Sailing on an Oceania Cruise is one of the most elegant and refined ways to experience the open seas. Known for its luxurious ships, gourmet dining, and intimate atmosphere, Oceania Cruises focuses on fine details that enhance every aspect of your journey — including your beverage experience. Whether you enjoy a refreshing mocktail by the pool, a fine wine with dinner, or a crafted espresso in the café, understanding how to pay for drinks onboard is essential to managing your budget and maximizing your enjoyment.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about paying for drinks on an Oceania Cruise. From inclusive beverage options and specialty drink packages to gratuities, onboard credits, and cost-saving tips, you’ll learn how the payment system works so you can sip without stress.
Oceania Cruises offers an elegant yet flexible beverage system designed to suit different passenger preferences. Unlike some cruise lines that include unlimited drinks for all guests, Oceania keeps things personalized. You can choose to pay for drinks individually, select a beverage package, or enjoy included options depending on your suite or promotion.
Each ship features multiple bars, lounges, and dining venues where beverages are served — from cocktails and wines to coffees and fresh juices. Understanding which drinks are complimentary and which are chargeable helps you plan ahead.
Complimentary Drinks:
Filtered water, iced tea, and coffee (including decaf) are free at all times.
Juice at breakfast (like orange, apple, or tomato juice) is typically included.
Soft drinks and bottled water may be complimentary depending on your stateroom or package.
Chargeable Drinks:
Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, cocktails, spirits).
Premium coffees such as cappuccino, espresso, or specialty blends (outside of meal times).
Bottled water and soda (for guests without packages or suite benefits).
When you step onboard, Oceania Cruises simplifies your experience by creating a personal onboard account. Your stateroom key, also known as your Oceania Keycard, acts as both your room key and your onboard payment method.
Here’s how it works:
You link your preferred credit card to your account at check-in.
Every time you order a drink, the bar staff swipes your keycard.
The charge automatically appears in your onboard account.
You’ll receive a detailed statement at the end of your voyage, which is settled through your linked payment method.
This system eliminates the need to carry cash or cards around the ship. You can check your onboard balance anytime through the in-room TV or at the Guest Services desk.
Oceania offers beverage packages that provide flexibility and value depending on your drinking habits. Choosing a package can be more cost-effective if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks per day.
1. Prestige Select Beverage PackageThis is Oceania’s top-tier all-inclusive package, designed for guests who enjoy premium beverages throughout the day.
Includes unlimited premium spirits, cocktails, champagne, wine by the glass, and beer.
Covers drinks in all restaurants, lounges, and bars onboard.
Available from 9 AM to midnight daily.
As of recent pricing, this package costs approximately $59.95 per person, per day (plus gratuity).
2. House Select Beverage PackageThis package is ideal for guests who mainly drink with meals.
Includes unlimited wine and beer by the glass during lunch and dinner in onboard restaurants.
Drinks are not included outside mealtimes.
The cost is typically around $39.95 per person, per day (plus gratuity).
Both packages must be purchased for the entire cruise duration and for all adults in the same stateroom if one opts for it. This ensures fair and consistent pricing for all guests.
If you don’t drink enough to justify a beverage package, you can pay for drinks individually. Oceania’s bar menus offer an impressive selection, with pricing comparable to upscale hotel lounges.
Average Drink Prices:
Cocktails: $10–$15
Glass of wine: $9–$18 (premium selections can be higher)
Beer: $7–$10
Espresso drinks: $3–$5
Bottled water or soft drink: $3–$5
Each purchase automatically adds a service charge (gratuity) of around 18–20%, depending on current cruise policies.
Many Oceania cruise fares, promotions, or travel agent offers include Onboard Credit (OBC). This is like shipboard cash that can be used to pay for drinks, spa treatments, excursions, or boutique purchases.
Here’s how it works:
Your onboard credit appears in your account automatically at embarkation.
Whenever you buy a drink, the cost is deducted from your OBC first.
Once your credit is used up, remaining purchases charge your linked payment card.
For passengers who enjoy a few daily drinks but don’t want a package, onboard credit is an excellent middle ground. You can monitor your spending easily while still enjoying flexibility.
