What drinks are unlimited on NCL?

If you're planning a vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), one of the most common questions is: What drinks are unlimited on NCL? Understanding what is included in your cruise fare and what comes with NCL's beverage packages can help you budget wisely and make the most of your vacation.

Whether you enjoy specialty coffee in the morning, cocktails by the pool, or soft drinks throughout the day, NCL offers several beverage options to suit different travelers. This guide explains which drinks are unlimited, what's excluded, how the beverage packages work, and what you should know before boarding.

NCL's Beverage Packages

Norwegian Cruise Line offers beverage packages that allow guests to enjoy a wide selection of drinks without paying for each one individually. Depending on your booking, a beverage package may be included as part of a promotional offer or purchased separately.

The available packages typically include:

• Unlimited Open Bar Package

• Premium Plus Beverage Package

• Unlimited Soda Package

• Unlimited Starbucks® Package (available on select ships)

The exact drinks available depend on the package you've selected.

What Drinks Are Unlimited on NCL?

With an eligible beverage package, guests can enjoy unlimited servings of many drinks during the cruise. While there is no fixed number of beverages included, each drink must comply with NCL's onboard beverage policy.

1. Alcoholic Beverages

The Unlimited Open Bar Package generally includes:

• Domestic beers

• Imported beers

• Draft beers (where available)

• House wines by the glass

• Sparkling wine by the glass

• Standard cocktails

• Frozen cocktails

• Mixed drinks

• Standard spirits

• Whiskey

• Vodka

• Gin

• Rum

• Tequila

• Brandy

Premium liquor brands may require the Premium Plus Beverage Package or an additional charge if they exceed the package limit.

2. Soft Drinks

Unlimited soda packages typically include:

• Coca-Cola products

• Diet soft drinks

• Lemon-lime soda

• Ginger ale

• Root beer (on select ships)

• Club soda

• Tonic water

These beverages are available at restaurants, bars, and lounges throughout the ship.

3. Juices

Many beverage packages include:

• Orange juice

• Apple juice

• Cranberry juice

• Pineapple juice

• Grapefruit juice

• Tomato juice

Freshly squeezed juices or specialty juice bar beverages may not be included unless specifically stated.

4. Coffee and Tea

Most cruises include complimentary:

• Regular brewed coffee

• Decaffeinated coffee

• Hot tea

• Iced tea

Specialty coffees like:

• Cappuccino

• Latte

• Espresso

• Mocha

• Nitro cold brew

may require a specialty coffee package or the Unlimited Starbucks® Package depending on where they are purchased.

5. Bottled and Sparkling Water

Package coverage varies.

Premium Plus Beverage Package guests generally receive access to:

• Premium bottled water

• Sparkling water

• Mineral water

Standard beverage packages may not include bottled water.

Complimentary Drinks Available to All Guests

Even without purchasing a beverage package, every NCL guest receives access to several complimentary drinks.

These usually include:

• Ice water

• Brewed coffee

• Decaf coffee

• Hot tea

• Iced tea

• Select juices during breakfast

• Milk

• Chocolate milk (at select venues)

These beverages are available at buffet restaurants and selected dining venues.

How Unlimited Beverage Packages Work

NCL's beverage packages are straightforward, but they do include certain conditions.

Step 1: Choose a Beverage Package

You can:

• Book a cruise that includes a promotional beverage package.

• Purchase one before sailing.

• Buy one after boarding if available.

Step 2: Order Drinks

Simply present your cruise card when ordering beverages.

The bartender verifies your package electronically.

Step 3: Enjoy Unlimited Eligible Drinks

You may order drinks throughout the cruise as long as they are covered under your package.

Each guest must order individually, and sharing beverages is not permitted.

Is There a Daily Drink Limit?

Many travelers ask whether there is a cap on the number of beverages they can order.

Based on Norwegian Cruise Line's publicly available policies, eligible beverage packages provide unlimited qualifying drinks during the cruise. However, drinks are served responsibly, and bartenders may refuse service if a guest appears intoxicated or for safety reasons.

Some guests also search does ncl have a drink limit when planning their cruise. In practice, NCL focuses on responsible alcohol service rather than imposing a publicly stated daily numerical limit for beverage package users.

Drinks That Usually Cost Extra

Even with an unlimited beverage package, some items may involve additional charges.

Examples include:

• Ultra-premium liquor beyond package limits

• Rare wines

• Vintage champagne

• Bottles of wine

• Beverage tastings

• Mini-bar purchases

• Room service beverages (where applicable)

• Specialty coffee outside package coverage

• Fresh-pressed juice bars

Always review your specific package details before sailing.

Tips to Get the Most Value from Your Beverage Package

Order Premium Drinks Within Your Package

Many signature cocktails, wines, and beers are included. Check the onboard menu before ordering.

Stay Hydrated

Alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay comfortable throughout your cruise.

Try Different Venues

Different bars often feature unique cocktail menus, craft beers, and specialty drinks.

Ask the Bartender

If you're unsure whether a drink is included, ask before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.

Review Your Account

Use the NCL mobile app or guest services to monitor onboard purchases during your cruise.

Is an Unlimited Beverage Package Worth It?

The answer depends on your travel style.

A beverage package may offer excellent value if you:

• Enjoy cocktails every day

• Drink wine with dinner

• Prefer premium coffee

• Regularly purchase bottled water

• Like specialty beers

• Spend significant time relaxing at onboard bars

It may be less beneficial if you mainly drink complimentary coffee, tea, and water.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Are alcoholic drinks unlimited on NCL?

Yes. Eligible beverage packages include unlimited qualifying alcoholic beverages, subject to package rules and responsible alcohol service.

2. Is bottled water included?

Standard beverage packages generally do not include bottled water, while Premium Plus packages usually do.

3. Can I order multiple drinks at once?

Generally, guests may order one beverage at a time using their beverage package.

4. Are Starbucks drinks included?

Only if you have purchased the Unlimited Starbucks® Package or another package that specifically includes eligible Starbucks beverages.

5. Are specialty coffees included?

Regular coffee is complimentary. Espresso-based beverages may require an eligible package.

6. Are smoothies included?

Most smoothies and specialty juice bar drinks are purchased separately unless specifically covered by your package.

7. Can I share my beverage package?

No. Beverage packages are intended for the individual guest who purchased or received the package and cannot be shared.

8. Are drinks available throughout the cruise?

Yes. Covered beverages are available whenever participating bars and restaurants are open.

9. Can bartenders refuse to serve alcohol?

Yes. Crew members may refuse service if necessary for guest safety or responsible alcohol consumption.

10. Can beverage package benefits change?

Yes. Beverage package inclusions, pricing, participating venues, and terms may change over time. Always review the latest package details before your cruise.