How Much is the Norwegian Cruise Drink Package?

If you are planning a Norwegian Cruise vacation, one of the most common questions that often comes up is: How much is the Norwegian Cruise drink package? Understanding the pricing, benefits, and options for drink packages is crucial for budget planning and ensuring you get the most value out of your cruise experience. Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its Freestyle Cruising concept, offers a range of beverage packages to enhance your journey, making it more convenient to enjoy unlimited drinks without worrying about individual charges.

The cost of the Norwegian Cruise drink package depends on several factors, including the type of package you select, your age, your cruise itinerary, and any promotions that may be running. Norwegian Cruise Line provides multiple options for guests, including non-alcoholic drink packages, alcoholic beverage packages, and specialty packages that combine soft drinks with cocktails or wine.

One of the most popular options is the Norwegian Unlimited Beverage Package. This package is designed for guests who want to enjoy a wide variety of drinks, ranging from sodas, coffee, and tea to cocktails, wines by the glass, and draft beers. The price of this package generally starts at around $89 per person per day for non-alcoholic beverages and can go up to $129 per person per day for alcoholic beverages. Prices may vary depending on the specific ship, itinerary, and length of the cruise, so it’s important to check with Norwegian Cruise Line before booking.

The Norwegian Unlimited Beverage Package provides excellent convenience and flexibility. Guests who purchase this package can enjoy unlimited drinks without having to carry cash or credit cards for each purchase. This is particularly beneficial for travelers who plan to enjoy multiple drinks per day, such as cocktails during sunset, sodas with lunch, or coffee in the morning. For families or groups, purchasing a package can simplify the billing process and avoid unexpected costs at the end of the cruise.

It’s important to note that there are different rules and restrictions depending on the package you choose. For example, alcoholic beverage packages are only available for guests who are of legal drinking age, which varies depending on the cruise itinerary. Some packages also limit specialty cocktails or premium wines, which may incur additional charges. Understanding these details is essential to ensure that the package you choose matches your drinking preferences and expectations.

For those who do not drink alcohol, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a non-alcoholic drink package. This package is perfect for children, teenagers, and adults who prefer soft drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water. The price of this non-alcoholic package typically ranges from $29 to $39 per person per day. This allows guests to enjoy unlimited beverages without worrying about individual charges for each drink. Many families find this package particularly helpful for keeping children hydrated and happy during the cruise.

The cost-effectiveness of the Norwegian Cruise drink package depends on your daily consumption. If you plan to enjoy two or more drinks per meal, plus occasional cocktails or sodas throughout the day, the package often pays for itself. For example, a cocktail at a bar on the ship can cost around $10, and a specialty coffee may be $5. If you have multiple drinks each day, purchasing a package could save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a week-long cruise.

When considering the cost of the Norwegian Cruise drink package, it’s also important to factor in gratuities. The listed price usually does not include service charges or tips. Norwegian Cruise Line automatically adds a gratuity of around 18% to the package price. For instance, if your package costs $129 per day, the final daily cost with gratuity could be approximately $152 per person per day. This ensures that the staff who serve your drinks are compensated fairly, enhancing your overall cruise experience.

Norwegian Cruise Line sometimes offers promotions or discounts on drink packages, particularly if purchased in advance. Booking the package prior to your cruise can save you money compared to buying it onboard. These promotions may include limited-time discounts or bundled deals with other cruise amenities, such as specialty dining or shore excursions. Keeping an eye on these offers can make the drink package even more affordable.

It is also worth noting that the Norwegian Unlimited Beverage Package is valid throughout the cruise, including all onboard dining locations, bars, lounges, and specialty restaurants. This means you can enjoy a wide range of beverages, whether you are having breakfast in the buffet, lunch at a casual venue, or a fine dining dinner. The package often includes premium coffees, iced teas, fresh juices, bottled water, cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass. Some limited items may be excluded, such as certain top-shelf liquors or wines above a set price, which may require an additional charge.

