Planning a cruise vacation comes with many decisions, and one of the biggest for many is whether to purchase a beverage package. While the convenience of unlimited drinks might sound appealing, the real value depends on your specific drinking habits and travel style. Let’s break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Understanding Cruise Drink Prices

Before deciding on a package, it’s helpful to know typical drink prices on cruise ships:

• Cocktails: $10-14 (many packages cap at $13 per drink)
• Beer: $7-8
• Wine by the glass: $9-25
• Soda: $3.25
• Bottled water: $2.25-3.25
• Specialty coffee: $6-8
• Daily special cocktail: $8

Key Factors to Consider

1. Sea Days vs. Port Days
   One crucial consideration is your itinerary. While you might enjoy multiple drinks during relaxing sea days, you’ll likely consume less on port days when exploring destinations for 8+ hours. Remember: you pay for the package even when you’re off the ship.
2. Your Drinking Habits
   Be honest about your typical consumption. You’ll need to drink enough to offset the daily cost to make the package worthwhile. Consider:
   1. How many drinks do you typically enjoy per day?
   2. Do you prefer premium brands or are you satisfied with standard options? Be sure to look at the package offerings to see if your favorite brands are included.
   3. Will you use it for non-alcoholic beverages like specialty coffee and bottled water?
3. Package Restrictions
   Be aware of important limitations:
   1. Most packages cap drink prices at around $13
   2. Some cruise lines (like Carnival) impose daily drink limits
   3. Packages typically must be purchased for the entire cruise duration
   4. All adults in the same cabin usually must purchase the package

Pro Tips for Making Your Decision

1. Monitor Pre-Cruise Sales: Cruise lines often offer discounted drink packages before sailing. Black Friday sales are generally the best sales of the year!
2. Consider Premium Benefits: Some packages include specialty coffee, fresh juices, and premium water brands.
3. Think About Convenience: There’s value in not tracking drink expenses or signing bills throughout your cruise.
4. Factor in Special Events: Consider any planned celebrations or group activities that might increase consumption.

The Bottom Line

A drink package isn’t automatically worth it for everyone. It’s best suited for:

• Cruisers who enjoy 5-6+ drinks daily
• Those who appreciate the convenience of a prepaid option
• Travelers spending more days at sea than in port
• People who enjoy premium coffees and non-alcoholic options

Skip the package if you:

• Plan to spend most days in port
• Drink moderately or occasionally
• Prefer to bring allowed beverages onboard
• Don’t drink alcohol

Remember, a vacation should be enjoyable without worrying about “getting your money’s worth.” Choose the option that allows you to relax and enjoy your cruise experience fully.