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Is it worth buying a drink package on American Queen Voyages?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 16 September 2025
  • 7 min read

Is it worth buying a drink package on American Queen Voyages?

American Queen Voyages offers a drink package that provides passengers with access to a variety of beverages throughout their river cruise. Whether it is worth purchasing depends on multiple factors including consumption habits, preferences, and budget.

The package typically includes alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine, and standard cocktails along with non-alcoholic options like coffee, tea, soft drinks, juices, and bottled water. Understanding what is included and how it can be used enhances decision-making about its value.

River cruises focus on comfort, relaxation, and sightseeing. A drink package adds convenience by allowing passengers to enjoy beverages without paying individually. This allows travelers to focus on experiences rather than transactions.

Considering cost, inclusions, and personal preferences is essential when deciding whether to invest in a drink package. Some passengers find it highly beneficial, while others may not fully utilize the package.

Benefits of the Drink Package

The drink package offers several benefits that can make it worthwhile for many passengers.

Convenience

One of the main advantages is convenience. Passengers do not have to handle multiple payments for drinks throughout the day. This simplifies budgeting and enhances the overall cruising experience.

Ordering drinks with meals, at lounges, or during social activities becomes seamless. Guests can enjoy beverages without stopping to check prices or pay each time.

Cost Savings

For passengers who consume multiple beverages daily, the package often provides savings compared to paying for each drink separately. This is particularly true for alcoholic drinks, which can be costly when purchased individually.

Frequent drinkers may find the package provides better value than casual consumers. Calculating potential consumption in advance can help determine if the package is cost-effective.

Variety and Exploration

The package encourages trying different drinks. Passengers may explore wines, cocktails, or specialty beverages that they would not normally order. This enhances the overall experience and introduces new flavors.

Non-alcoholic options are also available in abundance. Coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks ensure hydration and variety throughout the day.

Enhancing the Experience

Having a beverage package allows passengers to enjoy drinks during events, entertainment, or excursions without worrying about individual costs. This enhances relaxation and social interactions onboard.

Passengers can use the package to complement meals, celebrate special occasions, or enjoy casual beverages in lounges or bars. The package adds a layer of convenience and luxury.

Factors Affecting Value

Several factors influence whether the drink package is worth buying.

Consumption Habits

Passengers who enjoy multiple drinks daily, especially alcoholic beverages, are more likely to benefit from purchasing the package. Casual drinkers may not gain as much value.

Estimating daily consumption ahead of the cruise can help determine potential savings and make an informed decision.

Duration of the Cruise

Longer cruises often make the package more worthwhile. Daily costs are spread across multiple days, increasing the chance that passengers will use the package fully.

Shorter cruises may offer limited value unless travelers plan to consume several drinks each day.

Package Inclusions

Understanding what is included is critical. Some packages cover standard cocktails, beer, and wine, while premium or specialty drinks may require extra payment.

Non-alcoholic beverages are typically included and are usually unlimited, making them convenient for hydration and casual consumption throughout the day.

Personal Preferences

Passengers who do not consume alcoholic beverages or have minimal drink consumption may find limited value in purchasing a package.

Those who enjoy socializing, trying new drinks, or using beverages to complement meals may benefit significantly from the convenience and variety offered.

Types of Beverage Packages

American Queen Voyages often offers multiple package tiers. Each tier has different inclusions and pricing.

Standard Package

The standard package typically includes a selection of beers, wines, and standard cocktails, along with non-alcoholic beverages such as coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks.

This package is ideal for passengers who consume a moderate number of beverages daily and prefer standard options without premium selections.

Premium Package

Premium packages may include higher-end wines, specialty cocktails, or additional beverage options not included in the standard package.

Passengers who enjoy more variety or high-quality beverages may find the premium package worthwhile despite higher costs.

Choosing between packages depends on personal preferences, expected consumption, and budget considerations. Evaluating inclusions helps determine which package offers the best value.

Cost Considerations

The cost of a drink package varies based on cruise duration, package tier, and promotions. Most packages are priced per passenger per day.

Purchasing in advance may provide discounted rates or promotional offers. Onboard purchases allow flexibility for travelers who decide after experiencing the cruise environment.

Calculating potential daily consumption helps determine whether the package is cost-effective. Frequent consumption of beverages typically results in a greater return on investment.

Responsible Consumption

While packages may allow multiple drinks per day, passengers should consume responsibly. Overindulgence can lead to discomfort, safety risks, or policy enforcement by onboard staff.

Alternating alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks helps maintain hydration and balance throughout the day. This ensures passengers enjoy beverages without negative effects on their cruise experience.

Staff may monitor usage to ensure fair and safe consumption, and excessive drinking can result in restrictions or removal of the package.

Using the Beverage Package Effectively

Maximizing the value of a drink package requires planning and awareness.

Planning Daily Consumption

Passengers should plan when and where to enjoy beverages, such as with meals, during social events, or in the evenings.

Tracking consumption ensures that the package is used efficiently and avoids overindulgence. Daily planning helps passengers enjoy the full benefits of the package.

Coordination with Travel Companions

Groups or families should coordinate beverage usage. While each passenger requires an individual package, aligning schedules enhances social experiences and ensures smooth transactions.

Communicating preferences, limits, and timing helps avoid conflicts and maximizes enjoyment for all travelers.

Understanding Inclusions

Before using the package, passengers should confirm which drinks are included and which require additional payment. This prevents unexpected charges and ensures satisfaction.

Specialty cocktails, premium wines, or high-end beverages may not be covered. Understanding these limitations allows passengers to plan accordingly.

Dining and Beverage Pairing

The drink package enhances dining experiences by providing beverages that complement meals. Wine, beer, and cocktails can enhance flavors, while coffee or tea offers a relaxing conclusion.

Passengers should plan beverage consumption to coincide with meal schedules, social activities, or entertainment events to maximize value.

Special events or tastings may include additional beverages within the package. Being aware of these opportunities ensures passengers use the package fully.

Excursions and Off-Ship Activities

While the beverage package primarily applies onboard, passengers should plan consumption around excursions. Responsible consumption ensures comfort and safety during off-ship activities.

Understanding daily schedules and excursion timings allows passengers to enjoy beverages responsibly while participating in activities and sightseeing.

Travel Insurance Considerations

Travel insurance may cover situations that prevent passengers from using the beverage package, such as illness or unforeseen events.

Keeping receipts or package confirmations ensures any issues can be addressed efficiently with the cruise line or insurance provider.

Passengers should confirm coverage for onboard amenities including beverage packages before purchasing insurance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Convenience and ease of ordering drinks

  • Cost savings for frequent beverage consumers

  • Variety and opportunity to try new drinks

  • Enhances social and dining experiences

Cons:

  • May be unnecessary for light drinkers

  • Premium beverages may require additional payment

  • Responsible consumption is necessary to avoid overindulgence

Evaluating these pros and cons helps passengers decide whether the package aligns with their preferences and cruising style.

Preparing for Your Cruise

Before departure, passengers should review package inclusions, pricing, and policies. Familiarity with bars, lounges, and dining areas enhances convenience.

Plan daily beverage consumption and coordinate with companions to maximize the value of the package.

Organize package documentation and confirmations for easy access during the cruise to ensure smooth interactions with staff.

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