How many drinks can you get a day with a P&O Cruises drink package?

Cruise drink packages often sound simple, yet the fine print matters more than most travelers expect. If you are planning a holiday with P&O Cruises, one of the most common questions is about daily drink limits and what you realistically receive for your money. This guide is written from a traveler-first perspective, blending practical cruise experience with policy clarity, so you can make informed decisions before you sail.

P&O Cruises drink packages

P&O Cruises offers drink packages designed to give guests predictability and convenience while onboard. These packages are not unlimited in the way some people assume, and understanding the structure early helps avoid confusion at the bar.

What a P&O Cruises drink package includes

A standard P&O Cruises drink package generally covers a defined list of beverages rather than every possible option onboard. While inclusions can vary by ship and sailing, most packages include:

• Selected beers and ciders

• House wines by the glass

• Spirits up to a stated value limit

• Cocktails made with included spirits

• Soft drinks and mocktails

• Bottled water and selected hot beverages

Drinks above the package price cap are usually available for an extra charge, meaning you only pay the difference rather than the full price.

Alcoholic beverages overview

Alcoholic drinks are the main attraction for many guests. The package typically allows access to popular brands rather than premium or rare labels. For example, a standard gin and tonic made with an included brand is covered, while a premium small-batch gin may require a surcharge.

Non alcoholic options and value

Non alcoholic drinks can quietly add significant value, especially for guests who prefer soft drinks, specialty coffees, or mocktails. Frequent coffee drinkers often find that the package pays for itself even without alcohol consumption.

Types of drink packages available

P&O Cruises usually offers more than one drink package tier, though names and prices may change.

• A core drinks package covering alcoholic and non alcoholic options

• A refresh or soft drinks focused package for lighter consumption

• Occasional promotional bundles tied to specific sailings

Each guest in the same cabin is typically required to purchase the same package if alcohol is included, which is an important budgeting consideration.

Daily drink limits explained

This is the most searched and most misunderstood part of the P&O Cruises drink package policy.

How many drinks can you get per day

P&O Cruises applies a daily cap of 15 alcoholic drinks per person when you have an alcoholic drink package. This limit is in place regardless of drink type or alcohol strength.

Key points about the 15 drink limit:

• It applies per guest, per day

• It resets every calendar day, not every 24 hours

• Both cocktails and straight spirits count as one drink

• Non alcoholic drinks are not counted toward this limit

Once the 15 alcoholic drink limit is reached, the onboard system will not allow further alcoholic drinks to be charged to the package that day.

What counts as one drink

One drink is defined operationally by the cruise line, not by alcohol unit measurements. In practical terms:

• One glass of wine equals one drink

• One beer or cider equals one drink

• One cocktail equals one drink, even if it contains multiple spirits

This standardized approach helps bar staff apply the policy consistently across the ship.

What happens if you reach the limit

If you reach your 15 alcoholic drinks:

• You can still purchase additional alcoholic drinks at menu prices

• Non alcoholic drinks remain available under the package

• The system automatically resets the following day

Crew members are trained to explain this politely and clearly, with guest safety as the priority.

Why P&O Cruises has a drink limit

The daily limit is not arbitrary. It reflects a balance between guest enjoyment, health considerations, and onboard safety.

From an operational standpoint, cruise lines aim to:

• Promote responsible alcohol consumption

• Reduce the risk of alcohol related incidents

• Ensure a comfortable environment for all guests

Public health guidance consistently shows that very high levels of alcohol consumption in a short time frame increase the risk of injury, dehydration, and medical issues. Cruise environments, with sun exposure and movement, can intensify these effects.

Health and safety perspective

A cruise ship is a controlled environment where medical resources, while professional, are limited compared to large hospitals on land. Encouraging moderation helps protect both guests and crew while maintaining a relaxed holiday atmosphere.

Tips to maximize value and drink responsibly

A drink package can be excellent value when used thoughtfully. The goal is not to reach the limit, but to enjoy flexibility without stress.

Making the most of your daily allowance

Smart planning helps you get value without feeling rushed or uncomfortable.

• Start with water or soft drinks in the morning to stay hydrated

• Enjoy specialty coffees or mocktails during the day

• Space alcoholic drinks across meals, shows, and evening entertainment

• Choose cocktails you truly enjoy rather than drinking for volume

Best times to use your package

Many experienced cruisers find the best value during:

• Pre dinner cocktails

• Dinner wine pairings

• Evening shows and live music

• Late evening lounges

By spreading consumption, you are less likely to hit the limit and more likely to feel comfortable throughout the voyage.

Comparing package cost versus pay as you go

Before purchasing, it helps to estimate your likely daily spend.

ScenarioAverage drinks per dayEstimated cost without packagePackage value

Light drinker3 to 4Lower than packageMay not be worth it

Moderate drinker5 to 7Similar to packageBreak even

Social drinker8 to 10Higher than packageGood value

Heavy drinker11 to 15Much higherMaximum value

If your realistic consumption falls below the break even point, paying per drink may be the better option.

Responsible enjoyment onboard

Cruising is about relaxation, not excess. Responsible enjoyment enhances the experience rather than limiting it.

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water

• Eat regularly to reduce alcohol impact

• Be mindful of heat and sun exposure

• Respect crew guidance and onboard policies

Guests who drink responsibly often report better sleep, more energy for shore excursions, and a more enjoyable overall cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions?

How many alcoholic drinks can I order at once?

You can generally order one alcoholic drink at a time per guest, even if you are carrying drinks back to your table.

Does the 15 drink limit include wine at dinner?

Yes, each glass of wine counts toward the daily alcoholic drink limit.

Can I save unused drinks for the next day?

No, unused alcoholic drinks do not carry over. The allowance resets daily.

Are non alcoholic drinks unlimited?

Non alcoholic drinks included in your package are typically unlimited, subject to fair use.

Can I share my drink package with someone else?

No, drink packages are strictly for individual use and sharing is not permitted.

Is the drink limit different on embarkation day?

The same daily alcoholic drink limit usually applies, even on embarkation day.

What about drinks on shore days?

Your drink package generally applies onboard only, not during shore excursions.

Do specialty coffees count as alcoholic drinks?

No, specialty coffees are non alcoholic and do not count toward the alcohol limit.

Is the drink limit the same across all P&O ships?

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data showing different limits by ship, and the 15 drink policy is applied fleet wide.

Can the cruise line change the policy?

Cruise lines reserve the right to update policies, so it is wise to review package terms before sailing.