How many drinks can you get per day on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Enjoying beverages is part of the cruise experience, whether you prefer specialty coffee in the morning, soft drinks by the pool, or cocktails during an evening show. If you're planning a sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), it's natural to wonder how many drinks you can order each day and whether beverage packages come with restrictions.

The good news is that Norwegian Cruise Line's beverage policies are designed to let guests enjoy drinks throughout the day while promoting responsible alcohol service. Understanding the rules before boarding helps you maximize your package and avoid unexpected charges.

In this guide, we'll explain how Norwegian Cruise Line beverage packages work, daily drink limits, important restrictions, and practical tips to get the best value during your cruise.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have a Daily Drink Limit?

For most guests who purchase or receive an eligible unlimited beverage package, Norwegian Cruise Line does not publish a fixed daily limit on the number of alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages you may order.

Instead of counting drinks, NCL focuses on responsible alcohol service. Bartenders and servers may refuse service if they believe a guest has consumed too much alcohol or appears intoxicated.

This means you can generally order beverages throughout the day, provided you drink responsibly and follow the cruise line's policies.

How Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages Work

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage package options depending on your cruise fare and itinerary.

Common package features include:

Beverage TypeUsually Included

CocktailsYes (within package price limit)

BeerYes

Wine by the glassYes

Soft drinksAvailable with eligible packages

Fountain sodaIncluded in soda packages

Specialty coffeeAvailable with premium packages

Premium spiritsIncluded with qualifying packages

Bottled waterDepends on package

Energy drinksPackage dependent

Package inclusions can vary by sailing, destination, and promotional offer.

Is There a Drink Limit on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Many travelers search is there a drink limit on norwegian cruise line before booking.

The answer is straightforward:

There is no officially published maximum number of drinks per day for guests using an eligible unlimited beverage package. However, several operational rules apply.

These include:

• One beverage may be ordered at a time.

• Drinks cannot be shared.

• Beverage packages are non-transferable.

• Staff may deny alcoholic beverages if responsible service guidelines require it.

• Certain premium beverages may require an additional charge.

Rather than limiting quantity, Norwegian Cruise Line monitors responsible consumption.

Important Beverage Package Rules

Understanding the rules helps prevent confusion onboard.

One Drink Per Transaction

Guests may only order one alcoholic beverage at a time.

Ordering multiple cocktails for friends is generally not permitted under beverage package rules.

No Sharing

Packages are intended for the registered guest only.

Sharing drinks with another passenger may result in package cancellation without a refund.

Responsible Alcohol Service

Like hotels, restaurants, and bars on land, cruise ships follow responsible alcohol service practices.

Crew members receive training to recognize signs of intoxication and may stop serving alcohol when appropriate.

Age Restrictions

Guests must meet the legal drinking age based on itinerary and company policy before purchasing alcoholic beverages.

What Drinks Are Usually Included?

Most unlimited beverage packages cover a wide variety of drinks.

Typical options include:

Alcoholic Drinks

• Domestic beer

• Imported beer

• House wine by the glass

• Frozen cocktails

• Margaritas

• Martinis

• Whiskey

• Vodka

• Rum

• Gin

• Tequila

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

• Soft drinks

• Juice

• Sparkling water (package dependent)

• Mocktails

• Specialty coffee (selected packages)

• Tea

Always review your specific package details before sailing since inclusions may change.

Drinks That May Cost Extra

Not every beverage is included in every package.

Additional charges may apply for:

• Ultra-premium liquors

• Rare whiskey selections

• Luxury champagne

• High-end wine bottles

• Specialty tasting experiences

• Drinks exceeding the package price threshold

If your selected beverage exceeds the package allowance, you'll generally pay only the price difference rather than the full amount.

How Beverage Packages Compare

FeatureUnlimited Beverage PackageSoda PackagePay As You Go

Alcohol IncludedYesNoYes

Soft DrinksOften IncludedYesExtra Cost

CocktailsIncludedNoIndividual Price

BeerIncludedNoIndividual Price

Specialty CoffeeSelected PackagesNoExtra Cost

Daily Drink CapNo Published LimitNo Published LimitNot Applicable

Tips to Get the Best Value

If you've purchased a beverage package, these strategies can help maximize its value.