Oceania Cruises is known for its luxurious suites and personalized service. Guests staying in higher-tier accommodations like Penthouse Suites or Oceania Suites often enjoy extra beverage perks.
Suite Benefits May Include:
Complimentary in-room bar setup (with wine and spirits).
Daily replenishment of bottled water and soft drinks.
Free access to specialty coffees and teas.
Additionally, Oceania frequently runs promotions under its “OLife Choice” or “OLife Ultimate” programs. These may include complimentary beverage packages as part of your booking bonus. Always check your cruise fare details before sailing to understand what’s included.
Oceania Cruises allows passengers to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard. This policy is a pleasant surprise for guests who prefer their own favorite labels.
Policy Overview:
You may bring up to six bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom (750ml each).
No spirits or beer are allowed to be brought onboard.
If you consume your wine in public dining areas, a corkage fee (around $25 per bottle) applies.
Wine enjoyed in your cabin is free of any additional charge.
This policy lets guests enjoy personal selections without overpaying at shipboard bars while still respecting the cruise’s fine dining ambiance.
Whenever you purchase a beverage onboard — either individually or through a package — a gratuity is automatically added to your bill. This typically ranges from 18% to 20%, depending on the ship and region.
These charges go directly to the bar and lounge staff who serve you, ensuring they are fairly compensated for excellent service. You don’t need to tip extra unless you wish to recognize exceptional hospitality.
If you purchase a beverage package, gratuities are added upfront for the duration of your cruise. This means you won’t see additional drink-related service charges during your voyage.
Beyond the traditional alcoholic drinks, Oceania Cruises offers several unique beverage experiences that enhance the overall luxury.
1. Barista Coffee Bar: Enjoy Italian-style espresso, cappuccino, and pastries in the Baristas Café — a favorite among coffee lovers. Drinks here are chargeable unless your suite includes them or you hold a beverage package that covers specialty coffees.
2. Wine Tastings and Pairing Events: Oceania often hosts wine tastings, mixology classes, or pairing dinners where guests can experience curated selections guided by sommeliers. These are typically extra-cost experiences but worth every penny for connoisseurs.
3. Afternoon Tea and Mocktails: Afternoon tea service includes complimentary teas, but specialty teas and crafted mocktails come with a nominal charge.
4. Room Service Beverages: Room service food is complimentary, but beverages like wine, beer, or soda ordered to your room are chargeable unless covered by your package or suite privileges.
Paying for drinks on a cruise can add up quickly, but with the right approach, you can keep your bar bill in check without missing out on the fun.
1. Calculate Your Drinking Habits: Before purchasing a package, estimate how many drinks you typically consume daily. If it’s fewer than four alcoholic drinks a day, a package may not be cost-effective.
2. Use Onboard Credit Strategically: Apply your OBC toward beverages instead of excursions if you prefer socializing onboard. This gives you more flexibility with daily spending.
3. Take Advantage of Happy Hours: Some Oceania itineraries feature special drink promotions during certain hours. Watch the daily newsletter (Currents) for announcements.
4. Bring Your Own Wine: Use the six-bottle allowance wisely, especially if you enjoy specific wines or champagnes. You can savor them in your suite without extra fees.
5. Enjoy Included Drinks at Meals: Even without a package, you can enjoy juices, teas, and regular coffee free of charge — and sometimes even complimentary house wines depending on promotions.
6. Split Packages Wisely (if allowed): Though all adults in a cabin typically must purchase the same beverage package, it’s worth discussing with guest services if special exceptions apply for low-consumption travelers.
7. Review Your Bill Regularly: Check your onboard statement every few days. It’s easy to lose track of casual purchases, and early review avoids surprises on the last day.
Oceania’s fleet — including Marina, Riviera, Vista, Insignia, Nautica, Regatta, and Sirena — all uphold the brand’s signature beverage elegance. However, each ship offers slightly different bar layouts and themes.
Highlights Include:
Horizons Lounge: Known for its panoramic sea views and evening cocktails.
Waves Bar: Located near the pool deck, perfect for tropical drinks and smoothies.
