Cruise Drink Packages
How packages work, the rules that catch people out, and how to decide.
Compare Drinks OptionsCruise Drink Packages: The Questions to Settle First
Cruise drink packages are sold as freedom — order anything, sign nothing — and for some travelers they deliver exactly that. For others they cost more than the drinks they would ever have bought. The trick is knowing how packages work on your line before you decide.
What Is Usually Included Without a Package
- Water, basic coffee and tea, and some juices at breakfast.
- On some lines, lemonade or iced tea in the buffet.
- On some premium and luxury lines, wine and beer with lunch and dinner — Viking ocean ships, for example.
- On luxury lines such as Regent, nearly all beverages.
Types of Packages
| Package type | Typically covers | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Soda or refreshment | Sodas, juices, and on some lines specialty coffee | Non-drinkers and families |
| Coffee card | A set number of specialty coffees | Coffee lovers who do not want a full package |
| Alcohol / deluxe | Cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, sodas and specialty coffee, usually up to a per-drink price cap | Regular drinkers through the whole cruise |
| Wine bottle package | A set number of bottles to use at dinner | Couples who drink wine with dinner |
Packages commonly exclude premium bottles, room service drinks, mini-bar items and drinks above the price cap. Each line publishes its own list.
The Rules That Catch People Out
Same-cabin rule
Many lines require every adult in a cabin to buy the alcohol package if one does.
Whole-cruise rule
Packages are usually sold for every day of the cruise, not just the days you want them.
Service charges
A service charge is often added to the package price.
Pre-cruise pricing
Lines often price packages differently before sailing than on board. Check both.
Drink Package Questions
Is a cruise drink package worth it?
Only if you would otherwise buy enough drinks every day to pass the package’s daily cost. Count realistically — port days, early nights and the drinks that are included anyway.
Can my partner and I buy different packages?
Often not. Royal Caribbean, for example, requires everyone of legal drinking age in a stateroom to buy its Deluxe Beverage Package if one does. Several other lines have similar rules. Check before you plan on just one.
Can I share a package?
No. Packages are for one guest; Royal Caribbean states this in its policy, and other lines follow the same principle.
Can I bring my own wine?
Many lines allow a limited amount of wine or champagne at embarkation, sometimes with a corkage fee if you drink it in a restaurant. Spirits and beer are usually not allowed.
Find a Fare With Drinks Included
Some promotions and some lines include drinks. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will compare them with buying a package and send free quotes.
Compare Drinks Options