Carnival Cruise Drink Packages: Worth the Splurge?
Deciding whether or not to purchase a drink package on your Carnival Cruise can be a tough call. With various options and price points, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Let’s break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What are Cruise Drink Packages?
Cruise drink packages are prepaid plans that allow passengers to enjoy a variety of beverages throughout their trip without worrying about the cost each time they order a drink.
These packages can include everything from soft drinks to alcoholic beverages, depending on the package you choose.
Importance of a Drink Package on a Cruise
Having a drink package can significantly enhance your cruise experience by offering convenience, potential cost savings, and a wider variety of drink options.
However, they also come with their own set of considerations that need to be weighed before making a decision.
Overview of Carnival Cruise Drink packages
Carnival Cruise Line offers several drink packages to cater to different preferences and budgets.
Here’s a quick look at the main options:
Types of Drink Packages
1. Cheers! Beverage Program
2. Bottomless Bubbles
3. Cruise the Vineyards Wine Packages
What’s Included in Each Package?
Each package includes a selection of drinks, from soft drinks and juices to cocktails and specialty coffees.
Let’s dive into the specifics of each.
Benefits of Purchasing a Drink Package
Cost Savings
One of the primary benefits of purchasing a drink package is the potential for cost savings.
If you enjoy several drinks per day, a drink package can be more economical than paying for each drink individually.
Drink Packages offer Convenience
A drink package offers the convenience of not having to carry cash or worry about racking up a hefty bill at the end of your cruise.
You can relax and enjoy your trip without constantly calculating your spending.
Variety of Choices
With a drink package, you have access to a wide range of beverages :
- Soft drinks
- Bottled water
- Specialty Coffee
- Boozy Coffees
- Mocktails
- Shakes
- Boozy Shakes
- Cocktails
- Frozen Drinks
- Beer
- Shots
- Seltzer
- Hard Lemonade
- Wine
- Juice
This allows you to try new drinks and enjoy your favorites without hesitation.
Drawbacks of Purchasing a Drink Package
Drink packages can cost as much as your cruise
While drink packages can offer savings, they also come with a significant upfront cost.
It’s essential to evaluate whether you’ll drink enough to justify the expense.
Potential for Overconsumption
Having unlimited access to drinks can lead to overconsumption, which might not be the healthiest option.
It’s crucial to drink responsibly and know yourl imits.
Restrictions and Limitations
Drink packages often come with certain restrictions, such as limits on the number of drinks you can order at once or exclusions for premium beverages.
Make sure to read the fine print before purchasing.
Wondering if it’s worth it for you? Check out this interactive drink calculator.
Detailed Breakdown of Each Package
Cheers! Beverage Program
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Cheers! Beverage Program includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, beer, wine, and specialty coffees.
However, it excludes drinks like bottles of wine or champagne, as well as room service and minibar items.
Price and Value
The price of the Cheers! package varies but is generally around $77- 83 per person per day US) plus an 18% service charge. Australia sailings and Transpacific sailings call Carnival ‘s International desk ( 1 300 385 625) for current pricing.
This can be a great value if you plan on drinking several alcoholic beverages each day.
Bottomless Bubbles
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Bottomless Bubbles package offers unlimited soft drinks and juices.
It does not include alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, or bottled water.
Price and Value
Priced at approximately $8.20 per child and $11.21 per adult per day, plus an 18% service charge, this package is ideal for families or those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Cruise the Vineyards Wine Packages
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Cruise the Vineyards Wine Packages provide a selection of fine wines and champagnes.
You can choose from different packages that include either three, or five bottles of wine.
If you Pre purchase the package, coupons can be picked up at The Cherry on top and redeemed in the dining room or bar.
Your wine can be enjoyed at any time during your cruise.
Wine Package Price and Value
Prices for the wine packages start at around $96 for the Basic and $147 for the Premium three-bottle package.
$147 for the five-bottle Basic package, and $228 for the seven-bottle Premium package.
These packages can offer excellent value for wine enthusiasts who prefer to enjoy a good bottle of wine with their meals or while relaxing on their balcony.
Personal Experience: One traveler shared their positive experience with Carnival’s wine package, highlighting the convenience of not having to worry about finding wine before the cruise or carrying it to their room.
The package also allowed them to explore different wine regions without the financial pressure of individual purchases.
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How to decide if a drink package is right for you
Assessing Your Drinking Habits
Take an honest look at your drinking habits.
If you typically enjoy several drinks a day, a package might be worth it.
However, if you’re a light drinker, it may not offer the best value.
Length of cruise
The length of your cruise can impact the value of a drink package.
On longer cruises, the cost can add up, but so can the potential savings if you’re a frequent drinker.
Itinerary and shore excursions
Consider your cruise itinerary and how many days you’ll spend onshore.
If you’ll be off the ship frequently or doing long tours like we did in Belize, you might not get full value from a drink package.
BYO Beverages
Non- alcoholic Drinks
Carnival allows guests to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard.
Must be unopened cans. Juice boxes are also allowed.
Up to twelve, twelve-ounce cans can be brought in a box, bag, or loose. Must be in your carry-on bag and sent through the scanner.
