Whether or not to get a drinks package on a cruise

A drinks package on a cruise can save you hundreds of euros, but only if your drinking habits match what the package offers. The calculation seems simple: compare the package price with what you would spend per day on individual drinks. Yet many cruise passengers are left wondering when such a package actually pays off. Read on and find out whether you will really get your money’s worth.

What individual drinks cost on board

Prices for individual drinks vary by cruise line, but are generally higher than in a restaurant on shore. A beer costs between 4 and 8 euros, depending on whether you choose draught or bottled beer. A glass of wine costs between 6.50 and 10 euros. Cocktails range from 8 to 35 euros, with premium brands being the most expensive.

Soft drinks cost around 3 euros per glass. Coffee is between 1.70 and 3.70 euros, depending on the type. Even water is not always free: per glass you pay 0.80 to 3.25 euros. These amounts add up quickly. Anyone who drinks two beers, a glass of wine and a few soft drinks every day will easily spend an extra 25 to 30 euros per day.

Do bear in mind that some basic drinks are free. With Royal Caribbean, for example, coffee, tea, water and juices from dispensers are included. With other cruise lines such as MSC and Costa, most drinks cost extra. It is important to know this information in advance. You can find more details about cruise prices and hidden costs.

When a drinks package pays off

The key lies in a simple calculation: how many drinks do you order each day and what is the average price per drink. For Princess Cruises, the Classic Soda package costs between 12.99 and 15 US dollars per day. This pays off from 4 to 5 soft drinks a day. The Refreshment package costs 29 to 38 dollars per day and becomes good value from 4 to 5 soft drinks plus 2 to 3 mocktails per day.

With MSC, the Easy package quickly becomes worthwhile if you drink more than 3 to 4 drinks per day that are priced higher than 6 euros. If you choose premium cocktails or better wines, you reach the break-even point even faster. For alcoholic packages, a similar calculation applies: add up what you would normally spend on drinks and compare this with the package price.

How much you need to drink to make a drinks package worthwhile

Your drinking habits determine whether a package pays off. If you have speciality coffees every day and soft drinks with every meal, costs add up quickly. Add a few alcoholic drinks on top and you will soon be above 30 euros per day. In that case, a drinks package from around 35 to 48 euros is often cheaper.

If, however, you mainly drink water, tea and juices from dispensers, your costs remain limited. And if you only have a few alcoholic drinks a week, the package price does not outweigh the saving. In that situation it is better to pay per glass. For families with children who drink a lot of soft drinks and smoothies, a mixed solution can be interesting: a non-alcoholic package for the children and an alcoholic one for the adults.

Differences between drinks packages per cruise line

Yes, there are clear differences between cruise lines. Some companies, such as Royal Caribbean, have strict rules: if one adult in the cabin takes the Deluxe package, all adults must take this package. This can push up the total price considerably if not everyone drinks the same amount.

The booking conditions also differ. With MSC, the Easy package can only be booked before the cruise and is no longer available once on board. Other cruise lines allow you to take out a package on board after all, but usually at a higher price. Many lines offer discounts when you book in advance, which makes it cheaper to decide before departure.

The limits per drink also vary. With one package a drink may cost a maximum of 6 euros, with another 14 or even 20 US dollars. So check carefully which drinks are included in your package and whether your favourite cocktail or wine is covered as well.

Practical considerations for your choice

Besides the calculation, there are practical arguments to consider. A drinks package gives you budget certainty: you know in advance what you will spend and you will not be surprised by your bill on board. This makes it easier to relax without having to think about every order.

For anyone who likes to try different drinks, a package offers the freedom to experiment without immediately worrying about the price. This is especially true of premium packages that include more expensive cocktails and wines. On the other hand, a package requires discipline: you really do need to drink enough to make it worthwhile, otherwise you are paying for something you do not fully use.

Also pay attention to any daily limits. Some cruise lines apply a maximum number of alcoholic drinks per day, usually around 15. For most travellers this is more than enough, but it is good to know in advance what to expect.

Advantages and disadvantages at a glance

A drinks package has clear advantages. You save money if you drink a lot, you have budget certainty and you do not have to pay separately each time. For families with children who drink a lot of soft drinks, there are often special children’s packages at reasonable prices. In addition, you can freely taste and experiment with different drinks.

There are disadvantages too. For light drinkers, a package is an expensive investment that does not pay for itself. Some cruise lines have strict rules, such as the requirement that all adults in a cabin take the same package. The cheapest packages are also sometimes not available on board, so you have to decide before departure. Finally, an all-inclusive feeling can lead to overconsumption without cost awareness.

Choosing more smartly for your cruise

The decision for or against a drinks package depends on your drinking habits, the cruise line and the package conditions. Estimate in advance what you drink per day and compare this with the package price. Ideally book your package before departure, as you will often benefit from discounts. For families, it is worth looking at mixed solutions where children get a non-alcoholic package.

On the Traveler Tips website you will find more information about cruises, hidden costs and how to plan your holiday smartly. Discover which itinerary suits you best and what preparations you need to make. More tips and background information are ready to help make your next cruise as comfortable and affordable as possible.

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