How to Pay for Drinks on a Holland America Line Cruise

Sailing with Holland America Line is a classic experience known for its refined atmosphere, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality. Whether you are sipping champagne during sail-away, enjoying a handcrafted cocktail at sea, or relaxing with a latte in the morning, drinks are an essential part of the onboard experience. However, for first-time cruisers, one common question arises: how do you pay for drinks on a Holland America Line cruise?

This guide explores every aspect of paying for drinks aboard Holland America ships — including drink packages, onboard payments, gratuities, tips for saving money, and what’s included or excluded. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how beverage costs work and how to make the most of your cruise budget.

Understanding How Payments Work Onboard

When you board a Holland America Line ship, you won’t be paying for anything in cash. Instead, all purchases — including drinks — are made through your stateroom key card, also called the “stateroom account” or “Onboard Account.”

When you check in, you’ll link your credit card, debit card, or sometimes cash deposit to your account. This account will track all your onboard spending, such as beverages, excursions, spa treatments, and onboard shops. Every time you order a drink at a bar or restaurant, your room card is swiped, and the amount is charged to your account.

At the end of the cruise, your total balance will be automatically settled using the payment method you provided during check-in. This cashless system makes transactions smooth and convenient.

Drink Options on Holland America Line

Before exploring how to pay, it helps to know what types of drinks you’ll find onboard. Holland America Line offers a wide variety of beverages to suit every taste and occasion:

• Complimentary drinks: Water, tea, coffee, iced tea, lemonade, and some juices are included in your fare.

• Alcoholic beverages: Beer, wine, cocktails, champagne, and spirits are available for purchase at various bars and lounges.

• Specialty coffees and non-alcoholic drinks: Lattes, cappuccinos, smoothies, and mocktails can be ordered from cafés and lounges.

• Wine by the bottle: Available in the main dining room and specialty restaurants.

• Room service beverages: Drinks ordered through in-room dining may incur an additional charge.

Now that you know what’s available, let’s look at how payments are handled for these drinks.

Option 1: Pay-As-You-Go for Drinks

If you prefer not to buy a drink package, you can pay for drinks individually. This is known as pay-as-you-go or à la carte pricing.

Every drink menu lists the price per beverage, and prices are comparable to upscale hotel or resort prices. For instance:

• A glass of wine may cost around $9–$14

• Cocktails generally range from $10–$15

• Beer usually costs $7–$9

• Specialty coffees like cappuccino or latte are $4–$6

When you order, your room card is swiped, and the amount is charged to your onboard account. At the end of the cruise, you’ll see all your drink charges listed in your statement.

Pros:

• You only pay for what you drink.

• Ideal for light drinkers or those who enjoy just one or two beverages a day.

Cons:

• Costs can add up quickly for moderate or heavy drinkers.

• No savings compared to package deals.

It’s also important to note that a 18% service charge (gratuity) is automatically added to every beverage purchase. This means that a $10 cocktail will actually cost $11.80.

Option 2: The Signature Beverage Package

The most popular and convenient way to pay for drinks on a Holland America Line cruise is through a beverage package. The Signature Beverage Package is the standard choice for most travelers.

This package allows guests to enjoy a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks up to a certain price limit per serving — typically up to $11 per drink. It includes:

• Cocktails, spirits, wine, and beer (within the price limit)

• Non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks and mocktails

• Specialty coffees, smoothies, and bottled water

Once you purchase this package, you can order any drink under the limit without worrying about the cost each time. It’s charged once per day, and you can enjoy beverages freely across the ship.

Pros:

• Convenient and budget-friendly if you drink regularly.

• Covers nearly all popular drinks and eliminates surprise charges.

• Includes non-alcoholic beverages too.

Cons:

• Each adult in the same stateroom must purchase the same package.

• Drinks above the price cap incur a surcharge.

• It’s non-transferable and non-refundable once the cruise begins.

For many travelers, this package simplifies budgeting, as all your drink costs are prepaid.

Option 3: The Elite Beverage Package

If you enjoy premium wines, top-shelf liquors, or high-end cocktails, the Elite Beverage Package might be worth considering. It raises the per-drink limit to $15, covering nearly every drink onboard, including craft cocktails and better-quality wines.

