Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is renowned for its Freestyle Cruising experience, offering flexibility, entertainment, and personalized options for passengers. One of the most popular decisions onboard is whether to purchase a drink package. With options ranging from the Premium Beverage Package to soda and specialty packages, travelers often wonder if these packages provide good value, convenience, and savings. This comprehensive guide examines the benefits, costs, daily limits, inclusions, restrictions, and strategies to determine if a beverage package is worth buying for your cruise.

1. Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

NCL offers multiple beverage packages to cater to a variety of preferences and budgets:

• Premium Beverage Package: Includes cocktails, spirits, wines by the glass, non-alcoholic beverages, and specialty coffees.

• Classic Soda Package: Unlimited soft drinks, iced teas, and lemonades.

• Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: Specialty coffees, mocktails, juices, smoothies, and bottled water.

• Specialty Alcohol Packages: Wine, beer, or spirits-focused packages.

Each package has a specific cost, daily limits, and restrictions. Understanding these elements is crucial for determining value.

2. Premium Beverage Package: Benefits and Cost

The Premium Beverage Package is the most comprehensive option and is ideal for passengers who plan to enjoy multiple alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks daily.

Typical Pricing

• 3–4 Day Cruises: $59–$65 per person per day

• 5–7 Day Cruises: $70–$75 per person per day

• 8+ Day Cruises: $75–$85 per person per day

Daily Limits: 15 drinks per person per dayInclusions: Cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, specialty coffee, soda, bottled water, juices, mocktailsGratuities: 18–20% per day, often added automatically

Pros:

• Convenience of unlimited drinks without paying per order

• Encourages trying new cocktails and specialty beverages

• Simplifies budgeting and cash management onboard

Cons:

• High upfront cost

• May not be worth it for light drinkers

• Sharing drinks is prohibited

3. Classic Soda Package: Benefits and Cost

The Classic Soda Package is targeted at passengers who consume soft drinks or families traveling with children.

Pricing

• $9–$14 per person per day

• Unlimited fountain sodas, iced tea, lemonade, and sparkling water

Pros:

• Unlimited soft drinks

• Affordable for families or non-alcohol drinkers

• Simplifies ordering and reduces individual charges

Cons:

• No alcoholic beverages included

• Specialty coffee and bottled drinks not covered

4. Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: Benefits and Cost

Designed for passengers who want a variety of non-alcoholic beverages beyond soda:

• Price: $20–$25 per person per day

• Includes specialty coffees, mocktails, smoothies, juices, bottled water

• Daily limit: 15 drinks per guest

Pros:

• Variety of beverages beyond standard sodas

• Suitable for non-drinkers or health-conscious passengers

Cons:

• Not ideal for guests who enjoy alcohol

• Premium drinks like bottled beverages may not be included

5. Specialty Alcohol Packages: Benefits and Cost

NCL also offers packages focused on wine, beer, or spirits:

• Pricing varies based on package type and cruise length

• Daily limit: 15 drinks per guest

• Includes selected beers, wines by the glass, or cocktails

Pros:

• Tailored for guests with specific preferences

• Often cheaper than full Premium Beverage Package if you only want one type of drink

Cons:

• Limited inclusions compared to the Premium Beverage Package

• Not suitable for passengers who want a mix of beverages

6. Daily Drink Limits and Usage

Understanding drink limits helps maximize value:

• Premium Beverage Package: 15 drinks/day

• Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: 15 drinks/day

• Classic Soda Package: Unlimited sodas

• Specialty Alcohol Packages: 15 drinks/day

Notes:

• Drinks exceeding limits are charged at menu prices

• Sharing drinks is not allowed

• Ship time resets the count at midnight

By planning your daily consumption, you can determine if a package provides financial savings.

