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Drink on cruise
Drink on cruise

What drinks are free on cruise ships?

Want to know about the drinks that you can get for free on certain cruise ships? Continue reading this article to find out more.

By Cruise Booking Team

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Indulge in an all-inclusive beverage experience on your next cruise with renowned cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. These cruise lines offer convenient drink packages that allow you to enjoy unlimited refreshments throughout your voyage. Whether you prefer a refreshing soda, a glass of wine, a handcrafted cocktail, or a specialty coffee, these cruise lines have you covered. Discover the perfect package that suits your preferences and embark on a delightful and worry-free cruise vacation with Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, or Norwegian Cruise Line.

Do you want to know about the drinks that you can get for free on certain cruise ships? Continue reading this article to find out more.

A cruise ship vacation is a dream vacation for most people. It is one of the finest ways to spend your holidays with your loved ones. Cruise ships have a variety of different onboard activities such as cocktail parties, gaming nights, and art auctions that make your experience a memorable one. Another benefit of cruise ships is that you can get your hands on some of the most fanciest and interesting drinks in the world. Most luxurious cruise lines have bars that provide you with all that you require for a fee. However, what you might not know is that some cruise lines also have some drinks that you can enjoy without having to pay anything for them.

 

Where to get drinks onboard?

You can order drinks from the waiters in cruise ship restaurants and bars. There are several drink-dispensing machines present onboard cruise ships for milk, juice, and coffee. You can also place a request to your room attendant to get you the drinks that you require. Some of the most luxurious cruise lines offer some or all drinks free of charge. Cruise lines such as Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent Seven Seas are some that provide passengers with all-inclusive beverage service. However, that might not be the case on other cruise lines where you will be expected to pay a fee to order certain drinks.

What drinks are free of charge?

Most mainstream cruise lines have complimentary drinks that may include some or all of the following:

1. Water

Water is always free of charge on most cruise ships. You may be asked to pay a fee for some versions of bottled water. However, you can likely ask for a jug of iced water in any restaurant or bar for no added cost. There are several water dispensers present on a cruise ship so that you can help yourself.

2. Flavored water

Some cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean drink package provides their passengers with several options of flavored waters to choose from. The best part is that you will not have to pay a single dime for any of these drinks. They taste better than regular water because of added fruit flavor.

3. Lemonade

Yes, you can get the favorite summer drink of most people for absolutely zero cost in the Windjammer Marketplace buffet present on Royal Caribbean. The drink is delicious with a little pulp and the perfect amount of sweetness. This is one of the most refreshing free drinks on Royal Caribbean cruises.

4. Tea and coffee

Most cruise lines include beverages such as tea and coffee to your ticket cost. You can get complimentary tea and coffee options from the cafes and restaurants that are present onboard the ships. However, specialty teas and coffees are likely to incur an added cost so make all the necessary inquiries before you order something.

5. Hot chocolate

Hot chocolate is far from a conventional drink that is consumed regularly, yet some cruise lines do not charge you for it. Royal Caribbean cruise ships provide you packets of hot chocolate mix that you can pick up yourself in the Windjammer buffet or order via room service.

6. Milk

Another unsurprising entry on this list, milk can be availed for free on most cruise ships. If your room is equipped with a kettle the room service will likely be bringing you milk from time whether it is for your morning cup or to feed your baby. Most cabins are also equipped with refrigerators so that you can store them easily.

7. Fruit juices

Royal Caribbean cruise ships provide their passengers with fruit juices that are free of charge. You can get them from the main dining rooms and the buffets. Tropical fruit juices are popular amongst most passengers so you should not have a hard time finding them.

WHICH TOP CRUISES OFFER FREE DRINKS?

1. Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line offers the "Free at Sea" promotion, which includes a choice of free beverage packages as one of the available perks. The beverage package covers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.

2. Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean often runs promotions that include a complimentary beverage package as part of their offerings. The free drinks on Royal Caribbean include non-alcoholic options.

3. Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line offers a "Cheers!" beverage package that can be purchased for a flat fee, allowing guests to enjoy unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.

4. MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises provides a variety of inclusive drink packages, depending on the specific cruise itinerary. These packages cover a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and are often included as a promotional offer.

It's important to note that the availability of free drinks may vary based on the specific cruise line, ship, itinerary, and promotions offered when booking. It's recommended to check with the cruise line directly or consult Cruise Booking for the most up-to-date information on free drink offerings or to know if cruises all inclusive for your desired cruise.

What are some other ways to get free drinks?

Cruise lines are typically generous with their loyal passengers. If you regularly travel with a specific cruise line or a particular cruise ship then it is likely that you will be invited to certain parties that have free drinks. You also get additional discounts for being a regular. Having a good connection with the bartender can also help you to a certain extent to get good discounts and on some occasions even free drinks. Make sure that you travel regularly and provide the staff with good tips to establish that connection. Ask the team at Cruisebooking.com about the possibility of adding a drink package to your cruise.

TOP CRUISE LINES DRINK PACKAGES

Royal Caribbean Drink Package

The Royal Caribbean Drink Package is designed to offer guests a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a wide variety of beverages while on board. There are different drink packages to suit various preferences and budgets, including:

1. Deluxe Beverage Package: This package covers virtually all beverages on the ship, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Additionally, take advantage of an impressive 40% discount on bottled wines priced up to $100 USD*, as well as a 20% discount on wine prices exceeding $100 USD.
2. Refreshment Package: Ideal for those who don't drink alcohol, this package includes premium coffee, tea, bottled water, fresh juices, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
3. Classic Soda Package: Perfect for soda lovers, this package offers unlimited fountain sodas and a complimentary Coca-Cola souvenir cup.
4. Water Package: Stay hydrated with a continuous supply of water. Choose from 6, 12, or 24 packs of water conveniently delivered to your stateroom.

