American Cruise Lines offers a unique cruising experience that is very different from large international cruise ships. With smaller vessels, domestic itineraries, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere, many first-time passengers often have questions about everyday onboard expenses. One of the most common questions travelers ask before boarding is how to pay for drinks on American Cruise Lines.
Unlike mainstream ocean cruises where drink packages, prepaid bar cards, and complex billing systems are common, American Cruise Lines follows a much simpler and more guest-friendly approach. Still, understanding how beverage payments work can help you plan your budget better and enjoy your cruise without any confusion or surprises.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about paying for drinks on American Cruise Lines, from what beverages are included to how charges are settled, tipping expectations, and tips for managing onboard expenses smoothly.
American Cruise Lines focuses on comfort, convenience, and transparency. The company primarily caters to mature travelers, retirees, and guests who prefer a calm and refined cruising experience rather than a party-oriented atmosphere.
Because of this philosophy, their beverage policies are designed to be straightforward. The emphasis is not on pushing drink packages or upselling premium alcohol, but rather on providing a pleasant, inclusive onboard experience where guests can relax without worrying about constant extra charges.
Many beverages are already included in the cruise fare, which significantly reduces the need for additional payments compared to larger cruise lines.
Before discussing how to pay for drinks, it is important to understand which beverages are already included and do not require any payment at all.
On American Cruise Lines, the following beverages are typically included in your cruise fare:
• Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available throughout the day• Soft drinks and juices• Bottled water• House wine during dinner service• Beer during dinner service• Champagne or sparkling wine during special events or welcome receptions
For many guests, especially those who enjoy a casual drink with dinner rather than frequent bar visits, these inclusions mean they may not need to pay for drinks at all during the entire cruise.
Alcoholic beverages served outside of dinner hours or premium selections may involve additional charges, which are explained in detail below.
American Cruise Lines does not operate on an unlimited drink package model like large ocean cruise companies. Instead, alcohol pricing is simple and reasonable, reflecting the small-ship, upscale nature of the cruise.
Pricing generally depends on the type of drink and whether it is included in standard meal service.
House Wine and Beer at Dinner
House wine and beer served during dinner are typically included in the cruise fare. Guests can enjoy one or more glasses without worrying about charges appearing on their account.
Premium Wines, Cocktails, and Spirits
If you order premium wines, specialty cocktails, or spirits outside of included offerings, these drinks are charged individually. Prices are usually moderate and comparable to upscale restaurants on land rather than inflated tourist pricing.
Although prices may vary slightly by ship and itinerary, guests often find American Cruise Lines beverage prices to be fair and transparent.
One of the biggest differences between American Cruise Lines and larger cruise companies is the absence of cash transactions onboard. Guests do not need to carry cash or credit cards to pay for drinks at the bar or lounge.
Onboard Account System
When you board the ship, an onboard account is automatically created in your name. Any chargeable drinks you order are added to this account by the crew.
You are not required to sign receipts for every drink or carry a cruise card for payment. The process is handled discreetly and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy your drink without interruptions.
Settlement of Charges
At the end of the cruise, any outstanding charges on your onboard account are settled automatically using the payment method you provided during booking or check-in.
In most cases, guests do not even need to visit the front desk to close their account unless they wish to review specific charges.
Accepted Payment Methods
American Cruise Lines typically accepts the following payment methods for onboard charges:
• Credit cards• Debit cards
Cash payments are generally not accepted onboard for individual purchases. If you prefer to use cash, you may need to settle your charges before or after the cruise through customer service, depending on company policy.
One of the most frequently asked questions is whether American Cruise Lines offers drink packages similar to other cruise lines.
The answer is simple: American Cruise Lines does not require drink packages, and in most cases, does not offer traditional unlimited beverage packages.
Because many drinks are already included, and additional beverages are reasonably priced, the company has chosen not to complicate the experience with prepaid packages.
For most guests, this approach is refreshing and cost-effective, especially for travelers who drink moderately.
American Cruise Lines ships feature intimate lounges rather than large, crowded bars. These spaces are designed for socializing, enjoying scenic views, and relaxing after excursions.
Bar Service Hours
Bar service typically operates during:
• Afternoon relaxation hours• Pre-dinner gatherings• Evening social events
Crew members often remember guest preferences, making the experience more personalized.
