What Is Included in a Cruise Drink Package?

One of the most common cruise questions travelers ask is:

👉 Is a cruise drink package worth it?

The answer depends on the cruise line, package price, what you drink, how many sea days you have, and what is already included with your cruise fare.

For some travelers, a drink package can make budgeting easier.

For others, it may cost more than simply paying for drinks one at a time.

Before buying a drink package, it helps to understand what may be included, what may cost extra, and how cruise-line rules can vary.

What Is a Cruise Drink Package?

A cruise drink package is a prepaid beverage plan that lets you enjoy certain drinks onboard without paying separately for each one.

Depending on the cruise line and package type, a drink package may include:

• Alcoholic drinks
• Cocktails
• Beer
• Wine by the glass
• Soda
• Specialty coffee
• Bottled water
• Energy drinks
• Mocktails
• Juice
• Smoothies
• Milkshakes
• Premium teas

Not every package includes every type of drink.

Cruise lines usually offer different package levels, so travelers should compare details before purchasing.

Types of Cruise Drink Packages

Most cruise lines offer more than one beverage package.

Common options may include:

• Alcoholic drink package
• Soda package
• Non-alcoholic refreshment package
• Specialty coffee package
• Bottled water package
• Wine package
• Kids beverage package

The names and rules vary by cruise line, but the idea is the same: you pay ahead for access to certain drinks during your sailing.

Alcoholic Drink Packages

Alcoholic drink packages are usually the most talked-about cruise beverage option.

These packages may include:

• Cocktails
• Mixed drinks
• Beer
• Wine by the glass
• Spirits
• Frozen drinks
• Some mocktails
• Soda or non-alcoholic drinks, depending on the cruise line
• Bottled water or specialty coffee, depending on the package

Some cruise lines set a maximum drink price that is included.

If a drink costs more than the package limit, you may have to pay the difference or buy that drink separately.

Soda Packages

Soda packages are popular with travelers who drink soft drinks regularly.

A soda package may include:

• Fountain soda
• Certain canned sodas
• Club soda
• Tonic water
• Other soft drinks

This may be a good option for families, teens, or adults who want soda throughout the cruise without paying per drink.

Parents should compare the cost carefully, especially if only one or two sodas a day are expected.

Non-Alcoholic Refreshment Packages

Some cruise lines offer non-alcoholic drink packages that include more than soda.

These may include:

• Mocktails
• Specialty coffee
• Bottled water
• Fresh juice
• Smoothies
• Premium teas
• Soda
• Energy drinks

This can be a good option for travelers who do not drink alcohol but still want more variety than the basic included drinks.

Specialty Coffee Packages

Specialty coffee may not always be included with the basic cruise fare.

Depending on the cruise line, specialty coffee packages or coffee cards may include:

• Lattes
• Cappuccinos
• Espresso
• Iced coffee
• Specialty teas
• Coffee-shop beverages

For travelers who want specialty coffee every morning, this type of package may be worth comparing.

For travelers who are fine with regular included coffee, it may not be necessary.

Bottled Water Packages

Some travelers like to purchase bottled water packages before or during the cruise.

These can be helpful for:

• Shore excursions
• Hot-weather destinations
• Keeping water in the cabin
• Families with kids
• Travelers who prefer bottled water
• Medication needs

Some beverage packages include bottled water, while others do not.

Always check the specific package details.

Are Basic Drinks Included Without a Package?

Most cruises include some basic beverages with the cruise fare.

These may include options like:

• Water
• Regular coffee
• Hot tea
• Lemonade
• Iced tea
• Some juices at breakfast

Included drinks vary by cruise line, ship, venue, and sailing.

Specialty drinks, bottled drinks, alcoholic drinks, soda, and specialty coffee may cost extra unless included in a package or promotion.

What Is Usually Not Included in a Drink Package?

Even when you buy a drink package, some items may still cost extra.

Depending on the cruise line, exclusions may include:

• Drinks above a certain price limit
• Bottles of wine
• Full bottles of liquor
• Mini-bar items
• Room service beverages
• Souvenir cups
• Specialty tasting events
• Certain premium spirits
• Drinks from private islands or partner venues
• Drinks in certain onboard experiences

This is why travelers should read the details before buying.

