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Windstar Cruises is known for offering an upscale, small-ship cruising experience that feels intimate, personalized, and refined. With fewer than 350 guests onboard most ships, Windstar offers a relaxed, yacht-like atmosphere where fine dining, exceptional service, and world-class itineraries take center stage.
But if you enjoy sipping cocktails by the pool, a fine glass of wine at dinner, or a nightcap under the stars, one of the key questions you might ask before setting sail is:“How much is the Windstar Cruises drink package?”
Unlike some large cruise lines that include unlimited drinks by default, Windstar provides a choice — you can buy beverages individually or purchase a drink package that offers unlimited consumption at a fixed daily price.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the types, pricing, inclusions, and value of Windstar Cruises’ drink packages, helping you decide whether purchasing one is right for your sailing style.
Windstar Cruises is not an “all-inclusive” line by default, but it offers flexibility in how guests enjoy beverages onboard. You can either:
Pay as you go – Order drinks individually and pay per glass.
Purchase a drink package – Enjoy unlimited beverages for one flat daily fee.
This system allows guests to choose a plan that fits their budget and drinking preferences, rather than paying for unlimited drinks they might not use.
Windstar Cruises currently offers two main beverage packages, each designed to suit different tastes and budgets:
Also known as the “Captain’s Exclusive Beverage Package” in some itineraries, this package includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
It also includes Wi-Fi and gratuities, making it a convenient all-in-one upgrade.
A slightly simpler option that includes unlimited beverages only, without Wi-Fi or gratuities.
Ideal for guests who just want the drinks coverage without bundled services.
Windstar’s drink package prices can vary slightly depending on itinerary and region, but here are the current average prices per person per day (as of 2025):
Cost: Approximately $65 USD per person, per day
Inclusions:
Unlimited beer, wine (by the glass), and cocktails priced up to $15
All non-alcoholic beverages (sodas, juices, mocktails, specialty coffee, tea, bottled water)
15% beverage gratuity included
Cost: Approximately $89 USD per person, per day
Inclusions:
Everything in the Topmast Discoveries Package
Daily Wi-Fi access (one device per guest)
Prepaid onboard gratuities for service staff
If purchased before sailing, these prices often include a 10% pre-booking discount, so it’s always worth checking with Windstar or your travel agent before embarkation.
Windstar’s drink packages are designed to offer a comprehensive list of beverages that guests can enjoy anytime during their voyage.
Here’s what you can expect to be covered:
Cocktails: Classic and signature cocktails made with premium spirits (vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, tequila, brandy, liqueurs)
Wine by the Glass: A rotating selection of reds, whites, and rosés
Beer: Domestic, imported, and craft beers (varies by region)
Spirits and Liquors: Top-shelf and mid-range brands depending on package tier
Soft drinks: Coca-Cola products, tonic, soda water, ginger ale
Juices: Orange, apple, cranberry, tomato, pineapple
Bottled Water: Still and sparkling options
Specialty Coffees & Teas: Espresso, cappuccino, latte, herbal teas
Mocktails: Non-alcoholic versions of popular cocktails
Bottles of wine (only by the glass are included)
Champagne bottles or premium spirits over the per-glass limit
Room service mini-bar beverages (charged separately)
You can buy a Windstar drink package in several ways:
Book through Windstar’s website, your travel agent, or the My Windstar portal.
Often includes discounted rates and ensures seamless service once onboard.
Visit Guest Services or any bar on your first day.
The package will be added to your onboard account.
Packages must be purchased for the entire cruise duration (not by the day).
Occasionally, Windstar offers free or discounted beverage packages during special promotions or suite upgrades.
Check for offers at booking time.
Before buying a drink package, it’s important to understand Windstar’s terms and conditions:
Both adults in a stateroom must purchase the same drink package.
This ensures fairness and prevents sharing of drinks between guests.
Packages are charged for the entire length of the cruise.
You cannot buy it for just one or two days.
Packages are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Once activated, you can’t switch back to pay-as-you-go.
Drinks exceeding the package limit ($15 per glass) will incur a small upcharge.
Minors (under 21) cannot purchase alcohol-inclusive packages.
Let’s illustrate how the drink package can save money depending on your drinking habits.
Average cost per cocktail/wine: $12
4 drinks x $12 = $48
Add soft drinks/coffee/water = $10
Total: $58/day
A $65/day drink package gives you unlimited options, meaning for a moderate drinker, it’s about break-even value with added convenience.
7 drinks x $12 = $84
Add soda/water = $10
Total: $94/day
Here, the package easily saves $20–30 daily, especially if you enjoy premium cocktails or wines.
FeatureTopmast DiscoveriesAll-In Package
Alcoholic Drinks Included Included
Non-Alcoholic Drinks Included Included
Gratuities Not Included Included
Wi-Fi Not Included Included
Price (per person/day)~$65~$89
Best ForGuests who only want unlimited drinksGuests who want drinks, Wi-Fi & gratuities in one bundle
Verdict: If you plan to use Wi-Fi regularly and want a hassle-free experience with prepaid gratuities, the All-In Package is a better value.
Windstar’s small-ship format means bartenders often know guests by name and remember their preferences. The line focuses on quality over quantity, serving top-shelf brands and regional favorites.