Ordering Drinks
When you order a drink, you simply tell the bartender or server what you would like. There is no need to present a card or sign anything in most cases. The charge, if applicable, is quietly added to your onboard account.
American Cruise Lines generally allows guests to bring their own wine or alcohol onboard, especially for personal consumption in cabins.
Policies may vary slightly by itinerary or ship, but unlike many large cruise lines, American Cruise Lines does not heavily restrict personal alcohol.
In some cases, there may be a corkage fee if you ask the crew to serve your personal wine in public dining areas. However, many guests choose to enjoy their own beverages privately in their staterooms without any additional charges.
This flexible approach further reduces the need to pay for drinks onboard.
Another area that causes confusion for travelers is tipping.
On American Cruise Lines, gratuities are generally included in the cruise fare. This includes service in dining rooms, lounges, and bars.
You are not expected to tip bartenders or servers for each drink. However, if you receive exceptional service and wish to offer an additional tip, it is entirely optional and appreciated but never required.
This inclusive gratuity system makes budgeting much easier and eliminates awkward tipping situations.
American Cruise Lines frequently hosts onboard events where drinks are complimentary.
These may include:
• Welcome receptions• Farewell gatherings• Captain’s cocktail parties• Holiday celebrations
During these events, selected wines, beers, and cocktails are often served free of charge, adding to the overall value of the cruise.
While drinks onboard follow a clear system, it is important to remember that beverages purchased during shore excursions are not included unless explicitly stated.
If you stop at a local restaurant, winery, or bar during an excursion, you will need to pay using cash or cards accepted on land.
However, once you return to the ship, the usual onboard beverage policy resumes.
Although most guests spend very little on drinks, it is still helpful to know how to monitor your onboard account.
You can usually request a summary of charges from the ship’s staff at any time during the cruise. This allows you to keep track of expenses and avoid surprises at the end.
Because the system is transparent and charges are minimal, most travelers find it easy to stay within budget.
Generally, guests who may incur higher beverage charges include:
• Those who prefer premium wines or top-shelf spirits• Guests who enjoy cocktails throughout the day• Travelers celebrating special occasions with frequent toasts
Even in these cases, costs are usually far lower than on mainstream cruise lines.
Who Rarely Pays for Drinks
Many passengers never pay anything extra for drinks, especially:
• Guests who drink only during dinner• Travelers who prefer non-alcoholic beverages• Those who bring their own wine onboard
For this reason, American Cruise Lines is often considered excellent value for money.
Comparison With Large Cruise Lines
Compared to large international cruise companies, paying for drinks on American Cruise Lines is significantly simpler.
There are:
• No mandatory drink packages• No high-pressure upselling• No complicated pricing tiers
This relaxed approach aligns with the overall calm and refined onboard atmosphere.
Common Myths About Paying for Drinks on American Cruise Lines
Many first-time cruisers assume that drinks will be expensive or heavily restricted. In reality, most concerns are based on experiences with other cruise lines.
Some common myths include:
• You must buy a drink package – false• Alcohol is very expensive – false• You need cash onboard – false• Tipping is mandatory per drink – false
Understanding the actual policy helps eliminate unnecessary worries.
Although American Cruise Lines already offers good value, here are a few tips to minimize drink expenses further:
• Enjoy included house wine and beer at dinner• Attend complimentary cocktail events• Bring your own favorite wine if allowed• Choose non-alcoholic beverages during the day
Most guests naturally follow these habits without feeling restricted.
For most travelers, the answer is yes.
The combination of included beverages, fair pricing, no drink packages, and automatic onboard billing creates a stress-free environment. Guests can focus on scenic views, excursions, and socializing rather than tracking bar tabs.
This simplicity is one of the reasons American Cruise Lines has a loyal customer base, especially among travelers who value transparency and comfort.
Paying for drinks on American Cruise Lines is refreshingly simple compared to many modern cruise experiences. With most beverages included, reasonable pricing for premium options, and an easy onboard account system, guests rarely feel burdened by extra costs.
There are no confusing packages, no pressure to spend, and no constant reminders of charges. Instead, the system is designed to blend seamlessly into your cruise experience.
Whether you enjoy an occasional glass of wine, a celebratory cocktail, or simply unlimited coffee and soft drinks, American Cruise Lines ensures that paying for drinks is straightforward, fair, and hassle-free.
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