How much is a beverage package on Viking Cruises?

Viking Cruises is known for its elegant, destination-focused voyages that blend cultural enrichment with refined luxury. Whether you’re sailing through Europe’s historic rivers or exploring distant oceans, Viking’s onboard experience is crafted to deliver comfort, sophistication, and value. Among the most popular add-ons guests inquire about is the Viking Cruises beverage package, officially called the Silver Spirits Beverage Package.If you’re wondering how much a beverage package on Viking Cruises costs, what it includes, and whether it’s worth purchasing, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know — from pricing breakdowns to expert insights, comparisons, and strategies to help you decide if it’s right for you.

1. Understanding Viking Cruises’ Beverage Options

Unlike many cruise lines that require guests to purchase a drink package to enjoy alcoholic beverages, Viking takes a slightly different approach. Every guest on Viking Ocean and River Cruises automatically receives a complimentary drinks package during meals, which includes:

• House wines

• House beers

• Soft drinks and juices

• Coffee, tea, and bottled water

These beverages are served during lunch and dinner in onboard restaurants (including the buffet). Outside of meal times or if you wish to access premium drinks, you’ll need to purchase them à la carte or upgrade to the Silver Spirits Beverage Package.

2. What Is the Silver Spirits Beverage Package?

The Silver Spirits Beverage Package is Viking Cruises’ all-inclusive drinks upgrade designed for guests who prefer the convenience of unlimited beverages without worrying about individual costs.

This package allows passengers to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the ship, anytime during the day, rather than being limited to meal times.

Inclusions:

• Unlimited premium wines (by the glass)

• Champagne and sparkling wines

• Beers (bottled and draft, including craft selections)

• Cocktails and mixed drinks

• Aperitifs, digestifs, and liquors

• Specialty coffees such as cappuccinos and lattes

• Soft drinks and juices throughout the day

• Minibar replenishments (beer, wine, and soft drinks) in your stateroom

Not included:

• Premium wines sold by the bottle

• Some ultra-premium spirits

• Specialty or rare cocktails priced beyond the package limit

• Room service orders with premium alcohols (varies by itinerary)

3. How Much Does the Viking Cruises Beverage Package Cost?

As of 2025, the Silver Spirits Beverage Package is priced at approximately $25 per person per day on Viking River Cruises and around $25–$30 per person per day on Viking Ocean Cruises.

Important Note: Prices can vary depending on your itinerary, cruise length, and currency exchange rate at the time of purchase. Always confirm the exact rate with Viking or your travel advisor before finalizing your booking.

Example Price Calculation:

For a 14-day river cruise:

• $25 × 14 days = $350 per person

• For a couple sharing a cabin, the cost would be $700 total for the entire voyage.

For a 10-day ocean cruise:

• $30 × 10 days = $300 per person

• Total for two guests = $600

4. When and How to Purchase the Package

Viking gives guests flexibility in purchasing the Silver Spirits Beverage Package:

a) Before Your Cruise (Recommended)

You can add the package to your booking through:

• Viking’s My Viking Journey online portal

• Your travel agent

• Viking’s customer service team

Purchasing before departure often ensures the lowest price and smooth inclusion in your onboard profile.

b) Onboard Purchase

Guests can also buy the package after boarding. Simply visit the Guest Services Desk or talk to a restaurant or bar staff member. The cost is charged to your onboard account, and benefits begin immediately.

Tip: If you buy mid-cruise, the package cost is prorated based on the remaining days.

5. The Value Breakdown: Is It Worth It?

To decide whether the beverage package is worth buying, it helps to calculate potential savings.

Example of Typical Drink Prices (without package):

Beverage TypeAverage Price (USD)

Glass of house wine$8–$12

Cocktail$10–$15

Premium spirit$12–$18

Beer$6–$8

Specialty coffee$4–$6

Soda/Juice$3–$4

If you tend to have:

• Two glasses of wine at lunch and dinner ($10 × 4 = $40)

• One cocktail in the evening ($12)

• One specialty coffee and soda during the day ($8)

You’d spend about $60 per day without the package. With the Silver Spirits Beverage Package at $25–$30 per day, you could save around $30 daily if you drink moderately to generously.

However, if you typically have only one or two alcoholic drinks per day, you might not fully utilize the package’s value.

