Okay, so many vloggers have discussed the rising cost of cruises and the decrease of included services. How do you choose which pricey add-ons are worthwhile in light of rising prices? So, today we’ve decided to focus on one of the significant extra fees that most cruise lines pitch. Yep, the beverage packages. Is this increased cost justified? Well, that depends entirely on your expectations…Let’s discuss it.
Currently, one of the most popular vacation options is cruising. There is no other place where you can enjoy an all-inclusive experience, including a cabin, meals, swimming pools, hot tubs, slides, visiting ports of call, and a private island retreat. However, the number of cruise lines offering “a la carte” add-on deals, services, and packages on cruise itineraries is rising. That last bit, let me clarify.
Nevertheless, the base cruise fare includes a lot. Although, beverages might not be. Onboard beverages, especially alcohol, are often offered as an a la carte item. Unless you have a beverage package, that is. One of the most expensive and in-demand vacation add-ons is this one. Therefore, we have compiled a “basic” quick reference guide for your use. We will discuss some of the most well-known cruise lines that provide alcoholic drink/beverage packages.
FIRST – Please Note the following – In this review, we only cover the “general overview” and exclude any discounts, specials, or all-inclusive cruise line beverage packages. These discounts are particular to each cruise line and are frequently updated. The base price per person per day (PPPD) for those significant cruise lines is the subject of this review. The cruise line(s) reserves the right to alter any and all information, including prices, without prior notice.
Deep breath…with that, let’s have a peak…
Calculating the cost and limitations of an add-on beverage package can take time and effort. It may even feel completely overwhelming. Therefore, let’s begin with a general definition of package types for cruise lines. They all have elaborate names and specific definitions, as you might expect. We’ll talk about three tiers of beverage packages for this discussion. Remember that this is only a general review. Still, it will assist you in determining whether a package will be a good deal for your cruise.
- “Top Shelf” or “Premium” Drink Package – is for those with a sophisticated taste for spirits. The connoisseur. This package includes most of the upper-end spirits, wines, and cocktails brands. It also will cover – non-alcoholic beverages/teas and coffee/juices (usually most beverages sold onboard the ship). The ultimate package is the costliest onboard.
- “Classic” or “Signature” Drink Package – is for the average person who likes to indulge in the more commonly known alcohol name brands. Typically, serving common name brand spirits/wines/cocktails/ non-alcoholic beverages/teas and coffee/juices (usually any beverage sold onboard the ship at a specific price point) excludes exclusive or premium labels and some specialty drinks).
- Non-Alcoholic Drink Package – We give an honorable mention for the nonalcohol beverage package. This package is for those who seek unlimited access to sodas/juices/water brands (except premium brands)/ coffee and tea/mocktails (except some premium-label beverages).
- Note: “Some” cruise lines may also provide a specialty package for coffee drinkers as well.
With that said, here is the list of basic beverage package cost:
Deep breath; as you can see, there are quite a few price points and package differences by the cruise line. A word of caution, make sure to review package details. FYI – also make sure to take note of the often-lengthy list of exclusions (tax) and extra costs (gratuities) on most beverage packages. ‘READ THE FINE PRINT!’ Please, please, please, only review beverage package details on the cruise line(s) official website.
This add-on cost can be pretty hefty, so do your homework. You’ll be glad you did. So, you may be asking, “So, how do I know if a beverage package is right for me? Yes, well, this is where it can get very subjective. It depends on your drinking habits and how much you are willing to spend. Obviously, we can’t eliminate all your questions. However, we can see if a package is worth the cost for you…keep reading to see if purchasing a beverage package is in your favor.
Let’s face it, after COVID, the cruise industry underwent many huge changes, including its drink package prices and offerings. First, we will review some ‘Know before you Go’ notable general provisions across all cruise lines.
- Guests must be 21 or older to purchase and agree not to give to minors. “All” guests must adhere to this restriction. The only exception is – The minimum age for a guest to drink or possess alcoholic beverages on ships sailing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand is 18. NOTE: In all other cases, the drinking age is between 18 and 21, depending on the cruise’s home port, scheduled itinerary, and applicable local laws. Therefore, it is at the cruise line’s discretion. If you have further questions, refer to cruise line package details or ask your travel advisor about the details before sailing.
- The guest agrees to not provide or share drinks with other guests; violating this may result in the cancellation of the guest’s package, and the guest will not receive a refund or credit. Therefore, these packages are exclusive to each guest. Also, note it is typically required that each guest staying in a cabin must purchase a beverage package with the same or greater value on a sailing. So, everyone (within the drinking age limit must have his/her own package per cabin). Refer to the beverage package provision for the cruise line you are sailing.
