Is the Drink Package Worth It on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)?

Christopher McCord
Jul 15, 2024
3 min read

When planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to purchase a drink package. This option can be enticing, promising unlimited drinks and potentially significant savings. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s truly worth the investment for your trip. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Drink Packages

NCL offers several drink packages to cater to different preferences and budgets:

Premium Beverage Package: Covers a wide range of spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, draft and bottled beers, and non-alcoholic beverages like soda and juice, up to $15 per drink.
Premium Plus Beverage Package: Includes everything in the Premium Package, plus additional high-end liquors, specialty cocktails, and wines by the glass up to $25 per drink.
Corks and Caps Wine and Beer Package: Ideal for those who prefer wine and beer over cocktails. This package offers a selection of wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package: Covers unlimited soda, juice, and other non-alcoholic drinks.

Cost Analysis

The cost of drink packages varies, but here’s a general idea:

Premium Beverage Package: Around $99 per person per day.
Premium Plus Beverage Package: Approximately $128 per person per day.
Corks and Caps Wine and Beer Package: Around $65 per person per day.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package: Roughly $10 per person per day.

Additionally, an 20% gratuity is added to the package cost, which can significantly increase the total price.

Factors to Consider

Drinking Habits: Assess your typical daily consumption. If you enjoy multiple cocktails, glasses of wine, or beers throughout the day, a package might offer substantial savings. However, if you’re a light drinker, paying per drink might be more cost-effective.
Cruise Duration: Longer cruises provide more days to take advantage of the package. On shorter cruises, it might be harder to drink enough to justify the cost.
Itinerary and Activities: Port-intensive itineraries mean you might spend more time off the ship, reducing the time available to utilize the drink package. Sea days, on the other hand, provide ample opportunity to enjoy drinks onboard.
Special Offers and Promotions: NCL often includes drink packages as part of promotional deals. Check if your booking includes a package or offers a discount.

Pros of Purchasing a Drink Package

Convenience: Enjoy unlimited drinks without worrying about the bill at the end of your cruise.
Variety: Try different cocktails, wines, and beers without hesitation.
Budgeting: Fixed cost allows for easier budgeting and avoiding unexpected expenses.

Cons of Purchasing a Drink Package

Cost: High upfront cost, especially with added gratuities.
Pressure to Drink: Feeling obligated to drink more to "get your money's worth."
Limited Selection: Some high-end liquors and specialty drinks may not be included in the lower-tier packages.

Tips for Maximizing Value

Track Your Consumption: Keep a mental tally of your drinks to ensure you’re getting value from the package.
Take Advantage of Specialty Bars: Explore different bars and lounges to try unique drinks included in your package.
Consider Sharing: If one person in your party is a heavy drinker and another is not, balance your overall spending by sharing drinks (where permissible).

Conclusion

Whether the drink package is worth it on NCL depends on your personal preferences, drinking habits, and the specifics of your cruise. For many, the convenience and peace of mind can make it a worthwhile investment, while others might find paying per drink to be more economical. Carefully evaluate the factors mentioned above to make the best choice for your cruise experience.