This article explains drink costs on cruises, including beverage packages and per drink price ranges. It helps travelers estimate budget and compare options before sailing. Understanding what drives drink pricing on ships can prevent sticker shock and improve planning.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alcoholic Drinks | 6 | 9 | 20 | Per drink on embarkation day or at bars; varies by ship |
| Non Alcoholic Beverages | 2 | 4 | 6 | Soft drinks and mocktails; some cabins include beverages |
| Drink Packages | 30 | 70 | 180 | Daily or cruise-wide options; limits apply |
| Specialty Coffee Tea | 2 | 5 | 8 | Barista drinks or specialty stations |
| Service Charges Tips | 0 | 1 | 3 | Often included or added on checkout |
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost ranges for drinks on a cruise vary by ship, itinerary and package type. A basic per drink price often starts near six dollars and can rise to twenty dollars or more for premium cocktails. Drink packages generally run from about seventy dollars per day to as high as two hundred dollars for specialty plans. Passengers should consider the number of days, sail speed and whether gratuities are included in the package.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Materials | Labor | Equipment | Taxes | Contingency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drinks per Day | — | — | — | Included in price | 5–10% | Alcoholic vs non alcoholic variance |
| Drink Packages | Package features | Staffing to serve | Bar equipment | Tax on package | 5–15% reserve | Days, limits apply |
| Specialty Beverages | Premium ingredients | Higher pour cost | Special equipment | Taxable | Contingency for swaps | Often excluded from basic packages |
| Gratuities | Included or added | — | — | Tax where applicable | 1–3% discretionary | Onboard service charges vary |
Pricing Variables
What drives price on a cruise includes the ship type, the beverage program chosen, port stop opportunities and the cruise line’s overall pricing strategy. Ships with luxury branding tend to have higher per drink costs and more extensive packages. Seasonality, cabin class and onboard promotions can shift both per drink and package pricing.
Ways To Save
Money saving tips include evaluating whether a drink package fits the itinerary and guest drinking habits, using happy hour windows when available, and noting whether soft drinks or water are included with certain cabins. Sharing a package with a second guest can cut per person costs, and choosing a midrange package may balance price and value. Consider off peak sailings where promotions are more common.
Regional Price Differences
Prices generally mirror regional market differences in the United States. In the Northeast and West Coast itineraries, alcoholic beverages may trend higher due to ship branding and port taxes, while midwestern and southern routes sometimes show modest reductions. On average, expect a delta of about 5 to 15 percent between high priced and more economical itineraries. Assumptions include standard cruise line beverages, typical ship classes and common promotions.
Labor & Installation Time
Onboard beverage service relies on crew staffing, with higher end packages sometimes requiring more attentive service and larger bar teams. While not a direct retail component for guests, the labor cost is embedded in the package and per drink price. Expect timesaving conveniences with packages to be reflected in overall daily rates rather than per drink charges.
Real World Pricing Examples
Basic Scenario
Two guests on a 7 day sailing choose a minimal beverage plan. Package price near 70 dollars per day per cabin; total package cost around 980 dollars plus taxes. Per drink prices vary from 6 to 9 dollars for standard options. Assumptions region and sailing length.
Mid Range Scenario
One cabin with a mid tier package for 7 days. Package cost about 100 dollars per day. Expect some premium options a la carte; per drink 8–12 dollars. Total package plus extras near 1 550 dollars. Assumptions ship class and itinerary.
Premium Scenario
Two guests on a luxury line with a deluxe package for 7 days. Package around 180 dollars per day; per drink 12–20 dollars for specialty cocktails and higher end beverages. Total package near 2 520 dollars plus service charges. Assumptions ship type and itinerary.