If you’re planning a vacation with Princess Cruises, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: How do I pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises ship? Whether it’s a refreshing mocktail by the pool, a glass of champagne at dinner, or your morning latte from the International Café, understanding how the payment system works can help you plan your budget better and avoid surprises at the end of your voyage.
Princess Cruises has modernized its payment system through its innovative MedallionClass technology. With this, paying for drinks is incredibly seamless — no more fumbling with cash or cards. But there are also multiple options such as drink packages, a la carte purchases, and onboard credit usage. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything about how to pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises ship, how drink packages work, and how to make the most of your onboard experience without overspending.
When you step onboard a Princess Cruises ship, you’ll receive your OceanMedallion, a small wearable device that replaces traditional cruise cards. This Medallion acts as your key to everything — your cabin door, your onboard identity, and your payment method. Every purchase you make, including drinks, is linked to your onboard account.
You don’t need to carry cash or credit cards around the ship. Instead, you just order your drink — whether from a bar, a lounge, or through the Princess Cruises app — and your Medallion automatically charges it to your onboard account. At the end of your cruise, the total bill is settled through the payment method you registered during check-in.
So, when it comes to how to pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises, the simple answer is: you use your OceanMedallion-linked onboard account. But there are several ways to manage and optimize these payments, which we’ll explore next.
Pay per drink (a la carte)You can order drinks individually and have them charged to your onboard account. Each bar, restaurant, or café has its own menu with listed prices for cocktails, wine, beer, coffee, and soft drinks.
Purchase a drink packagePrincess Cruises offers multiple beverage packages that allow unlimited or discounted access to drinks, depending on the type of package you choose.
Use onboard creditIf you receive onboard credit through promotions or travel agencies, you can use it to pay for drinks.
Buy drinks before boardingThrough the Princess Cruises website or the MedallionClass app, you can pre-purchase drink packages or beverage credits, ensuring you’re set before sailing.
Use MedallionPay with an external cardIf you’re in port or shopping at partnered stores, you can even use MedallionPay outside the ship without additional fees.
If you’re not a heavy drinker or simply enjoy a few beverages occasionally, paying per drink might be the most economical choice. Princess Cruises offers a wide variety of beverages across different venues — from poolside bars to elegant lounges.
Here’s an approximate idea of typical drink prices (subject to change):
Cocktails: $10–$14 each
Beer: $6–$8 per bottle
Wine by the glass: $9–$14
Specialty coffee: $3–$5
Soda: $2.50 per can
Bottled water: $1.50–$3
Each purchase is added to your onboard account and settled at the end of your cruise. You’ll receive detailed statements through the MedallionClass app, allowing you to monitor your spending in real time.
This method is perfect for guests who only plan to drink occasionally and don’t see the value in an all-inclusive package.
One of the easiest and most popular ways to handle beverage payments is to buy a Princess Cruises drink package. These packages offer convenience, savings, and peace of mind, especially for guests who enjoy regular drinks throughout their voyage.
There are several types of drink packages, each catering to different needs and preferences.
The Plus Beverage Package is among the most popular options. It includes:
All drinks up to $15 each (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Cocktails, wine, beer, soda, mocktails, specialty coffee, and bottled water
25% discount on bottles of wine
This package is typically included in the “Princess Plus” fare option, meaning you pay a higher upfront cruise fare that covers drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
The Premier Beverage Package is designed for those who prefer premium brands or top-shelf drinks. It includes:
All drinks up to $20 each
Premium spirits, wine by the glass, craft cocktails, and more
25% discount on bottled wine and bottled water
It’s part of the “Princess Premier” fare option, which also includes unlimited Wi-Fi for multiple devices, specialty dining credits, and photo packages.
For guests who don’t consume alcohol but still want unlimited refreshments, the Zero-Alcohol (formerly Coffee & Soda) package is ideal. It includes:
Unlimited fountain soda
Juices, mocktails, smoothies, and bottled water
Specialty coffees and teas
This package is perfect for families, teenagers, and health-conscious travelers.
If you simply enjoy sodas and want unlimited access, this is the most affordable drink plan. It covers:
Fountain soft drinks
Fruit juices by the glass
There are several ways to purchase your preferred beverage package:
Before your cruise: Log in to your Princess Cruises account and visit the “Cruise Personalizer” or the MedallionClass app. Pre-purchasing often comes with discounts.
Onboard: Visit any bar or guest services desk after boarding to buy your chosen package. Charges are automatically applied to your onboard account.
Remember that drink packages are purchased per person, per day, and all adults in the same stateroom must buy the same package if one person chooses an alcoholic drink plan. This policy helps prevent sharing.
Many passengers receive onboard credit (OBC) when booking a cruise. This can come from promotional offers, travel agent bonuses, or loyalty rewards through the Captain’s Circle program.
Onboard credit works like virtual money that can be used for almost any onboard expense — including drinks, spa services, excursions, and shopping.
When you order drinks, the system automatically deducts the charge from your available onboard credit balance before charging your registered payment card.
If you’re wondering how to pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises using onboard credit, simply order your beverages as usual — the OBC is applied automatically.
Princess Cruises revolutionized its onboard experience with MedallionPay, a contactless, cashless payment system linked to your OceanMedallion.
With MedallionPay, you can:
Order drinks anywhere on the ship and have them delivered to your location.
Pay instantly with your Medallion device.
Track your spending in the MedallionClass app.
You can even use MedallionPay ashore in select ports with participating merchants — allowing you to make purchases using your cruise-linked account without carrying a wallet.
