Is the Norwegian Drink Package Actually Unlimited?

If you're planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), one of the most common questions is whether the drink package is truly unlimited. While the package offers exceptional value for many travelers, there are important rules, exclusions, and serving policies that every guest should understand before sailing.

The short answer is yes—the package allows you to order an unlimited number of eligible beverages throughout your cruise. However, "unlimited" doesn't mean unrestricted in every situation. Norwegian Cruise Line has policies designed to promote responsible alcohol service and ensure a safe onboard experience.

This guide explains exactly how the package works, what it includes, its limitations, and whether it's worth purchasing for your vacation.

How Does the Norwegian Drink Package Work?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers beverage packages that cover a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Depending on your booking, a beverage package may be included as part of a promotional offer or purchased separately before or during your cruise.

Unlike prepaid drink cards that come with a fixed dollar value, Norwegian's package lets eligible guests order qualifying beverages throughout the sailing without tracking individual drink counts.

The package generally includes:

• Cocktails

• Mixed drinks

• House wines by the glass

• Draft and bottled beer

• Spirits

• Select premium beverages

• Soft drinks

• Juice (at participating venues)

Although the package is generous, it follows company policies regarding eligible beverages and responsible alcohol service.

Is It Really Unlimited?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line allows guests with an eligible beverage package to order drinks throughout the day without a daily numerical cap.

However, there are practical restrictions that define what "unlimited" actually means.

What Unlimited Means

Guests can:

• Order drinks throughout the day

• Enjoy beverages at participating bars and restaurants

• Switch between different types of drinks

• Continue ordering as long as service policies are followed

What Unlimited Does Not Mean

Unlimited does not allow guests to:

• Order multiple alcoholic drinks at once

• Share beverages with other passengers

• Receive unopened bottles to take away

• Ignore responsible serving policies

• Access beverages that exceed package price limits without paying the difference (where applicable)

These policies help ensure compliance with international maritime regulations and promote responsible alcohol consumption.

Understanding Beverage Service Policies

Cruise lines operate under strict hospitality standards similar to hotels, resorts, and licensed restaurants.

Bartenders may refuse service if:

• A guest appears intoxicated.

• Alcohol is being shared with someone who does not have a package.

• Local port regulations restrict alcohol sales.

• Safety concerns arise.

Responsible alcohol service is a standard practice across the cruise industry and aligns with recommendations promoted by public health authorities and hospitality organizations.

What Drinks Are Included?

The available beverages depend on the package selected, but eligible drinks typically include:

Beverage TypeUsually Included

Domestic beerYes

Imported beerYes

CocktailsYes

House wineYes

Premium spiritsMany options

Frozen drinksYes

SodaYes

JuiceSelected locations

Bottled waterDepends on package

Specialty coffeeDepends on package

Energy drinksPackage dependent

Availability can vary slightly by ship, sailing region, and onboard venue.

What Is Not Included?

Even with an unlimited beverage package, some purchases may still require additional payment.

Common exclusions include:

• Ultra-premium liquors

• Certain luxury wines

• Bottle purchases

• Mini-bar beverages

• Room service beverages (where applicable)

• Drinks purchased on private islands if not covered under package terms

• Exclusive tasting events

Before ordering, it's always helpful to ask whether a beverage is included.

Is There a Price Cap Per Drink?

Most Norwegian beverage packages include drinks priced up to a specified menu value.

If a guest orders a drink priced above the included limit, they typically pay only the difference plus applicable gratuities where required.

For example:

• Included cocktail value: Up to package allowance

• Premium cocktail above allowance: Guest pays only the price difference

This system gives guests flexibility while still offering access to premium beverages.

Does Norwegian Have a Daily Drink Limit?

Many first-time cruisers search for the norwegian drink package limit, expecting a daily cap similar to some all-inclusive resorts.

In practice, Norwegian Cruise Line does not publish a daily numerical limit for eligible beverages. Instead, service is governed by responsible alcohol policies, package terms, and bartender discretion.

This means guests can continue ordering qualifying beverages throughout the cruise as long as they comply with package rules.

How to Get the Most Value from the Package

If you're considering purchasing the beverage package, these strategies can maximize its value.

Start with Your Daily Habits

Estimate how many beverages you typically enjoy each day.

Include:

• Morning specialty coffee

• Afternoon cocktails

• Wine with dinner

• Evening mixed drinks

• Soda or sparkling water

Frequent beverage purchases can quickly exceed the package cost.

Explore Different Bars

Norwegian ships feature numerous venues serving different menus.

Try:

• Pool bars

• Wine lounges

• Whiskey bars

• Craft cocktail venues

• Entertainment lounges

Each location often offers unique signature drinks.

Check Included Beverage Prices

Premium cocktails and specialty wines may exceed the package allowance.

Knowing menu pricing helps avoid unexpected charges.

Stay Hydrated

Alternating alcoholic drinks with water improves comfort during your cruise while supporting responsible drinking.

Is the Package Worth It?

The answer depends on your travel style.

The Package Is Worth It If You:

• Enjoy several drinks each day

• Prefer cocktails over beer

• Like wine with meals

• Spend most days onboard

• Enjoy specialty beverages

It May Not Be Worth It If You:

• Rarely drink alcohol

• Spend most port days off the ship

• Prefer complimentary beverages

• Only drink occasionally during dinner

Calculating your expected daily beverage spending before booking provides the most accurate answer.

Comparison: Beverage Package vs Paying Individually

FeatureBeverage PackagePay Per Drink

Upfront costHigherNone

Budget certaintyExcellentVariable

Unlimited eligible drinksYesNo

Premium upgradesDifference onlyFull price

Best for frequent drinkersYesNo

Best for occasional drinkersSometimesYes

Step-by-Step: Decide Whether You Need the Package

Step 1

Estimate how many beverages you'll consume each day.

Step 2

Multiply by average onboard drink prices.

Step 3

Compare the estimated total with the beverage package cost.

Step 4

Consider specialty coffees, soda, bottled water, and wine with meals.

Step 5

Choose the option that offers the best overall value for your vacation.

Common Misunderstandings

Many travelers assume "unlimited" means there are no restrictions whatsoever.

In reality:

• Unlimited refers to the number of eligible drinks you may order.

• Responsible serving policies always apply.

• Beverage packages cannot be shared.

• Premium drinks may require an additional charge.

• Cruise line policies may change over time.

Reading the latest package terms before sailing helps avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Is the Norwegian drink package truly unlimited?

Yes. Eligible guests can order unlimited qualifying beverages throughout the cruise, subject to responsible alcohol service policies.

2. Is there a daily drink cap?

Based on publicly available information, Norwegian Cruise Line does not publish a daily numerical beverage limit for eligible package holders.

3. Can I order two alcoholic drinks at once?

Generally, no. Guests are typically served one alcoholic beverage per order.

4. Can I share my beverage package with another guest?

No. Beverage packages are intended only for the guest to whom they are assigned.

5. Are premium cocktails included?

Many premium drinks are included up to the package's maximum covered value. Drinks priced above that amount may require an additional payment.

6. Are bottled water and specialty coffee included?

This depends on the specific beverage package purchased. Review the package details before sailing.

7. Can bartenders refuse service?

Yes. Bartenders may decline alcohol service if a guest appears intoxicated or violates package rules.

8. Does the package work at every bar onboard?

Most participating bars and restaurants accept the package, although certain venues or events may have exclusions.

9. Can I use the package on private islands?

Coverage depends on the itinerary and the current beverage package terms for that destination.

10. What happens if my drink costs more than the package allowance?

You'll usually pay only the price difference, plus any applicable gratuities or taxes according to the cruise line's policies.