How Much Is the Carnival Cruise Line Drink Package?

When stepping aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship, one of the most exciting decisions you’ll make is how to enjoy your beverages. From tropical cocktails to specialty coffees and sparkling waters, Carnival offers a variety of drink options to enhance your cruise experience. For those who want unlimited access to a wide selection of drinks, Carnival’s Cheers! Beverage Program is the most popular choice. Understanding the pricing, inclusions, and benefits of this drink package is essential for budgeting and planning your cruise.

What Is the Carnival Cruise Line Drink Package?

Carnival Cruise Line’s Cheers! Beverage Program is a prepaid package that allows guests to enjoy a wide range of drinks throughout their cruise without paying individually each time. This package covers:

• Soft drinks, iced tea, and lemonade

• Bottled water and sparkling water

• Specialty coffees and teas

• Frozen drinks and cocktails

• Domestic and select international beers

• Wines by the glass

• Selected spirits and liquors

The package is perfect for guests who want the convenience of not carrying cash or paying for each drink separately while enjoying unlimited beverage options.

How Much Does the Drink Package Cost?

The price of the Cheers! Beverage Program depends on several factors, including your age, duration of the cruise, and promotions that may be available at the time of booking. Here’s a general breakdown of pricing:

Adult Guests (21 and over)

• Daily Rate: Approximately $63 to $70 per person, per day.

• Children 12–20: Carnival also offers a non-alcoholic version of the drink package for younger guests, usually around $12 to $15 per day.

• Guests under 12: Complimentary soft drinks are often included in the cruise fare, but the full package is not required.

Note: Prices can vary based on the ship, itinerary, and seasonal promotions. Booking in advance online or as part of a cruise package may sometimes reduce the per-day cost.

What’s Included in the Cheers! Package?

The Cheers! Beverage Program is comprehensive and allows guests to enjoy a wide range of beverages without worrying about the cost per drink. Typical inclusions are:

1. Fountain Sodas and Soft Drinks: Coca-Cola, Sprite, diet options, lemonade, and iced tea.

2. Bottled and Sparkling Water: Choose from still or sparkling water, perfect for staying hydrated on deck.

3. Specialty Coffees and Teas: Lattes, cappuccinos, espresso, hot chocolate, and flavored teas.

4. Frozen Drinks: Margaritas, daiquiris, piña coladas, and other blended beverages.

5. Cocktails and Spirits: A variety of alcoholic drinks including rum, vodka, gin, whiskey, and specialty cocktails.

6. Wines by the Glass: Select reds, whites, and sparkling wines.

7. Juices and Non-Alcoholic Options: Orange juice, pineapple juice, and other fruit beverages.

Essentially, if a drink is listed on the package menu, it is covered under your daily prepaid rate.

How to Purchase the Drink Package

There are several ways to purchase the Cheers! Beverage Program:

• Before Your Cruise (Online): Booking the package online before your sailing often provides the best rates and ensures availability.

• During Booking: You can add the drink package when booking your cruise through Carnival’s website or travel agents.

• Onboard: If you decide to add the package while onboard, you can purchase it at guest services, the cruise app, or any bar location.

Tip: Buying in advance may include discounts or promotional pricing not available onboard.

Rules and Restrictions

While the Cheers! Beverage Program is designed for convenience, there are a few rules to keep in mind:

• Single Guest Use: Packages are per person and cannot be shared.

• Time Limits: Unlimited drinks are available during operating hours, typically from early morning to late at night, depending on bar or lounge schedules.

• Gratuity Included: Most packages include a service charge or gratuity, usually around 18%, so you don’t need to tip extra for drinks covered by the package.

• Age Restrictions: Alcoholic beverages are only available for guests aged 21 and over.

Following these rules ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Is the Package Worth It?

Whether the drink package is worth the cost depends on your consumption habits. Consider these points:

• If you plan to enjoy 2–3 alcoholic beverages per day, the package may pay for itself.

• Guests who prefer soft drinks, specialty coffees, or juices throughout the day also benefit from the convenience and cost savings.

• Travelers who like to try multiple cocktails or frozen drinks while lounging by the pool or exploring the ship’s bars will find the package highly advantageous.

For those who drink occasionally or prefer water, soda, or tea only, it may be more economical to pay per drink rather than purchasing the full package.

Alternatives to the Cheers! Beverage Program

Carnival Cruise Line offers alternatives for guests who may not want the full drink package:

1. Bar Tabs: Pay per drink at the time of purchase, which may be cheaper for light drinkers.

2. Soft Drink Packages: Non-alcoholic options for kids or those who don’t consume alcohol.

3. Wine or Cocktail Packages: Smaller packages focusing only on wine or select cocktails.

4. Mix & Match: Guests can purchase drink coupons, vouchers, or individual drinks as needed.

These alternatives provide flexibility depending on your preferences and budget.

Tips for Using the Drink Package Wisely

• Plan Your Consumption: Estimate how many drinks you are likely to have per day to determine if the package is cost-effective.

• Try Specialty Drinks: Take advantage of the included specialty coffees, cocktails, and frozen drinks to explore new flavors without extra cost.

• Share the Fun, Not the Package: Remember, each guest must have their own package — sharing is not allowed.

• Use It Throughout the Day: From morning coffee to evening cocktails, using the package fully ensures you get your money’s worth.

Booking the Drink Package for Families

Carnival Cruise Line offers family-friendly options for younger passengers:

• Children under 12 usually have complimentary soda and juice options included with their cruise fare.

• Teenagers can purchase non-alcoholic packages to enjoy specialty drinks and soda.

• Families can coordinate their drink choices to suit both adults and children without confusion or extra cost.

This ensures the entire family enjoys their cruise experience with convenient beverage access.

Tips for Last-Minute Cruise Guests

Even if you book a cruise close to the sailing date, you can still purchase the Cheers! Beverage Program:

• Check online for last-minute promotions or discounts on the package.

• Purchase onboard during your first day on the ship for immediate access.

• Plan your daily beverage needs to maximize your package’s value.

Last-minute cruisers can enjoy the same drink perks as those who booked months in advance.

How the Package Enhances Your Cruise Experience

The Cheers! Beverage Program adds convenience and enjoyment to your Carnival Cruise experience in several ways:

• No Constant Billing: Avoid paying cash or card for every drink.

• Unlimited Access: Enjoy as many beverages as you like within the included menu.

• Exploration: Try new cocktails, frozen drinks, and specialty beverages without worrying about the cost.

• Relaxation: Lounge by the pool, bar, or deck with your favorite drinks anytime.

The package ensures you can focus on fun and relaxation instead of keeping track of individual drink costs.