Martin Lounge: A cozy, refined venue ideal for aperitifs or post-dinner drinks.
Baristas Café: The best place for espresso and pastries.
Jacques and Toscana Restaurants: Offer curated wine lists designed to pair with gourmet menus.
Wherever you go, Oceania ensures top-shelf liquors, fine wines, and attentive service. Each venue maintains the same billing system, linking directly to your onboard account.
All onboard transactions on Oceania Cruises are handled in U.S. dollars. When you settle your final bill, your linked credit card will process the total amount in USD.
If you prefer to pay in cash, you can deposit cash at the reception desk during your voyage. Any unused cash balance is refunded at the end of your cruise. However, using a credit card is generally more convenient and widely recommended.
At disembarkation, you’ll receive a final statement detailing every drink purchase, package charge, and gratuity. Reviewing this ensures transparency and accuracy.
The decision between a beverage package and a pay-as-you-go system depends on personal drinking preferences and the cruise duration.
Choose a Beverage Package If:
You drink multiple alcoholic beverages daily.
You want to avoid tracking individual costs.
You enjoy sampling premium wines and spirits.
Your cruise is longer, making package savings more evident.
Choose Pay-As-You-Go If:
You drink occasionally or moderately.
You prefer flexibility in choosing non-alcoholic options.
You have onboard credit or suite perks covering your basic needs.
For many Oceania travelers, the House Select package strikes the best balance — affordable yet convenient for mealtime enjoyment.
If you lose your keycard — the tool used for all onboard payments — report it immediately to Guest Services. They will cancel the old card to prevent misuse and issue a replacement. Any unauthorized charges will be investigated and adjusted if necessary.
Your onboard account remains secure, as Oceania’s internal payment system links transactions directly to your profile, not the physical card itself.
Drinks consumed off the ship are not part of your onboard payment system. When you visit ports of call, you’ll need to pay using local currency or your personal credit card. However, some extended Oceania excursions include complimentary beverages like local wines or soft drinks, depending on the tour.
Back onboard, your Oceania Keycard resumes normal operation for any drinks or bar purchases.
One of the hallmarks of Oceania Cruises is its staff’s ability to remember your preferences. Order a specific cocktail once, and your bartender might recall it the next time you visit. This personalized service elevates the beverage experience, making every drink feel tailored.
Guests with beverage packages often find that the convenience encourages them to explore the diverse cocktail and wine lists more freely, enhancing their overall cruise enjoyment.
Myth 1: All drinks are free on luxury cruises: Fact: While Oceania includes many premium amenities, not all drinks are free unless you have a package or suite perk.
Myth 2: You can share a beverage package: Fact: Packages are non-transferable and linked to each guest’s account to prevent misuse.
Myth 3: You can only use beverage packages in certain areas: Fact: Packages cover all lounges, restaurants, and bars — and even room service drinks in most cases.
Myth 4: Onboard credit can’t be used for alcohol: Fact: You can absolutely use OBC to pay for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages alike.
Review package details before booking; sometimes early promotions include free upgrades.
Carry a reusable water bottle to refill from complimentary stations.
Don’t hesitate to ask bartenders for off-menu drinks or custom mocktails — Oceania’s mixologists are happy to accommodate.
Remember to hydrate with water and juices between cocktails, especially on sunny days at sea.
Keep a small budget buffer for special experiences like wine tastings or champagne toasts.
Understanding how to pay for drinks on an Oceania Cruise ensures you can fully embrace the luxury and relaxation that the line is famous for. Whether you prefer the convenience of a beverage package, the flexibility of a pay-as-you-go approach, or the elegance of sipping your favorite wine from home, Oceania offers multiple options tailored to every traveler’s style.
Your onboard account system simplifies transactions, onboard credit adds convenience, and the service staff ensures each drink is crafted to perfection. By planning your beverage choices wisely, you’ll not only manage your expenses but also enhance your entire cruise experience — one sip at a time.
From morning cappuccinos to evening martinis under the stars, Oceania Cruises ensures every moment at sea is paired with exceptional taste and effortless sophistication.
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