For many travelers, cruising is more than just about the destinations—it’s about the onboard experience. From world-class dining to Broadway-style shows, Costa Cruises is famous for creating unforgettable memories. One of the most popular add-ons for passengers is the beverage package, which offers a convenient, all-inclusive way to enjoy drinks onboard without constantly worrying about costs.Costa Cruises offers a variety of drink packages to suit different travel styles and budgets, ranging from non-alcoholic options for families to premium all-inclusive packages for those who want unlimited cocktails, wines, and specialty coffees. Understanding the cost, inclusions, and value of these packages can help you decide which is right for your trip.
The different types of Costa Cruises beverage packages
Updated pricing for each package
What’s included and excluded in each plan
Who should buy a package (and who shouldn’t)
How much you can realistically save
Rules and policies you must know before purchasing
Tips to maximize value
Real passenger experiences and examples
Expert advice on choosing the right package
Costa Cruises structures its drink packages to fit every traveler’s needs, from families with kids to cocktail enthusiasts. Here’s an overview of the main options:
Costa’s most popular package, ideal for passengers who want a broad selection of beverages.
Inclusions:
Draft beer, bottled beer
House wines (by the glass)
Standard spirits and cocktails
Soft drinks, juices
Espresso, cappuccino, lattes, hot chocolate
Mineral water (by the glass)
Exclusions:
Premium liquor brands
Champagne, fine wines, bottles
Minibar and room service
Price Range: €30–€35 per person per night.
An upgraded version of My Drinks, designed for those who want premium choices.
Inclusions:
Everything in My Drinks Package
Premium cocktails and top-shelf spirits
Branded beer and wines by the glass
Premium coffee blends
Energy drinks and specialty juices
Exclusions:
Bottles of wine or champagne
Minibar and room service
Price Range: €45–€55 per person per night.
Perfect for families with children or adults who don’t drink alcohol.
Inclusions:
Unlimited sodas (cola, lemonade, etc.)
Fruit juices
Iced tea
Hot drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate)
Price Range: €18–€25 per person per night.
For passengers who just want bottled water without paying high à la carte prices.
Inclusions:
Packs of bottled water (varies by cruise length)
Price Range: Approx. €3–€5 per bottle or €24–€30 for a multi-bottle package.
Here’s a pricing summary (2025 updated estimates):
Package TypePrice per Person per NightInclusionsBest For
My Drinks€30–€35Standard alcohol, wine, beer, coffee, sodaCasual drinkers
My Drinks Plus€45–€55Premium cocktails, wine upgrades, specialty drinksEnthusiasts & connoisseurs
Soft Drinks€18–€25Soda, juice, coffee, teaFamilies & non-drinkers
Water Package€24–€30 (per cruise)Bottled water packsBudget travelers
When considering beverage packages, it’s important to understand Costa’s policies:
Everyone in the Cabin Must Purchase: If one adult buys, all adults in the same cabin must also purchase the same package.
Length of Cruise: Packages are sold for the full length of the cruise, not just selected days.
Non-Transferable: Sharing packages between passengers is prohibited.
Coverage: Packages work in restaurants, bars, lounges, and buffets onboard, but not for minibar or shore excursions.
Responsible Service: Staff may refuse service if you appear intoxicated.
The value depends on your personal drinking habits. Let’s break down the math.
1 cocktail (€8)
2 glasses wine (€12)
2 coffees (€6)
2 sodas (€6) Total à la carte = €32 — package pays for itself.
3 cocktails (€24)
2 premium wines (€20)
2 cappuccinos (€6)
1 energy drink (€5) Total à la carte = €55 — good value if you enjoy premium selections.
3 sodas (€9)
2 juices (€8)
1 cappuccino (€3) Total à la carte = €20 — break-even point reached.
If you drink fewer than 4–5 beverages daily, paying as you go may be cheaper.
Family of Four (Mediterranean Cruise): Parents bought the My Drinks Package, kids got the Soft Drinks Package. They reported saving around €400 over 7 nights.
Couple (Caribbean): Bought My Drinks Plus for premium cocktails and wines. They said it was worth it because they enjoyed trying specialty drinks.
Solo Traveler: Found they only consumed 2–3 drinks per day. Package wasn’t cost-effective for them.
Start Early in the Day: Use the package for morning cappuccinos and juices.
Don’t Forget Specialty Coffee: Many passengers overlook lattes and espressos included in the package.
Try New Drinks: Experiment with cocktails you might not order à la carte.
Use at Every Venue: Buffets, pool bars, lounges, and restaurants all accept packages.
Check Inclusions Before Ordering: Avoid surprise charges for excluded items.
Q1: Can I buy a beverage package for just part of my cruise?
No, packages are only sold for the full length of your sailing.
Q2: Do children need to purchase a beverage package?
Yes, kids can purchase the Soft Drinks Package, which is discounted.
Q3: Are gratuities included in beverage package pricing?
Yes, service charges are included in the cost.
Q4: Can I bring my own alcohol on board?
Costa generally prohibits outside alcohol, except limited wine in some cases.
Q5: Can I cancel my beverage package?
Refunds may be possible if canceled before sailing, but not once onboard.