Premier Coffee & Soda Package, and the Zero-Alcohol Package. Let’s break these down faster than you can say “cheers.”

• Premier Beverage Package: Priced at about $70 per day (plus an 18% gratuity because, of course), this package includes all cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, beer, specialty coffees, and bottled water up to $12 per drink. You also score discounts on bottles of wine under $100.
• Premier Coffee & Soda Package: At around $25 per day (plus that infamous 18% gratuity), this one is for the caffeine and sugar fanatics. It covers specialty coffees, teas, sodas, and mocktails.
• Zero-Alcohol Package: For those who prefer their fun without the booze, this package goes for about $25 per day. You’ll enjoy sodas, fruit juices, specialty coffees, teas, and mocktails.

What’s Included vs. Excluded

Princess Cruises likes to dangle some pretty shiny things in front of you but, beware, not everything is included.

• Included: Cocktails, spirits, wine up to $12, beer, specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, fresh juices, energy drinks, and smoothies.
• Excluded: Mini-bar items, bottled wine over $100, souvenir glassware, and room service beverages. Got your eye on a specific vintage? Expect to pay extra for that bottle of Château Fancy-Pants.

The Math: When Does the Package Pay for Itself?

The million-dollar question: When does it make sense to dish out for a drink package? Let’s do some quick calculations. To break even on the Premier Beverage Package, you’d need to down around six $12 drinks a day. That’s a breakfast mimosa, a poolside piña colada, a pre-dinner cocktail, two glasses of wine with dinner, and a nightcap.

If you’re going for the Premier Coffee & Soda Package, think about whether you’ll be chugging more than a couple of specialty coffees and sodas every day. If the answer is yes, the package might be for you; otherwise, just pay as you go.

Specialty Drink Markups

Cruise lines can be sneaky with pricing, and Princess is no exception. While a cocktail on land might set you back $8, on board you’re looking at $10 to $12. Think twice before buying that $10 latte; it’s not made with magic beans.

Non-Alcoholic Options

Princess Cruises doesn’t overlook the sober sailors. The non-alcoholic drink packages give you access to an array of mocktails, fresh juices, and those fancy lattes that make you feel like a barista blessed your morning. They’re great, but if you’re not consuming at least five specialty drinks daily, it’s not worth shelling out for the package.

Sharing Rules and Loopholes

Now here’s where things get dicey. Sharing is a big no-no in the cruise world. If caught, you’ll face the wrath of the cruise gods (or just a hefty charge on your account). However, a little-known hack involves strategically choosing who in your party buys a package. Got a teen who drinks espresso like it’s water? A non-alcoholic package might be worth it for them. Just keep the party out of the cabin and no one will be the wiser.

Tips and Hacks to Get the Most Out of Your Package

Here’s where you can outsmart the system without breaking the rules (or the bank).

• Bar Crawl Your Way to Value: Spread your drinking across the ship. Each bar has a unique menu and special drinks. Make it a mission to try every bar’s signature cocktail.
• Early Birds, Rejoice: Most people think of drink packages as a nighttime deal, but don’t forget those brunch mimosas and afternoon iced coffees.
• Double Up: Ask for a double pour on your cocktails. You’re paying for it, after all.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the hidden costs and possible price hikes, plus check for any promotions or pre-cruise discounts Princess might offer.