Are Cruise Line Drink Packages Worth It?
🍹 What’s Included in Cruise Line Drink Packages?
When you buy a cruise drink package, you’re getting more than just unlimited cocktails. Most packages include:
- Alcoholic Drinks: Beer, wine by the glass, and cocktails up to a set price.
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Sodas, specialty coffees, hot teas, bottled water, energy drinks, and sometimes smoothies.
For example, Carnival’s CHEERS! package covers all alcoholic drinks priced up to $20, along with sodas, zero-proof cocktails, specialty coffees, and bottled water.
(Source: Carnival)
💰 Average Cost of Cruise Drink Packages (2025)
Here’s what you can expect to pay per day:
| Cruise Line | Drink Package | Average Cost (Per Day) |
|---|---|---|
| Carnival Cruises | CHEERS! Package | $82.54 (includes 18% gratuity) |
| Royal Caribbean | Deluxe Beverage Package | $56–$115 (varies by sailing) |
| Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) | Unlimited Open Bar Package | $99 (plus 20% gratuity) |
(Sources: Carnival.com, Cruise.blog, Cruiseweb.com)
🍺 How Much Are Drinks If You Pay Per Drink?
Without a package, here’s what you’ll typically pay:
- Beer: $7–$9 each
- Vodka Soda: $10–$14
- Glass of House Wine: $9–$15
(Source: EmmaCruises.com, CruiseCritic forums)
📈 How Many Drinks Per Day Make a Package Worth It?
Let’s do the math for a 7-night cruise with 3 port days:
- Carnival CHEERS! total: $82.54/day × 7 days = $577.78 total
- If the average drink costs $10, you’d need to drink about 8 drinks per day to break even.
- On port days, you may drink less since you’re off the ship — but packages also include coffee, sodas, and energy drinks, which add daily value.
Rule of thumb:
If you drink 5–8 alcoholic drinks a day, plus a couple of specialty coffees or bottled waters, the drink package is likely worth it.
If you only drink a cocktail at dinner, it’s probably better to pay per drink.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Cruise Drink Package?
Cruise drink packages are totally worth it for heavy beverage drinkers, coffee lovers, and anyone who wants vacation to feel worry-free.
If you’re a light or moderate drinker — or planning to spend long days exploring in port — paying per drink could save you money.
Either way, knowing your drinking habits before you sail will help you make the smartest decision!
I found this FREE calculator for you to use which will help you make the decision. I am not affiliated with the application creator/owner but sharing to help others.