6. Beverage Package for River vs. Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises:

• Package price: ~$25 per day

• Coverage: Beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, and specialty drinks

• Availability: All river itineraries in Europe, Asia, and beyond

Viking Ocean Cruises:

• Package price: ~$25–$30 per day

• Coverage: Expanded to include sparkling wines, premium cocktails, and minibar service

• Availability: All ocean itineraries worldwide

Both experiences offer the same core inclusions, though ocean cruises tend to have a wider selection of bars and lounges, giving greater utility to the package.

7. Pros and Cons of the Silver Spirits Beverage Package

Pros:

Unlimited access to premium drinks all day Convenience — no need to sign receipts for every drink Great value for moderate or heavy drinkers Enhances social experiences onboard Minibar refilled daily at no extra cost Can be shared in stateroom (both guests must purchase)

Cons:

 Both guests in the same stateroom must purchase the package Not ideal for light drinkers or those who prefer non-alcoholic options  Does not include premium wines by the bottle Price varies by itinerary and cannot be split by day No refunds if you change your drinking habits mid-cruise

8. Beverage Highlights Across Viking’s Fleet

Viking’s ships are renowned for their calm, adult-oriented ambiance and elegant dining settings. Beverage menus are carefully curated to reflect each voyage’s destination.

Signature Selections Include:

• European wines on river itineraries like the Rhine, Danube, and Douro

• Nordic cocktails inspired by Viking heritage on ocean cruises

• Local beers from regional breweries

• Artisan spirits from around the world

On ocean voyages, venues like the Explorer’s Lounge and Torshavn provide sophisticated atmospheres to savor these drinks — all included with the beverage package.

9. Tips to Maximize Your Beverage Package

1. Use it throughout the day: Don’t limit yourself to mealtimes. Order coffee, smoothies, or mocktails between excursions.

2. Try local wines: Viking rotates its wine list to match destinations, so you can sample regional vintages.

3. Enjoy minibar perks: Stock up before shore excursions or enjoy a quiet drink in your cabin.

4. Split smartly: If one partner drinks significantly less, it may be cheaper for them to go à la carte, though Viking usually requires both guests to buy the package.

5. Use it for room service: Some alcoholic drinks may be available for in-room enjoyment under the package.

6. Check daily cocktail specials: Even with the package, you can discover unique creations from Viking’s talented mixologists.

10. Beverage Package vs. Pay-As-You-Go: A Comparison

FeatureSilver Spirits Beverage PackagePay-As-You-Go

Cost predictabilityFixed daily rateVariable, can add up

Variety of choicesWide (premium drinks)All available, but extra cost

Minibar includedYesCharged per item

Great for heavy drinkers

Great for light drinkers

Onboard convenienceHighModerate

Verdict: If you enjoy multiple drinks daily and appreciate convenience, the Silver Spirits Beverage Package offers outstanding value.

11. Refunds and Cancellations

If you purchase the beverage package before departure, you may cancel and receive a full refund up to 14 days prior to sailing. Once onboard, the package is non-refundable but can be prorated if purchased mid-cruise.

12. Expert Opinions and Guest Feedback

Guest Experiences:

Many guests report that the Silver Spirits Beverage Package enhances their cruise experience by removing the “nickel-and-dime” feeling associated with individual drink purchases.

Common praises include:

• Excellent variety of wines and cocktails

• Friendly, knowledgeable bartenders

• Seamless service at all venues

• Convenient minibar refills

Criticism is rare but typically comes from lighter drinkers who find the cost unnecessary given the included house wine and beer during meals.

Expert Tip:

If your itinerary includes long days ashore or shorter voyages, the pay-as-you-go option may be more economical. However, on longer cruises or sea-heavy itineraries, the package can save you hundreds.

13. Viking Cruises

The Viking Cruises Silver Spirits Beverage Package delivers exceptional value for travelers who appreciate premium wines, cocktails, and a relaxed, all-inclusive atmosphere. With prices around $25–$30 per person per day, it offers convenience, predictability, and a chance to indulge without constantly monitoring your spending.

Whether sailing down the scenic Rhine or across the serene Baltic, this package ensures your glass is never empty and your vacation remains as effortless as it is elegant.porta