The drink package can be a game-changer—if it fits your style.

If you enjoy several beverages throughout the day, a drink package can be a great value. On laid-back cruise days—whether you're lounging by the pool, sipping cocktails during happy hour, or enjoying a nightcap after dinner—the package often pays for itself. With standard cocktails onboard typically priced at around $13–$14 each, it doesn’t take long for just a few drinks a day, along with specialty coffees, soft drinks, or bottled water, to add up. By the end of the trip, many cruisers find they've easily made the most of their package.

Convenience is another huge benefit. With a drink package, there's no need to constantly monitor your tab or second-guess ordering another round. Whether it’s a mid-morning mojito by the pool or a late-night espresso martini after the show, having the freedom to enjoy drinks whenever you like adds a touch of indulgence and makes your cruise feel far more relaxing and carefree.

When people think of a cruise drinks package, they often assume it’s just for cocktails, wine, or beer. However, what’s frequently overlooked is that these packages also include coffee, tea, soft drinks, smoothies, and bottled water — essentially all the beverages you’ll want throughout the day. For me, this is one of the greatest advantages of the package. These are the items we tend to buy regularly, often without realizing how quickly the costs add up. The variety is especially useful for long days onboard or when you’re in the mood for non-alcoholic options, ensuring you get maximum value from your purchase. Cruises with extended sea days or stops at private ship-owned islands give you even more opportunities to enjoy these beverages, making the package an even smarter investment.

If you’re a light drinker who enjoys just one or two beverages a day, buying drinks individually will usually save you money. With cocktails typically priced at US $12–14, occasional indulgence often doesn’t justify the cost of a drink package. Similarly, if your cruise schedule is packed with port days filled with excursions or sightseeing, you'll likely spend little time onboard, making the package less worthwhile.

Practical factors also come into play. Drink packages are charged per person, per day, and all adults in the same cabin must purchase one if any do, which can significantly increase costs for couples where only one person drinks frequently. Some travelers also fall into the trap of "drinking just because it’s included," which can lead to overindulgence without real enjoyment. Short cruises of three to four nights rarely make drink packages a smart investment either, unless you plan to drink heavily every single day.