This package also includes:

• Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages

• Specialty coffees

• Energy drinks and bottled water

• Mocktails and smoothies

The Elite Beverage Package is designed for guests who appreciate premium spirits or plan to drink more frequently throughout the day.

Pros:

• Wider selection of beverages.

• Includes premium and specialty drinks.

• Ideal for cocktail lovers or connoisseurs.

Cons:

• More expensive per day.

• All adults in the stateroom must purchase it if one does.

If you frequently enjoy drinks priced above $11, this upgrade can quickly pay for itself.

Option 4: Quench Beverage Package (Non-Alcoholic)

For guests who don’t drink alcohol, Holland America offers the Quench Beverage Package, which includes unlimited non-alcoholic beverages like:

• Soft drinks

• Freshly squeezed juices

• Specialty coffees and teas

• Smoothies

• Mocktails

• Bottled water

This is an excellent option for families, teens, or adults who prefer non-alcoholic choices but still want the convenience of a package.

Pros:

• Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.

• Cheaper than alcohol-inclusive packages.

• Great for health-conscious travelers.

Cons:

• Does not include alcoholic drinks.

• May not be cost-effective for light beverage drinkers.

Option 5: Coca-Cola Package

If you’re mainly a soda drinker, Holland America Line also offers a Coca-Cola package that includes unlimited fountain drinks or access to Coca-Cola Freestyle machines available on some ships.

You receive a souvenir cup that works with the Freestyle machines, letting you mix and match your favorite sodas, flavored waters, and juices.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly for soda lovers.

• Simple and convenient.

Cons:

• Limited to soda drinks only.

• May not be available on all older ships.

Option 6: Beverage Cards

Holland America also sells beverage cards that work like prepaid drink credits. You can purchase these cards before or during your cruise. Each card has a dollar value (for example, $50 or $100) that can be used toward beverages onboard.

When you buy a drink, the cost is deducted from your beverage card balance instead of being charged to your onboard account. Once the balance runs out, you can refill or use another payment method.

Pros:

• Great for controlling your spending.

• Can be purchased as gifts for friends or family traveling with you.

• Useful for guests who prefer to prepay before the cruise.

Cons:

• Limited flexibility compared to packages.

• Unused balances might not be refundable.

Option 7: Using Onboard Credit (OBC) for Drinks

Many guests receive Onboard Credit (OBC) as part of their booking promotion, loyalty rewards, or travel agent offers. Onboard credit works like ship money — you can use it for anything, including drinks, excursions, or shopping.

If you have onboard credit, you can simply order drinks as usual, and the charges will be deducted from your OBC balance before your credit card is charged.

This is a smart way to cover your drink costs without spending additional cash out-of-pocket. Always check your OBC balance during the cruise using the Holland America Navigator app or your in-cabin TV.

Automatic Gratuities and Service Charges

When paying for drinks onboard, don’t forget the 18% service charge that is automatically added to all beverage purchases, including those made through packages. Even if you buy a beverage package, gratuities are either included or added during purchase.

This charge goes directly to the bar and service staff, ensuring fair compensation. While tipping extra is optional, you can always add a few dollars more for exceptional service.

Alcohol Policy and Bringing Your Own Drinks

Another question many cruisers ask is whether they can bring their own drinks onboard. Holland America Line allows each adult guest to bring one bottle (750 ml) of wine or champagne onboard at embarkation, free of charge. This can be enjoyed in your stateroom or with dinner.

If you bring additional bottles, a $20 corkage fee per bottle applies when consumed in public areas or dining venues. However, you cannot bring your own beer, liquor, or other spirits onboard due to ship regulations.

If you purchase alcohol at a port of call, it will be held by the ship and delivered to your cabin on the final evening of the cruise.

Paying for Drinks in Specialty Restaurants and Lounges

Each bar, restaurant, and lounge on a Holland America ship offers unique menus and experiences. Whether you’re in the Crow’s Nest Lounge, Piano Bar, or Ocean Bar, the same payment system applies — your room card.

