How much is a beverage package on Windstar Cruises?

Windstar Cruises is renowned for its small-ship luxury, intimate atmosphere, and immersive itineraries that reach ports larger ships can’t. For many guests, one of the top questions before booking is: “How much is a beverage package on Windstar Cruises?”

Understanding the cost and value of Windstar’s beverage packages is essential for budgeting and ensuring a seamless, all-inclusive experience. While drinks are not automatically included in the base fare, the cruise line offers optional beverage packages that let guests enjoy unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for a flat daily rate.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Windstar Cruises’ drink package prices, inclusions, exclusions, how to buy them, whether they’re worth it, and insider tips to help you make the most of your cruise.

1. Overview of Windstar Cruises Beverage Packages

Windstar Cruises offers two primary beverage package options:

Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package
All-In Package (Topmast Discoveries)

Both are designed to simplify onboard spending by providing guests with a set price for unlimited drinks. The difference lies in what’s included beyond beverages.

1.1 Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package

This is Windstar’s standard all-inclusive drink package, covering a wide range of premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.

1.2 All-In Package

The All-In Package takes the Captain’s Exclusive offer a step further, bundling unlimited beverages with Wi-Fi and gratuities into one convenient daily fee.

2. How Much Is the Beverage Package on Windstar Cruises?

As of 2025, here’s a breakdown of the approximate beverage package costs on Windstar Cruises (subject to change based on itinerary and ship):

2.1 Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package Price

Cost: Around $65–$70 per person, per day (USD)
Includes: Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, soft drinks, juices, and specialty coffees.
Gratuities: Included in the price.

This package offers exceptional value for guests who enjoy a few drinks throughout the day—whether it’s a mimosa at breakfast, wine at lunch, or cocktails at sunset.

2.2 All-In Package (Topmast Discoveries Package) Price

Cost: Approximately $89–$100 per person, per day
Includes:
- All Captain’s Exclusive beverages
- Wi-Fi access for one device
- Crew gratuities
- Room service beverages

While this package is more expensive, it provides an all-encompassing experience where nearly everything onboard—besides excursions and spa treatments—is covered.

Note: Prices can vary slightly depending on your itinerary, cruise duration, and currency exchange rates. Some promotions also bundle these packages into cruise fares at a discounted rate.

3. What’s Included in the Beverage Packages

3.1 Alcoholic Beverages

Windstar Cruises provides an impressive selection of alcoholic drinks under both beverage packages:

Premium spirits and liquors (rum, whiskey, gin, vodka, tequila, etc.)
Handcrafted cocktails and mixed drinks
Wines by the glass (house and premium selections)
Local and imported beers (bottled and draft)

3.2 Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Even if you’re not a big drinker, these packages include unlimited:

Fresh juices and smoothies
Bottled water (still and sparkling)
Soft drinks and sodas
Specialty teas and coffees (espressos, cappuccinos, etc.)
Mocktails and non-alcoholic beers

3.3 In-Room Drinks

Guests with the All-In Package also enjoy complimentary beverages through room service, including bottled water, coffee, wine by the glass, and selected spirits.

4. What’s Not Included

While generous, Windstar’s drink packages don’t cover absolutely everything. Here’s what’s typically excluded:

Bottles of wine or champagne (sold separately from $35–$250+)
Wine tastings or pairing events
Mini-bar beverages (unless you have the All-In Package)
Premium spirits or cocktails above a certain price point (usually $15+)
Beverages purchased off the ship

If you order a drink that exceeds the included price range, you’ll only pay the difference.

5. Buying a Beverage Package: How It Works

You can purchase a Windstar Cruises beverage package in several ways:

Before Your Cruise:Log in to your Windstar account and add the package to your booking. Buying ahead of time ensures a smooth embarkation and sometimes includes discounts.
At Embarkation:Once onboard, visit Guest Services or any bar to purchase the package. You can do so within the first 24 hours of your sailing.
Through Promotions:Windstar occasionally offers deals such as “All-Inclusive Fares” where the drink package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities are already included in your cruise price—often saving you hundreds of dollars.

Important Note:

Packages must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise.
All adults in the same stateroom must buy the same package.

6. Daily Drink Cost Without a Package

To determine whether a beverage package is worth it, it helps to understand typical onboard drink prices:

Beverage TypeAverage Price (USD)

Cocktails$10–$14

Wines by the glass$9–$16

Beers$6–$8

Soft drinks$2–$4

Specialty coffees$3–$5

Bottled water$2–$4

If you enjoy more than 4–5 alcoholic drinks per day, the beverage package quickly becomes a cost-effective choice.

