Is it worth buying a drink package on P&O Cruises Australia?

Cruising offers a unique combination of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Among the many choices cruise passengers face is deciding whether to purchase a beverage or drink package. On P&O Cruises Australia, this is an important consideration, especially for travelers who enjoy cocktails, wine, or soft drinks while on board. But is it truly worth investing in a drink package? This comprehensive guide explores the costs, benefits, limitations, and overall value of P&O Cruises Australia drink packages, helping travelers make an informed decision.

Introduction to P&O Cruises Australia
What Drink Packages Are Available?
Costs of Drink Packages
Daily Drink Limits and Restrictions
Benefits of Buying a Drink Package
Comparing Package vs. Paying as You Go
How to Choose the Right Drink Package
Tips for Maximizing Your Drink Package
Alternatives to Drink Packages
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
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1. Introduction to P&O Cruises Australia

P&O Cruises Australia is one of the most popular cruise lines in the Southern Hemisphere, offering itineraries along the Australian coast, South Pacific, and occasionally Asia. Known for its family-friendly approach, onboard entertainment, and relaxed atmosphere, P&O Cruises also provides a variety of dining and beverage options.

Drinks are an integral part of the cruise experience, whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at dinner, a cocktail by the pool, or a specialty coffee. P&O Cruises offers drink packages as a convenient way for guests to manage their onboard beverage expenses.

2. What Drink Packages Are Available?

P&O Cruises Australia provides several drink package options catering to different needs. While offerings may vary slightly depending on the ship and itinerary, the main packages generally include:

a) Classic Beverage Package

Includes soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Ideal for families or non-drinkers who want unlimited soft drinks and specialty coffee.

b) Premium Beverage Package

Includes soft drinks plus alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits up to a certain limit.
Suitable for casual drinkers or those looking to sample a variety of drinks without paying per item.

c) Specialty Packages

Some sailings offer packages focused on specialty cocktails, sparkling wine, or premium spirits.
Prices vary depending on inclusions.

Each package is priced per person, per day, and is available for the duration of the cruise.

3. Costs of Drink Packages

The cost of P&O Cruises drink packages depends on the cruise length, type of package, and guest age. As of 2025, typical pricing is:

PackageCost per Adult per DayCost per Child per DayNotes

Classic Beverage PackageAUD 30-40AUD 15-20Non-alcoholic beverages only

Premium Beverage PackageAUD 85-95N/A (alcohol not included for minors)Alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks included

Specialty PackagesAUD 60-120N/AVaries by specialty options

Purchasing a drink package can simplify budgeting, as you pay a fixed daily rate instead of tracking individual drinks. However, the value depends on your personal consumption patterns.

4. Daily Drink Limits and Restrictions

P&O Cruises packages often have daily drink limits to prevent overconsumption and ensure fair use. While policies may vary, typical limits include:

A maximum of 15–20 alcoholic beverages per person, per day.
Non-alcoholic drinks may be unlimited.
Each drink is generally limited to standard sizes (e.g., a cocktail or a glass of wine).

Exceeding these limits may result in additional charges. Some specialty beverages may not be included, such as premium wines or rare spirits.

Understanding these limits is key to determining whether the package offers value for your planned consumption.

5. Benefits of Buying a Drink Package

a) Convenience

Paying a daily flat rate simplifies the cruise experience. You can order drinks without worrying about keeping track of individual costs.

b) Cost Savings

For heavy drinkers or those enjoying multiple beverages daily, packages often provide significant savings compared to paying per drink.

c) Variety

Drink packages encourage sampling of different beverages—cocktails, beers, wines, and soft drinks—without worrying about the expense.

d) Predictable Budget

Budget-conscious travelers appreciate knowing their beverage costs upfront, allowing for better overall cruise expense planning.

e) Social Experience

Having a drink package can enhance social experiences, especially during onboard events or happy hours. You can freely enjoy drinks without hesitation.

6. Comparing Package vs. Paying as You Go

Whether a drink package is worth it depends on your consumption habits:

ScenarioPay Per DrinkDrink PackageVerdict

Occasional drinkerCheaperMore expensivePay per drink

2–3 drinks dailySimilar costSlightly more convenientOptional package

4+ drinks dailyMore expensiveSaves moneyPackage recommended

Non-alcoholic onlyCheap soft drinksClassic package may save for unlimited coffee/soft drinksOptional

By calculating how many drinks you typically consume, you can determine if the package provides financial benefit.

7. How to Choose the Right Drink Package

Choosing the right package requires considering:

Length of cruise: Longer cruises favor packages.
Alcohol consumption habits: Premium packages suit moderate to heavy drinkers.
Family travel: Classic packages are ideal for families with children.
Specialty preferences: If you enjoy specialty cocktails or premium spirits, check whether they’re included.

Always check the ship’s specific package offerings, as inclusions can vary.

8. Tips for Maximizing Your Drink Package

Plan your daily drinks – Knowing how many drinks you’ll likely consume helps maximize value.
Mix alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks – Some packages allow unlimited soft drinks and cocktails, giving better value.
Enjoy at different venues – Try drinks at pool bars, lounges, and specialty restaurants.
Be mindful of restrictions – Avoid exceeding daily limits to prevent extra charges.
Combine with dining packages – Some cruises offer combined meal and beverage packages for savings.

9. Alternatives to Drink Packages

If a drink package isn’t appealing, there are alternatives:

Pay-as-you-go: Best for light or occasional drinkers.
Happy hours or daily specials: Take advantage of discounted drinks.
BYO wine policy: Some cruises allow a limited number of bottles per cabin at no corkage fee.
Pre-purchase vouchers: Occasionally, cruise lines offer beverage credits as part of promotions.

These options allow flexibility while managing costs.

10. Customer Reviews and Experiences

Customer experiences vary, but common feedback includes:

Positive: Convenience, cost savings for heavy drinkers, and encouragement to try new beverages.
Negative: Packages may feel expensive if daily limits aren’t reached or if specialty drinks aren’t included.
Tips from passengers: Share drinks with travel companions to maximize value, and consider your personal drinking habits before committing.

Real-world reviews suggest that for moderate to heavy drinkers, packages generally provide excellent value, whereas light drinkers might save money with pay-per-drink options.

11. Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Whether a P&O Cruises Australia drink package is worth purchasing depends primarily on individual consumption patterns.

Frequent drinkers: Premium packages offer excellent value and convenience.
Moderate drinkers: Evaluate your daily consumption against package cost.
Non-drinkers or light drinkers: Likely better off paying per drink or choosing a classic non-alcoholic package.
Families: The Classic Beverage Package provides value for children and adults seeking soft drinks.

Ultimately, the package is worth it if it aligns with your drinking habits, travel style, and desire for convenience. Passengers who enjoy a casual cocktail or glass of wine daily often find the investment worthwhile, while others may benefit from alternative options.

Is it worth buying a drink package on P&O Cruises Australia?