By iCruise Editorial Staff, Avid Cruisers | August 07, 2025 ( Comments)
Norwegian Cruise Line is renowned for its "Freestyle Cruising" concept, which gives guests the freedom to vacation on their own terms. This philosophy extends beyond dining and entertainment to every aspect of the onboard experience, including beverages. For many travelers, enhancing this freedom with a drink package can be a smart, and often cost-saving, way to elevate their time at sea. Offering everything from specialty coffees and sodas to premium wines and top-shelf spirits, NCL's drink packages are designed to match a variety of lifestyles and budgets. Understanding what's included, how much they cost, and who they're best suited for can help cruisers make the most of every sip.
Overview of Norwegian Cruise Line's Beverage Packages
To truly experience the freedom of Freestyle Cruising, Norwegian offers different beverage packages tailored to suit every taste and lifestyle. From soda packages for kids & teens, specialty coffee to kick-start your morning, to premium wine and beer selections, there is something for everyone. Let's take a closer look at the available NCL beverage packages and what each one includes.
Unlimited Soda Package
This package is ideal for families or cruisers who prefer non-alcoholic drinks. Enjoy Coca-Cola products, including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Tonic Water, and Fanta. Refills are unlimited and available at onboard bars, lounges, and dining venues. This package is automatically included for kids and teens with some NCL promotions, such as “Free at Sea.”
Cost: Approximately USD 12.50 per person, per day.
Gratuity: 20% service charge added at checkout.
Restrictions: Not available on sailings of two days or fewer; no sharing allowed.
Unlimited Starbucks Package
Coffee lovers will appreciate this specialty package, offering a familiar and comforting ritual for early risers and coffee aficionados. The Unlimited Starbucks Package includes everything from classic coffees and teas to the delicious Frappuccino favorites and other specialty beverages you love.
Cost: Around USD 16.50 per person, per day.
Gratuity: 20% service charge added at checkout.
Restrictions: Only available to guests 18 and older; does not include food items, bottled drinks, canned beverages, or Starbucks merchandise.
Unlimited Open Bar Package
With the More At Sea Unlimited Open Bar Package, enjoy a wide selection of beverages on board and at Great Stirrup Cay. It now includes even more premium brands such as Grey Goose, Casamigos, and Woodford Reserve, and the previous $15 USD cap has been removed. You'll also find a greater variety of wines and beers, including new regional selections to enjoy as you travel. As always, unlimited soft drinks and juices are included.
Inclusions: Spirits and cocktails under $15, draft and bottled beer, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, and mocktails.
Cost: $109 USD per person, per day.
Gratuity: 20% service charge added.
Restrictions: Room service and minibar items are excluded; wine bottles purchased before boarding are not covered.
Planning a cruise? Consider selecting "More at Sea" when booking to enjoy unlimited beverage options, additional specialty dining meals, and increased value.
More At Sea Hawaii Beverage Package
Elevate your cruise experience aboard the Pride of America with the exclusive More At Sea Hawaii Beverage Package. Enjoy unlimited craft cocktails made with top-shelf spirits, as well as a wide variety of regional spirits like Mahina rum and Pau Maui vodka. The package also includes a broad selection of wines by the glass and regional beers, such as Kona Big Wave and Fire Rock Pale Ale. For non-alcoholic refreshments, you'll have unlimited access to soft drinks, freshly squeezed juices, and Vero water refills from dispensers throughout the ship.
Gratuity: Please note that a 20% gratuity and beverage service charge will be added to the package price.
Restrictions: This package is an optional More At Sea selection applicable to Pride of America sailings only. It excludes specialty coffee purchased outside of the dining rooms, as well as room service, minibar items, and purchases from vending machines.
Specialty Dining Pairing Packages
One of the key benefits of More At Sea is how it creates a truly integrated and elevated vacation experience. The package includes a set number of meals at NCL's premium specialty restaurants, along with the Unlimited Open Bar package, ensuring a decadent and hassle-free dining experience. When you enjoy these specialty dinners, your beverage package fully integrates, allowing you to choose from a variety of complimentary drinks during your meal.
This means your choice of wine by the glass, signature cocktail, or beer is covered. However, it is important to note certain restrictions. The package does not include ultra-premium selections from the "Connoisseur Collection," nor bottles of wine, which are available for purchase separately.
How to Purchase a Drink Package
Elevating your cruise experience often comes down to the small, carefree moments, like enjoying a tropical cocktail by the pool or toasting a stunning sunset. NCL's drink packages are designed to let you enjoy these moments to the fullest, without worrying about the bill. To help you secure the best value for your vacation, here are the different ways you can purchase a drink package.
During booking: You can choose your desired drink package when you initially book your cruise.
Before your cruise (online): If you've already booked and didn't include a drink package, you can add it through your Norwegian Cruise Line online Cruise Planner before your sailing. You can also call NCL directly at 1-800-327-7030.
Onboard (first 48 hours): You can also purchase a drink package during the first 48 hours of your cruise at the Atrium Bar.
