Does Holland America Line Offer Drink Packages?

Cruising with Holland America Line is a journey filled with world-class dining, elegant entertainment, and exciting destinations. But beyond the fine meals and breathtaking views, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: Does Holland America Line offer drink packages?

The short answer is yes. Holland America Line offers several different drink packages designed to suit a variety of preferences, from casual coffee drinkers and soda fans to those who enjoy premium wines, cocktails, and spirits. These packages allow guests to enjoy beverages at sea without worrying about individual charges each time they order.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the details of Holland America Line’s drink packages, including what’s included, how much they cost, who should consider purchasing them, and tips for getting the most value during your cruise.

1. What Beverages Are Already Included in the Cruise Fare?

Before diving into the packages, it’s important to understand which drinks are already complimentary.

Drinks Included with Your Fare:

Water (tap and filtered water at dining venues).
Iced tea.
Lemonade.
Basic coffee and tea.
Juices at breakfast.

These beverages are available at no extra cost. However, most guests want more variety, such as sodas, specialty coffees, or cocktails. This is where drink packages come into play.

2. Holland America Line’s Beverage Package Options

Holland America Line provides a variety of beverage packages, each designed for different tastes and budgets.

a) The Quench Package – Non-Alcoholic Package

This package is perfect for those who don’t drink alcohol but want unlimited access to refreshing beverages.

Includes:

Fountain sodas.
Bottled water (sparkling and still).
Specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos.
Hot chocolate.
Fruit juices and mocktails.
Energy drinks.

It’s a great option for families, teens, or adults who prefer non-alcoholic choices.

b) The Signature Beverage Package – Most Popular Option

The Signature Beverage Package is the most widely chosen package because it covers a large selection of drinks.

Includes:

Up to 15 drinks per day.
Beverages priced up to a certain limit (generally mid-range cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits).
Sodas, specialty coffees, and bottled water.
Non-alcoholic options like mocktails and juices.

This package balances variety and value, making it a favorite among many cruisers.

c) The Elite Beverage Package – Premium Option

For those who enjoy top-shelf spirits and fine wines, the Elite Beverage Package offers access to premium drinks.

Includes:

Up to 15 drinks per day.
Premium spirits, cocktails, and wines up to a higher price threshold.
Wide range of beers, including craft and imported selections.
Specialty coffees, bottled water, and energy drinks.
Mocktails, juices, and sodas.

This package is ideal for guests who prefer higher-end beverages without having to pay extra for each drink.

d) Coffee and Soda Packages

For guests who only want access to specific drinks, Holland America Line also offers more limited packages.

Coffee Card:

Covers specialty coffees, espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes.
Great for coffee enthusiasts who don’t need alcohol.

Soda Package:

Unlimited fountain soda.
Convenient for children, teens, or adults who enjoy soft drinks.

3. Beverage Package Rules and Guidelines

Like most cruise lines, Holland America Line has rules in place for its drink packages.

One package per person – If one adult in a stateroom buys an alcoholic beverage package, all adults in that stateroom may be required to purchase the same package.
Daily limits – Most packages limit you to 15 alcoholic drinks per day, but non-alcoholic beverages are unlimited.
One drink at a time – You cannot order multiple drinks at once using your package.
Age requirements – Guests must meet the legal drinking age on board (typically 21 in US sailings).

These rules ensure fair use and consistency across all passengers.

4. Pricing of Holland America Line Drink Packages

While exact prices can vary depending on the ship and itinerary, here is a general overview of costs:

Quench Package (non-alcoholic): Around $20–25 per day.
Signature Beverage Package: Around $55–60 per day.
Elite Beverage Package: Around $75–85 per day.
Coffee Card: Flat rate for a set number of specialty drinks.
Soda Package: Around $8–10 per day.

Keep in mind that service charges or gratuities may be added to the package price.

5. Who Should Consider Buying a Drink Package?

Not every guest will find a drink package necessary. Whether it’s worth it depends on your drinking habits.

A Drink Package May Be Worth It If You:

Drink multiple specialty coffees, sodas, or bottled waters each day.
Enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer regularly.
Prefer the convenience of not tracking your beverage spending.
Want premium beverage choices throughout your cruise.

You May Skip a Drink Package If You:

Only drink basic beverages included in your fare.
Rarely consume alcohol or specialty drinks.
Plan to spend much of your time on shore.

6. Alternatives to Drink Packages

Even without a drink package, you can still enjoy beverages without overspending.

Purchase drinks individually as needed.
Bring limited amounts of wine or champagne onboard, if permitted.
Take advantage of happy hour specials in bars and lounges.
Use included drinks like coffee, tea, and juices to cut costs.

This flexibility ensures guests can still control their beverage expenses.

7. Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Drink Package

If you do decide to buy a drink package, here are a few strategies to maximize its value:

Start your day with specialty coffee – Take advantage of espresso drinks, which can cost several dollars each.
Stay hydrated with bottled water – Stock up before excursions.
Try new cocktails or wines – Experiment without worrying about cost.
Make use of mocktails – Great for a refreshing break between alcoholic beverages.
Check daily menus – Some venues offer featured drinks that are covered by your package.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Are Holland America Line drink packages unlimited?

Alcoholic beverage packages have a daily limit of 15 drinks. Non-alcoholic drinks are unlimited.

Do both adults in a cabin need to buy a drink package?

Yes, in most cases, if one adult purchases an alcoholic package, all adults in the same stateroom must purchase it too.

Can I buy a drink package for just part of the cruise?

Packages usually must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise.

Are gratuities included in the price?

A service charge is often added at the time of purchase, so gratuities are included.

Can I share my drink package?

No, sharing packages is not allowed. Each package is linked to an individual’s cruise card.

9. The Value of Drink Packages

For many travelers, drink packages add a layer of convenience and indulgence to the cruise experience. Instead of worrying about budgeting for every soda, cappuccino, or cocktail, guests can simply enjoy their favorite drinks.

The value of these packages depends entirely on your preferences. A guest who enjoys several cocktails, glasses of wine, and premium coffees each day will likely find a drink package saves money. On the other hand, a guest who mainly sticks to water and tea may not need one at all.

Conclusion

So, does Holland America Line offer drink packages? Yes, and they offer several options to match every type of traveler. From non-alcoholic Quench Packages and coffee cards to the more comprehensive Signature and Elite Beverage Packages, there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re sipping specialty coffee in the morning, enjoying a glass of wine at dinner, or relaxing with a cocktail by the pool, drink packages provide convenience, variety, and the opportunity to indulge without worrying about the bill.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of beverages each day, a Holland America Line drink package can be a worthwhile addition to your cruise, helping you get the most out of your time at sea.