A beverage package on Windstar Cruises typically costs between $35 and $99 per person, per day, depending on the package type, cruise itinerary, and promotional offers. Windstar is known for its yacht-style luxury cruising experience, and its drink packages are designed to complement that upscale atmosphere with wine, cocktails, premium spirits, specialty coffees, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Unlike some mainstream cruise lines that rely heavily on mass-market beverage bundles, Windstar focuses on curated experiences and premium service. This means the value of a beverage package often depends on your drinking habits, onboard lifestyle, and whether your sailing already includes complimentary drinks through promotions or suite benefits.
This comprehensive guide explains:
Windstar offers several beverage package options that range from simple soft drink bundles to comprehensive all-inclusive alcohol plans.
The cruise line’s pricing and inclusions can change seasonally, especially during promotional campaigns. Based on publicly available information, most Windstar beverage packages fall into three primary categories:
| Beverage Package | Typical Daily Cost | Includes Alcohol? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Alcoholic Package | $16–$25 | No | Families, light drinkers |
| Select Wine & Beer Package | $35–$49 | Limited | Casual alcohol consumers |
| All-Inclusive Beverage Package | $79–$99 | Yes | Frequent cocktail or wine drinkers |
Prices are generally charged per guest, per day, and gratuities may be added automatically.
According to the official Windstar Cruises website, promotions frequently bundle beverages with Wi-Fi and gratuities under “All-Inclusive Fare” options.
This package is intended for travelers who prefer specialty drinks without alcohol.
Typical inclusions:
This option can provide strong value for travelers who consume multiple premium beverages daily.
The mid-tier package typically includes:
Some premium labels may still incur an extra charge.
The premium beverage package generally covers:
High-end liquors or reserve wine bottles may remain excluded.
Here’s how Windstar compares with major competitors:
| Cruise Line | Average Premium Beverage Package Cost | Luxury Level |
|---|---|---|
| Windstar Cruises | $79–$99/day | Boutique Luxury |
| Royal Caribbean International | $85–$110/day | Mainstream |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | $99–$139/day | Mainstream Premium |
| Celebrity Cruises | $80–$110/day | Premium |
| Viking Cruises | Often included | Luxury |
Windstar’s pricing sits in the luxury segment but often feels more personalized due to smaller passenger capacity and higher crew-to-guest ratios.
Whether a package is worthwhile depends on your onboard habits.
Here’s an example of onboard drink pricing without a package:
| Beverage | Typical Price |
|---|---|
| Cocktail | $12–$16 |
| Glass of wine | $11–$18 |
| Premium coffee | $5–$7 |
| Beer | $8–$10 |
| Bottled water | $4–$6 |
A traveler consuming:
could easily spend $70–$95 daily, making the premium package financially reasonable.
Windstar increasingly promotes “All-Inclusive Fares.”
These often include:
This model can significantly improve value compared with purchasing drinks separately.
Always compare:
Sometimes upgrading to the all-inclusive option costs less than purchasing beverages independently.
Even premium beverage packages usually include limitations.
Windstar generally promotes responsible alcohol service. Excessive consumption may lead staff to refuse additional service.
Reserve wines and ultra-premium spirits may not be included.
Certain destinations may limit beverage service while docked because of local alcohol regulations.
Packages are non-transferable.
Visit the official booking portal through:
Windstar Cruises Official Website
Navigate to:
Review:
Pre-cruise purchases may offer discounts compared with onboard pricing.
The premium package often provides the best convenience if both travelers drink regularly.
A la carte ordering may be more economical.
All-inclusive fares frequently deliver the strongest value.
Non-alcoholic packages work well for premium hydration and specialty coffees.
Alcohol consumption during travel should remain moderate and responsible.
According to the World Health Organization, excessive alcohol intake can contribute to dehydration, impaired judgment, and disrupted sleep during travel.
The World Health Organization Alcohol Factsheet explains the health risks associated with heavy alcohol consumption.
Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends pacing alcohol intake and maintaining hydration, especially in warm climates and while traveling.
CDC Alcohol Use and Your Health
These recommendations are especially relevant on cruises visiting tropical regions where dehydration risk increases.
Luxury espresso beverages quickly add up.
Sea days provide the greatest value opportunities.
Many travelers overlook included wine options that pair well with dinner.
Ask bartenders which brands are covered before ordering.
Cruise sales often include beverage credits or package discounts.
Frequent Windstar guests often praise:
However, some guests report that lighter drinkers may not fully recover the package cost.
Luxury cruise environments emphasize refined and respectful social behavior.
The Cruise Lines International Association promotes responsible tourism and passenger conduct throughout the cruise industry.
Cruise Lines International Association
Windstar periodically runs promotions featuring:
Booking during “all-inclusive” promotional periods can substantially reduce overall costs.
Some higher-tier accommodations may include perks such as:
Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on universal complimentary premium alcohol across all Windstar suite categories.
Travelers should confirm details directly with the cruise line before booking.
| Scenario | Pay-As-You-Go | Beverage Package |
|---|---|---|
| Light drinker | Better value | Often overpriced |
| Moderate drinker | Depends | Usually beneficial |
| Heavy drinker | Expensive quickly | Strong value |
| Coffee enthusiast | Costs add up | Good value |
| Luxury traveler | Less predictable | Convenient |
Cruise travelers often evaluate beverage packages based on:
Consumer-focused publications like Consumer Reports emphasize comparing total trip cost rather than focusing solely on package pricing.
Similarly, hospitality studies published through institutions such as Harvard Business Review often highlight how bundled pricing improves customer satisfaction by reducing purchasing friction.
The premium package generally costs between $79 and $99 per person per day, though prices vary by itinerary and promotions.
Some promotional “All-Inclusive” fares include select alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
Yes, Windstar typically allows onboard purchases, though pre-cruise booking may provide better pricing.
Not always. Automatic service charges may apply.
Policies vary by sailing and package type. Travelers should verify rules before purchasing.
Some premium wines are included by the glass, but reserve labels may cost extra.
Most premium and non-alcoholic packages include bottled water.
No. Beverage packages are intended for individual use only.
The non-alcoholic package can still provide good value for travelers who enjoy specialty coffee, juices, and bottled water.
Packages generally provide unlimited beverages within covered categories, subject to responsible service policies.
Typically no, unless specifically stated in the excursion description.
Yes. Cruise pricing and promotional inclusions may change seasonally.
A beverage package on Windstar Cruises can significantly enhance the onboard experience for travelers who regularly enjoy cocktails, wine, premium coffee, and bottled water throughout their voyage.
For moderate to heavy drinkers, the premium package often delivers strong value and budgeting convenience. However, lighter drinkers may find greater savings by paying individually for beverages.
The smartest approach is to compare:
before finalizing a reservation.
Because Windstar frequently updates promotional offers, travelers should always verify the latest beverage pricing and inclusions directly through the official cruise line website or a certified travel advisor before booking.
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