How Much Is A Drink Package On A Carnival Cruise?

Planning a Carnival cruise and wondering, How Much Is A Drink Package On Carnival Cruise? Carnival Cruise Line offers various drink packages to enhance your cruising experience, and understanding their costs and benefits is key to making an informed decision. At HOW.EDU.VN, we provide expert insights to help you navigate these options and maximize your vacation budget. This comprehensive guide will delve into the specifics of Carnival’s drink packages, including pricing, inclusions, exclusions, and factors to consider when deciding if a package is right for you, offering strategies for cost-effective choices and insider tips for enjoying beverages onboard.

1. Understanding Carnival Cruise Drink Packages

Carnival Cruise Line offers several drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. These packages allow passengers to enjoy a variety of beverages for a fixed daily price, potentially offering significant savings compared to purchasing drinks individually. Let’s explore the main options available:

1.1. CHEERS! Drink Package

The CHEERS! Drink Package is Carnival’s most comprehensive beverage program. It includes a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, making it a popular choice for guests who enjoy a variety of beverages throughout their cruise.

1.1.1. What’s Included in CHEERS!?

The CHEERS! package encompasses a broad selection of beverages, including:

All spirits, cocktails, beer (including self-serve beer stations), and wine and champagne by the glass, with a menu price of $20.00 USD or lower per serving.
Sodas (including specialty sodas), zero-proof frozen cocktails, and juices.
Specialty coffees and hot tea served in the main dining rooms, specialty restaurants, and coffee bars.
Milkshakes (where available).
Energy drinks.
500ml bottled water and other non-alcoholic bottled beverages served in bars and lounges.
Packaged water in the dining rooms and specialty restaurants.
A 25% discount off the menu price for any spirit, cocktail, or wine by the glass costing above $20.00 USD per serving.
A 25% discount off the menu price for wine and champagne by the bottle.
A 25% discount off beverage seminars and classes.

1.1.2. What’s Excluded in CHEERS!?

While CHEERS! offers extensive coverage, there are some exclusions to be aware of:

Beverages promoted and sold in souvenir glasses.
Bottles of liquor.
Beverages offered at the gangway.
Beverages offered through room service and/or other in-stateroom beverage programs.
Beverages purchased off the ship at any port of call, including Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay.
Sharing cocktails, floaters, pitchers, tubes, and buckets.
Beverages offered through enomatic wine machines.
Freshly squeezed orange juice served in the Havana Bar.
All other beverage-related programs including merchandise, cigars, and cigarettes.
Food items.

1.2. Bottomless Bubbles Package

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the Bottomless Bubbles Package provides unlimited soda and juice throughout the cruise. This package is popular among families with children and individuals who do not consume alcohol.

1.2.1. What’s Included in Bottomless Bubbles?

The Bottomless Bubbles package includes:

Unlimited fountain soda.
Juices (orange, cranberry, tomato, pineapple, and grapefruit juice).

1.2.2. What’s Excluded in Bottomless Bubbles?

The Bottomless Bubbles package has several exclusions:

Non-alcoholic beverages other than soda and juices listed above.
Beverages promoted and sold in souvenir glasses.
Bottled water.
Hot Tea.
Specialty coffee.
Beverages offered at gangway while debarking.
Beverages offered through room service or the interactive TV system.

1.3. Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package

Carnival also offers wine packages for wine enthusiasts. These packages allow guests to enjoy a selection of wines at a discounted price. The Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package and Cruise the Vineyard Premium Wine Package provide coupons for redemption at main bars, specialty dining restaurants, or any of the dining rooms.

1.3.1. Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package

This package offers a selection of wines at a set price. It’s a great option for guests who enjoy wine with their meals or in the evenings.

1.3.2. Cruise the Vineyard Premium Wine Package

The premium wine package includes a higher-end selection of wines. This is suitable for guests looking for a more refined wine experience.

2. Decoding the Costs: What You Need to Know

The cost of Carnival’s drink packages varies depending on the length of the cruise and when you purchase the package. Understanding the pricing structure is essential for budgeting your cruise effectively.

2.1. CHEERS! Package Pricing

The CHEERS! package is priced on a per-day basis, and the cost can differ depending on whether you purchase it before your cruise or onboard.

Pre-Cruise Purchase: If you buy the CHEERS! package before your cruise, the price is generally lower. As of recent updates, the pre-cruise price is typically around $64.99 USD per person, per day, plus an 18% gratuity.
Onboard Purchase: Purchasing the CHEERS! package once you’re on the ship is more expensive, usually around $74.99 USD per person, per day, plus an 18% gratuity.

