It is said that Norwegian Cruise Line drink packages are the most confusing among all other cruise lines. It is very tricky to find out whether the drink package is worth it. The drink packages are also the most expensive at sea—they can go up to $160 per person per day!
We have written this detailed guide to help you select the NCL drink package. Here, you can discover different drink packages and learn which drinks are free and which are not.
What drinks are free on Norwegian Cruise Line?
The following drinks are free of charge on NCL Ships.
- Tea and coffee
- Lemonade
- Iced tea.
- Water and flavored water by the glass
- Fresh fruit juices (at breakfast)
Remember that these free drinks are only available at buffets and restaurants. Moreover, you won’t get any free drinks at the bars aside from top water.
Unlimited Open Bar Package – $109 per person, per day
This drink package offers a wide selection of beverages both on board and at Great Stirrup Cay. In this package, you will get,
- Selected premium spirits and cocktails under USD 15.
- A variety of beer and wine by the glass for under USD 15.
- You will get 20% off on all bottles of wine and champagne.
PS: This package is included with your reservation if you are booked through Free at Sea.
Premium Plus Beverage Package – $138 per person, per day
This Norwegian cruise line beverage package will elevate your cruise experience with the widest beverage selection both on board and on a private island.
- It includes all top-shelf spirits & cocktails.
- All kinds of beer, red wine, white wine, and their exclusive rose champagne by the glass.
- Selected premium red wine bottles with dinner, including their exclusive rose champagne.
- 40% off on all other bottles
- All Starbucks coffee and special drinks
- Energy drinks
- Unlimited soft drinks and juices
- Unlimited still & sparkling bottled water.
PS: This package is available as an upgrade from the unlimited Open Bar Package that is included with Free at Sea.
Hawaii Beverage Package – Pride of America Only – $109 per person, per day
This package is only available on a Pride of America cruise ship. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of drinks and beverages up to USD 15 during their entire cruise. This is a special ship that sails to and from her port in Honolulu, Hawaii. This all-ages package offers unlimited access to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during the entire cruise.
Unlimited Soda Package – $9.95 per person, per day
The unlimited Soda Package includes unlimited fountain soda throughout your cruise. It includes sodas like Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Tonic Water, Fanta, and Soda Water. Moreover, the package is available for both adults and children 3 years old and up. However, you will be charged 20% gratuity and beverages service charges at checkout. It is not available for sailings for 2 days or less.
Unlimited Starbucks® Package – $12.95 per person, per day
This package is perfect for people who need to charge themselves every morning with a brew. In this package, the cruiser will get everything from classic coffees and teas to the delicious Frappuccino and other specialty beverages you love. You will be charged 20% gratuity and service charge at checkout.
How much does Norwegian’s Drink Package cost?
The cost of Norwegian Cruise Line beverage packages is priced by day. You must purchase for the duration of the sailings, or online before you start your journey. Here’s a breakdown of the ncl drink package.
- Unlimited soda package – $9.95 per person per day
- Unlimited Starbucks package – $12.95 per person per day
- Unlimited Open Bar Package – $109 per person per day
- Premium Plus Beverage Package – $138 per person per day
FAQs about Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages
What are the gratuity and beverage service charges?
The gratuity and beverage service charges are 20% and are added to all packages at checkout.
What is the limit of drinks you can have per day on Norwegian Cruise Line?
No, the Norwegian cruise line doesn’t put a daily limit on the number of alcoholic drinks. You can order whenever you want to drink.
Is the Norwegian cruise drink package worth it?
Yes, it is worth it if you’re a high drinker, but before buying the beverage packages, you first need to get an idea of what drinks cost.
Why should I choose a beverage package?
There are three reasons to choose the Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package: convenience, transparency, and variety.
Can you share the Drinks package?
No, NCL doesn’t allow the sharing of drink packages. In case one person has a drink package, all adults in the stateroom must have the same package, and children must have a soda package.
