Are beverages included in Ponant packages?

Planning a luxury expedition cruise often raises one important question: Are beverages included in Ponant packages? The short answer is yes—most beverages are included aboard Ponant ships, making the cruise experience more seamless and predictable for guests. However, there are nuances regarding premium spirits, specialty wines, minibar selections, and shore-based consumption that travelers should understand before booking.

This guide explains exactly what is included, what may cost extra, and how to maximize value during your Ponant voyage.

Ponant's Beverage Policy

Ponant is recognized in the luxury expedition cruise market for its all-inclusive approach. Unlike many mainstream cruise lines that require passengers to purchase beverage packages separately, Ponant generally includes a broad selection of drinks in the cruise fare.

According to publicly available information from Ponant's official policies, guests can enjoy complimentary beverages throughout most areas of the ship during their voyage.

Typically Included Beverages on Ponant Cruises

Guests can generally expect the following beverages to be included:

• Still and sparkling mineral water

• Tea and specialty teas

• Coffee and espresso-based drinks

• Soft drinks and juices

• House wines served during meals

• Champagne in select settings

• Beer

• Standard spirits and cocktails

• Lounge and bar beverages consumed onboard

This inclusive model aligns with luxury travel trends, where travelers increasingly value transparent pricing and fewer onboard surprises.

What Drinks Are Included on Board?

Complimentary Drinks in Restaurants

Ponant includes beverages during breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Common offerings include:

Meal PeriodIncluded Beverage Options

BreakfastCoffee, tea, juices, water

LunchHouse wines, beer, soft drinks, water

DinnerWine selections, champagne, beer, cocktails, soft drinks

Many guests appreciate that wine pairings are typically available without additional charges.

Drinks Available in Lounges and Bars

Most onboard bars and lounges serve complimentary beverages throughout the day.

Typical offerings include:

• Signature cocktails

• House spirits

• Local wines

• Draft and bottled beers

• Non-alcoholic beverages

• Fresh juices

Luxury cruise travelers often cite this as one of Ponant's strongest value propositions.

Are Premium Alcoholic Beverages Included?

This is where travelers should pay close attention.

While Ponant includes a substantial beverage selection, ultra-premium labels may incur additional charges.

Examples may include:

• Rare vintage champagnes

• Limited-edition whiskies

• High-end cognacs

• Prestige wine labels

• Exclusive cellar selections

If you enjoy luxury labels such as vintage Dom Pérignon or rare Scotch whiskies, verify availability and pricing before sailing.

Comparison: Standard vs Premium Beverage Inclusions

Beverage TypeUsually IncludedMay Require Extra Payment

House winesYesNo

Standard cocktailsYesNo

BeerYesNo

Soft drinksYesNo

ChampagneUsuallyPremium labels only

Specialty spiritsOftenSome luxury brands

Rare vintage winesNoYes

Because offerings can vary by itinerary and ship, travelers should always review the latest documentation before departure.

Does Cabin Minibar Service Cost Extra?

In most cases, Ponant provides complimentary minibar items that are replenished regularly.

Depending on the vessel and suite category, guests may find:

• Bottled water

• Soft drinks

• Beer

• Snacks

Higher-category suites sometimes include enhanced minibar selections.

However, minibar policies can change over time. Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on specific minibar inventories across every ship and cabin category.

Are Beverages Included During Shore Excursions?

This is one area where travelers should not assume complete inclusivity.

Onboard vs Ashore

LocationBeverage Inclusion

On the shipMostly included

During excursionsVaries

Independent dining ashoreNot included

Pre- or post-cruise hotel staysUsually not included

Some organized excursions may provide refreshments, while others may not.

Travelers exploring destinations independently should budget separately for food and beverages ashore.

How Ponant Compares With Other Cruise Lines

Luxury cruise brands differ significantly in their beverage policies.

Cruise LineBeverage Inclusion Model

PonantBroad all-inclusive beverages

Mainstream cruise linesOften require beverage packages

Ultra-luxury linesMostly all-inclusive

Expedition operatorsVaries by brand

Ponant's approach places it firmly within the premium and luxury segment, where inclusive pricing is increasingly expected.

Industry research published by organizations such as Consumer Reports consistently shows that travelers prefer transparent pricing structures because they simplify budgeting and reduce unexpected onboard expenses.

Benefits of Ponant's Inclusive Beverage Program

Travelers frequently choose Ponant because of the convenience offered by inclusive beverages.

Key Advantages

1. Predictable Vacation Budget

Knowing that most drinks are already covered makes financial planning easier.

2. Greater Relaxation

Guests can enjoy cocktails, wines, or specialty coffees without constantly signing receipts.

3. Enhanced Luxury Experience

Inclusive beverages contribute to a premium atmosphere consistent with luxury expedition travel.

4. Better Social Experience

Passengers often spend more time in lounges and observation areas when beverage costs are not a concern.

Step-by-Step: How to Confirm Beverage Inclusions Before Booking

Even though Ponant generally includes beverages, policies may evolve.

Follow these steps before finalizing your reservation:

Step 1: Review the Current Fare Description

Read the package details provided at booking.

Step 2: Ask a Cruise Advisor

Request written confirmation regarding:

• Included alcohol brands

• Premium beverage pricing

• Suite minibar policies

• Excursion refreshments

Step 3: Check Your Specific Ship and Itinerary

Policies occasionally differ by ship class or expedition type.

Step 4: Review Pre-Departure Documents

Final cruise documents often contain updated onboard information.

Step 5: Contact Ponant Guest Services

For travelers with dietary or beverage preferences, direct confirmation is recommended.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Value on a Ponant Cruise

Experienced luxury cruisers recommend the following:

• Sample regional wines offered onboard.

• Attend wine tastings and culinary events.

• Clarify premium alcohol pricing on embarkation day.

• Take advantage of complimentary afternoon tea service.

• Ask bartenders about signature cocktails unique to your itinerary.

• Review excursion descriptions carefully to understand what's included ashore.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Are all beverages free on Ponant cruises?

Most beverages consumed onboard are included, but select premium wines and spirits may carry additional charges.

2. Is alcohol included in Ponant cruise fares?

Yes. Standard alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and many spirits, are generally included.

3. Does Ponant offer separate beverage packages?

Because beverages are largely included, separate beverage packages are generally unnecessary.

4. Is champagne included on Ponant ships?

Champagne is often available as part of the onboard experience, although certain prestige labels may require extra payment.

5. Are specialty coffees included?

Yes. Coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and tea are typically included.

6. Do I need to budget extra for drinks?

Most travelers spend very little on beverages unless they prefer premium labels or extensive consumption ashore.

7. Are minibar drinks complimentary?

Many minibar items are complimentary, though offerings can vary by suite category and ship.

8. Are drinks included during shore excursions?

Some excursions provide refreshments, but beverages purchased independently ashore are generally not included.

9. Can beverage policies change?

Yes. Cruise policies may change over time, so travelers should verify current terms before sailing.

10. How does Ponant compare with mainstream cruise lines?

Ponant offers a far more inclusive beverage experience than many mainstream operators that charge separately for drink packages.