How much is a beverage package on Seabourn?
If you’re planning a luxury cruise with Seabourn Cruise Line, one of the most common questions is: Do you need to pay extra for drinks—and if so, how much?
Unlike mainstream cruise lines, Seabourn operates on an ultra-luxury, nearly all-inclusive model, which changes the typical “beverage package” concept entirely. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from pricing and inclusions to real-world scenarios, expert insights, and whether upgrades are worth it.
Understanding Seabourn’s Beverage Policy
Is There a Beverage Package on Seabourn?
Short answer:Yes—but most drinks are already included.
Seabourn differs from cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean International, where beverage packages are an extra cost.
What’s Included by Default?
On Seabourn cruises, the following are complimentary:
- Premium spirits (whiskey, vodka, rum, gin)
- Fine wines (served at lunch and dinner)
- Champagne (including French varieties)
- Specialty coffees and teas
- Soft drinks and bottled water
- In-suite mini-bar (customized to your preferences)
This means you may not need any beverage package at all.
Seabourn Beverage Package Cost
The Premium Wine & Spirits Package
While most drinks are included, Seabourn offers an upgrade package for guests who want ultra-premium labels.
Current Pricing
- Approximate cost: $60–$70 per person, per day (USD)
- Per week: ~$420–$490 per person
- Based on publicly available information, pricing may vary slightly by voyage and region, and Seabourn does not always publish fixed rates.
What Does the Upgrade Package Include?
The premium package enhances your onboard experience with:
Higher-End Wines
- Rare vintages
- Boutique winery selections
- Reserve labels not available in standard offerings
Top-Shelf Spirits
- Luxury brands (e.g., aged Scotch, rare bourbons)
- Exclusive imports
Enhanced Cocktail Options
- Mixologist-crafted cocktails using premium ingredients
Special Occasion Drinks
- Celebratory bottles (anniversaries, birthdays)
What’s NOT Included (Even With the Base Fare)
Even though Seabourn is highly inclusive, a few items may cost extra:
- Rare or collector wines (e.g., vintage Bordeaux)
- High-end champagne (beyond standard offerings)
- Specialty tasting events
- Wine-pairing dinners
Comparison: Included vs. Paid Beverage Options
| Feature |
Included in Fare |
Premium Package |
| Standard spirits |
Yes |
Yes (upgraded) |
| Wines with meals |
Yes |
Premium labels |
| Champagne |
Yes |
Higher-end |
| In-suite mini bar |
Yes |
Upgraded |
| Rare vintages |
No |
Yes |
| Price |
Included |
~$60–$70/day |
Real-World Example: Is the Package Worth It?
Scenario 1: Casual Drinker
- 2–3 glasses of wine per day
- Occasional cocktail
Verdict:You’re fully covered by the included offerings. No need for the package.
Scenario 2: Wine Enthusiast
- Enjoys premium vintages
- Orders reserve wines frequently
Verdict:The upgrade package may save money and enhance your experience.
Scenario 3: Celebration Traveler
- Anniversary or honeymoon
- Frequent champagne and premium spirits
Verdict:Worth considering for convenience and indulgence.
Step-by-Step: How to Purchase the Beverage Package
Step 1: Book Your Cruise
Reserve your voyage via:
- Seabourn website
- Travel advisor
Step 2: Access Your Booking
Log into your Seabourn account and navigate to:
- “Manage Booking”
- “Onboard Experiences”
Step 3: Add Beverage Package
Select the premium wine & spirits upgrade.
Step 4: Confirm & Pay
- Charges are added to your cruise account
- Payment is usually required before sailing or onboard
Expert Insight: Why Seabourn Is Different
According to luxury travel insights often discussed in publications like Harvard Business Review, premium brands succeed by reducing friction in customer experience.
Seabourn applies this by:
- Eliminating constant upselling
- Including high-quality beverages upfront
- Offering optional upgrades instead of mandatory packages
This aligns with consumer behavior research from organizations like Consumer Reports, which shows that travelers value:
- Transparent pricing
- Fewer surprise costs
- Premium baseline experiences
Health & Consumption Considerations
While enjoying beverages onboard, moderation is important.
Organizations such as the World Health Organization recommend:
- Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels
- Staying hydrated (especially in warm climates)
- Avoiding excessive consumption during travel
Tips for Responsible Enjoyment
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
- Eat before drinking
- Take advantage of Seabourn’s non-alcoholic options
Hidden Value: What You’re Really Paying For
When comparing Seabourn to other cruise lines, consider this:
Typical Cruise Line Costs
- Beverage package: $80–$120/day
- Specialty coffee: extra
- Bottled water: extra
Seabourn Model
- Most drinks: included
- No need for package unless upgrading
This means your upfront fare already includes significant beverage value.
Comparison With Other Luxury Cruise Lines
| Cruise Line |
Drinks Included |
Package Needed? |
Avg Package Cost |
| Seabourn |
Yes (mostly) |
Optional |
$60–$70/day |
| Regent Seven Seas Cruises |
Yes (fully) |
No |
Included |
| Silversea Cruises |
Yes |
No |
Included |
| Norwegian Cruise Line |
Limited |
Yes |
$80–$120/day |
Pro Tips to Maximize Value
1. Customize Your In-Suite Bar
You can request:
- Your favorite spirits
- Preferred soft drinks
- Specific wines
2. Attend Complimentary Tastings
Seabourn often hosts:
- Wine tastings
- Mixology sessions
3. Ask for Recommendations
Sommeliers onboard can suggest wines included in your fare that rival premium options.
4. Skip the Package Unless Necessary
Most travelers find the included options more than sufficient.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the package without checking included options
- Assuming Seabourn works like budget cruise lines
- Overestimating how much you’ll drink
- Ignoring free premium offerings already available
FAQ Section
1. Is alcohol really free on Seabourn?
Yes, most alcoholic beverages—including premium spirits and wines—are included in your cruise fare.
2. How much is the Seabourn beverage package per day?
Approximately $60–$70 per person per day for the premium upgrade.
3. Do I need a beverage package on Seabourn?
In most cases, no. The included selection is already extensive and high-quality.
4. What drinks are included for free?
- Spirits
- Wines with meals
- Champagne
- Cocktails
- Soft drinks and coffee
5. Are there any limits on drinks?
No strict limits, but responsible consumption is expected.
6. Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?
Yes, Seabourn allows guests to bring alcohol without corkage fees in many cases.
7. Does the package include rare wines?
Yes, the upgrade includes access to more exclusive and rare labels.
8. Is the package worth it for couples?
Only if both travelers regularly consume premium beverages.
9. Can I buy the package onboard?
Yes, but availability and pricing may vary.
10. Are non-alcoholic drinks included?
Yes, including specialty coffee, tea, juices, and bottled water.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
For most travelers, Seabourn’s included beverage offerings are more than sufficient.
You should skip the package if:
- You drink moderately
- You’re satisfied with premium (but not ultra-luxury) brands
You should consider the package if:
- You enjoy rare wines or top-shelf spirits
- You want a fully upgraded, indulgent experience
Bottom Line
Seabourn flips the traditional cruise pricing model:
- Most cruise lines: Pay extra for drinks
- Seabourn: Drinks are mostly included
The optional beverage package is simply a luxury upgrade—not a necessity.
If you’re cruising with Seabourn Cruise Line, you’re already getting one of the most inclusive drink experiences at sea—without constantly reaching for your wallet.
If you want, I can compare Seabourn’s drink offerings with a specific itinerary or help you calculate whether the package pays off based on your drinking habits.