Pro Tip: Look for promotions! iCruise frequently offers special deals on NCL sailings that include free or discounted beverage packages with your booking.
Are Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages Worth It?
The value of an NCL drink package is highly personal, so the answer depends entirely on your travel style and preferences. To help you decide, it's best to analyze the costs and benefits based on your specific situation.
Analyzing the Value for Different Traveler Types
- Solo Travelers: A drink package can be a great way to budget, knowing your total costs upfront. It offers the freedom to try new drinks and mingle at the bar without worrying about every charge.
- Families: For families with multiple adults, the mandatory "all-in-one" rule (where all adults in a stateroom must purchase the package) can be a factor. If only one adult drinks alcohol, it may not be a cost-effective solution unless it's a complimentary perk. The separate Soda Package is an excellent, budget-friendly option for kids and non-drinkers.
- Luxury Seekers: For those who prefer premium brands, the enhanced More at Sea package is often the better value. Since the old $15 cap has been removed and more top-shelf spirits are included, luxury seekers can enjoy high-quality beverages like Grey Goose or Casamigos without extra charges.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: The Break-Even Point
A quick calculation can reveal if the package is a sound financial choice. On NCL, individual drink prices are approximately:
- Cocktails/Spirits: $12.50 to $15
- Beers/Ciders: $7.50 to $10
- Wines by the Glass: $10 to $15+
- Sodas: $3.50
- Specialty Coffees: $3.50+
With a standard drink package often costing around $109 per person per day (plus a 20% gratuity), you would need to consume at least 6-7 alcoholic beverages per day to break even on cost alone. This number decreases if you also enjoy multiple sodas, specialty coffees, or other non-alcoholic drinks. For many, the package is a great value, especially when included as a perk with the More at Sea program, where you only pay the daily gratuity.
Avoiding Over-Purchasing and Estimating Consumption
Don't fall into the trap of buying a package and feeling pressured to drink more to "get your money's worth." Here are some tips for making an honest estimate:
Track your habits: On your next land-based vacation or weekend, track the number of drinks you typically consume in a day. Be realistic about what you'll order on a cruise, as the atmosphere often encourages a little more indulgence.
Consider port days: On days when you'll be ashore for most of the day, you will likely consume fewer drinks on the ship. Factor this into your overall daily average.
Don't forget the gratuity: Remember to include the mandatory 20% service charge when you calculate the total cost of both the package and individual drinks.
By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision on whether a drink package is a perfect fit for your NCL vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions About NCL Drink Packages
Can I share a drink package with another guest?
No. Drink packages are non-transferable and can't be shared between guests.
Do I need a drink package for every day of the cruise?
Yes. If you purchase a package, it applies for every day of the sailing; it cannot be selected on a partial basis.
Can I upgrade my NCL drink package?
No. Under the new More At Sea program, there is no longer a separate, higher-tier beverage package to upgrade to. The Unlimited Open Bar Package, included as a perk with your booking, has been significantly enhanced to include many of the benefits that were previously part of a premium package. This means the $15 drink cap has been removed and the package now features a wider selection of top-shelf spirits, wines, and beers.
For any ultra-premium items not included, such as rare vintages from the "Connoisseur's Collection," you can simply purchase them a la carte.
Do drink packages include specialty coffees and bottled water?
No, the standard Unlimited Open Bar Package does not include specialty coffees or bottled water. These items are generally treated as separate categories.
What happens if I don't use the package much?
Refunds are not issued for unused portions of the drink package, so estimating your consumption in advance is key.
Tips for Maximizing Your Beverage Package
Take Advantage of the Deals: The best time to secure your beverage package is when you book through a promotion like More at Sea, which often includes the package for free (you only pay the gratuity). The cost of buying the package onboard is significantly higher.
Know What's Included: While the new Unlimited Open Bar package has no price cap, it does have some exclusions. The package does not cover ultra-premium selections from the "Connoisseur's Collection," though you will receive a discount on these items.
Use Your Package Everywhere: Don't forget that your beverage package is valid at all onboard bars, lounges, and restaurants. It also extends to Norwegian's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, so you can enjoy your favorite drinks while relaxing on the beach.
Order Efficiently: NCL's policy allows for up to two drinks per person, per transaction. Please note that packages are personal and cannot be shared; sharing your package with someone who does not have one is a violation of NCL's policy and could result in the package being confiscated without a refund.
Sip Responsibly: While there is no daily drink limit, NCL's staff reserves the right to refuse service to any guest who appears intoxicated. To ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation, it's always best to pace yourself and stay hydrated.
Final Thoughts
Norwegian Cruise Line drink packages offer flexibility, convenience, and potentially great value depending on how much and what you plan to drink. With options spanning soft drinks to premium cocktails and everything in between, these packages can help travelers unwind and make the most of their sailing experience, without worrying about bar tabs at the end.
Explore Norwegian Cruise Line ships and plan your dream getaway! Find detailed information and itineraries for all Norwegian Cruise Line ships here.
