How much is a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is one of the world’s most popular cruise operators, known for its Freestyle Cruising experience, offering passengers flexibility and personalized options. Among the most popular add-ons is the beverage package. Whether you are a cocktail enthusiast, coffee lover, or simply enjoy a soda, understanding the cost, types, inclusions, and value of NCL’s beverage packages is essential for planning your cruise. This guide provides a detailed overview of everything travelers need to know about NCL beverage packages.

1. Overview of NCL Beverage Packages

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage packages to cater to different passenger preferences:

Premium Beverage Package: Includes cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, non-alcoholic drinks, and specialty coffee.
Classic Soda Package: Unlimited soft drinks, iced tea, and lemonade.
Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: Specialty coffees, mocktails, juices, smoothies, and bottled water.
Specialty Alcohol Packages: Focused on wine, beer, or spirits.

Each package has a distinct cost structure, daily limits, and benefits.

2. Premium Beverage Package Pricing

The Premium Beverage Package is NCL’s most comprehensive package. It includes alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, soft drinks, and bottled water.

Typical Pricing

Pricing varies based on cruise length, itinerary, and ship:

3–4 Day Cruises: Approximately $59–$65 per person per day
5–7 Day Cruises: Approximately $70–$75 per person per day
8+ Day Cruises: Approximately $75–$85 per person per day

Important Notes:

Gratuities (around 18–20% per person per day) are usually added to the total package cost.
Prices may vary by promotions, itinerary, and booking method.

The Premium Beverage Package is ideal for passengers who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily, including cocktails and specialty beverages.

3. Classic Soda Package Pricing

The Classic Soda Package is designed for passengers who prefer non-alcoholic beverages:

Typical Cost: $9–$14 per person per day
Included Drinks: Fountain sodas, iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water
Restrictions: Does not include alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, or bottled drinks

This package is particularly popular among families and passengers who consume multiple soft drinks daily.

4. Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package Pricing

For passengers who want specialty non-alcoholic beverages:

Price Range: Approximately $20–$25 per person per day, depending on cruise length
Included Drinks: Specialty coffee drinks, mocktails, juices, smoothies, and bottled water
Best For: Passengers who do not consume alcohol but want a variety of beverages

This package provides more options than the Classic Soda Package without including alcoholic beverages.

5. Specialty Alcohol Packages Pricing

NCL sometimes offers specialized beverage packages that focus solely on certain types of drinks:

Wine Package: Selected wines by the glass
Beer Package: Draft or bottled beers, including premium options
Spirits Package: Selected liquors and cocktails

Pricing depends on package type, cruise length, and drink inclusions. These packages are suitable for passengers with focused preferences and who may not require the full Premium Beverage Package.

6. Daily Drink Limits

Each beverage package has specific daily drink limits:

Premium Beverage Package: 15 drinks per guest per day
Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: Usually 15 drinks per guest per day
Classic Soda Package: Unlimited soft drinks
Specialty Alcohol Packages: Typically 15 drinks per guest per day

Drinks exceeding these limits are charged à la carte, so understanding limits helps avoid extra costs.

7. What Counts as a “Drink”

Standard serving sizes define one drink:

Cocktails: 5 oz.
Wine by the Glass: 6 oz.
Beer: 12 oz.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Standard serving for specialty coffee or soda
Juices and Mocktails: Regular serving sizes

Awareness of these serving sizes helps passengers maximize their package value.

8. Purchasing Options and Timing

Beverage packages can be purchased:

During Booking: Often at discounted rates
Online Pre-Cruise: Via NCL website or Hub App
Onboard: At bars, lounges, or via the Hub App; may be slightly higher in price

Tip: Pre-purchasing packages before boarding is typically the most cost-effective option.

9. Gratuities and Extra Costs

Gratuities are automatically added to beverage packages:

Typically 18–20% per guest per day
Additional charges may apply for drinks above daily limits or premium selections not included in the package
Some packages exclude room service or specialty bottled beverages

Understanding gratuities and exclusions ensures accurate budgeting for your cruise.

10. Value Comparison: Package vs À La Carte

To determine if a beverage package is worth the price:

Estimate daily drink consumption.
Multiply by average à la carte prices (e.g., cocktails $12–$15, specialty coffee $5–$6).
Compare the total with the daily package cost.

Passengers who consume multiple beverages daily often save money and enjoy convenience with the Premium Beverage Package. Light drinkers may find purchasing individual drinks more economical.

11. Combining Packages with Promotions

NCL frequently offers promotions to increase package value:

Complimentary beverage packages for early bookings
Onboard credits applicable toward packages
Seasonal discounts or flash sales

Taking advantage of these promotions can significantly reduce costs and enhance overall savings.

12. Restrictions and Exceptions

Sharing drinks among passengers is not allowed.
Premium or limited-release beverages may not be included.
Packages are per-person and non-transferable.
Alcohol packages are available only to guests 21 years and older.

Knowing these restrictions prevents unexpected charges and confusion.

13. Tips for Maximizing Your Beverage Package

Track daily drink consumption to avoid overages
Choose higher-priced drinks if aiming to maximize value
Use the NCL Hub App to monitor remaining drinks
Combine packages with onboard promotions for additional savings
Consider cruise length and drinking habits before selecting a package

14. Age Requirements

Alcohol-inclusive packages require passengers to be 21 years or older
Non-alcoholic and soda packages are available for all ages
Valid identification may be requested when ordering alcoholic beverages

These rules ensure compliance with international alcohol regulations onboard.

15. Conclusion

Norwegian Cruise Line beverage packages provide convenience, flexibility, and potential savings. Pricing varies based on package type, cruise length, and promotions:

Premium Beverage Package: $59–$85 per person per day
Classic Soda Package: $9–$14 per person per day
Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: $20–$25 per person per day
Specialty Alcohol Packages: Vary based on type and cruise length

Daily drink limits, gratuities, inclusions, and exclusions should be carefully considered to maximize value. Pre-purchasing packages, tracking consumption, and combining promotions can enhance savings and simplify budgeting for a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience. By understanding costs and options, passengers can choose the right beverage package for their preferences, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable vacation onboard NCL.