Choosing the right drinks plan is an important part of planning a cruise holiday, especially on a line like Costa Cruises, where beverages are largely priced separately. From morning coffees and soft drinks to evening cocktails and wine with dinner, onboard drink costs can add up quickly. This is why Costa Cruises drinks packages are popular among travellers who want predictable spending and greater convenience during their voyage. This guide explains how Costa’s drinks packages work, what options are available, what is included in each plan, and how to determine whether purchasing a package makes financial sense for your cruise.
Why You Might Need a Drinks Package on Costa Cruises
Unlike some premium cruise lines, Costa Cruises does not include unlimited beverages in the base fare. While water is typically available in the buffet during meals, most drinks, such as speciality coffee, bottled water, soft drinks, wine, beer, and cocktails, are charged individually if you don’t have a package.
Opting for Costa Cruises drinks packages can help guests avoid unexpected onboard expenses and enjoy drinks freely throughout the day without constantly signing receipts. For many travellers, the biggest advantage is peace of mind. Knowing that drinks are prepaid allows guests to relax and enjoy bars, lounges, shows, and meals without worrying about the final bill.
Drink packages are particularly useful for cruisers who enjoy multiple drinks per day, families with teenagers who consume soft drinks frequently, and guests sailing on longer itineraries where beverage costs can accumulate quickly.
Overview of Costa Cruises Drinks Packages
Costa Cruises offers a small but structured range of beverage plans designed to suit different drinking preferences. The two primary unlimited options are the My Drinks Package and the My Drinks Plus Package. These form the core of Costa Cruises drinks packages, covering most guests’ needs.
Costa Drinks Package
The My Drinks Package is the standard, all-round beverage plan and the most commonly chosen option. It includes a wide selection of hot, cold, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic beverages, making it suitable for most cruisers who enjoy a mix of drinks throughout the day. This package is ideal for guests who want flexibility but don’t necessarily require premium brands or high-end spirits.
Costa Drinks Plus Package
The My Drinks Plus Package is an upgraded version of the standard plan and offers a broader range of premium beverages. It is designed for guests who enjoy top-shelf spirits, branded cocktails, and higher-priced wines. Among Costa Cruises drinks packages, this option provides the most comprehensive coverage and is best suited for travellers who plan to spend significant time in bars, lounges, or speciality venues.
What Is Included in Costa Cruises Drinks Packages
Understanding inclusions is essential before choosing between Costa Cruises drinks packages, as coverage varies between plans.
Drinks Package Inclusions
The My Drinks Package typically includes:
- Hot beverages such as espresso, cappuccino, latte, tea, and hot chocolate
- Soft drinks, iced tea, and juices by the glass
- Draft beer and select bottled beers
- House wines by the glass
- Classic cocktails and aperitifs
- Non-alcoholic mocktails
- Bottled water (within package limits)
This package covers most standard drinks available across bars, lounges, main dining rooms, and buffet areas.
Drinks Plus Package Inclusions
The My Drinks Plus Package includes everything from the My Drinks Package, along with:
- Premium spirits and branded liquors
- Expanded cocktail menu
- A wider wine selection by the glass
- Branded and speciality beers
- Freshly squeezed juices and premium soft drinks
Among all Costa Cruises drinks packages, this plan offers the greatest variety and is particularly appealing to guests with refined drink preferences.
What Is Not Included
Regardless of package type, certain items are generally excluded:
- Minibar beverages
- Bottles of wine or spirits
- Room service drinks
- Some speciality venue offerings
Details can vary slightly by ship and itinerary, so it is always advisable to review package terms before sailing.
Prices and Cost Breakdown for Costa Cruises Drinks Packages
Pricing for Costa Cruises drinks packages varies based on cruise length, itinerary, and whether the package is purchased before sailing or onboard. However, general price ranges are fairly consistent.
- Drinks Package: approximately €30–€35 per person, per day
- Drinks Plus Package: approximately €45–€55 per person, per day
When evaluating cost, it helps to consider average onboard drink prices. A single cocktail or glass of wine can cost around €8–€10, while speciality coffees and soft drinks add up over time. Guests who consume four to six drinks per day often find that Costa Cruises drinks packages pay for themselves.
Pre-booking a drinks package before departure is usually cheaper than purchasing onboard and also allows guests to budget their cruise expenses more accurately.
How Drink Packages Work
There are a few important rules governing Costa Cruises drinks packages that guests should understand before purchasing.
First, drink packages must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise and cannot be bought for individual days. Additionally, all adults staying in the same cabin are generally required to purchase the same package, ensuring consistent usage and preventing sharing.
Packages are non-transferable, and each drink is intended for personal consumption only. Bartenders may refuse service if sharing is suspected. Drink packages can be used at most bars, lounges, dining venues, and entertainment areas onboard. However, availability may be limited in certain speciality restaurants or during exclusive events.
Conclusion
Choosing between Costa Cruises drinks packages ultimately depends on individual drinking habits, cruise length, and budget preferences. For guests who enjoy multiple beverages each day, a drinks package can provide both value and convenience. The My Drinks Package offers solid coverage for most cruisers, while the My Drinks Plus Package caters to those who prefer premium brands and a wider selection.
By understanding what is included, how pricing works, and how packages are applied onboard, travellers can make informed decisions and enjoy a smoother, more relaxed cruise experience. Whether sailing for a weekend or embarking on a longer itinerary, Costa Cruises drinks packages can be a worthwhile addition to a well-planned holiday at sea.
