American Cruise Lines (ACL) is known for its small-ship cruising experience, scenic river routes, coastal voyages, and distinctly American destinations. Unlike mass-market cruise lines that cater to thousands of passengers with flashy entertainment and unlimited buffet-style dining, American Cruise Lines focuses on comfort, personalized service, and immersive travel experiences.
One of the most common questions prospective passengers ask before booking is whether it is worth buying a drink package on American Cruise Lines. For many travelers, beverage packages can significantly impact overall cruise costs, convenience, and onboard enjoyment. However, ACL operates very differently from mainstream cruise companies, which means the value of a drink package also differs.
This article takes a deep, honest, and practical look at American Cruise Lines’ drink offerings, pricing structure, inclusions, exclusions, and real-world value. By the end, you will be able to confidently decide whether purchasing a drink package is truly worth it for your travel style, budget, and preferences.
American Cruise Lines does not operate under the traditional “unlimited drinks” culture seen on large ocean cruises. Instead, its beverage approach is more refined, relaxed, and aligned with its upscale, small-ship atmosphere.
ACL passengers tend to be mature travelers who value quality over quantity. Many cruises emphasize regional culture, local history, and scenic cruising rather than late-night parties or bar hopping. This philosophy influences how drinks are offered, priced, and packaged.
On most American Cruise Lines itineraries, complimentary beverages are already included during certain parts of the day. This makes the decision about a paid drink package more nuanced than on other cruise lines.
Before evaluating whether a drink package is worth buying, it is important to understand what is already included in the base cruise fare.
American Cruise Lines typically includes the following beverages at no additional cost:
• Coffee, tea, and soft drinks available throughout the day• Bottled water• Complimentary beer and wine during lunch and dinner• Select cocktails at welcome events or special onboard gatherings• Non-alcoholic beverages during meals
This means that many travelers already receive a significant portion of what they might normally pay extra for on other cruise lines. Unlike large cruise ships where even soda costs extra, ACL builds basic beverage comfort into the cruise fare.
This alone reduces the urgency or necessity of purchasing an additional drink package.
American Cruise Lines offers an optional beverage package that expands drink access beyond what is already included. While the exact name, availability, and pricing may vary slightly by itinerary and season, the general idea remains the same.
The drink package typically includes:
• Unlimited cocktails, spirits, wine, and beer outside meal times• Premium spirits not included in standard service• Drinks consumed in lounges, observation decks, and staterooms• Alcoholic beverages outside scheduled dining hours
This package is designed for guests who prefer the convenience of unlimited access without worrying about per-drink charges.
However, it is important to note that American Cruise Lines does not aggressively promote drink packages the way large cruise lines do. The emphasis remains on flexibility and moderation rather than maximizing alcohol consumption.
The cost of the drink package on American Cruise Lines generally ranges between moderate daily pricing per person. While prices can change depending on route, duration, and ship, the daily cost is usually lower than the drink packages offered by large ocean cruise companies.
That said, individual drink prices onboard are also relatively reasonable. Cocktails, wine, and spirits are not excessively marked up, which directly affects the break-even point for purchasing a package.
Because ACL already includes beer and wine with meals, the drink package is primarily valuable for:
• Cocktails during afternoons and evenings• Drinks enjoyed while scenic cruising• Pre-dinner or post-dinner beverages• Social drinks during onboard events
This structure makes the package less about necessity and more about convenience and lifestyle preference.
Breaking Down the True Value of the Drink Package
To determine whether the drink package is worth it, travelers should consider their daily drinking habits in realistic terms.
Let’s look at a practical example.
If a guest typically enjoys:• One cocktail in the afternoon• One glass of wine before dinner• One after-dinner drink
That totals approximately three alcoholic drinks per day outside of meals. Since wine and beer at lunch and dinner are already included, the paid drinks would mostly be cocktails or premium options.
If the average per-drink price onboard is reasonable, purchasing drinks individually may still be cheaper than the daily package rate. In many cases, guests would need to consume a relatively high number of paid drinks per day to break even.
This is why the drink package on American Cruise Lines often makes sense only for certain types of travelers.
The American Cruise Lines drink package can be worth it for the following traveler profiles:
Social drinkers who enjoy cocktails throughout the dayGuests who prefer premium spirits or specialty cocktailsTravelers who dislike signing receipts or tracking onboard expensesPassengers who enjoy lounging on deck with frequent drinksThose celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or milestone birthdays
For these guests, the psychological comfort of unlimited access and predictable costs can enhance the cruise experience.
