Should I Buy the Cruise Drink Package? Maybe. Maybe Not.

Are cruise drink packages worth it? This is a common question that pops up for travelers when planning their cruise vacation. The adult drink package for Carnival Cruises starts at $59.95 per person per day, for example. Royal Caribbean’s cruise drink packages will run you about the same. For those debating whether the cruise drink package on your upcoming cruise is worth the cost, let’s dive into the 5 key reasons it is worth it AND 5 reasons it might not be worth it.

Don’t buy the drink package on your cruise if:

1. The cost is too high! Cruise drink packages can add a significant expense to your cruise fare. If you don’t anticipate consuming a large number (we are talking like more than 6 per day) it may be more cost-effective to skip the package and pay per drink.
2. You only plan to consume a few drinks during your cruise. A drink package may not provide enough value to justify the cost. Paying for drinks individually might be more economical in such cases. (Pro Tip: you can pre-purchase drinks or bottles of liquor for your stateroom with most cruise lines).
3. You prefer higher end or specialty drinks. Some cruise drink packages have exclusions for premium or specialty beverages, such as high-end wines, top-shelf spirits, or craft cocktails. If you have a preference for these types of drinks, you may need to pay extra even with a package. Just be sure to understand when is included with your package.
4. You plan to spend port days off the ship. On days when the ship is docked in a port, you might spend a significant amount of time exploring the destination and not be on the ship to take full advantage of the cruise drink package. Be sure to know your ports, if you are going to a private island owned by your cruise line you may be able to still use your drink package.
5. You’re traveling with someone who doesn’t consume alcohol. Some cruise lines will still make all adults in the stateroom purchase the same tier package. There are a few lines that will allow you to choose different packages for someone that doesn’t drink.

You should buy the drink package if:

1. You plan to enjoy several beverages each day. Cruise drink packages often offer significant savings (if you plan to have more than 6 drinks) compared to buying individual drinks onboard. A cruise drink package can help you stick to a budget.
2. You value simplicity and convenience. Having a drink package you can simply present your cruise card and get your drink of choice. No waiting for a bill. Just order and go. It can’t get any easier than that!
3. You enjoy drinks other than water and basic juices. Most drink packages cover a wide range of beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. You can choose from cocktails, beers, wines, soft drinks, and specialty coffees! Maybe you’re not a big alcohol consumer but love to enjoy quality coffee throughout the day. Some cruise drink packages are required to enjoy any “premium” drink not just adult beverages.
4. You enjoy trying different cocktails. A drink package encourages you to try different drinks and explore new flavors without worrying about the cost. It’s a great opportunity to discover new favorites and expand your palate.
5. You want to explore all the different bars and lounges. Cruise ships offer numerous bars and lounges, each with its own ambiance and specialty drinks. With a drink package, you can visit various venues and savor the unique atmospheres and beverages they offer.

For us, the cruise drink package for alcohol has never been worth it. Between my wife and I we might enjoy a few cocktails throughout the entire cruise, but never enough to justify the cost. I prefer to either bring wine or other beverages onboard (many cruise lines allow you to bring a bottle of wine or two per adult at no cost) or pre-order a couple 6- or 12-packs of my favorite seltzer or beer and have it in my stateroom when I board.

But there are many, many people who want to kick back and relax and enjoy their fair share of alcoholic drinks while on vacation. If that’s you, simply do the math on how many drinks you’d need to consume per day (assume $10-15 per drink depending on your choice of beverage). If that number sounds reasonable to you, go for it. Enjoy your vacation!

If you’re looking for other great cruise tips, tricks, and must-know information check out all our cruise posts!