- Brand selection is subject to availability and may change without notice. This is typical for most cruise lines as they determine “top shelf” selections. Therefore, it is at the cruise lines’ discretion over what is considered a premium spirit or wine.
- Standard Exclusions for Package(s): Do not include mini-bar items, room service, souvenir glassware (if applicable), specialty beers as listed on bar menus, or super premium category beverages. Packages may exclude Evian water (specialty waters), canned sodas, and bottled juice. Also, it is worth noting that specialty drink companies like Starbucks products may be excluded from beverage package offers. Again, each cruise line details what is and is not included in a beverage package. Refer to the terms and conditions of the cruise line you are sailing for complete information.
- “All” alcoholic beverage packages have a base price per drink. This will vary by package and cruise line. This is where you can determine whether a beverage pack will be a good fit for your sailing experience by applying a little simple math. Take this example:
Therefore, to break even on the daily cost of the beverage package, you will need to drink seven (7) drinks per day. NOTE: Most premium packages allow you more than alcoholic drinks, such as specialty teas, coffees, sodas, and water. Consider this when deciding over beverage packages, as this may make it worth the value if you are an avid tea, coffee, or fresh juice drinker. “Again, refer to the cruise line details over drink packages to ensure it matches your drinking habits and beverage needs.
Drinks that cost more than the core beverage price for your drink package. As you will find, drinks/beverages on board are at varying price points. Therefore, in some cases, your package may only cover part of the cost of a drink you desire. Should this occur, “most” cruise lines will simply charge you the difference in the price of a drink. For example – If the desired drink costs $13 and your drink package is for drinks $10 or less. The difference is $3. “Normally” additional costs are placed on your onboard account and billed to the room/cabin. Note: such charges may reflect other taxes, gratuities, and fees for specific ports, itineraries, and cruise line(s). Again, review the terms and conditions of the cruise line package you select to ensure what is or is not permissible when sailing.
As you can see, ensuring you find a suitable beverage package to enhance your sailing experience can be overwhelming. However, it is relatively easy so long as you understand the terms and conditions placed on packages and if your drink preference falls within the package limitations.
Again, to ensure you obtain a package that suits your tastes. Please speak with your travel advisor before making this purchase. That way, you will have peace of mind over selecting a package covering your needs and expectations.
A couple of honorable mention cruise lines – Virgin Voyages and Disney: Neither have a beverage package offering. However, here is how they handle the drink offerings onboard:
- Virgin Voyages provides guests with a Bar Tab option. A couple of items here – you must purchase them before sailing. The tab option starts at $300 (and continues in $300 increments). Some incidentals: the tab is used for beverage purchases for yourself. But it can also be used to purchase a drink for anyone else you wish to buy. It’s your “tab.” Should you exceed your tab total. It reverts to the individual purchase price of a drink and is charged to your sea/cabin account. Cruise line terms and conditions and/or Alcohol Policy (including taxes and gratuities) may apply.
- Disney does not have an alcoholic drink package. However, they do serve alcoholic beverages onboard their ships. Drinks purchased at bars and/or restaurants are a-al-carte. One consideration regarding alcohol is to bring your own. Disney allows for two bottles of wine or champagne (no larger than 750 ml) and/or a six-pack of beer (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. With meals, soft drinks are at no extra cost, while additional charges apply for bar drinks, beer, wine, and bottled water. There is no charge for soft drinks at the Beverage Stations around the ship.
- FYI: Cruise line terms and conditions and/or Alcohol Policy may apply (including taxes and gratuities).
Cruise lines constantly provide special offers and deals on beverage packages. So, refer to the cruise lines website for details and exclusions on such options for your next sailing. REMEMBER – If you need help, contact us for your next adventure. Together we can plan your next journey and will handle the details. As your travel concierge, we can ensure that all the fine details are handled on your cruise experience.
Add-on services can be a bit daunting, such as purchasing a beverage package – At ODDAT, we customize your needs and desire with expertise by guiding you through the murky waters of extra costs, add-on costs, and what is beneficial for your next sailing. And remember, our services are at no additional cost to you. We work closely with all our travel partners, like all the major cruise lines, to ensure you have smooth sailings.
Thank you for visiting – as we keep you informed of active travel changes to make the travel experiences stress-free.
Should you need help with your next travel adventure, go to odaatvacatons@gamil.com
Thank you for considering ODAAT Vacations for your personal and family travel needs. As your travel concierge, we aim to provide the best service, value, and deals in the industry.
Safe travels from us here at,
ODAAT