For specialty dining restaurants like Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto, wine and cocktails are charged separately unless covered by your beverage package. Waitstaff will swipe your card for the drink cost, and it will appear in your onboard account.

If you have the Signature or Elite Beverage Package, most drinks ordered in these venues are included up to the price limit.

Room Service and Minibar Drinks

Holland America Line offers 24-hour room service, and you can order drinks directly to your stateroom. These are charged to your account unless covered by your beverage package.

The minibar in your stateroom also includes beer, soft drinks, and bottled water. Prices are listed, and anything you consume is automatically added to your onboard balance. If you have a beverage package, you may request that minibar items be swapped for included drinks.

How to Check Your Drink Charges

To avoid surprises, it’s a good idea to monitor your spending during the cruise. You can easily check your drink and other onboard charges using:

• The Holland America Navigator App

• Your in-room TV under “Account Summary”

• The Guest Services desk

You’ll see a breakdown of all drink purchases, including service charges and package usage. Keeping track of your account ensures you stay within budget and avoid end-of-cruise surprises.

Tips to Save Money on Drinks

Cruise drinks can add up quickly, especially for longer sailings. Here are some practical ways to save money while still enjoying your favorite beverages:

1. Buy Beverage Packages in AdvanceHolland America often offers discounts when you purchase drink packages before boarding. You can do this through the “Manage My Booking” section online.

2. Use Onboard Credit for DrinksApply any promotional or loyalty OBC toward your drink bill to lower your actual spending.

3. Attend Happy Hours and Drink SpecialsKeep an eye on daily programs for happy hour deals, 2-for-1 cocktails, or wine tastings.

4. Bring Your Own WineBringing your allowed bottle of wine can save money on your first evening aboard.

5. Share a Wine Bottle at DinnerOrdering a bottle is often cheaper per glass than buying individual pours.

6. Limit Specialty CoffeesIf you’re a coffee lover, consider a package that includes espresso-based drinks instead of buying them separately.

7. Avoid Unnecessary Water PurchasesTap water onboard is filtered and safe to drink, so bottled water is optional.

8. Take Advantage of Loyalty BenefitsMariners Society members (Holland America’s loyalty program) sometimes receive drink discounts or free events.

Are Drinks Ever Included in the Cruise Fare?

In some promotional packages like “Have It All,” Holland America Line includes the Signature Beverage Package as part of your cruise fare. This bundle also covers shore excursions, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi.

If your fare includes the “Have It All” promotion, you don’t need to pay separately for your drinks — they’re already included. However, it’s always worth confirming what’s covered before your sailing to avoid confusion.

Settling Your Account at the End of the Cruise

At the end of your voyage, Holland America Line will automatically total all your onboard expenses — including drinks, gratuities, and any purchases. The final bill is charged to your registered payment method.

If you prefer to pay by cash, you can visit Guest Services before disembarking to settle your balance manually. Once paid, you’ll receive a printed or digital statement for your records.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Way to Pay for Drinks

Choosing how to pay for drinks on your Holland America Line cruise depends on your drinking habits, preferences, and budget.

• Light drinkers may find pay-as-you-go best, as it avoids unnecessary costs.

• Moderate to heavy drinkers or those who enjoy cocktails, coffee, and wine daily may benefit from the Signature or Elite Beverage Package.

• Non-drinkers or families will appreciate the Quench or Coca-Cola packages.

• Guests with onboard credit can use it strategically to offset drink costs.

Whatever your choice, Holland America Line makes it easy and convenient to enjoy beverages without handling cash. By understanding the available options, you can relax and focus on the pleasures of cruising — from morning espresso on deck to sunset cocktails by the sea.

Conclusion

Drinks are a joyful part of any Holland America Line cruise — whether you’re enjoying a fine wine at dinner or a refreshing soda by the pool. Knowing how to pay for drinks helps you manage your spending smartly while savoring every moment.

From drink packages and beverage cards to onboard credit and gratuities, the system is designed for convenience and flexibility. With the right choice, you can indulge in the onboard experience without worrying about the bill — ensuring your cruise is as relaxing and enjoyable as the ocean breeze itself.