When planning a Cunard Line cruise, one of the most common questions passengers ask is: “How much is the Cunard Line cruise drink package?” With so many options for beverages onboard, from refreshing soft drinks to fine wines and cocktails, Cunard offers several drink package choices to suit different budgets and preferences.
This detailed guide breaks down the Cunard drink packages, pricing, what’s included, what isn’t, and whether they are worth purchasing. By the end of this article, you will be able to make an informed decision about the best package for your voyage.
Cunard Line is renowned for its luxury cruising experience, blending tradition with modern amenities. Drinks are not included in the standard cruise fare (with the exception of basic coffee, tea, and tap water). For guests who enjoy beverages throughout the day, Cunard’s drink packages provide convenience and potential savings.
Cunard currently offers several different drink packages tailored to different guest needs. Here are the main categories:
This package is designed for passengers who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Inclusions:
Fountain sodas and soft drinks
Juices (non-freshly squeezed)
Squash and cordials
Exclusions:
Bottled water
Specialty coffees
Alcoholic drinks
For coffee and tea lovers, this package is ideal.
Inclusions:
Cappuccino, latte, espresso, and other specialty coffees
Hot chocolates
Selected premium teas
Exclusions:
Alcoholic beverages
Soft drinks
Bottled water
A broader non-alcoholic package for guests who want more variety.
Inclusions:
Soft drinks
Mocktails
Non-alcoholic beers
Smoothies and juices
Specialty coffees and teas
This is the most popular package, often chosen by adults who enjoy alcoholic beverages.
Inclusions:
Beers
Ciders
Wines by the glass
Spirits and cocktails
Non-alcoholic beverages like sodas, juices, and specialty coffees (when under the price limit)
Exclusions:
Premium wines by the bottle
Ultra-premium spirits
Room service drinks
Cunard also offers bottled water packages (still or sparkling) for convenience.
Prices for Cunard’s drink packages vary depending on the type. Below is an approximate cost breakdown (prices are per person, per day and subject to change):
Around $10–12 per person, per day
Around $12–15 per person, per day
Around $25–30 per person, per day
Around $69–75 per person, per day
Drinks must be priced at $13 or under to be included
Packages start from $35 for 6 large bottles
Service Charge: Cunard applies a 15% service charge to drink purchases outside of packages. With a package, this is already included.
Children’s Pricing: Children’s drink packages are generally cheaper. For example, the Soft Drinks Package is available for kids at reduced rates.
All or None Rule: If one adult in a stateroom buys the alcoholic package, all adults in the same stateroom usually must purchase it.
While drink packages cover many beverages, certain exclusions apply:
Full bottles of wine or Champagne
Drinks above the $13 threshold (in Premium package)
In-room minibar items
Specialty tastings or events (wine tastings, cocktail masterclasses)
Some premium spirits and rare whiskies
The value of a drink package depends on your consumption habits. Let’s do some quick math:
Average cocktail: $12
Glass of wine: $11
Beer: $8
Specialty coffee: $5
If you usually drink 5–6 beverages a day (mix of alcohol and coffee/soft drinks), the Premium Package might save you money. However, if you only drink one glass of wine with dinner and water otherwise, buying drinks individually may be cheaper.
If you love cocktails and coffee, the Premium Package may be ideal. If you prefer sodas, the Soft Drinks Package is more cost-effective.
On port days, you may not be onboard enough to use the package fully. Factor this into your decision.
Cunard World Club members sometimes receive discounts or drink perks, reducing the need for a package.
Cunard occasionally offers promotions where drink packages are included in the cruise fare as part of a booking incentive.
No, drink packages are strictly non-transferable and monitored by staff.
Yes, for alcoholic packages, all adults in the same stateroom must purchase one.
Yes, you can usually upgrade by paying the difference.
Yes, the package price includes gratuities for drinks covered by the plan.
No, free water is available onboard at buffet stations. The water package is for bottled brands only.