It’s important to note that Carnival requires all adults (21 and older) assigned to the same stateroom to purchase the CHEERS! package if one person opts for it. This policy aims to prevent sharing of drinks, ensuring fair usage of the program.

2.2. Bottomless Bubbles Package Pricing

The Bottomless Bubbles Package is also priced per day, with different rates for children and adults.

Child Price: For guests aged 17 and younger, the Bottomless Bubbles package typically costs around $6.95 USD per day, plus an 18% gratuity.
Adult Price: For guests aged 18 and older, the package costs approximately $9.50 USD per day, plus an 18% gratuity.

2.3. Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package Pricing

The Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package and Cruise the Vineyard Premium Wine Package are priced as a one-time fee for a set of coupons.

Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package: The price for this package starts at around $95.58 USD, including delivery.
Cruise the Vineyard Premium Wine Package: This package starts at approximately $146.32 USD, including delivery.

2.4. Additional Costs: Taxes and Gratuities

When calculating the total cost of a drink package, it’s crucial to factor in taxes and gratuities. Carnival automatically adds an 18% gratuity to the price of the CHEERS! and Bottomless Bubbles packages. Additionally, applicable state and local taxes will be charged to a guest’s Sail & Sign® card when the program is used within US waters.

2.5. Factors Influencing Drink Package Costs

Several factors can influence the cost of drink packages on Carnival cruises:

Cruise Length: Longer cruises will result in higher overall costs for daily drink packages.
Time of Purchase: Buying the CHEERS! package before your cruise is generally cheaper than purchasing it onboard.
Promotions and Discounts: Carnival occasionally offers promotions and discounts on drink packages, so it’s worth checking for deals before your cruise.
Itinerary: Cruises departing from certain ports may have different tax implications, affecting the final price.

3. Is a Carnival Drink Package Worth It?

Deciding whether to purchase a drink package depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. To determine if a package is cost-effective for you, consider the following:

3.1. Assessing Your Drinking Habits

Alcohol Consumption: If you plan to enjoy multiple alcoholic beverages each day, the CHEERS! package could be a worthwhile investment.
Non-Alcoholic Preferences: If you primarily drink soda, juice, and specialty coffees, the Bottomless Bubbles package or purchasing drinks individually might be more economical.
Wine Consumption: If you prefer wine, the Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package could be a good option.

3.2. Calculating the Break-Even Point

To determine if the CHEERS! package is worth it, calculate how many drinks you would need to purchase daily to break even with the package cost.

CHEERS! Package Break-Even: Assuming a pre-cruise price of $64.99 USD per day plus an 18% gratuity (totaling approximately $76.69 USD), and an average drink cost of $10 USD, you would need to consume about 7-8 drinks per day to break even.
Bottomless Bubbles Break-Even: With an adult price of $9.50 USD per day plus an 18% gratuity (totaling approximately $11.21 USD), you would need to drink around 4-5 sodas or juices to break even.

3.3. Considering Onboard Drink Prices

Understanding the prices of individual drinks onboard can help you make an informed decision:

Beer: Starting at $6.50 USD (mostly 16 oz).
Wine by the Glass: Starting at $9.50 USD.
Mixed Drinks: $7.50 – $20.00 USD.
Specialty Cocktails: Starting at $10.50 USD (excluding souvenir glassware and premium selections).
Soft Drinks: $2.75 USD.
Specialty Coffees: $2.50 – $4.25 USD.
Energy Drinks: $4.95 USD.
Water (San Benedetto bottled water and Coconut Water): $1.50 – $5.00 USD.

3.4. Comparing Package Costs to Individual Drink Purchases

Create a rough estimate of your daily drink consumption and compare the total cost to the price of a drink package. This will provide a clearer picture of potential savings.

3.5. Accounting for Cruise Length and Itinerary

Longer cruises offer more opportunities to utilize a drink package, potentially increasing its value. Additionally, consider the itinerary: port-intensive cruises may mean less time onboard to consume drinks.

4. Maximizing Value: Tips and Tricks for Drink Packages

If you decide to purchase a drink package, there are several strategies to maximize its value and enhance your cruising experience.

4.1. Pre-Purchase Your Drink Package

As mentioned earlier, purchasing the CHEERS! package before your cruise can save you money. Take advantage of pre-cruise discounts to lower the overall cost.

4.2. Plan Your Drink Consumption

Consider your daily activities and plan when you’re most likely to enjoy beverages. This can help you ensure you’re getting the most out of your package.

4.3. Explore Included Beverages

Take the time to explore the wide variety of beverages included in your package. Try new cocktails, specialty coffees, and other drinks to discover your favorites.

