Are You Eyeing That Cruise Drink Package and Feeling Sticker Shock?
You’re not alone. Cruise drink packages can be one of the most surprising—and expensive—add-ons when planning your vacation. If you’ve looked at the cost and felt your jaw drop, you’re definitely in the right place.
Some cruisers just roll it into their budget and don’t think twice. But if you’re more budget-conscious, or you’re not a heavy drinker, you may be wondering: Is it really worth it? And more importantly, are there cruise drink package alternatives that still let me enjoy myself without overspending?
Yes. Yes, there are.
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First, Be Honest: How Much Do You Really Drink?
If you enjoy an occasional drink or fall into the “one or two drinks per day” category, you’re probably not going to get your money’s worth from the unlimited alcohol package. The convenience is nice—but the value? Not so much. But, of course, keep in mind that most people indulge more while on vacation. So, be realistic.
My husband and I have been on over 30 cruises, and we’ve learned this the hard way. These days, we only purchase the drink package when we’re sailing with a group. When you’re with friends, the social side of having that drink in hand all day is part of the fun—and sometimes that’s worth paying for. But when it’s just the two of us? We usually skip it and still have a great time.
Will You Consistently Drink 5+ Per Day?
That’s about the break-even point for many packages—especially on sea days when you’re more likely to relax onboard with a drink in hand.
Consider Your Itinerary
Sea days mean more time on board and the ability to take advantage of your drink package and see the value. Alternatively, if you are on a port-intensive itinerary in the southern Caribbean or in Europe, where you’re off the ship most days of your sailing, your time to take advantage of your package will be more limited.
What About Your Cabin Mate?
Everyone in the cabin, ages 21 and older, must purchase the package if one adult does. If you’re a drinker but your cabin mate isn’t, make sure that factors into your purchase decision.
If You Are Considering the Package, Try These Ways to Save!
✅ Book a Fare That Includes It
Some cruise lines (like Norwegian Cruise Line) offer a drink package as part of their “Free at Sea” promotion. It’s not free, but the added value can be worth it when bundled. Princess offers Princess Plus and Princess Premiere, and Celebrity also has an inclusive option that can be added at the time of booking. While this is very convenient, it’s still important to do the math and make sure this type of booking is appropriate for your vacation style.
✅ Look for Onboard Credit (OBC)
Booking during a promotion or through a travel agent (like me!) may include onboard credit, which can be used toward your drink package.
✅ Watch for Pre-Cruise Sales
For example, Royal Caribbean utilizes dynamic pricing. They will run drink package “sales” when you log into your cruise planner before sailing. These prices are often significantly lower than onboard rates. Royal also lets you cancel your purchase for a refund and repurchase your package if the price drops.
Pro tip: Monitor the cost per day, not the sale percentage. Use my Cruise Expense Tracker Printable to ensure you purchase at the best price.
Cruise Drink Package Alternatives That Actually Work
If you’re ready to skip the package and save your money for excursions (or spa treatments, or that extra specialty dinner…), here are the best cruise drink package alternatives that won’t leave you feeling like you’re missing out
Pay As You Go (With Strategy)
This is our go-to method when we’re not sailing with a group. It’s totally doable—if you set a realistic budget and stick to it. Don’t forget about “vacation brain.” It’s important to set a strategy before you’re on board. Once you’re at sea with a drink in hand, it can be harder to stick to your plan.
Tips to Maximize Pay-As-You-Go:
- Look for the Drink of the Day — Often $1–$3 cheaper than regular menu prices.
- Stick to Beer, Wine, or Hard Seltzers — These tend to cost less than mixed drinks or premium liquors.
- Track Your Spending Daily — Use the cruise app or check your account through the stateroom TV.
Bring Your Own Wine (or Bubbly)
Most cruise lines allow guests to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per adult in a stateroom (check your cruise line’s policy to confirm). It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a glass before dinner without paying cruise bar prices.
Just remember:
- It must be carried on in your hand luggage (not checked).
- Some lines charge a corkage fee if you open it in public areas.
More tips on bringing wine onboard here
Related Post: Can You Bring Wine on a Cruise?
Score Free Drinks On Board -There are several ways to get free drinks during your cruise:
Cruise Line Loyalty Status
Royal Caribbean’s Diamond and above guests get daily drink vouchers (we get 5 per day at Diamond Plus!). Other lines may offer package discounts or drink deals as part of their loyalty programs.
Suite Guests
Booking a suite? You may have access to a concierge lounge or suite-only events with complimentary beverages. Some top-tier suites even include a drink package with your fare.
Special Events
Don’t miss the welcome party, captain’s toast, art auctions, or loyalty receptions—these often include complimentary champagne, wine, or punch.
Consider a Non-Alcoholic Package
If you love having a drink in hand but don’t care about alcohol, most cruise lines offer non-alcoholic drink packages. These typically include:
- Fountain sodas and soft drinks
- Bottled water
- Specialty coffees
- Mocktails
- Fresh juices
These are a great value and often cost less than half as much as an alcoholic drink package.
The Worrier’s Guide to Skipping the Drink Package
❌ Don’t Try to Sneak Alcohol Onboard
Those drink package prices can tempt even the most rule-abiding traveler. But cruise lines take their policies seriously. One recent example? A guest was banned from the cruise line entirely for sneaking booze in a mouthwash bottle. It’s not worth the risk.
✅ Use the Free Printable to Budget
If you’re worried about overspending without the package, use my Cruise Expense Tracker Printable to help plan daily budgets. It’s easy to fill out and lets you set spending limits before you even board.
🍹 You Can Still Enjoy Cocktails Without the Package
Plenty of cruisers skip the package and still have a great time. Pay as you go, pace yourself, and enjoy a mix of free events and pre-dinner drinks in your cabin by bringing your own wine.
You’re not missing out—you’re cruising smarter. Just remember to check your onboard account regularly.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need the Package to Have a Great Cruise
Cruise drink package alternatives are real—and they work. Whether you sip the wine you brought onboard, stick to your daily budget, or score drinks through loyalty perks or suite benefits, you can cruise like a pro without paying for the unlimited alcohol package.
And remember: no two cruisers are the same. What works for your friends might not be right for you—and that’s totally okay. You’re in charge of your vacation and your budget.
Need help deciding which cruise line or ship is right for your style and wallet? Let’s plan your perfect cruise together. You can email me for a free quote here.
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