What Drinks Are Free on Royal Caribbean Ships?

Guests can enjoy a standard list of free drinks on Royal Caribbean without having to pay extra, which includes:

  • Tap water
  • Iced tea
  • Lemonade
  • Coffee (regular and decaf)
  • Tea (hot or iced)
  • Flavoured waters
  • Milk and chocolate milk (available during meals)

Best Time to Buy the Royal Caribbean Drink Package

The ideal time to purchase your drink package is before your cruise departure, as pre-cruise sales often offer significant discounts. Keep an eye on your Cruise Planner for special promotions and deals, saving you up to 30% off the regular onboard prices.

Carnival Cruise Drink Package

A Carnival Cruise offers an exciting escape filled with amazing destinations, fun-filled activities, and delectable dining options. Consider the Carnival Cruise Drink Package to enhance your cruising experience and ensure your favourite drinks are always within reach.

1. Bottomless Bubbles: Savor chilled beverages to your heart's content with the Bottomless Bubbles package, offered on Carnival Cruise Line. This unlimited beverage package allows you to delight in all-you-can-drink soda and juice throughout the entirety of your cruise, be it during meals, shows, or whenever you desire. How delightful! You can enjoy Bottomless Bubbles at the Lobby, Casino, and Pool Bars onboard. Certain restrictions apply, and the package is priced at $6.95 per child per day and $9.50 per adult per day.

2. Cheers Beverage Program: Experience the convenience of a single, all-inclusive price for your spirited beverages throughout the entirety of your cruise. This exciting offer is sure to bring cheer to your voyage! By purchasing before you set sail, you can even save 10% on the package. Please note that the deadline for pre-purchase is 11:59 PM the day prior to embarkation or 9:00 PM EST through the call center. Certain additional restrictions may apply, which can be found below. The Cheers beverage package encompasses a wide range of offerings, including all spirits (including cocktails), beer, and wine by the glass with a menu price of $20.00 or lower. The cost of drinks on carnival cruises also covers sodas, zero-proof frozen cocktails, energy drinks, specialty coffee, hot tea, 500ml bottled water, and other non-alcoholic bottled beverages. Furthermore, packaged water is available in the Dining Room and Specialty Restaurants. As an added bonus, the package provides a 25% discount on any spirit or wine by the glass priced above $20.00, as well as a 25% discount on wine and champagne by the bottle. Additionally, you can enjoy a 25% discount on beverage seminars and classes. Pricing for the Cheers! package starts at $59.95 per person per day, ensuring you have an unforgettable and worry-free beverage experience throughout your cruise.

Best Time to Buy the Carnival Cruise Drink Package

The ideal time to purchase the Cheers Beverage Program is before your cruise departure, as pre-cruise sales often offer significant discounts. Keep an eye on your Cruise Planner for special promotions and deals, saving you up to 10% off the regular onboard prices.

Here’s The Cost of Drink Packages Of Top Line Cruise Lines

Cruise line

Drinks package price (per day)

Celebrity Cruises

$89 to $109 (sometimes included)

Costa Cruises

$39

Cunard

$70

FredOlsen Cruise Line

$30

Holland America Line

$55

MSC Cruises

$42 to $85

Norwegian Cruise Line

$109 to $138

Princess Cruises

$65 to $85

*These cruise packages can be subject to change. Disney Cruise Lines and Virgin Voyages cruise lines don’t offer a drinks package.

FAQs for Free Drinks on Cruise Ships

Carnival Cruise Line has a Liquor and Beverage Policy outlining that guests cannot bring bottled water, sodas, and other non-alcoholic beverages on board. However, water will be conveniently delivered to your stateroom on embarkation day. If you wish to purchase bottled water during your cruise, you can easily contact Room Service. It's important to note that once purchased, these items are non-refundable. However, any unopened bottles may be taken home at the end of your cruise.

Well, it really depends on your drinking habits and preferences. If you plan on having multiple drinks every day, then a drink package may be worth it as it can save you money in the long run. However, if you don't drink much or prefer to stick to non-alcoholic beverages, then a drink package may not be necessary. It's important to consider your own habits to determine if a drink package is worth the cost for you.

Yes, food is typically included on cruises. Most cruise lines offer complimentary meals as part of the cruise fare. The exact dining options and arrangements can vary depending on the cruise line and ship, but generally, there are multiple dining venues available onboard. These can range from buffet-style restaurants to main dining rooms with multi-course meals. Some cruise lines also offer specialty restaurants that may require an additional fee. Snacks and light refreshments are often available throughout the day at various onboard venues. It's always a good idea to check with the specific cruise line or consult your travel agent to understand the dining options and any potential additional costs associated with specialty restaurants or specific dining experiences.

Different cruises offer different packages, with some including all meals, drinks, and entertainment in the price. However, additional fees may be required for certain activities or services. It is crucial to thoroughly read the details of any cruise package to comprehend what is included in the price and what may require an extra cost.
Header Image by Svetikova-v at Depositphotos

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