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How much is a beverage package on Windstar Cruises?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 13 May 2026

How much is a beverage package on Windstar Cruises?

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:

  • Current Windstar beverage package pricing
  • What each package includes
  • Whether drink packages are worth the cost
  • Hidden restrictions and exclusions
  • Real-world cost comparisons
  • Tips to maximize value
  • Frequently asked questions travelers ask before booking

Understanding Beverage Packages on Windstar Cruises

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.

What Is Included in Windstar’s Beverage Packages?

Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package

This package is intended for travelers who prefer specialty drinks without alcohol.

Typical inclusions:

  • Specialty coffees
  • Espresso beverages
  • Bottled water
  • Soda
  • Fresh juices
  • Smoothies
  • Mocktails
  • Premium teas

This option can provide strong value for travelers who consume multiple premium beverages daily.

Wine and Beer Package

The mid-tier package typically includes:

  • House wines by the glass
  • Domestic and imported beers
  • Select cocktails
  • Basic spirits

Some premium labels may still incur an extra charge.

All-Inclusive Alcohol Package

The premium beverage package generally covers:

  • Unlimited cocktails
  • Premium spirits
  • Wine by the glass
  • Champagne selections
  • Imported beer
  • Specialty coffee drinks
  • Soft drinks and bottled water

High-end liquors or reserve wine bottles may remain excluded.

How Windstar Beverage Pricing Compares to Other Cruise Lines

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.

Are Beverage Packages Worth It on Windstar Cruises?

Whether a package is worthwhile depends on your onboard habits.

A Beverage Package May Be Worth It If You:

  • Drink 4–6 alcoholic beverages daily
  • Enjoy premium coffee throughout the day
  • Prefer predictable vacation budgeting
  • Spend significant time onboard
  • Like wine with lunch and dinner

It May Not Be Worth It If You:

  • Rarely consume alcohol
  • Spend most port days ashore
  • Only drink occasionally at dinner
  • Already receive complimentary beverages through promotions

Real-World Cost Breakdown

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:

  • 3 cocktails
  • 2 glasses of wine
  • 2 coffees
  • 2 bottled waters

could easily spend $70–$95 daily, making the premium package financially reasonable.

Windstar’s All-Inclusive Fare vs Beverage Package

Windstar increasingly promotes “All-Inclusive Fares.”

These often include:

  • Wi-Fi
  • Unlimited select beverages
  • Gratuities

This model can significantly improve value compared with purchasing drinks separately.

Key Tip

Always compare:

  1. Cruise-only fare
  2. Beverage package add-on cost
  3. All-inclusive fare price

Sometimes upgrading to the all-inclusive option costs less than purchasing beverages independently.

Hidden Restrictions Travelers Should Know

Even premium beverage packages usually include limitations.

Common Restrictions

Daily Consumption Policies

Windstar generally promotes responsible alcohol service. Excessive consumption may lead staff to refuse additional service.

Excluded Premium Brands

Reserve wines and ultra-premium spirits may not be included.

Port Restrictions

Certain destinations may limit beverage service while docked because of local alcohol regulations.

Sharing Prohibited

Packages are non-transferable.

How to Purchase a Beverage Package on Windstar Cruises

 1: Log Into Your Reservation

Visit the official booking portal through:

Windstar Cruises Official Website

 2: Access Cruise Personalization Options

Navigate to:

  • Beverage packages
  • Shore excursions
  • Spa reservations

3: Compare Available Packages

Review:

  • Daily rates
  • Included beverages
  • Exclusions
  • Promotional offers

 4: Purchase Before Sailing

Pre-cruise purchases may offer discounts compared with onboard pricing.

Best Beverage Package for Different Traveler Types

Couples

The premium package often provides the best convenience if both travelers drink regularly.

Solo Travelers

A la carte ordering may be more economical.

Luxury Travelers

All-inclusive fares frequently deliver the strongest value.

Health-Conscious Travelers

Non-alcoholic packages work well for premium hydration and specialty coffees.

Health and Responsible Drinking Considerations

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.

Expert Tips to Maximize Beverage Package Value

Drink Specialty Coffee Daily

Luxury espresso beverages quickly add up.

Use the Package During Sea Days

Sea days provide the greatest value opportunities.

Explore Included Wines

Many travelers overlook included wine options that pair well with dinner.

Track Premium Exclusions

Ask bartenders which brands are covered before ordering.

Consider Promotions Before Booking

Cruise sales often include beverage credits or package discounts.

What Travelers Say About Windstar Beverage Packages

Frequent Windstar guests often praise:

  • Better wine quality than mainstream cruise lines
  • Smaller crowds at bars
  • Personalized bartender service
  • Flexible luxury atmosphere

However, some guests report that lighter drinkers may not fully recover the package cost.

Beverage Etiquette on Luxury Cruises

Luxury cruise environments emphasize refined and respectful social behavior.

Recommended Practices

  • Tip exceptional bartenders when appropriate
  • Drink responsibly during excursions
  • Avoid excessive intoxication
  • Respect local cultural norms in ports

The Cruise Lines International Association promotes responsible tourism and passenger conduct throughout the cruise industry.

Cruise Lines International Association

Seasonal Promotions That Include Drinks

Windstar periodically runs promotions featuring:

  • Complimentary beverage packages
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Included gratuities
  • Shipboard credit

Booking during “all-inclusive” promotional periods can substantially reduce overall costs.

Do Suites Include Complimentary Alcohol?

Some higher-tier accommodations may include perks such as:

  • In-suite mini-bar access
  • Welcome champagne
  • Hosted cocktail events

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.

Comparing Pay-As-You-Go vs Beverage Packages

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

 

Internet Reviews and Consumer Sentiment

Cruise travelers often evaluate beverage packages based on:

  • Drink quality
  • Convenience
  • Service consistency
  • Overall vacation budgeting

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much is the premium beverage package on Windstar Cruises?

The premium package generally costs between $79 and $99 per person per day, though prices vary by itinerary and promotions.

2. Does Windstar Cruises include alcohol in the cruise fare?

Some promotional “All-Inclusive” fares include select alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.

3. Can I buy a beverage package after boarding?

Yes, Windstar typically allows onboard purchases, though pre-cruise booking may provide better pricing.

4. Are gratuities included in beverage package pricing?

Not always. Automatic service charges may apply.

5. Does everyone in the cabin need to purchase the package?

Policies vary by sailing and package type. Travelers should verify rules before purchasing.

6. Are premium wines included?

Some premium wines are included by the glass, but reserve labels may cost extra.

7. Is bottled water included?

Most premium and non-alcoholic packages include bottled water.

8. Can beverage packages be shared?

No. Beverage packages are intended for individual use only.

9. Is the beverage package worth it for non-drinkers?

The non-alcoholic package can still provide good value for travelers who enjoy specialty coffee, juices, and bottled water.

10. Does Windstar offer unlimited drinks?

Packages generally provide unlimited beverages within covered categories, subject to responsible service policies.

11. Are drinks included during shore excursions?

Typically no, unless specifically stated in the excursion description.

12. Can beverage package prices change?

Yes. Cruise pricing and promotional inclusions may change seasonally.

Final Thoughts

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:

  • Cruise-only fare
  • Beverage package cost
  • All-inclusive promotional fare

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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