Cruise Drink Package Prices by Cruise Line (2026 Guide)

One of the questions I hear most often from my cruise clients is: “Should I buy the drink package?”

The answer isn't always yes. A drink package can save you hundreds of dollars — or end up being money you never use. Before you decide, it helps to see what each cruise line actually charges. Here's what I tell my clients before they book.

Typical Drink Package Prices by Cruise Line (2026)

Prices change frequently, especially during promotions, but these are good estimates when purchased before sailing.

Prices vary by sailing, destination, season, and promotions.

Which Cruise Lines Include Drinks?

Several cruise lines offer fares that include beverages or bundle them with other perks.

• Princess Cruises offers Princess Plus and Princess Premier, which include drinks along with Wi-Fi, crew appreciation, and other benefits.
• Celebrity Cruises often sells “All Included” fares with drinks and Wi-Fi.
• Norwegian Cruise Line frequently includes a beverage package through promotional offers.
• Virgin Voyages takes a different approach and uses prepaid Bar Tabs rather than unlimited drink packages.

At first glance these fares may seem more expensive, but when you add up everything included, they can actually provide excellent value for many travelers. I always compare both options before recommending one — the same way I help clients weigh which cruise line fits their style in the first place.

The Biggest Misunderstandings About Drink Packages

These are the things that surprise clients most often.

The advertised price isn't the final price

Most cruise lines add gratuities (typically around 18–20%) to the package cost.

Everyone in the cabin may have to buy it

Many cruise lines require every adult sharing the same stateroom to purchase the same alcoholic beverage package if one adult buys it. There are exceptions for medical, religious, or other approved circumstances, but approval varies by cruise line.

You're paying for every day of the cruise

Even if you're in port most of the day and barely drink onboard, you'll still pay for every cruise day — including embarkation day and sea days.

When Does a Drink Package Actually Pay Off?

My general guideline is simple. A beverage package usually makes financial sense if you expect to enjoy several drinks throughout the day.

For example, in one day you might have:

• Specialty coffee
• Fresh juice or soda
• Two cocktails by the pool
• A glass of wine with dinner
• An after-dinner drink
• Bottled water throughout the day

When those purchases are added together, many travelers can reach the cost of the package. If you'll mostly drink water, coffee, and maybe one cocktail at dinner, paying as you go is usually the better choice. (I break down that math in more detail in my guide to whether a cruise drink package is worth it.)

Two Real-World Examples

The client who regretted buying it

A couple purchased the premium package because they thought they would drink all day. Instead, they spent most of their cruise exploring ports, were off the ship for long excursions, and only had one or two drinks each evening. They would have spent far less ordering drinks individually.

The client who saved money

Another couple loved specialty coffees every morning, bottled water, fresh juices, cocktails by the pool, wine with dinner, and premium coffees after meals. By the third day, they had already exceeded what they would have spent paying individually. For them, the package was absolutely worth it.

Should You Buy Before the Cruise or Onboard?

Almost always, I recommend purchasing before the cruise if you've already decided you want the package. Cruise lines frequently offer online discounts before sailing, while onboard prices are often higher.

I also encourage clients to watch for flash sales after booking, because many cruise lines allow you to cancel and repurchase the package if the price drops before the cruise. Keeping an eye on timing matters here, just like it does when you're deciding the best time to book the cruise itself.

Fine Print to Watch

Every cruise line has different rules. Some limit:

• Maximum value per individual drink
• Premium liquor brands
• Specialty restaurants
• Starbucks or branded coffee shops
• Bottled wine
• Mini-bar items
• Room service beverages

Always read exactly what your package includes before purchasing.

When I Recommend Skipping the Package

I usually suggest skipping it if you:

• Rarely drink alcohol
• Spend long days ashore
• Prefer one drink with dinner
• Are traveling on a budget
• Don't enjoy specialty coffees or soft drinks

Instead, I often recommend simply paying for drinks individually. Many clients spend much less this way.

What's Changed Recently?

Over the past year, most major cruise lines have continued increasing drink package prices. Several lines have also adjusted package tiers and included brands, making it even more important to compare options before booking.

The good news is that promotions still appear regularly, especially before sailing, and those discounts can significantly reduce the cost.

My Advice as a Travel Advisor

A drink package isn't automatically a good deal — and it isn't automatically a waste of money either. The best choice depends on your travel style, how much time you'll spend onboard, what you like to drink, and which cruise line you're sailing with.

When I help clients plan a cruise, I compare the numbers before recommending a package. Sometimes it's an easy “yes.” Other times, paying as you go saves hundreds of dollars. It's the same care I put into helping clients choose the right cabin so every part of the trip fits how they actually travel.