Are beverages included in P&O Cruises Australia packages?

Cruising is one of the most luxurious and relaxing ways to explore the world, and P&O Cruises Australia offers a premium experience along the Australian coastlines and beyond. For many travelers, one of the most frequently asked questions is whether beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, are included in their cruise packages. This guide provides a comprehensive look at P&O Cruises Australia beverage packages, inclusions, exclusions, daily limits, and tips for getting the best value.

1. Understanding P&O Cruises Australia Packages

P&O Cruises Australia is known for its wide variety of cruise packages that cater to different budgets, ages, and preferences. Packages typically include accommodation, meals in main dining venues, entertainment, and access to onboard facilities. However, beverages are generally not fully included in standard cruise fares, especially alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks.

1 Standard Inclusions

Most standard P&O cruise fares include:

Water, tea, and coffee at main dining venues
Selected juices and soft drinks with meals
Some complimentary tap water and soft drinks at buffets

Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, premium soft drinks, and bottled water are usually not included in the standard package. This is a common practice across most international cruise lines to provide flexibility in beverage selection while offering optional drink packages.

2 Why Beverages Aren’t Always Included

The reason beverages are often excluded is twofold:

Customization: Travelers have diverse preferences for drinks, from soft drinks to fine wines, craft cocktails, or spirits. Including all beverages in the base fare could lead to increased ticket costs.
Revenue Strategy: Beverage packages represent a significant revenue source for cruise operators. Offering them as an add-on ensures guests who want premium drinks can access them conveniently without affecting those who prefer not to indulge.

2. P&O Cruises Australia Beverage Packages

P&O Cruises Australia offers several beverage package options for guests who want a worry-free experience without paying per drink.

1 Premium Drinks Package

The Premium Drinks Package is designed for guests who enjoy alcoholic beverages, cocktails, wines, and spirits.

Inclusions typically are:

House wines by the glass
Beers and ciders
Spirits, cocktails, and mixed drinks
Sparkling wine
Soft drinks, juices, and specialty coffees

Cost: Prices may vary depending on the cruise length and ship, but generally, it ranges from AUD 60–75 per day per adult.

Benefits:

Unlimited drinks from the package menu (some daily limits may apply)
Convenience: no need to carry cash or swipe cards for every drink
Peace of mind for budgeting purposes

Limitations:

Not all premium wines or rare spirits are included
Packages are usually non-transferable between passengers
Cannot combine with other onboard promotions unless specified

2 Soft Drink & Non-Alcoholic Packages

For families or guests who prefer soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages, P&O offers a Soft Drink Package, which usually includes:

Soft drinks
Bottled water
Specialty coffees and teas

Cost: Typically around AUD 20–25 per day per adult, often slightly less for children depending on age.

Advantages:

Ideal for families traveling with children
Ensures unlimited access to refreshments without paying per drink
Includes specialty coffee drinks that are not part of the standard inclusion

Limitations:

Alcoholic beverages are not included
Some high-end specialty drinks may still be excluded

3 Wine Packages

Some cruises may offer a Wine Tasting or Wine Package, especially for guests looking for curated wine experiences. These are usually:

Optional, per cabin or per person
Include selected wines by the glass or bottle
May be paired with specialty dining experiences

Cost: Varies widely based on wine selection and cruise length.

3. Daily Limits and Usage

Understanding daily limits is essential to making the most of P&O beverage packages. While the packages are often advertised as “unlimited,” in practice:

Some premium drinks packages allow up to 15 drinks per day per adult.
Soft drink packages generally permit unlimited refills at self-service venues, but specialty drinks from bars may be limited.
Sharing or transferring drinks between passengers is strictly prohibited.

These limits are in place to ensure fairness and prevent excessive consumption while onboard.

4. How to Purchase Beverage Packages

Guests can purchase beverage packages in several ways:

1 At Booking Time

Packages can be added when booking your cruise online or via a travel agent
Early purchase often comes with discounts or promotions
Helps plan your budget accurately before departure

2 Onboard Purchase

Beverage packages are available at bars or guest services once onboard
Prices may be slightly higher than pre-purchase
Flexible for last-minute decisions or trial before committing

3 Tips for Saving

Check if your cruise has early booking offers for beverage packages
Compare package cost vs. anticipated daily consumption
Consider combining packages if traveling with family

5. Tips for Making the Most of P&O Cruises Beverage Packages

1 Know Your Limits

Be aware of daily drink limits to maximize the package without overdoing it
Non-alcoholic guests may benefit more from soft drink or specialty coffee packages

2 Plan Around Specialty Dining

Some specialty restaurants include beverage pairings that may not count toward the package
Check the ship’s daily menu and beverage menu for exclusions

3 Avoid Waste

P&O prohibits sharing drinks; excess drinks may not carry over
Order drinks you will actually consume to get full value

4 Take Advantage of Promotions

Cruise lines sometimes offer discounted drink packages or bundled promotions
Combining spa packages, dining packages, and drink packages can enhance value

6. Comparing P&O Beverage Packages to Other Cruise Lines

Understanding how P&O Cruises Australia stacks up against other cruise lines can help travelers decide:

Cruise LineBeverage InclusionsAverage Package PriceNotes

P&O Cruises AustraliaLimited standard drinks; optional Premium/Soft Drink PackagesAUD 20–75/dayFlexible options, daily limits apply

Carnival CruisesSome non-alcoholic drinks included; packages availableUSD 30–60/dayUnlimited alcohol packages available

Royal CaribbeanSelect non-alcoholic drinks included; unlimited packagesUSD 40–70/dayIncludes specialty coffees and smoothies

Princess CruisesSome teas/coffee/juice includedUSD 45–85/dayAlcoholic packages optional

Observation: P&O Cruises is generally competitive in terms of price and inclusions, particularly for families or adult travelers seeking flexibility in drink options.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

1 Are water and soft drinks included without a package?

Yes, tap water, tea, coffee, and selected juices are usually included in standard dining areas. Specialty sodas, bottled water, and premium drinks require a package or a la carte purchase.

2 Can children purchase beverage packages?

Children can purchase soft drink packages, usually at a reduced rate, while alcoholic packages are restricted to adults (18+).

3 Can I share my beverage package with someone else?

No, P&O Cruises strictly prohibits sharing beverage packages between passengers. Each package is tied to a single guest account.

4 Are there discounts for booking packages online?

Yes, early bookings or online reservations often provide discounts or promotional offers. Prices purchased onboard are usually higher.

8. Beverages are only partially included

In conclusion, beverages are only partially included in standard P&O Cruises Australia packages. While basic drinks such as water, tea, coffee, and some juices are included, most alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks require purchasing an additional beverage package. These packages provide convenience, predictability in budgeting, and often better value for those who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily.

For families, soft drink packages offer a cost-effective way to enjoy unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, while premium packages cater to adults seeking cocktails, wine, or spirits. Careful planning, understanding daily limits, and purchasing packages early can enhance your cruising experience significantly.

P&O Cruises Australia provides flexible beverage package options suitable for all types of travelers. Knowing what is included, what is optional, and how to maximize your value ensures a smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free cruise vacation.