The word “unlimited” does not always mean every beverage everywhere with no restrictions.

Do Cruise Drink Packages Have Limits?

Some cruise lines may have daily drink limits, price limits, time restrictions, or venue restrictions.

Possible rules may include:

• Maximum number of alcoholic drinks per day
• Maximum dollar amount per drink
• Only one drink at a time
• Waiting period between drink orders
• Package must be purchased for the full cruise
• Package cannot be shared
• Some venues may be excluded
• Gratuities or service charges may be added

Rules can vary a lot by cruise line, so always confirm the current package terms before purchasing.

Does Everyone in the Cabin Have to Buy the Drink Package?

On some cruise lines, if one adult in a cabin purchases an alcoholic drink package, other adults in the same cabin may also be required to purchase it.

This rule is designed to prevent package sharing.

However, rules vary by cruise line and situation.

Some cruise lines may allow exceptions for medical, pregnancy, religious, or recovery-related reasons, but those exceptions are not guaranteed and must be confirmed directly with the cruise line.

Before buying, review the policy for your exact sailing.

Are Gratuities Included in Drink Packages?

Sometimes gratuities or service charges are included in the advertised package price.

Other times, they are added at checkout.

This matters because the final cost may be higher than the price shown at first.

Before purchasing a package, check:

• Daily package price
• Service charge or gratuity
• Total number of cruise days
• Whether taxes apply in certain ports
• Whether the package must be purchased for the full sailing

The true cost is the total cost, not just the daily rate.

How to Decide If a Drink Package Is Worth It

To decide if a drink package is worth it, estimate what you would realistically drink each day.

Consider:

• Morning specialty coffee
• Bottled water
• Soda
• Mocktails
• Beer
• Wine
• Cocktails
• Evening drinks
• Sea days vs port days
• Personal drinking habits
• Package price
• Added gratuities or service charges

If you would naturally drink enough covered beverages each day, the package may make sense.

If not, paying per drink may be cheaper.

When a Drink Package May Be Worth It

A drink package may be worth considering if:

• You drink several beverages per day
• You enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer
• You want specialty coffee and bottled water
• You have several sea days
• You like predictable budgeting
• You want to try different drinks
• You do not want to think about each charge
• A promotion includes the package at a good value

For some travelers, the convenience is just as important as the savings.

When a Drink Package May Not Be Worth It

A drink package may not be worth it if:

• You drink very little alcohol
• You mostly drink included beverages
• You have many port days
• You do not drink soda or specialty coffee
• You prefer paying as you go
• You are traveling on a tight budget
• You do not want to feel pressured to “get your money’s worth”
• The package must be purchased by multiple adults in the cabin

Nobody needs to turn a vacation into a math exam with a cocktail umbrella.

If the package makes you feel pressured to drink more than you normally would, it may not be the best choice.

Drink Packages for Families

Families should compare beverage packages carefully.

Parents may want to consider:

• Soda packages for kids or teens
• Non-alcoholic refreshment packages
• Bottled water packages
• Whether kids mostly drink included beverages
• How many sea days are on the itinerary
• Whether everyone needs the same package
• Total cost for the whole family

A package that seems affordable for one person can become expensive when multiplied across several travelers.

Drink Packages for Couples

Couples should think about their normal vacation habits.

A drink package may work well for couples who enjoy:

• Cocktails by the pool
• Wine with dinner
• Specialty coffee
• Bottled water
• Mocktails
• Evening lounges
• Predictable budgeting

But if one person drinks often and the other does not, package rules may affect whether it makes sense.

Couples should check whether both adults in the cabin are required to purchase the same package.

Drink Packages for Short Cruises

Drink packages on short cruises can feel tempting because the trip is quick and festive.

They may work well for:

• Weekend getaways
• Birthday cruises
• Friend trips
• Celebration cruises
• Couples’ getaways

However, short cruises can also move fast.

Travelers should consider whether they will actually use the package enough to justify the cost.

Drink Packages for Longer Cruises

On longer cruises, a drink package may provide convenience, but the total cost can add up.

