Is it worth buying a drink package on Cunard Line cruise?

Cunard Line is known for offering luxury cruises with a blend of old-world elegance and modern amenities. When booking a Cunard cruise, one of the common questions guests have is whether it’s worth purchasing a drink package. Drink packages can significantly impact your cruise budget, and it’s essential to assess whether they offer good value based on your personal preferences and consumption habits.

This article delves into whether it’s worth buying a drink package on a Cunard Line cruise, providing a clear breakdown of options, real-world examples, and expert insights to help you make an informed decision.

What is Included in Cunard's Drink Packages?

Before diving into whether the drink package is worth it, let’s first explore what Cunard's drink packages offer. Cunard typically provides a few different options, each catering to various preferences and consumption levels.

1. Standard Drinks Package

This package generally covers a wide range of drinks, including:

• Beer

• Wine (by the glass)

• Cocktails

• Soft drinks and juices

• Specialty coffee

It is important to note that this package may have certain limitations, such as premium spirits, large quantities, or specific high-end wines not being included.

2. Premium Drinks Package

The Premium package is more comprehensive and allows access to premium drinks that aren’t included in the Standard package. This package usually includes:

• High-end spirits (e.g., top-shelf liquors)

• Champagne by the glass

• Premium wines

• High-end cocktails

• Top-tier coffees

3. Wine Packages

Cunard also offers specialized wine packages, allowing guests to pre-purchase bottles of wine or opt for a package that includes wine served at meals.

4. Non-Alcoholic Packages

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, Cunard also offers packages covering soft drinks, fresh juices, mocktails, and specialty coffees.

Assessing the Value of Cunard Drink Packages

To determine whether the drink package is worth purchasing, consider the following factors:

1. How Much Do You Drink?

This is the first question to ask yourself. If you typically enjoy several alcoholic beverages each day, the package might offer great value. However, if you only drink a couple of drinks during your entire cruise, it may not make sense financially.

• Example 1: If you’re someone who enjoys one cocktail per day, purchasing the standard drink package might not provide the best value. A single cocktail can cost between $10 and $20 depending on the type of drink, which means a single drink package could easily cost more than what you would pay out of pocket.

• Example 2: If you enjoy three to four alcoholic drinks a day, the drink package can be more economical. A Cunard drink package often costs around $50 to $60 per day per person, so if you are having three or more drinks a day, the value quickly becomes apparent.

2. Pricing of Individual Drinks

It’s important to know the pricing of individual drinks on a Cunard cruise to compare how many drinks you would need to break even with the cost of a drink package.

• Cocktails: Typically priced between $10 and $20

• Beer: Usually $5 to $7

• Wine: Around $8 to $12 per glass for house wine, with premium options costing more

• Soft Drinks: Around $3 to $5 per glass

• Specialty Coffees: $4 to $6

By calculating your average daily drink consumption, you can determine if the drink package offers better value. If you plan to indulge in more than a couple of drinks per day, the package could make financial sense.

3. Special Offers and Discounts

Occasionally, Cunard offers promotions where drink packages are included in the cruise fare, or offered at a discounted rate if purchased before the cruise. If you’re able to take advantage of such offers, the value of the drink package increases significantly.

4. Enjoyment and Convenience

For some passengers, convenience and relaxation are a bigger factor than cost. If you prefer the ease of knowing that drinks are prepaid and readily available without having to check your tab, a drink package can provide a stress-free experience. This is especially true for those who enjoy socializing at the bars or want to avoid worrying about individual drink prices.

Is the Drink Package Worth It for Families?

For families traveling on Cunard, the decision is somewhat different. Many families may consider the value of non-alcoholic packages, which can be a great way to keep children and teenagers hydrated throughout the trip. Cunard’s non-alcoholic drink packages include unlimited access to soft drinks, juices, and mocktails, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option for families.

Additionally, Cunard offers a “family-friendly” approach, where family members can enjoy dining together without worrying about drink charges. This package, especially for non-alcoholic options, offers good value for families traveling with children.

Comparing Cunard’s Drink Packages to Other Cruise Lines

To put the value of Cunard's drink packages in context, let’s take a look at how they compare to other luxury cruise lines. Many cruise lines now offer similar drink packages, with varying price points.

1. Cunard vs. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean also offers drink packages, which are generally more expensive than Cunard's options. While Cunard provides both alcoholic and non-alcoholic packages, Royal Caribbean's options tend to be slightly more expensive, especially in their premium categories. Cunard’s packages are often regarded as more affordable for those who prefer moderate drinking, while Royal Caribbean may appeal more to heavy drinkers who want unlimited access to premium drinks.

2. Cunard vs. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises, which also targets luxury travelers, offers similar drink packages but tends to have a wider range of options. While Cunard’s drink package prices are competitive, Celebrity’s higher-tier packages may offer a broader selection of wines and cocktails.

Do You Need a Drink Package on Cunard?

1. For the Casual Drinker

If you don’t drink much or plan on only having a drink occasionally, purchasing a drink package might not be the most cost-effective choice. Instead, pay for drinks on a per-drink basis, as many cruise passengers report that they don't reach the threshold needed to break even on a package.

2. For the Frequent Drinker

For those who enjoy drinking regularly, the Cunard drink package can be a great value. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or enjoy a cocktail before dinner, the package could save you money.

Steps to Make the Most of Your Cunard Drink Package

If you decide to purchase a Cunard drink package, here’s how you can maximize its value:

1. Plan Your Drink Consumption: Review your schedule and estimate how many drinks you might consume each day. This will help you decide if the package is the right choice.

2. Stick to the Package Options: To get the best value, stick to the drinks included in your package, such as cocktails, wine by the glass, and soft drinks. Premium spirits or specialty wines may not be included.

3. Take Advantage of Special Offers: Keep an eye on Cunard’s promotions, which sometimes offer discounts on drink packages if purchased in advance.

Conclusion

Purchasing a drink package on Cunard Line cruises can be an excellent choice for guests who plan to drink regularly, enjoy the convenience of prepaying, or prefer to know exactly what their drinks will cost. For casual drinkers, however, it may be more cost-effective to pay for drinks individually. By considering your consumption habits, the pricing of individual drinks, and available promotions, you can make an informed decision that suits your cruising style and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Do I need to buy a drink package for my children?

Cunard offers non-alcoholic drink packages for children, which can be a convenient way to ensure they stay hydrated.

Can I share my drink package with someone else?

No, drink packages are generally non-transferable and are limited to the person who purchased the package.

Can I buy a drink package onboard?

Yes, Cunard allows you to purchase drink packages onboard, but the prices may be higher than if you pre-purchase.

Are gratuities included in Cunard’s drink packages?

Gratuities are generally included in Cunard’s drink packages, but it’s always worth checking the details when booking.

Can I cancel my drink package?

If you change your mind after purchasing, Cunard may allow you to cancel or modify your package, though it depends on the specific terms and conditions.

Can I drink any time during the cruise with a drink package?

Yes, you can enjoy drinks throughout the day at bars, lounges, and restaurants that are covered by the package.

Is the drink package refundable if I don’t use it all?

Cunard’s drink packages are generally not refundable if you don’t use them, so it’s important to estimate your consumption beforehand.

Are there any restrictions on the types of drinks included?

Some premium spirits and wines may not be included in the drink packages, so make sure to check the details before purchasing.