The package is particularly appealing to travelers who view beverages as part of their relaxation ritual rather than just an accompaniment to meals.
On the other hand, many American Cruise Lines guests may find that the drink package is not worth the added cost.
You may want to skip it if:
• You mostly drink wine or beer during meals (already included)• You drink alcohol occasionally rather than daily• You prefer non-alcoholic beverages• You are budget-conscious and tracking total cruise expenses• You prioritize excursions and experiences over onboard indulgences
Because ACL cruises are destination-focused with daily shore excursions, many passengers spend large portions of the day off the ship. This naturally limits onboard drinking opportunities.
In these cases, paying per drink often results in lower overall spending.
It is important not to compare American Cruise Lines drink packages directly with those offered by large international cruise brands.
On mass-market cruise lines:• Soda, bottled water, and coffee often cost extra• Alcohol is rarely included in base fares• Drink packages are aggressively marketed• Per-drink prices are higher
On American Cruise Lines:• Many beverages are already included• Alcohol inclusion is more generous• Ships are smaller and less bar-centric• Drinking culture is more relaxed
This difference means the value proposition of a drink package on ACL is fundamentally different. It is not designed to offset inflated drink prices but to offer convenience for guests who want expanded access.
The length and type of cruise play a significant role in determining drink package value.
Shorter cruises:• Fewer onboard drinking opportunities• Less time to justify daily package cost
Longer cruises:• More evenings onboard• Greater likelihood of enjoying social events and lounges
River cruises with daily port stops may reduce onboard time, while coastal cruises with scenic sailing days may increase it.
If your itinerary includes long scenic cruising days, the drink package becomes more attractive. If most days are excursion-heavy, it may be less worthwhile.
Alcohol Quality and Selection on American Cruise Lines
Another factor influencing value is the quality of alcohol offered.
American Cruise Lines focuses on quality over quantity. Spirits, wines, and beers are carefully selected, often reflecting regional tastes. The drink package typically includes well-regarded brands rather than bottom-shelf options.
For guests who appreciate quality drinks and curated selections, the package may feel more valuable even if the pure monetary break-even is marginal.
There is also a noticeable absence of the rushed, party-driven bar service seen on larger ships. Drinks are served thoughtfully, enhancing the overall experience.
Non-Alcoholic Considerations
While the drink package is primarily associated with alcohol, it may also include specialty coffees, mocktails, or premium non-alcoholic beverages depending on the itinerary.
For guests who enjoy espresso-based drinks or specialty beverages throughout the day, this can add incremental value. However, basic coffee, tea, and soft drinks are already included, limiting the package’s appeal for non-drinkers.
Health, Moderation, and Travel Demographics
American Cruise Lines attracts a demographic that generally values moderation, wellness, and comfort. Excessive drinking is rare, and the onboard environment reflects this.
For many travelers in this demographic, a drink package may encourage unnecessary consumption rather than enhance enjoyment. Paying per drink aligns better with mindful travel habits.
This is a key reason why many repeat American Cruise Lines guests opt out of beverage packages altogether.
Even when the math does not fully justify a drink package, some travelers still choose it for peace of mind.
Knowing that drinks are prepaid can:• Reduce mental accounting• Encourage relaxation• Simplify onboard life• Eliminate end-of-cruise bill surprises
For some guests, this psychological comfort alone makes the package “worth it,” even if it costs slightly more than paying individually.
This decision is deeply personal and should not be based on numbers alone.
Hidden Limitations and Fine Print
While American Cruise Lines is transparent, travelers should still be aware of potential limitations:
• Drink packages may exclude ultra-premium brands• Room service alcohol may be limited• Sharing drinks is not allowed• Package availability may vary by sailing
Understanding these details before purchasing ensures realistic expectations and avoids disappointment.
The honest answer is that the American Cruise Lines drink package is not universally worth it, but it can be worth it for the right traveler.
It offers convenience, quality, and peace of mind rather than dramatic savings. Unlike mass-market cruise drink packages, it is not designed to encourage overconsumption or deliver extreme value through volume.
For moderate drinkers, wine-with-dinner guests, and excursion-focused travelers, paying per drink is often the better financial choice.
For social drinkers, cocktail lovers, and those who enjoy lounging onboard with a drink in hand, the package can enhance the overall experience enough to justify the cost.
American Cruise Lines offers a refined cruising experience where beverages are part of the journey, not the centerpiece. The generous inclusion of beer and wine with meals already sets it apart from many competitors.
Whether or not the drink package is worth buying depends less on numbers and more on lifestyle, preferences, and how you envision spending your time onboard.
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