4.4. Take Advantage of Discounts

The CHEERS! package offers a 25% discount on drinks that are not fully included, such as premium wines and spirits. Utilize these discounts to enjoy higher-end beverages at a reduced price.

4.5. Know the Restrictions

Be aware of the restrictions associated with your drink package. For example, the CHEERS! package has a limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per day, and there is a five-minute wait time between orders.

4.6. Consider Sharing (With Limitations)

While sharing drinks is not permitted under the terms of the CHEERS! and Bottomless Bubbles packages, guests can purchase a round of drinks for themselves and friends. One drink will count towards the CHEERS! program, and the remaining drinks will be charged to the guest’s Sail & Sign® account.

5. Alternatives to Drink Packages

If drink packages don’t align with your preferences or budget, there are alternative ways to enjoy beverages onboard without breaking the bank.

5.1. Pay-as-You-Go

Purchasing drinks individually allows you to control your spending and only pay for what you consume. This can be a good option if you only plan to have a few drinks per day.

5.2. Bring Your Own Beverages (Limited)

Carnival allows guests to bring a limited quantity of non-alcoholic beverages onboard at embarkation. Each guest is permitted to bring one 12-pack of unopened cans/bottles of soda, juice, or water. This can help reduce your overall beverage costs.

5.3. Free Beverage Options

Take advantage of the complimentary beverage options available onboard, such as:

Non-bottled water, lemonade, iced tea, hot chocolate, and non-specialty coffee and tea in the main dining room and Lido Restaurant.
Juices (orange, tomato, apple, or grapefruit), regular or decaffeinated coffee, hot tea, iced tea, hot chocolate, chocolate milk, regular and skim milk through Room Service at no additional charge.

5.4. Happy Hour and Drink Specials

Keep an eye out for happy hour specials and discounted drinks at various bars and lounges onboard. These promotions can offer significant savings on individual drinks.

5.5. Loyalty Program Perks

If you are a member of Carnival’s loyalty program, you may be eligible for complimentary drinks or discounts on beverages. Check your loyalty benefits to see if you can save money on drinks.

6. Navigating Carnival’s Drink Package Policies

Understanding Carnival’s drink package policies is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some key policies to be aware of:

6.1. Minimum Purchase Requirements

For the CHEERS! package, all adults (21 and older) assigned to the same stateroom must purchase the package if one person opts for it. This policy is designed to prevent sharing and ensure fair usage of the program.

6.2. Non-Transferable Packages

Drink packages are non-transferable and can only be used by the guest who purchased them. Sharing drinks with other guests is strictly prohibited.

6.3. Refund Policies

If you purchase the CHEERS! package prior to the cruise, it is refundable up to 10:00pm ET the evening prior to the cruise departure. Otherwise, CHEERS! is non-refundable. The Bottomless Bubbles package is also non-refundable.

6.4. Daily Limits

The CHEERS! package has a daily limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per person per 24-hour period (6:00am – 6:00am). Once the limit is reached, the guest will not be served any additional alcoholic drinks.

6.5. Responsible Alcohol Consumption

Carnival has procedures in place to monitor guests’ alcohol consumption, and bartenders are trained to look for signs of intoxication. Carnival reserves the right to refuse service for any reason.

7. Real-World Examples: Is the Drink Package Worth It?

To illustrate the value of Carnival’s drink packages, let’s consider a few real-world scenarios:

7.1. The Casual Drinker

John and his wife, Sarah, are taking a 7-day Carnival cruise. They enjoy having a couple of drinks in the evening but don’t typically drink during the day. They estimate they’ll each have two cocktails and one glass of wine per day.

Individual Purchase Cost: (2 cocktails x $10) + $9.50 (wine) = $29.50 per person per day.
Total Cost for 7 Days: $29.50 x 7 = $206.50 per person.
CHEERS! Package Cost: $64.99 (pre-cruise) + 18% gratuity = $76.69 per person per day.
Total CHEERS! Package Cost for 7 Days: $76.69 x 7 = $536.83 per person.

In this scenario, the CHEERS! package is not worth it for John and Sarah. They would save money by purchasing drinks individually.

7.2. The Social Butterfly

Emily and her friends are celebrating her 30th birthday on a 5-day Carnival cruise. They plan to enjoy cocktails by the pool, wine with dinner, and late-night drinks at the bar. Emily estimates she’ll have five cocktails, two glasses of wine, and two specialty coffees each day.