For longer sailings, consider:

• Number of sea days
• Number of port days
• Personal drink habits
• Whether drinks are included in a promotion
• Total package cost for the full cruise
• Whether you want flexibility

On port-heavy itineraries, travelers may spend much of the day off the ship, which can reduce package value.

Drink Packages on Port Days

Port days matter when deciding if a drink package is worth it.

If you leave the ship early and return late, you may not use the package as much that day.

On sea days, travelers usually spend more time onboard and may use beverage packages more often.

Before buying, look at the itinerary and ask:

• How many sea days are included?
• How long are the port days?
• Will I be off the ship most of the day?
• Will I use the package at dinner and in the evening?

The itinerary can change the value.

Can You Share a Cruise Drink Package?

No, drink packages are generally intended for the person who purchased them.

Sharing a package with another traveler is usually not allowed.

Cruise lines may monitor purchases and can revoke package privileges if sharing is suspected.

If multiple travelers want drinks, each person should follow the cruise line’s rules for their package.

Can You Buy a Drink Package After Boarding?

Some cruise lines allow travelers to purchase drink packages before sailing or during the early part of the cruise.

However, pricing, availability, and purchase deadlines can vary.

Some cruise lines may offer pre-cruise pricing that differs from onboard pricing.

If you know you want a package, compare options before departure.

Are Drink Packages Cheaper Before the Cruise?

Sometimes cruise lines offer pre-cruise pricing, promotions, or discounts on beverage packages.

But this varies by cruise line and sailing.

Before buying, compare:

• Pre-cruise price
• Onboard price
• Promotional offers
• Service charges
• What is included
• Package rules
• Cancellation or refund terms

Do not assume the price will always be better later.

Drink Package Budget Example

Here is a simple way to think about it.

Ask yourself:

• How many drinks will I realistically have each day?
• How much would those drinks cost individually?
• Does the package include what I actually drink?
• Will I be onboard enough to use it?
• Is gratuity or service charge already included?
• Will everyone in the cabin need to buy it?

If the daily value of what you would normally drink is close to or higher than the package cost, it may be worth considering.

If not, paying as you go may be better.

Common Drink Package Mistakes to Avoid

Try to avoid:

• Buying without reading the rules
• Forgetting added gratuities or service charges
• Assuming every drink is included
• Ignoring price limits
• Forgetting port days
• Buying because of pressure, not value
• Assuming packages can be shared
• Forgetting that cabin rules may apply
• Not comparing non-alcoholic options
• Ignoring what drinks are already included

A drink package can be useful, but only if it fits how you actually travel.

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Drink Package

Before purchasing, ask:

• What drinks are included?
• What drinks are excluded?
• Is there a daily limit?
• Is there a price cap per drink?
• Are gratuities included or added?
• Does every adult in the cabin need to buy it?
• Can I buy it before sailing?
• Can I cancel it if I change my mind?
• Does it work on private islands or all venues?
• Will I be onboard enough to use it?
• Am I buying for convenience, savings, or both?

These questions can help travelers avoid surprises.

Why Working With a Travel Advisor Helps

A travel advisor can help travelers understand the bigger cruise budget.

That includes more than just the cruise fare.

A travel advisor can help compare:

• Cruise fare
• Taxes and port fees
• Gratuities
• Drink packages
• Wi-Fi
• Specialty dining
• Excursions
• Travel protection
• Parking or flights
• Pre-cruise hotels

Drink packages are just one piece of the total vacation cost.

Understanding the full picture helps travelers plan with confidence.

🎯 Pro Tip

Do not buy a drink package just because someone else said it was worth it.

Ask whether it is worth it for you.

Your cruise line, itinerary, sea days, drink habits, cabin rules, and budget all matter.

The best package is the one that fits your actual vacation style.

📞 Need Help Understanding Cruise Costs?

Durham Getaways helps travelers in Spring, TX and the Houston area plan cruises, compare cruise costs, understand extras like drink packages, and choose vacations that fit their budget and travel style.

💌 Tony@DurhamGetaways.org
📞 346-497-5908
🌐 DurhamGetaways.org

Drink package options, prices, gratuities, service charges, rules, limits, and included beverages can vary by cruise line, ship, itinerary, promotion, and sailing date. Always confirm current details before purchasing.