For instance, if you drink:

2 glasses of wine ($12 each)
2 cocktails ($13 each)
1 beer ($7)

That’s around $57 per day—before adding tips or non-alcoholic drinks. The $65 daily package price easily pays off while giving you freedom and convenience.

7. The Value of the All-In Package

While the All-In Package is pricier, it offers immense value for guests who like the simplicity of a truly all-inclusive cruise.

Let’s break it down:

Drink package: $70/day
Wi-Fi: $20/day
Gratuities: $15/day

That’s already $105/day in total—so the $89–$100 All-In rate actually saves you money while adding convenience.

This package is especially ideal for longer cruises or itineraries with multiple sea days when guests tend to enjoy more onboard services.

8. Can You Share a Beverage Package?

No. Windstar’s beverage packages are non-transferable and intended for individual use only. Sharing between guests is not allowed, and the cruise line reserves the right to revoke privileges if abuse is detected.

Every adult (21 or older, or 18 in some regions) in a cabin must purchase the same package to ensure fairness.

9. Promotions and Special Deals

Windstar Cruises often runs promotions that include beverage packages at a discount or as part of the fare. Examples include:

All-Inclusive Fares: Includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
“Sip and Sail” Offers: Complimentary beverage package with select bookings.
Early Booking Discounts: Save 10–15% when adding a package pre-cruise.

Booking directly through Windstar’s website or an authorized travel advisor can help you access the latest deals.

10. How to Maximize Your Beverage Package Value

Here are some smart ways to get the most out of your Windstar drink package:

Order premium cocktails and top-shelf spirits—they’re included up to a certain limit.
Enjoy specialty coffees in the morning and mocktails in the afternoon.
Use the package at every venue—pool bars, lounges, restaurants, and your cabin (with All-In).
Ask for regional wines or local beers to explore new flavors.
Stay hydrated with bottled water, which can be costly without a package.
Take advantage of room service beverages for late-night indulgence.

By using your package throughout the day, you can maximize savings and convenience.

11. Responsible Drinking Policy

Windstar Cruises encourages responsible consumption. While drinks are unlimited, the crew has the right to refuse service if a guest appears intoxicated or disruptive.

You can enjoy as many drinks as you wish, but moderation ensures a safe and pleasant atmosphere for everyone onboard.

12. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are gratuities included in the beverage package price?Yes. The cost includes all applicable service charges and tips.

Q2. Can I upgrade to a beverage package mid-cruise?Yes, but upgrades must be made within the first 24 hours of embarkation.

Q3. Are mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks included?Absolutely. Both packages include a wide selection of non-alcoholic options.

Q4. Can I purchase just the Wi-Fi or gratuities separately if I buy the Captain’s Exclusive package?Yes, you can purchase Wi-Fi à la carte or prepay gratuities.

Q5. Are drinks available 24 hours a day?Most bars operate from morning until late at night, and beverages are available via room service 24/7 with the All-In package.

13. Is the Beverage Package Worth It?

Whether the drink package is worth it depends on your drinking habits and cruise style.

Worth it if: You enjoy several drinks a day (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and want a worry-free experience.
Not necessary if: You drink very little alcohol or prefer only water, coffee, and occasional beverages.

Let’s illustrate the savings:

If you consume:

3 cocktails ($12 each)
2 glasses of wine ($14 each)
2 sodas ($3 each)

That’s around $72/day. Since the package costs about $65, you’re already saving money—plus the convenience of not signing checks or tracking your spending.

14. Real Guest Experiences and Reviews

Many past Windstar guests praise the drink packages for their value and convenience. Reviews often highlight:

Exceptional cocktail quality
Friendly, personalized bar service
Great variety of premium wines and liquors
Simplicity of all-inclusive pricing

Guests also note that having the All-In Package makes the cruise more relaxing, as everything is prepaid.

15. Windstar Cruises beverage packages

offer a flexible and luxurious way to enhance your sailing experience. With prices starting around $65 per person per day, the Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package provides excellent value for anyone who enjoys daily drinks. For travelers seeking total simplicity, the All-In Package—which adds Wi-Fi and gratuities—delivers an even more complete experience.

By choosing a package that fits your style, you can sip champagne at sunset, enjoy locally inspired cocktails, and toast to unforgettable adventures—all without ever worrying about your onboard tab.