Is it worth buying a drink package on Silversea Cruises?

Luxury cruising operates by a different set of rules, and Silversea Cruises sits firmly in that elite category. Unlike mainstream cruise lines, Silversea promotes an all-inclusive experience that already covers many onboard indulgences. This naturally raises an important question for travelers planning a voyage: is it worth buying a drink package on Silversea Cruises, or are beverages already sufficiently included?

The answer depends on how you travel, what you drink, and how you define value. This guide breaks down the reality behind Silversea’s beverage offerings, compares traveler profiles, and provides practical decision-making tools so you can confidently decide what makes financial and experiential sense.

Silversea’s all-inclusive beverage philosophy

Silversea is not positioned as a budget cruise brand. Its pricing reflects a curated experience that minimizes onboard upselling and simplifies daily decisions. Beverages play a central role in that promise.

What beverages are already included in your fare

Silversea’s base cruise fare includes a broad range of drinks served across bars, lounges, restaurants, and in-suite minibars. This coverage often surprises first-time guests who are accustomed to restrictive drink menus on other cruise lines.

Included beverages generally cover:

• Wines, champagne, and spirits during lunch and dinner

• Cocktails and mixed drinks at onboard bars

• Beer selections

• Non-alcoholic drinks including soda, juices, specialty coffee, and bottled water

• In-suite minibar restocked regularly

• Room service beverages

For many travelers, this level of inclusion already meets or exceeds expectations without any additional purchases.

Where optional upgrades come into play

While the included beverage selection is generous, Silversea does offer premium alcohol upgrades for guests who prefer ultra-top-shelf brands, rare vintages, or highly specific labels. These upgrades are not mandatory and are designed for niche preferences rather than general consumption.

Upgrades may appeal to:

• Guests loyal to a specific premium liquor brand

• Wine collectors seeking particular regions or vintages

• Travelers who routinely consume high-end spirits beyond standard luxury selections

Comparing Silversea drink packages with mainstream cruise lines

To understand whether a drink package is worth it, it helps to contrast Silversea’s model with traditional cruise pricing structures.

Key differences in beverage pricing models

FeatureSilversea CruisesMainstream Cruise Lines

Base fare beveragesBroadly includedMostly excluded

Daily drink limitsNo formal capOften capped

MinibarIncludedExtra charge

Specialty coffeeIncludedOften extra

Premium alcoholOptional upgradeRequires full package

This comparison highlights why many experienced cruisers feel no pressure to purchase additional beverage packages on Silversea.

Cost-benefit reality for most travelers

On mainstream lines, drink packages often become economical after consuming six to eight drinks per day. On Silversea, reaching a comparable break-even point is significantly harder because the base fare already absorbs most consumption costs.

Traveler profiles: who benefits from buying a drink package?

Not all travelers drink the same way. Evaluating your habits honestly is the most reliable way to decide.

Occasional and social drinkers

This group includes travelers who:

• Enjoy one or two drinks in the evening

• Prefer wine with meals

• Drink casually rather than consistently

For these guests, the included beverages are more than sufficient. Purchasing an upgrade often leads to unused value.

Enthusiasts of ultra-premium brands

Some travelers have strong preferences that go beyond typical luxury offerings.

Examples where an upgrade may make sense:

• Exclusive single-malt whiskies

• High-aged cognacs

• Boutique wine labels not part of the standard selection

If consuming these drinks daily is important to your experience, an upgrade may provide convenience and consistency rather than savings.

Non-alcoholic focused travelers

Silversea’s non-alcoholic offerings are comprehensive. Guests who prefer mocktails, specialty teas, fresh juices, or espresso drinks rarely find value in additional packages.

Practical evaluation: should you buy the drink package?

Instead of guessing, use a structured approach.

Step-by-step decision guide

1. List your preferred drinks by brand, not category

2. Estimate realistic daily consumption

3. Identify whether your preferred brands are included

4. Assess whether convenience outweighs added cost

5. Consider cruise length and port-heavy itineraries

Shorter cruises with many port days reduce onboard consumption, making upgrades less worthwhile.

Hidden factors travelers overlook

Dining patterns

Multiple specialty dining experiences already include premium beverage pairings.

Excursion days

Long shore excursions significantly reduce onboard drinking time.

Social pacing

Luxury cruises encourage slower, more intentional consumption rather than volume.

Value beyond cost: experience and peace of mind

Luxury travel decisions are not purely mathematical. Emotional comfort, habit continuity, and perceived indulgence matter.

Psychological value of “everything covered”

Some guests prefer knowing that no menu price will ever matter. Even if the upgrade costs slightly more than actual consumption, the mental freedom can enhance enjoyment.

Hosting and socializing benefits

Guests who frequently entertain new friends onboard may appreciate access to premium labels when ordering for groups without hesitation.

Myths and misconceptions about Silversea drink packages

“You must buy a package to enjoy cocktails”

False. Cocktails are included.

“Wine is limited or low quality”

Incorrect. Included wines are curated for luxury dining standards.

“Only basic spirits are covered”

Untrue. Many premium spirits are already part of the base fare.

Long-term cruiser insights and expert observations

Seasoned Silversea travelers consistently report that beverage upgrades are among the least necessary add-ons. Most repeat guests rely entirely on the included program and feel no reduction in quality or choice.

Crew feedback and onboard service patterns further support this, as bartenders are trained to deliver premium experiences regardless of upgrade status.

Frequently asked questions?

Is alcohol really included on Silversea Cruises?

Yes, a wide range of alcoholic beverages is included in the cruise fare across bars, lounges, dining venues, and suites.

Are drink packages mandatory on Silversea?

No, there is no requirement to purchase any drink package to access alcohol onboard.

Can I bring my own wine onboard?

Policies vary by itinerary, but bringing personal alcohol is generally unnecessary due to extensive inclusions.

Do drink packages save money on Silversea Cruises?

For most travelers, no. The base fare already covers typical consumption levels.

Are premium wines worth upgrading for?

Only if you consistently drink specific high-end labels not included in the standard selection.

Does the minibar cost extra?

No, the in-suite minibar is included and regularly replenished.

Is there a daily drink limit?

There is no published daily drink limit for included beverages.

Do non-drinkers get value from Silversea pricing?

Yes. The fare includes many non-alcoholic luxury amenities beyond beverages.

Are beverage options consistent across ships?

Selections may vary slightly, but overall quality and inclusion standards remain consistent.

Can I upgrade after boarding?

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on this.