What drinks are unlimited on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a wide variety of beverage options, but many first-time cruisers wonder exactly which drinks are unlimited during their vacation. Whether you're planning to enjoy specialty coffees, soft drinks, cocktails, or bottled water, understanding how Norwegian's beverage packages work can help you maximize value and avoid unexpected charges.

Unlike some all-inclusive resorts, Norwegian Cruise Line generally provides unlimited beverages only through eligible drink packages or complimentary dining beverages. Knowing what's included before you board allows you to budget better and enjoy your cruise without constantly checking your onboard account.

In this guide, we'll explain which drinks are unlimited, what's included in various beverage packages, drinks that still cost extra, and helpful tips to make the most of your cruise experience.

Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage packages designed to suit different travel styles. Depending on your booking, you may receive a beverage package as part of a promotional offer or purchase one separately before sailing.

Unlimited drinks generally apply only to beverages included in your selected package and are subject to the cruise line's terms and conditions.

The available beverage packages typically include:

• Unlimited Open Bar Package

• Premium Plus Beverage Package

• Unlimited Soda Package

• Starbucks Package (available on select ships)

Each package covers different beverages and value levels.

What Drinks Are Unlimited on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

If you have an eligible beverage package, many drinks become available throughout your cruise without paying individually.

Alcoholic Beverages

The Unlimited Open Bar Package usually includes:

• Cocktails

• Frozen drinks

• Margaritas

• Martinis

• Whiskey

• Bourbon

• Scotch

• Vodka

• Gin

• Rum

• Tequila

• Brandy

• Liqueurs

• Draft beer

• Bottled beer

• House wines by the glass

• Sparkling wine by the glass

Premium labels may require upgrading to the Premium Plus Beverage Package.

Soft Drinks

Guests with the Unlimited Soda Package receive unlimited fountain soft drinks throughout the voyage.

Popular options include:

• Cola

• Diet cola

• Lemon-lime soda

• Root beer (where available)

• Ginger ale

• Club soda

• Tonic water

Juices

Many juice selections are complimentary during breakfast.

Unlimited beverage packages often include:

• Orange juice

• Apple juice

• Cranberry juice

• Pineapple juice

• Grapefruit juice

• Tomato juice

Freshly squeezed juices may carry an additional charge.

Coffee and Tea

Complimentary beverages available to all guests include:

• Regular coffee

• Decaffeinated coffee

• Hot tea

• Iced tea (at select dining locations)

Specialty coffees such as:

• Cappuccino

• Latte

• Espresso

• Mocha

may require either the Starbucks Package or Premium Plus Beverage Package, depending on where they're purchased.

Bottled Water

Standard beverage packages generally do not include unlimited bottled water.

Premium Plus Beverage Package guests typically receive enhanced bottled water benefits, while other travelers may purchase bottled water separately.

Beverage Package Comparison

BeverageComplimentaryUnlimited SodaUnlimited Open BarPremium Plus

WaterDining venuesNoNoPremium bottled water included

Regular CoffeeYesYesYesYes

TeaYesYesYesYes

Fountain SodaNoYesYesYes

JuiceBreakfast onlyBreakfast onlySelected juicesExpanded options

BeerNoNoYesPremium brands

Wine by GlassNoNoYesPremium selections

CocktailsNoNoYesPremium cocktails

Premium SpiritsNoNoLimitedYes

Specialty CoffeeLimitedNoLimitedIncluded

Are There Any Drink Restrictions?

Although beverage packages provide generous access, they are not entirely unrestricted.

Norwegian Cruise Line applies responsible alcohol service policies designed to promote guest safety.

Restrictions may include:

• One alcoholic beverage per transaction

• Beverage packages cannot be shared

• Guests must meet the legal drinking age

• Certain premium beverages are excluded

• Mini-bar purchases are generally not included

• Room service beverages may have additional charges

These policies help ensure responsible beverage service throughout the cruise.

Is There a Drink Limit on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Many travelers ask, is there a drink limit on Norwegian Cruise Line when purchasing an unlimited beverage package.

In general, Norwegian Cruise Line does not advertise a fixed daily numerical limit for drinks included under eligible beverage packages. Instead, beverages are served according to responsible alcohol service policies. Crew members may refuse service if a guest appears intoxicated or if package rules are being misused.

This approach allows guests to enjoy beverages responsibly while maintaining a safe environment onboard.

Drinks That Usually Cost Extra

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

Examples include:

• Ultra-premium liquors

• Rare whiskey collections

• High-end wines

• Certain champagne brands

• Specialty bottled beverages

• Energy drinks

• Freshly squeezed juices

• Specialty coffee from select locations

• Mini-bar beverages

• Wine purchased by the bottle

Always check the onboard beverage menu to confirm whether a particular drink is included.

How to Maximize Your Beverage Package

Getting the most value from your package doesn't require drinking alcohol all day. Smart planning can significantly increase the package's overall worth.

Start Early

Enjoy coffee in the morning, soft drinks throughout the day, and cocktails in the evening.

Try Signature Cocktails

Norwegian bars feature exclusive drinks you may not find elsewhere.

Explore Different Bars

Each onboard venue often specializes in different beverages, from mojitos to craft beers.

Stay Hydrated

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

Ask About Daily Specials

Bartenders frequently recommend seasonal cocktails or featured beverages included in your package.

Is Upgrading to Premium Plus Worth It?

Premium Plus can provide excellent value for travelers who enjoy luxury beverages.

It may be worthwhile if you regularly order:

• Premium whiskey

• Luxury tequila

• Fine wines

• Premium champagne

• Specialty bottled water

• Starbucks beverages

• Fresh juices

Casual drinkers may find the standard Unlimited Open Bar Package offers sufficient value.

Tips Before Purchasing a Beverage Package

Before buying any beverage package, consider these factors:

• Estimate how many drinks you'll have each day.

• Compare package pricing with individual drink costs.

• Check promotional offers included with your booking.

• Review exclusions before sailing.

• Purchase in advance if discounts are available.

• Consider your travel companions, as package requirements may apply to adults sharing the same cabin.

Planning ahead helps avoid surprises once onboard.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Are soft drinks unlimited on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes. Guests with the Unlimited Soda Package receive unlimited fountain soft drinks throughout their cruise.

2. Is regular coffee free?

Yes. Standard brewed coffee is complimentary in many dining venues.

3. Does the Unlimited Open Bar Package include cocktails?

Yes. Most standard cocktails, mixed drinks, beer, wine by the glass, and many spirits are included.

4. Is bottled water included?

Standard packages usually do not include unlimited bottled water. Premium Plus offers expanded bottled water benefits.

5. Can I order unlimited specialty coffee?

Only certain beverage packages include specialty coffee. Regular coffee remains complimentary.

6. Can two people share one beverage package?

No. Beverage packages are intended for individual use only and cannot be shared.

7. Are smoothies included?

Some specialty smoothies and fresh beverages may require an extra charge depending on where they're purchased.

8. Can I take drinks back to my cabin?

In many cases, yes, although some venue-specific restrictions may apply.

9. Are energy drinks included?

Energy drinks are generally not included in standard beverage packages.

10. What happens if I order a drink above my package limit?

If you choose a beverage outside your package's covered price range, you'll typically pay only the price difference plus applicable service charges.