Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?

Let's be honest, cruises aren't the cheapest vacation style out there. When you're paying that much for a trip, you want everything to be included. However, a lot of the time, drink packages aren't actually included in the listed price of a cabin, which can add up when you factor in additional costs like finding a flight if your cruise leaves from a distant port.

As you're floating around trapped on the boat, the onboard bars have a captive audience where they can place astronomical upcharges on booze. That being said, the drinks packages aren't cheap either. So, are cruise drink packages worth it? Let's dive in and find out more.

Premium Drinks

On most cruises, drinks packages are separated into a basic tier and a premium offering. The premium usually includes top-shelf spirits, exclusive wines, and high-end champagnes. Of course, the premium package is much more expensive.

If your drink of choice consists mostly of cocktails, spirits, mixers, beer, and wine, then the basic package will usually be fine. However, different cruise lines and even different individual ships can have varying inclusions, so it's important to check in advance. After all, you don't want to miss out on your favorite drink while you're on vacation!

Drink Packages Versus Onboard Credit

When you sign up for a cruise, there’ll typically be a choice between adding a drink package or opting for onboard credit. This can be as much as $200 onboard credit or more with travel providers like Costco, so it's worth being realistic about how much you're going to drink.

If you plan to spend less than the credit amount on drinks, choose the credit and spend the excess on other things onboard the ship. However, if you know that you're likely to drink more, then the package is a no-brainer.

What Are Your Drink Preferences?

Whether or not a cruise ship’s drink package is worth it depends a lot on what kind of drinks you like. For example, wine and cocktails are always going to be more expensive than beer and cider. If your tastes gravitate toward top-shelf bottles, then the package could be for you.

However, if you only plan to have a couple of beers each day, the package probably won't be worth it. Make sure to check the prices of individual drinks before overspending on a drink package.

How Much Do You Plan On Drinking?

As well as the type of drink you plan on drinking, you also need to think about quantity. On vacation, many of us drink more than usual. From cocktails at the pool to an extra glass of wine at dinner, it all adds up.

However, if you only want one drink at dinner and one other at lunchtime, it's probably cheaper to pay as you go or try and grab some discounted onboard credit. You need to weigh up the numbers, but be realistic and add on another two or three drinks as a buffer!

Bringing Drinks Onboard

Some cruises allow you to bring alcohol onboard. While this can't be consumed in common areas, it's good for a nightcap. This can be a great way to keep costs low as you and your partner or friend can share drinks in the cabin.

The tradeoff is that the places where you can drink your own alcohol are very limited, and the idea of drinking in your room away from the social setting provided by a bar won’t appeal to some travelers.

The Ease Of Inclusion

One of the best reasons to get a cruise drink package is for ease and convenience. Cruises are unique in that, unlike renting a car for a roadtrip or sightseeing from a hotel, you don't need any cash once you’re onboard. You've paid in advance and there's no nasty bills or surprises when you check out.

Knowing in advance what you've spent can help you relax while onboard. Even if this means spending a little more for the convenience, you need to think about what's going to be the better situation for your trip.

What's Your Itinerary?

When figuring out if a cruise drink package is worth it, you need to consider your itinerary. If you're on a fly cruise where you're only spending breakfast and dinner onboard because you're in a new city each day, a drinks package may not be worth it. Simply put, you're not onboard to take advantage of it.

However, if you're on a cruise with a lot of days at sea, like a Transatlantic cruise or a Polynesian cruise, you're likely to need a drinks package more. You'll be onboard for longer stretches of time, rather than purchasing drinks at the various destinations.

Compare Different Cruise Packages As A Whole

If you're still not sure if a cruise drink package is worth it, it's time to compare and contrast. Look at the cruises as a whole. Some include drinks and others don't. Compare similar itineraries from different cruise companies adding on the drink package where necessary.

You'll soon be able to see which is more cost-effective. While the cost isn't everything (factors like itinerary, food, entertainment, and excursions are all important), it can help make the decision a little clearer. Remember to check if the cruise includes premium or basic drink packages and compare like for like.

So Are Cruise Drinks Packages Worth It?

Fundamentally, for peace of mind, basic cruise drink packages are usually worth it. You don't need to worry about running up a huge bill, and you can still enjoy a decent choice of drink options.

On the other hand, if you're not a big drinker or you don't need your daily Diet Coke, paying as you go can be more cost-effective.

When it comes to premium packages, it's really only worth it if you want champagne or very specific brands. This is for people who like their liquor straight in the evenings or really want to celebrate.