Drink Packages Comparison Chart
This chart shows a comparison of several similar drink packages on popular cruise lines. The choice is yours whether to go with a package or a la carte pricing. This post will discuss some of the factors that will weigh into your decision. Your travel professional can offer some additional guidance.
Before we get into the pros & cons, you need to understand that not all beverage packages are alike. You will want to ask for the current package pricing options. Sometimes there are discounts available if you purchase them prior to your cruise. But, the most important question will undoubtedly be "Is a Package Right For You on This Cruise?"
Common Considerations
Most packages have a maximum number of drinks allowed each day of your cruise. In most cases, that's around 15 drinks. That sounds like a lot of drinks, and for some people it would be, but keep in mind it may include soda, bottled water, and specialty coffees as well as beer, wine, and cocktails.
Your beverage consumption habits will dictate the value you will get on a daily basis. Soda will be around $1.50 while some cocktails and wine will be $13 or more. There is also a maximum drink price which varies by cruise line, so you could still end up with a bar tab over and above the package depending on your drink selection and the number of drinks you order on a given day.
Let's Do Some Math
You can see from the chart that most packages average around $60. Figuring 15 drinks per day, that gives us a $4 per drink cost. The more drinks that you purchase priced over $4, the larger the value you receive by selecting the package over pay as you go pricing.
Cruise Length & Itinerary Impact
If you are on a cruise with several sea days, you'll get more value with a beverage package, since you'll be spending more time onboard the ship. On the other hand, a port intensive cruise, like a Mediterranean cruise, might not offer sufficient time onboard to take advantage of a package. The destination may also factor into the benefit realized from any beverage package. You'll drink a lot more in hot and humid Caribbean than in Alaska.
Consider All Your Options
We've only compared the deluxe beverage options here. Sometimes, a cheaper package may be the right choice for your cruise if you don't plan on consuming the higher end beverages. If you drink beer, but don't think you want to consume 15 drinks a day, you might just purchase a bucket of beer or similar offer as you go.
Keep in mind that in most cases, if one passenger in the cabin purchases a package, all others in the cabin must have one as well. Norwegian Cruise Line takes that a step further, your children, that you hid away across the hallway in an inside cabin, will also need a soda package.
Opportunity to Experiment
You are sitting poolside when you spot an exotic cocktail walking by you on its way to another passenger. The waiter asks you if you want to try one. If you have a beverage package, you say, sure why not. Without a package, you might not be willing to experiment; you'd stay with your old faithful choice instead.
Hopefully we've given you a better understanding of cruise beverage packages. We suggest keeping watch on your emails prior to your cruise because you may find an offer you just can't refuse. Regardless of whether you purchase a package or individual drinks on your next cruise, please drink responsibly so that you and your traveling companions can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Cruise lines are offering special promotions and pricing on popular cruises to encourage consumers to plan their next cruise vacation now. We'll be featuring promotions on our website and social media.
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