Start Early

Enjoy coffee with breakfast, refreshing drinks during the afternoon, and cocktails at dinner.

Try Signature Cocktails

Many Norwegian Cruise Line ships offer exclusive cocktails you won't find elsewhere.

Explore Different Bars

Each onboard venue often has unique drink menus.

Popular locations may include:

• Pool bars

• Whiskey bars

• Wine lounges

• Observation lounges

• Specialty restaurants

Stay Hydrated

Alternate alcoholic beverages with water throughout the day.

This improves comfort, especially on warm-weather itineraries.

Read Your Package Details

Promotional beverage packages may differ slightly from purchased packages.

Knowing what's included helps avoid surprise charges.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Your Beverage Package

Step 1: Confirm Your Package

Check your booking confirmation or cruise documents before departure.

Step 2: Activate During Boarding

Your package is typically linked to your cruise card automatically.

Step 3: Order Drinks

Present your cruise card whenever ordering beverages.

Step 4: Review Charges

Monitor your onboard account through the cruise app or guest services.

Step 5: Follow Package Rules

Avoid sharing drinks or ordering for guests without packages.

Is an Unlimited Beverage Package Worth It?

The answer depends on your travel style.

A beverage package may offer excellent value if you regularly enjoy:

• Cocktails

• Beer

• Wine

• Soda

• Specialty coffee

• Mocktails

However, guests who drink only occasionally may spend less by paying individually.

Before purchasing a package, estimate how many beverages you expect to enjoy each day and compare that total with the package cost.

Responsible Drinking While Cruising

Cruises are designed for relaxation, but responsible drinking helps ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation.

Good practices include:

• Eat meals before drinking.

• Stay hydrated.

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

• Follow crew instructions.

• Never pressure others to drink.

• Consider your excursion schedule before consuming alcohol.

These habits contribute to a more enjoyable experience for both you and fellow passengers.

Common Misunderstandings

Several myths continue to circulate online.

Myth: You Can Only Have 15 Drinks Per Day

This rule applies to some cruise lines but is not a published Norwegian Cruise Line policy.

Myth: Every Beverage Is Included

Premium wines, luxury spirits, and select specialty beverages may require additional payment.

Myth: You Can Order Drinks for Friends

Packages are strictly intended for the registered guest only.

Myth: Crew Members Count Every Drink

Norwegian Cruise Line focuses primarily on responsible service rather than enforcing a publicly stated daily drink count.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. How many alcoholic drinks can I order per day on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Norwegian Cruise Line does not publish a fixed daily maximum for guests using eligible unlimited beverage packages. Service is based on responsible alcohol consumption.

2. Can I order multiple drinks at once?

No. Beverage packages generally allow one drink per order for the registered guest.

3. Can I share my beverage package with another passenger?

No. Beverage packages are non-transferable and are intended only for the guest who purchased or received the package.

4. Are soft drinks included?

Many beverage packages include soft drinks, while soda-only packages are also available.

5. Are premium cocktails included?

Many premium cocktails are included within the package price allowance. Drinks exceeding that limit may require an additional payment.

6. Can bartenders refuse to serve alcohol?

Yes. Crew members may refuse alcohol service if a guest appears intoxicated or if responsible service policies require it.

7. Does every Norwegian Cruise Line ship offer the same beverage packages?

Packages are generally similar, but inclusions and pricing may vary depending on the ship, itinerary, and promotional offers.

8. Can I use my beverage package at private islands?

Availability depends on the destination and current cruise policies. Check your itinerary before sailing.

9. What happens if I order a drink that exceeds my package allowance?

You'll typically pay the difference between your package allowance and the menu price.

10. Can I purchase a beverage package after boarding?

In many cases, yes, although availability and purchase deadlines vary by sailing. Check with guest services soon after embarkation for current options.