When it comes to cruising, one of the most popular indulgences is enjoying a refreshing drink onboard. Whether you prefer a poolside cocktail, a beer at the casino, or a glass of wine with dinner, drinks play a significant role in enhancing the cruise experience. However, it's important to note that the cost of beverages can quickly add up during the voyage. To provide a solution and alleviate any worries about accumulating bar bills, cruise lines have introduced drink packages. In this article, we will delve into the benefits, considerations, and cost-effectiveness of these packages, helping you decide whether they are worth the investment.
The Cost of Drinks: For those who haven't been on a cruise before, it might be surprising to learn that alcohol prices onboard can be quite steep. A beer typically ranges from $6-8, with an added mandatory gratuity of 15-20%. Cocktails can cost anywhere from $10-14, while a glass of wine often falls within the $8-12 range. Even non-alcoholic beverages like soda or bottled water may set you back $2-3.50. It's easy to see how expenses can quickly accumulate, potentially exceeding $100 per day for avid drinkers.
Understanding Drink Packages: To alleviate the financial burden, cruise lines offer drink packages that allow passengers to pay a set fee per day in exchange for unlimited drinks. By availing a package, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing the precise amount you'll spend on beverages throughout the cruise. To ensure transparency, it's important to review the fine print associated with each cruise line as there might be specifications regarding the requirement for all adults in a cabin to purchase a package. Additionally, the package itself may entail certain restrictions on eligible drinks.
Calculating the Value: Drink packages come at a cost, typically ranging from $60-80 per day, with some premium options exceeding $100 per day. Since the charge applies to each day of your cruise, it's essential to determine if the package will truly save you money in the long run. To assist with this, we have provided a handy calculator where you can select your cruise line and estimate the number of drinks you anticipate having daily. While drink prices may vary, we offer average estimated prices to give you an idea of potential expenses. By comparing your estimated daily spending with the cost of the drink package, you can make an informed decision regarding its value.
Popular Cruise Line Packages: To offer a starting point for your calculations, here are some examples of drink package prices for various cruise lines. Please note that prices may vary, including discounts for pre-booking the package. To keep things simple, we have used the most common price ranges:
Carnival: $59.95 per day ($70.74 with gratuity)
Celebrity: $89.00 per day ($106.80 with gratuity)
Norwegian: $109.00 per day ($130.80 with gratuity)
Princess: $64.99 per day ($76.70 with gratuity)
Royal Caribbean: Varies; approximately $63-89 per day ($74-105 with gratuity)
MSC: $64.00 per day (gratuity not included if purchased before boarding)
It's important to remember that these prices are estimates, as beverage costs vary depending on the cruise line and individual preferences. If your projected daily spending aligns with the cost of a drink package, it is likely to be worth considering.
Considerations and FAQ: While drink packages may initially appear straightforward, it's crucial to understand some of the associated rules and guidelines:
Does everyone in a cabin have to purchase a drink package if one person does? Typically, cruise lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase a package when one individual does. This policy discourages sharing and ensures fair access to the benefits of the package.
Can I share drinks using a drink package? No, sharing drinks is generally prohibited by all cruise lines. Violating this policy could result in the loss of your drink package privileges. Additionally, since the package is usually required for all adults in a cabin, sharing provides no additional advantages.
Can I purchase the package for only certain days of the cruise? No, drink packages are sold for the entire duration of the voyage, rather than just selective days. This underscores the importance of accurately estimating your average daily consumption.
Are there discounts available for drink packages? Yes, many cruise lines offer discounts on drink packages if you purchase them prior to boarding. Taking advantage of these pre-cruise discounts not only ensures a potential cost reduction but also ensures your package is ready for use immediately upon embarkation.
Are Drink Packages Worth It? The decision of whether a drink package is worth the investment ultimately depends on your personal preferences and drinking habits. For individuals who enjoy having drinks readily available at all times, the package can be a cost-effective choice. On the other hand, those who consume only a few drinks sporadically
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