Bringing your drinks can be a cost-effective way to enjoy your favorite drinks without purchasing a package. Find out more ways to save money on your cruise.
Heads up: Carnival is now opening up cartons at random.
On embarkation day, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk), packaged in cans or cartons, may be brought on board and must be in the guest’s carry-on luggage.
Bring one bottle of Wine
On embarkation day, each adult passenger aged 21 or older is allowed to bring one unopened 750ml bottle of wine or Champagne. [https://www.carnival.com/help?topicid=2633]
Tips for making the most of your drink package
Maximizing Value
To get the most out of your drink package, start your day with specialty coffees, enjoy cocktails by the pool, and don’t forget to try different drinks throughout the cruise. Between each drink enjoy a bottled water.
Avoiding drink package pitfalls
Be mindful of the package’s restrictions and avoid ordering drinks that aren’t included.
Also, remember to drink responsibly and stay hydrated.
Remember the one-for-one rule: Drink one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage you consume to help with the next-day hangover. [Eating Well dot com]
Real Experiences from Carnival Cruise Passengers
Troy P.
For me the drink package is worth every penny. I like trying new drinks each day!
Camila R.
I always get the wine package. Drinking wine at dinner is the only time I drink. It’s a good value and I don’t have to schlep the wine to the ship.
John K.
I’m not a big drinker, but do enjoy a drink or two at the comedy show. I also have 4 or 5 specialty coffees each day, which pays off.
Heloise T.
15 drinks in a day is absolutely not enough. Carnival needs to raise the limit.
Jack & Tia E.
It sucks that both people in the cabin have to pay for the package. My wife is pregnant and can’t drink, but Carnival won’t budge.
April T.
I bring my allotted wine, a six pack of tonic water, and some canned juices. I also order as many bottles of hard liquor as Carnival allows to be delivered to my room. I end up with a nice mini bar set up and drink when I like.
Manny & Todd
We tried Cheers Package one time. We didn’t drink enough to make it worth the money. We buy beers by the bucket now, when we want them.
Maria G.
When cruising with my two teen daughters, I get the drink package for me and they get the soda package. I never make it anywhere close to 15 drinks. I would hate for my girls to see me this way.
Hal & Irene K.
We are not big drinkers. Two bottles of wine are more than enough for us.
Chris C.
The drink package is great! I can just order my drinks that I want without having to worry about going over budget or loosing my buz.
Is a Carnival drink package right for you?
We’ll help you decide
Conclusion: Do You Need a Drink Package on a Carnival Cruise?
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a drink package on a Carnival cruise depends on your drinking habits, the length of your cruise, and your budget.
Key considerations:
- Drinking habits: If you’re a moderate drinker, a drink package might be a good value. However, if you’re a light drinker, purchasing drinks individually might be more cost-effective.
- Cruise length: Longer cruises often justify the cost of a drink package, as the savings can add up over time.
- Budget: Consider your overall budget for the cruise and allocate funds accordingly.
Additional Tips:
- Research package inclusions: Determine what types of drinks are included in the package and if there are any restrictions.
- Consider tipping: Some drink packages include gratuities, which can be a cost-saving benefit.
- Explore alternatives: If a full drink package isn’t feasible, consider purchasing a soda package or individual drinks as needed.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a drink package is the right choice for your Carnival cruise.
For more information on cruise safety and seasickness prevention, please refer to our blog posts:
- Cruise Safety Tips: [Cruise safety: Everything you need to know]
- Seasickness Prevention: [Seasickness tips for new cruisers]
Carnival Drink Package FAQs
Is the Cheers! Beverage Program worth it?
Whether the Cheers! Beverage Program is worth it depends on your drinking habits. If you enjoy several alcoholic beverages a day, it can offer significant savings. However, if you’re a light drinker, the cost might outweigh the benefits.
Can I share my drink package with someone else?
No, drink packages are non-transferable. Each adult assigned to the same stateroom must purchase their own package.
Are there any hidden fees with the drink packages?
Besides the daily rate, there’s an 18% service charge. Be sure to read the terms carefully for any additional charges.
What happens if I don’t finish all my drinks?
Unused drinks are not refundable, so it’s essential to consider whether you’ll consume enough to justify the cost.
Can I purchase a drink package for just part of my cruise?
No, drink packages must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise for each passenger in a cabin.
When does the Cheers! package start?
Due to state laws, the Cheers! package cannot be purchased until the second day of the cruise (starting at 6:00 AM) for voyages departing from Texas, New York, and Virginia home ports. Drinks purchased on the first day of the cruise will be charged to the guest’s Sail & Sign® card in the usual manner. When purchased on the second day of the cruise, guests are charged for the remaining days only (cruise duration less one day).
What are Carnival’s Drink Package Options?
Carnival offers several drink packages to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s an overview:
- CHEERS! package: This popular option includes a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as spirits, cocktails, beer, wine, soda, juices, and specialty coffee.
- Bottomless Bubbles package: Perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, this package offers unlimited soda and other non-alcoholic beverages.
- Cruise the Vineyards wine package: This option allows you to enjoy discounted wines from around the world. It comes in standard and premium versions.
It’s important to note that specific inclusions and exclusions may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the Carnival website for the most up-to-date information before your cruise.