For guests celebrating special occasions or planning to enjoy multiple drinks daily, the drink package is often worth the investment. It allows for carefree enjoyment, enabling you to explore different beverages without worrying about your budget. In addition, the package encourages guests to try specialty cocktails, tropical drinks, and international beverages that they may not normally order at home. This adds a level of luxury and indulgence to your cruise vacation.

Families with children also benefit from the Norwegian Cruise drink package. While children are not eligible for alcoholic beverage packages, the non-alcoholic package ensures unlimited access to sodas, specialty coffees, and juices. This reduces the stress of constantly purchasing drinks for younger travelers and allows parents to keep track of their daily expenses more easily. Some packages even include bottled water, which is convenient for excursions and onboard activities.

Another advantage of purchasing a drink package is time savings. Instead of waiting in line to order and pay for drinks individually, guests with a package can simply request their beverage and enjoy it. This convenience is particularly helpful during busy times on the ship, such as dinner or cocktail hours, when lines at bars may be long. Having a package simplifies the experience and allows you to focus on relaxation, entertainment, and spending quality time with family or friends.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. If you are a light drinker or only plan to have an occasional beverage, the package may not be cost-effective. In such cases, paying for drinks individually could be a better option. Additionally, the package is non-transferable between guests, and sharing drinks with other passengers is not allowed. Norwegian Cruise Line also reserves the right to discontinue or modify packages at any time, so confirming the details before your cruise is essential.

Many travelers also wonder about the tipping policies for drink packages. As mentioned earlier, gratuities are automatically added, but additional tipping is not required. Some guests still choose to tip bartenders or servers for exceptional service, but this is optional. Knowing this upfront ensures that there are no surprises on your final cruise bill.

For guests on longer cruises, the cost of the Norwegian Cruise drink package can add up significantly. For example, a 7-night cruise with an alcoholic package costing $129 per day plus gratuity would result in a total cost of over $1,000 per person. While this may seem high, many frequent cruisers consider it worthwhile for unlimited drinks and the convenience it offers. Planning your daily beverage consumption and choosing the right package can help maximize value for money.

When comparing the Norwegian Cruise drink package to similar offerings from other cruise lines, it is generally competitive. Some cruise lines offer lower prices but may have more restrictions on drink choices. Norwegian Cruise Line’s package is attractive for its wide selection of beverages, flexibility, and the ability to enjoy drinks throughout the ship. For travelers who value convenience and variety, this package is often preferred.

It’s also worth noting that the drink package can enhance social experiences onboard. Cruises often include themed parties, happy hours, and specialty events where the package allows you to enjoy drinks without worrying about additional costs. This encourages participation and adds to the overall enjoyment of the cruise vacation.

If you are unsure whether the Norwegian Cruise drink package is right for you, consider calculating your potential daily beverage expenses. Estimate the number of cocktails, sodas, coffees, or specialty drinks you expect to consume each day. Compare this total to the daily package cost, including gratuities. This comparison will help you determine whether purchasing the package offers real savings or if paying individually makes more sense.

In conclusion, the Norwegian Cruise drink package provides convenience, flexibility, and potential cost savings for guests who enjoy multiple beverages during their cruise. With prices ranging from approximately $29 per day for non-alcoholic drinks to $129 per day for unlimited alcoholic beverages, including gratuities, the package can be an excellent investment for those who plan to enjoy a variety of drinks. It is particularly advantageous for families, frequent drinkers, and guests who want to simplify their onboard experience. By understanding the package options, rules, and potential cost savings, you can make an informed decision that enhances your Norwegian Cruise vacation.

Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, the Norwegian Cruise drink package can transform your experience, offering unlimited beverages, convenience, and peace of mind. By carefully evaluating your drinking habits, considering gratuities, and exploring promotions, you can determine the best option for your cruise itinerary. With this knowledge, you are ready to enjoy a stress-free, indulgent journey on the high seas.