One of the most common questions I get from cruise clients is:
“Should I buy the drink package?”
The answer is… it depends.
Cruise lines do a great job marketing beverage packages, and for some travelers they can be a fantastic value. For others, they can end up being an unnecessary expense.
Before you spend hundreds of dollars on a package, let’s look at what you’re actually getting and whether it makes sense for your travel style.
What Is a Cruise Drink Package?
One thing many first-time cruisers don’t realize is that there isn’t just one type of drink package.
In fact, beverage package options vary quite a bit from one cruise line to another.
Some cruise lines offer an all-inclusive beverage package that includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks under one plan. Others offer multiple package tiers so guests can choose what fits their preferences and budget.
Depending on the cruise line, you may find options such as:
Soda Packages
These packages typically include unlimited fountain sodas and soft drinks throughout your cruise.
Best for:
✔ Soda drinkers
✔ Families with children
✔ Guests who don’t drink alcohol
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Packages
Often called Refreshment, Zero-Proof, or Mocktail Packages, these plans may include:
✔ Mocktails
✔ Specialty coffees
✔ Premium teas
✔ Bottled water
✔ Fresh juices
✔ Energy drinks
✔ Sodas
These are a great option for travelers who want more than basic beverages but don’t plan to consume alcohol.
Water Packages
Some cruise lines allow guests to pre-purchase bottled water packages that are delivered directly to their cabin.
These packages are ideal for travelers who like having bottled water available throughout the cruise without paying individually for each bottle.
Alcohol Beverage Packages
These are the packages most people think about when discussing drink packages.
Depending on the cruise line, they may include:
✔ Beer
✔ Wine by the glass
✔ Cocktails
✔ Frozen drinks
✔ Spirits
✔ Specialty coffees
✔ Soda
✔ Bottled water
Many cruise lines also place limits on drink prices, daily quantities, or premium liquor selections, so it’s important to review the details carefully.
Premium Beverage Packages
Some cruise lines offer upgraded tiers that include:
✔ Higher-end liquor brands
✔ Premium wines
✔ Top-shelf cocktails
✔ Expanded specialty beverage options
These packages are often popular with travelers who enjoy premium brands or specialty cocktails.
Because every cruise line structures its beverage packages differently, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best package depends on the cruise line, your drinking habits, your itinerary, and your vacation style.
When a Drink Package Is Usually Worth It
For many travelers, a beverage package can provide convenience, peace of mind, and savings.
A drink package may be a good value if:
You Enjoy Several Drinks Throughout the Day
If you regularly enjoy cocktails by the pool, a glass of wine with dinner, and a few drinks during evening entertainment, the package can often pay for itself.
You Love Specialty Coffee
Many travelers forget how quickly specialty coffee purchases add up.
A morning latte, bottled water throughout the day, and a few alcoholic beverages can make the package worthwhile.
You Prefer a Prepaid Vacation
Some guests simply enjoy knowing most of their vacation expenses are already covered before they board the ship.
There’s something relaxing about not worrying about every drink purchase throughout the week.
You Don’t Want to Track Spending
Instead of constantly calculating costs, many cruisers appreciate being able to order what they want without signing receipts and keeping track of every charge.
When a Drink Package May Not Be Worth It
Not everyone needs a beverage package.
In fact, many of my clients cruise without one and are perfectly happy.
A package may not be the best value if:
You’re a Light Drinker
If you only enjoy an occasional cocktail or glass of wine, paying individually is often less expensive.
You Spend Most of Your Time in Port
If you’re off the ship exploring destinations all day, you’re not using the package during those hours.
You’re Not Interested in Alcohol
Some travelers mainly drink water, tea, and the complimentary beverages already included with their cruise fare.
In those cases, a package may not provide enough value to justify the cost.
You Don’t Drink Specialty Coffee or Soda
Many guests don’t realize how much of the package’s value comes from beverages beyond alcohol.
If those extras don’t interest you, the math changes significantly.
The Question I Ask Every Client
Instead of asking:
“Should I buy the drink package?”
I ask:
“How do you normally vacation?”
Do you enjoy relaxing poolside with a cocktail?
Do you start every day with specialty coffee?
Do you prefer knowing your costs upfront?
Or are you someone who only has an occasional drink?
Your habits matter much more than the cruise line’s marketing.
One mistake I see cruisers make is assuming every cruise line’s drink package works the same way. What makes sense on Royal Caribbean may not make sense on Carnival, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Celebrity, or another cruise line. That’s why I review the specific package options with my clients before they make a decision.
My Recommendation
I never recommend a beverage package simply because it’s available.
Before my clients purchase one, I help them estimate their actual onboard spending and compare it to the package cost.
Sometimes the package is an excellent value.
Sometimes paying as you go makes more sense.
The goal isn’t to buy more—it’s to spend smarter.
Final Thoughts
Cruise drink packages aren’t automatically good or bad.
When a Drink Package Makes Sense
Let’s say you enjoy a specialty coffee each morning, bottled water throughout the day, two frozen drinks by the pool, and a glass of wine with dinner. Depending on the cruise line, a beverage package may save you money and give you the convenience of knowing most of your onboard beverage costs are already covered.
When It Probably Doesn’t
If you only enjoy one cocktail in the evening and spend most days exploring ports, paying as you go is often the better value.
The best choice depends on your travel style, drinking habits, itinerary, and budget.
That’s one of the reasons I work closely with my clients before they sail. I help you understand the options so you can make the choice that’s right for you—not just the one the cruise line is advertising.
Ready to plan your next cruise?
I’d love to help you choose the right ship, itinerary, cabin, and onboard options for your vacation.
⚓ Visit: www.denisetaylortravels.com