Grey Goose, Bombay Sapphire, Bacardi, Captain Morgan, Johnnie Walker Black, Jack Daniel’s, Patrón, Courvoisier, Hennessy, Baileys, Kahlúa
Curated selections rotate based on itinerary — expect Napa Valley chardonnays, European reds, and local wines from Mediterranean or South American regions.
Classic martinis, mojitos, margaritas, old fashioneds, tropical rum punches, and daily mixologist specials.
Windstar often hosts wine tastings and cocktail masterclasses, sometimes led by guest sommeliers or local experts. These may not be included in the drink package but can be purchased separately.
Windstar tailors drink menus to itineraries — for example, Mediterranean sailings might feature Greek ouzo or Italian limoncello, while Caribbean routes include local rums.
The Yacht Club Café serves espresso, cappuccino, and lattes, all covered under the drink package.
Yes, Windstar also offers a non-alcoholic beverage package for guests who prefer to skip alcohol but still want unlimited refreshment.
Cost: Around $25–$30 per person, per day
Includes:
Soft drinks, juices, bottled water
Mocktails and specialty coffee drinks
This package is also ideal for teens or adults who simply prefer non-alcoholic options.
Windstar’s alcohol policy is more relaxed than most cruise lines:
Guests may bring up to two bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom at embarkation.
A $15 corkage fee applies if consumed in public venues.
Additional bottles purchased ashore will be stored until the end of the voyage.
This allows you to enjoy a personal favorite wine in your cabin without depending entirely on the drink package.
If you choose not to buy a package, here’s what you can expect to pay per drink:
Drink TypeAverage Price (USD)
Cocktails$11 – $14
Premium Cocktails$15 – $18
Glass of Wine$10 – $15
Beer$6 – $9
Specialty Coffee$4 – $6
Bottled Water$3 – $5
Mocktails$6 – $8
When you consider 3–5 drinks daily, these costs can add up quickly — making the drink package a convenient alternative.
The value of the Windstar drink package depends on your drinking habits and preferences.
You drink 3+ alcoholic beverages per day
You enjoy specialty coffees, bottled water, and juices regularly
You prefer the convenience of no bills or calculations
You plan to relax onboard and enjoy social evenings
You drink lightly (1–2 beverages per day)
You spend most days ashore exploring ports
You prefer bringing your own wine for dinner
Pre-purchase the package: Save 10–15% compared to onboard prices.
Mix it up: Try local wines or cocktails unique to your destination.
Use the package for coffees and sodas too: Not just alcohol.
Ask bartenders for off-menu creations: They’ll happily mix something special.
Share responsibly: Packages are per person, but bartenders may customize drinks to your liking.
To understand how the package enhances your experience, here’s a sample daily routine:
Breakfast: Latte and fresh orange juice
Midday: Iced coffee and bottled water by the pool
Lunch: Chilled beer or sparkling water
Afternoon: Tropical cocktail during sail away
Dinner: Wine pairing with entrée
Evening: Espresso martini at the lounge
Total value without package: about $80–$100/dayWith package: $65–$89/day, all covered.
If you spend most days onshore exploring, you may use the package less often. However, with Windstar’s typically longer port stays and overnight calls, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy evening drinks onboard.
Windstar occasionally offers complimentary or discounted beverage packages as part of:
Early booking promotions
Suite upgrades
Loyalty rewards (Yacht Club Members)
Always check your booking confirmation or ask your travel agent about current offers — they can significantly increase your cruise value.
Cruise LineStandard Drink Package PriceIncluded in Fare?
Windstar Cruises$65–$89/dayOptional
AzamaraIncluded for select beveragesYes
Oceania Cruises$70–$90/dayOptional
SilverseaFully all-inclusiveYes
SeabournFully all-inclusiveYes
Windstar’s approach offers flexibility — guests who don’t drink much aren’t paying for unlimited beverages built into the fare, unlike ultra-luxury lines.
No. Drink packages must be purchased for the entire voyage duration.
Yes, a 15% beverage service charge is already included.
No. All guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom must purchase their own package.
You’ll pay only the difference in price (e.g., a $17 drink adds $2).
Yes, if Windstar operates the bar service at that location.
Many past Windstar cruisers praise the quality of drinks and attentive bar service:
“Windstar’s bartenders are phenomenal — they remember your preferences after the first night. The drink package made it easy to relax without thinking about cost.”
“We loved that premium spirits and great wines were included. It’s not a ‘watered down’ experience like on bigger ships.”
Such feedback reinforces that while Windstar’s drink packages are optional, they enhance the overall onboard experience for guests who enjoy social dining and fine beverages.
If you appreciate fine cocktails, wine pairings, and specialty coffees, the Windstar drink package offers excellent convenience and value.
For around $65–$89 per day, you get unlimited access to top-quality beverages, exceptional service, and the peace of mind of a cashless bar experience.
However, if you’re a light drinker or prefer to explore local bars ashore, you might be better off paying à la carte. The beauty of Windstar’s system lies in flexibility — you only pay for what enhances your personal cruising experience.
Topmast Discoveries Package: ~$65/day – great for drinks-only coverage.
All-In Package: ~$89/day – includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
Non-Alcoholic Package: ~$25/day – for soft drinks, coffee, and juices.
Ultimately, the drink package is a smart investment for guests who plan to enjoy multiple beverages daily and prefer simplicity during their luxury voyage.
Your ultimate guide to cruise adventures. Discover amazing destinations, find the perfect cruise, and create unforgettable memories on the high seas.
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