7. Factors to Consider: Is It Worth It?

7.1 Drinking Habits

• Frequent cocktail or coffee drinkers typically save money with the Premium Beverage Package

• Light drinkers may not recover the package cost through consumption

7.2 Cruise Length

• Longer cruises increase potential savings as daily limits accumulate

• Short cruises may not provide enough value to justify package cost

7.3 Promotions

• Early booking discounts and onboard credits can make beverage packages more attractive

• Certain promotions may include free packages, enhancing value

7.4 Convenience

• Packages eliminate the need to pay per drink

• Simplifies budgeting and reduces cash handling

8. Calculating Potential Savings

To evaluate value:

1. Estimate average daily drink consumption

2. Multiply by typical à la carte prices (cocktails $12–$15, specialty coffees $5–$6)

3. Compare with package daily cost

Example: A guest planning to consume 4 cocktails ($15 each) and 3 coffees ($6 each) per day:

• À la carte cost: (4 x $15) + (3 x $6) = $78/day

• Premium Beverage Package: $70–$75/day

In this scenario, purchasing the package provides both cost savings and convenience.

9. Tips for Maximizing Value

• Track daily drink usage via the NCL Hub App

• Prioritize higher-cost drinks to maximize savings

• Plan consumption around meal times and lounges

• Combine with promotions or onboard credits

• Avoid sharing drinks, which violates package rules

10. Restrictions and Exceptions

• Certain premium wines, rare spirits, and limited-release drinks may be excluded

• Room service may not be fully included in some packages

• Packages are per person and non-transferable

• Age restriction: Alcohol-inclusive packages only for guests 21+

Understanding these rules ensures no surprises in billing.

11. Onboard Convenience and Experience

Beverage packages enhance the cruise experience:

• Reduces stress about individual drink charges

• Encourages trying new cocktails, mocktails, or specialty coffees

• Provides convenience for families or groups

• Simplifies budgeting for all passengers

Passengers can focus on enjoying activities, entertainment, and dining rather than tracking individual expenses.

12. Comparing with Other Cruise Lines

Cruise LinePackage TypeDaily LimitPros

Norwegian Cruise LinePremium Beverage15 drinks/dayAlcohol, specialty coffee, sodas included

Royal CaribbeanDeluxe Beverage15 drinks/daySimilar value for cocktails and coffee

Carnival Cruise LineCheers!15 drinks/dayAlcohol and specialty beverages included

This comparison helps gauge the relative value of NCL’s beverage package within the industry.

13. Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Convenience and ease of use

• Potential savings for moderate to heavy drinkers

• Variety of beverages included

• Simplifies budgeting

Cons:

• High upfront cost

• May not be cost-effective for light drinkers

• Restrictions on sharing and premium items

• Gratuities are added automatically

14. Making the Decision

To determine if a beverage package is worth it:

• Assess your daily drink consumption and preferences

• Consider cruise length and daily limit usage

• Factor in gratuities and promotions

• Evaluate convenience and overall cruise experience

For moderate to heavy drinkers, frequent coffee consumers, or passengers who value convenience, the Premium Beverage Package is often worth the cost. Light drinkers or those who consume only soda or occasional drinks may find à la carte purchases more economical.

15. Conclusion

Purchasing a Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package can be worth it depending on personal preferences, cruise length, and daily drink consumption. Key points:

• Premium Beverage Package: $59–$85/day, 15 drinks/day, ideal for moderate to heavy drinkers

• Classic Soda Package: $9–$14/day, unlimited sodas, great for families

• Non-Alcoholic Specialty Package: $20–$25/day, specialty drinks without alcohol

• Specialty Alcohol Packages: Vary, tailored to specific preferences

By understanding costs, inclusions, restrictions, daily limits, and potential savings, passengers can make informed decisions. Beverage packages offer convenience, enhance the onboard experience, and can provide financial value for those who consume multiple drinks daily. Careful planning, pre-purchasing, and strategic use of promotions ensure that guests maximize their benefits and enjoy a stress-free, enjoyable cruise.