Individual Purchase Cost: (5 cocktails x $10) + (2 wine x $9.50) + (2 coffee x $4) = $77 per person per day.
Total Cost for 5 Days: $77 x 5 = $385 per person.
CHEERS! Package Cost: $64.99 (pre-cruise) + 18% gratuity = $76.69 per person per day.
Total CHEERS! Package Cost for 5 Days: $76.69 x 5 = $383.45 per person.

For Emily, the CHEERS! package is a worthwhile investment. She would save money and enjoy the convenience of unlimited drinks.

7.3. The Family Vacationer

The Smith family is taking a 4-day Carnival cruise with their two children. The parents enjoy having a few drinks, while the kids prefer soda and juice. They estimate the parents will each have three cocktails and one specialty coffee per day, and the kids will each have four sodas per day.

Parents’ Individual Purchase Cost: (3 cocktails x $10) + $4 (coffee) = $34 per person per day.
Kids’ Individual Purchase Cost: (4 sodas x $2.75) = $11 per person per day.
Total Cost for 4 Days: ($34 x 2) + ($11 x 2) = $90 per day. Total: $360
CHEERS! Package Cost for Parents: $76.69 x 2 x 4 = $613.52
Bottomless Bubbles Package Cost for Kids: $8.20 x 2 x 4 = $65.6

In this case, the parents should buy drinks individually and the kids should get the Bottomless Bubbles package.

8. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise

Deciding whether to purchase a drink package on a Carnival cruise requires careful consideration of your drinking habits, budget, and preferences. By understanding the costs, inclusions, exclusions, and policies of each package, you can make an informed decision that enhances your cruising experience.

If you plan to enjoy multiple alcoholic beverages each day, the CHEERS! package could be a worthwhile investment. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, the Bottomless Bubbles package or purchasing drinks individually might be more economical. Wine enthusiasts may find value in the Cruise the Vineyard Wine Package.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can maximize the value of your chosen beverage option and enjoy a memorable Carnival cruise.

At HOW.EDU.VN, we’re dedicated to providing expert guidance to help you navigate complex decisions and achieve your goals. Whether you’re planning a cruise, managing your finances, or seeking career advice, our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way.

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9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Carnival Drink Packages

To further assist you in making an informed decision, here are some frequently asked questions about Carnival drink packages:

9.1. What is the CHEERS! Drink Package?

The CHEERS! Drink Package is Carnival’s all-inclusive beverage program that allows guests to enjoy a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for a fixed daily price.

9.2. How much does the CHEERS! package cost?

The cost of the CHEERS! package varies depending on whether you purchase it before your cruise or onboard. Pre-cruise purchase is typically around $64.99 USD per person, per day, plus an 18% gratuity, while onboard purchase is usually around $74.99 USD per person, per day, plus an 18% gratuity.

9.3. What is included in the CHEERS! package?

The CHEERS! package includes all spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and champagne by the glass (with a menu price of $20.00 USD or lower), sodas, zero-proof frozen cocktails, juices, specialty coffees, hot tea, milkshakes, energy drinks, bottled water, and a 25% discount on select premium beverages.

9.4. Are there any restrictions on the CHEERS! package?

Yes, there are several restrictions, including a daily limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per person, a five-minute wait time between orders, and a requirement that all adults assigned to the same stateroom purchase the package if one person opts for it.

9.5. What is the Bottomless Bubbles Package?

The Bottomless Bubbles Package is Carnival’s unlimited soda and juice program, allowing guests to enjoy unlimited fountain soda and juices throughout their cruise.

9.6. How much does the Bottomless Bubbles Package cost?

The Bottomless Bubbles Package costs approximately $6.95 USD per day for children (17 and younger) and $9.50 USD per day for adults (18 and older), plus an 18% gratuity.

9.7. Can I share my drink package with other guests?

No, drink packages are non-transferable and can only be used by the guest who purchased them. Sharing drinks is strictly prohibited.

9.8. Is the CHEERS! package refundable?

If you purchase the CHEERS! package prior to the cruise, it is refundable up to 10:00pm ET the evening prior to the cruise departure. Otherwise, CHEERS! is non-refundable.

9.9. What happens if I reach the daily limit of 15 alcoholic drinks with the CHEERS! package?

Once you reach the daily limit of 15 alcoholic drinks, you will not be served any additional alcoholic drinks for the remainder of the 24-hour period (6:00am – 6:00am).

9.10. Can I bring my own beverages onboard?

Guests are permitted to bring one 12-pack of unopened cans/bottles of soda, juice, or water onboard at embarkation. No alcoholic beverages are allowed.

This comprehensive FAQ section should address most of your questions about Carnival drink packages. However, if you have additional inquiries or require personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at HOW.EDU.VN.

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