MedallionPay simplifies the question of how to pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises because it automates every transaction securely and conveniently.
Princess Cruises maintains a few rules around alcohol consumption and drink purchases that passengers should know:
Guests must be 21 years or older to purchase or consume alcohol on all Princess Cruises ships sailing from North America.
You may bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per adult on embarkation day. Additional bottles may incur a corkage fee.
Bringing beer or hard liquor onboard is not permitted.
Drink packages cannot be shared or transferred between guests.
If you appear intoxicated, the staff reserves the right to deny further alcohol service.
These policies ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone onboard.
When you buy drinks à la carte, an 18% service charge is automatically added to the price. This applies whether you order at a bar or through room service.
If you have a drink package, gratuities are already included in the daily rate of the package. Therefore, you don’t need to add extra tips unless you wish to reward exceptional service.
For instance, if a bartender goes above and beyond, you can always hand over a small additional tip, which is appreciated but never required.
Before deciding how to pay for drinks on your Princess Cruises, it’s smart to compare the pros and cons of drink packages versus individual purchases.
CategoryDrink PackagePay Per Drink
ConvenienceUnlimited access, no countingPay for each drink separately
CostHigher upfront cost, better for frequent drinkersCheaper for light drinkers
FlexibilityFixed daily chargeOnly pay when you consume
Included DrinksWide selectionFull range available but individually priced
TippingIncluded18% added to each drink
As a general rule, if you plan to drink more than 5–6 alcoholic beverages daily, a drink package often saves you money. If you only have a cocktail with dinner and maybe one at sunset, paying per drink is more practical.
Cruising doesn’t have to mean overspending on beverages. Here are some smart tips to keep your drink budget under control:
Bring your own wine – Each adult guest can bring one bottle of wine at embarkation. Enjoy it in your cabin to save corkage fees.
Pre-purchase drink packages – Prices may be lower before boarding compared to onboard rates.
Use onboard credit – Take advantage of promotional OBC offers to cover beverage costs.
Look for happy hours – Some ships host limited-time drink specials.
Try the coffee card – If you love cappuccinos or lattes, the Princess Coffee Card can be an affordable option.
Drink water and juices at mealtimes – Complimentary beverages like tap water, iced tea, and lemonade are available in buffet areas.
If you prefer not to drink alcohol, Princess Cruises offers plenty of alternatives. Many passengers are surprised at the variety of non-alcoholic beverages available.
Options include:
Fresh fruit juices
Smoothies and milkshakes
Specialty teas and coffees
Soft drinks and sodas
Mocktails and zero-proof cocktails
Whether you purchase a Zero-Alcohol Package or pay per drink, you’ll find satisfying options across all venues.
If you use MedallionPay at participating stores, bars, or restaurants in select ports, your purchases can be charged directly to your onboard account — just like onboard transactions.
This is extremely convenient for guests who don’t want to carry local currency or cards while exploring. You can also earn 5% cashback (at times, depending on promotions) when using MedallionPay ashore.
However, keep in mind that not all ports or venues accept MedallionPay, so it’s smart to carry a credit card as a backup.
With the MedallionClass app, you can track every purchase in real time. It shows:
Item name and price
Date and time of purchase
Location or bar name
Remaining onboard credit balance
You’ll also receive a final statement on your stateroom TV or via email before disembarkation. This makes it easy to review your spending and ensure everything is accurate.
If you love pairing wine or cocktails with dinner, consider combining your drink package with a specialty dining plan. Princess Cruises offers curated dining experiences where select beverages are included or discounted.
For instance, in certain restaurants, you may find a wine pairing option at a reduced rate when dining with a specialty menu. Booking these experiences in advance can enhance your cruise enjoyment while managing your costs effectively.
The MedallionClass app is your all-in-one cruise companion. It not only helps you check in and unlock your stateroom but also allows you to:
Order drinks anywhere onboard (poolside, theater, or cabin)
Pay instantly via your Medallion
Access your drink history and receipts
Explore available drink packages or upgrades
For guests wondering how to pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises while lounging by the pool, this feature is a game-changer — your favorite drink can literally find you.
1. Do I need cash to pay for drinks on Princess Cruises?
No. All drink purchases are charged to your onboard account via the OceanMedallion system.
2. Are gratuities included in drink prices?
An 18% gratuity is automatically added unless you have a drink package, in which case it’s included.
3. Can I share my drink package?
No. Sharing drink packages between guests is not permitted.
4. Can I bring my own drinks onboard?
Only one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per adult is allowed at embarkation.
5. How do I check my drink bill?
Use the MedallionClass app or your stateroom TV to view your current charges anytime.
Understanding how to pay for drinks on a Princess Cruises makes your sailing experience much smoother and stress-free. Thanks to the OceanMedallion and MedallionPay systems, you don’t have to worry about cash or cards — your entire cruise becomes a contactless, effortless experience.
Whether you choose to purchase drinks individually, invest in a beverage package, or use onboard credit, you have complete flexibility. For those who enjoy frequent beverages, the Plus or Premier Beverage Packages offer excellent value. On the other hand, light drinkers may prefer the pay-per-drink approach.
No matter which option you choose, Princess Cruises ensures that every sip — from a fine wine at sunset to a morning cappuccino — is easy to order, easy to pay for, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Your next voyage can be both luxurious and budget-conscious if you plan your beverage strategy in advance. So, when you’re ready to raise your glass on deck and toast to adventure, you’ll already know exactly how to pay for drinks on your Princess Cruises — effortlessly and smartly.
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