The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Drink Packages: Is It Worth It?
- 12 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever looked at a cruise quote and wondered whether to add the drink package, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I get from clients.
The truth is… a drink package can be a great value for some travelers—and a waste of money for others. It all comes down to how you personally travel.
Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice for your next cruise.
🧾 What a Cruise Drink Package Usually Includes
Most cruise lines offer packages that cover a wide range of beverages, such as:
🍹 Cocktails, beer, and wine
🥤 Soda and soft drinks
☕ Specialty coffee and teas
💧 Bottled water
🧃 Sometimes juices, mocktails, and energy drinks
Some lines also offer separate packages for:
Soda only
Specialty coffee
Bottled water
💰 The Big Question: Will You Actually Use It?
Drink packages are typically priced per person, per day, and both people in the same cabin usually have to purchase it. That means the cost adds up quickly—especially on a 5–7 night cruise.
👉 The real question is: Will you drink enough to make it worth it?
✔️ When a Drink Package IS Worth It
A drink package can be a great value if you:
Enjoy multiple cocktails, wine, or beer throughout the day
Like specialty coffee every morning
Drink soda or bottled water regularly
Want to try new drinks without worrying about the cost
Prefer the convenience of not signing a bill every time
For these travelers, the package often provides both value and peace of mind.
❌ When a Drink Package Might NOT Be Worth It
On the other hand, you may not get your money’s worth if you:
Only have 1–2 alcoholic drinks per day
Don’t drink alcohol at all
Mostly drink free beverages (water, tea, basic coffee)
Plan to spend a lot of time off the ship on excursions
Prefer a more low-key, relaxed cruise experience
In these cases, it’s usually more cost-effective to pay as you go.
🧮 A Simple Way to Do the Math
Let’s say a drink package costs around $70 per day. If the average cocktail on board is about $12–$15, you’d need roughly:
➡️ 5–6 drinks per day just to break even.
And that’s every day of your cruise. If that doesn’t sound like your style of travel, the package may not be the best fit for you.
⚖️ It’s Not Just About Alcohol
One thing many people forget is that these packages often include non-alcoholic beverages too, like:
Specialty coffee
Fresh juices
Soda
Bottled water
If you enjoy those throughout the day, it can help offset the cost—but it still needs to add up for you.
💡 My Advice as a Travel Advisor
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. When I help you plan a cruise, I look at:
Your travel style
How you typically spend your days on vacation
What kind of drinks you actually enjoy
And then we decide together whether the drink package makes sense—or if it’s better to skip it and spend that money on excursions, spa time, or upgraded dining instead.
✈️ The Bottom Line
A drink package can be a great add-on…but only if you’ll actually use it enough to justify the cost. If you’re someone who:
✔ enjoys multiple drinks a day
✔ loves specialty beverages
✔ wants a carefree experience
—it may be worth it. If not, you’re often better off paying per drink and keeping your budget flexible.
🌴 Explore the Caribbean with Confidence
As you plan your dream cruise, remember that the right drink package can enhance your experience. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the pool or enjoying a specialty coffee in the morning, it’s all about what makes your vacation special.
If you’re considering a luxury, all-inclusive, or adults-only Caribbean vacation, I’m here to help you navigate your options. Let’s work together to craft an unforgettable journey tailored just for you.
💬 Thinking About a Cruise?
If you’re planning a cruise and not sure what’s worth adding and what’s not, I’m always happy to help you look at the details and make the best decision for your trip. Because the goal isn’t just to book a cruise—it’s to make sure it’s the right one for you.
— Joy, Abeln Travel ✈️🌴
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