How much is the P&O Cruises drink package?

When planning a cruise with P&O Cruises, one of the most frequently asked questions is: How much is the P&O Cruises drink package? Drinks on board can quickly add up, especially if you enjoy cocktails by the pool, a few glasses of wine at dinner, or specialty coffees in the morning. To help travelers budget effectively, P&O Cruises offers a variety of drink packages designed to suit different preferences and spending habits.

In this detailed guide, we will explore the exact costs of P&O Cruises’ drink packages, what each package includes, how they compare with pay-as-you-go pricing, and whether they provide good value for your cruise holiday.

Understanding P&O Cruises Drink Packages

Before diving into the pricing, it’s important to understand the philosophy behind cruise drink packages. They are designed to offer convenience and value by bundling beverages into a daily rate. Instead of paying individually for every cocktail, soda, or specialty coffee, guests can purchase a package and enjoy unlimited access (within set terms and conditions).

Why Choose a Drink Package?

Budgeting Ease: Know your costs upfront.
Convenience: No need to sign receipts after every drink.
Variety: Try different drinks without worrying about the price.
Value: If you drink multiple beverages daily, packages can save you money.

Types of P&O Cruises Drink Packages

P&O Cruises typically offers four main drink packages, each catering to different guest preferences:

1. The Refresh Drinks Package

This is the most basic non-alcoholic package.

Cost: Around £10.95 per person, per day.
Inclusions:
- Unlimited soft drinks (Coke, Fanta, Sprite, etc.).
- Fruit juices.
- Selected mocktails.
Best For: Families with kids, or adults who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

2. The Alcohol-Free Drinks Package

A step up from the Refresh package.

Cost: Around £22.45 per person, per day.
Inclusions:
- Everything in the Refresh package.
- Costa coffee and hot chocolate.
- Teas.
- Non-alcoholic cocktails.
Best For: Guests who don’t drink alcohol but want more premium options like specialty coffees.

3. The Classic Drinks Package

The most popular option among P&O Cruises passengers.

Cost: Around £44.95 per person, per day.
Inclusions:
- All soft drinks, juices, and coffees.
- Beers, ciders, wines, and spirits priced up to £7.95 each.
- A range of cocktails.
Best For: Passengers who drink alcohol moderately but want variety.

4. The Deluxe Drinks Package

The top-tier option for those who enjoy premium drinks.

Cost: Around £54.95 per person, per day.
Inclusions:
- All drinks included in the Classic package.
- Premium wines, spirits, and cocktails up to £10.95 each.
- Exclusive cocktails and upgraded selections.
Best For: Cocktail lovers, wine enthusiasts, and passengers who prefer top-shelf liquor.

Additional Notes on Pricing

Drink packages are priced per day, per person.
If one adult in a cabin buys a package, all adults sharing that cabin must purchase the same package (to prevent sharing).
Children can purchase non-alcoholic versions at lower rates.
Gratuities are included in the package price, so you don’t need to tip separately for each drink.

Is the Drink Package Worth It?

This depends on your drinking habits. Let’s break it down with some realistic examples.

Average Drink Prices on Board

Soft drinks: £2.50 - £3.00
Specialty coffee: £2.75 - £3.50
Beer: £4.50 - £5.50
Glass of wine: £5.50 - £7.50
Cocktails: £7.50 - £9.95
Premium spirits: £8.50 - £10.95

Example 1: Classic Package

If you buy the Classic package for £44.95 daily:

2 beers (£5.00 each) = £10.00
2 glasses of wine (£6.00 each) = £12.00
1 cocktail (£8.00) = £8.00
2 specialty coffees (£3.00 each) = £6.00
2 soft drinks (£3.00 each) = £6.00

Total without package: £42.00Package cost: £44.95

Here, you break even at around 7-8 drinks per day.

Example 2: Deluxe Package

If you enjoy premium cocktails and top-shelf spirits, the Deluxe package is ideal. Just 5–6 premium drinks daily can easily exceed £55.

Tips for Maximizing Value from a Drink Package

Know Your Limits: If you’re not a frequent drinker, skip the package.
Book Early: Sometimes P&O Cruises offers discounts for pre-purchasing packages.
Use Throughout the Day: Don’t just limit drinks to dinner—take advantage at breakfast, lunch, poolside, and evening shows.
Mix It Up: Try new cocktails and premium wines that you wouldn’t usually buy individually.
Non-Alcoholic Benefits: Even non-drinkers can benefit from coffee, juice, and mocktail options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all guests in a cabin need to buy the package?

Yes, to prevent sharing, all adults in the same cabin must purchase the same package.

Are gratuities included in the package?

Yes, gratuities are included in the listed price.

Can I buy a drink package for just part of my cruise?

No, packages must be purchased for the full duration of the cruise.

Can children have drink packages?

Yes, children can buy non-alcoholic packages at lower prices.

Are premium waters included?

Yes, premium bottled waters are included in higher-tier packages.

Alternatives to Drink Packages

If you’re not sure a drink package is worth it, consider alternatives:

Pay-As-You-Go: Perfect for light drinkers.
Bring Your Own Alcohol: P&O Cruises allows passengers to bring a limited amount of wine/champagne onboard.
Free Drinks Onboard: Tea, coffee, and tap water are available free of charge in buffet areas.

Expert Opinion: Should You Buy a Drink Package?

For passengers who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily, especially alcoholic beverages, the Classic or Deluxe packages can provide excellent value. For families with children, the Refresh or Alcohol-Free packages ensure kids and non-drinkers enjoy a variety of options without racking up unexpected bills.

The key is to calculate your personal drinking habits honestly. If you know you won’t drink 6–8 beverages daily, you might be better off paying per drink.