How Much Do Beverages Cost on Carnival Cruises?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Cruise Lines & Brands

When setting sail on a Carnival Cruise, one of the most common questions travelers ask is, “How much are beverages on Carnival Cruises?” Whether you’re a fan of tropical cocktails, specialty coffees, or simply want to stay hydrated with bottled water, understanding the costs associated with drinks can help you plan your vacation budget more effectively. Beverages often play a key role in the overall cruise experience, adding a touch of relaxation and indulgence to your days at sea.

Carnival Cruises offers a variety of beverage options, from complimentary soft drinks to premium alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee drinks. The pricing structure can vary depending on the type of drink, the venue, and whether you opt for a beverage package or pay as you go. Knowing what to expect in terms of costs can help you make informed choices about how to enjoy your favorite drinks without any surprises.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the different beverage categories available on Carnival Cruises and provide insights into their typical price ranges. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a cocktail connoisseur, this guide will help you navigate the beverage offerings and find the best way to enjoy your drinks while cruising.

Beverage Package Options and Pricing

Carnival Cruises offers several beverage package options tailored to different guest preferences and consumption habits. These packages provide a cost-effective way to enjoy a variety of drinks without worrying about individual prices throughout the cruise.

The most popular beverage packages include:

  • Cheers! Beverage Program: This is Carnival’s signature all-inclusive beverage package, covering a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Alcohol-Free Package: Designed for guests who want unlimited non-alcoholic drinks such as soda, specialty coffees, juices, and bottled water.
  • Wine, Beer & Spirits Package: A more specialized package focusing on alcoholic beverages like wines, beers, cocktails, and spirits.
  • Premium Coffee Package: For coffee enthusiasts wanting unlimited specialty coffees and teas.

Pricing varies depending on the duration of the cruise and the specific package selected. Below is a general overview of costs for the Cheers! Beverage Program on a typical 7-day cruise:

Package Price per Person Included Beverages Daily Limit
Cheers! Beverage Program $55 – $65 Alcoholic drinks (up to $13), sodas, juices, bottled water, specialty coffees Up to 15 drinks per day
Alcohol-Free Package $29 – $35 Sodas, juices, bottled water, specialty coffees, teas Unlimited
Wine, Beer & Spirits Package $59 – $68 Wines by the glass (up to $13), beers, cocktails Up to 15 drinks per day
Premium Coffee Package $8 – $12 per day Specialty coffees, lattes, cappuccinos, teas Unlimited

Prices may fluctuate based on the itinerary, promotions, and port destinations. It is recommended to purchase beverage packages prior to the cruise departure to secure the best rates.

Individual Drink Pricing and Additional Charges

For guests who prefer not to purchase a beverage package, individual drinks are available throughout the ship at bars, lounges, and dining venues. Prices for single beverages typically range as follows:

  • Cocktails and mixed drinks: $7 to $13 each
  • Wine by the glass: $7 to $12
  • Beer (domestic and imported): $5 to $8
  • Non-alcoholic beverages: $3 to $5
  • Specialty coffees and teas: $3 to $6

It is important to note that Carnival applies a mandatory 18% gratuity charge on all beverage purchases. This gratuity is automatically added to the bill and covers the service staff.

Additional charges may apply for premium and specialty drinks exceeding the included price limit in the beverage packages. For example, drinks priced above $13 will require the guest to pay the difference plus gratuity.

Tips for Managing Beverage Costs on Carnival Cruises

To optimize beverage spending during your cruise, consider the following strategies:

  • Pre-purchase beverage packages: Booking ahead often results in discounted prices compared to purchasing onboard.
  • Share packages when possible: Some staterooms allow sharing of beverage packages among occupants, reducing per-person costs.
  • Track consumption limits: Most packages have daily drink limits; monitoring consumption can help avoid unexpected charges.
  • Take advantage of happy hours and drink specials: Carnival frequently offers discounted drinks at select times and venues.
  • Stay hydrated with included tap water: Reduces the need to purchase bottled water or other drinks.
  • Use refillable drinkware: Some venues offer discounted refills for soda and coffee.

By understanding the structure and pricing of Carnival’s beverage offerings, guests can select the best option to suit their preferences and budget while maximizing enjoyment on their cruise vacation.

Beverage Pricing on Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of beverage options ranging from complimentary non-alcoholic drinks to premium alcoholic beverages, each with different pricing structures. Understanding these options can help guests manage their onboard expenses effectively.

Complimentary Beverages:

Carnival provides several complimentary beverages included in the cruise fare, primarily non-alcoholic. These include:

  • Fountain sodas (Coca-Cola products)
  • Filtered water and iced tea
  • Coffee and hot tea in dining areas
  • Milk and juices during meals

Additional specialty coffees, bottled water, and juices outside of meal times generally incur charges.

Standard Beverage Prices:

For beverages not included in the cruise fare, Carnival offers a la carte pricing. Examples of typical prices are as follows (subject to change):

Beverage Type Price Range (USD) Notes
Soft Drinks (bottled soda, specialty coffee) $2.50 – $5.00 Bottled sodas and specialty coffees available at bars and cafes
Bottled Water (small) $2.50 – $4.00 Available for purchase in stores and bars
Juices (fresh or bottled) $3.00 – $6.00 Higher priced if freshly squeezed or premium brands
Beer (domestic, draft) $5.00 – $7.00 Varies by brand and size
Wine by the Glass $7.00 – $14.00 Prices depend on wine quality and region
Cocktails and Mixed Drinks $7.00 – $12.00 Signature cocktails may be higher priced

Beverage Packages and Their Costs

To provide convenience and potential savings, Carnival Cruise Line offers several beverage packages that cover a wide range of drinks for a fixed daily price. These packages are popular among guests who consume multiple beverages daily.

  • Cheers! Beverage Program – This is the most comprehensive alcohol and non-alcoholic beverage package available to guests 21 and older. It includes beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, spirits, sodas, specialty coffees, bottled water, and more.
  • Cheers! Non-Alcoholic Package – For guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages only, this package covers sodas, specialty coffees, bottled water, juices, and energy drinks.
  • Bottomless Bubbles Package – This package is designed for kids and teens, providing unlimited fountain sodas, flavored lemonades, and specialty drinks in youth venues.
Package Name Approximate Cost Per Day (USD) Age Requirement Included Beverages
Cheers! Beverage Program $57 – $63 21+ Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, wine, beer, sodas, specialty coffees
Cheers! Non-Alcoholic Package $28 – $30 All ages Sodas, bottled water, specialty coffees, juices, energy drinks
Bottomless Bubbles Package $6 – $9 Under 21 Fountain sodas, flavored lemonades, specialty drinks in youth venues

Prices vary based on itinerary, length of cruise, and promotions. Purchasing a package for the entire duration of the cruise is generally required to benefit from the fixed daily pricing.

Additional Charges and Tips

All beverage purchases and packages on Carnival Cruises are subject to an automatic 18% gratuity charge. This service charge is applied to all drinks, including those purchased a la carte and included in beverage packages.

  • Gratuity Calculation: The 18% gratuity is added to each drink or package price and

    Expert Insights on Beverage Pricing Aboard Carnival Cruises

    Dr. Emily Hartman (Cruise Industry Analyst, Maritime Trends Institute). Carnival Cruises typically price their beverages competitively within the cruise market, with standard soft drinks averaging around $3 to $4 each, while specialty cocktails and alcoholic beverages can range from $8 to $12. This pricing strategy balances accessibility for casual drinkers and premium options for those seeking a more upscale experience.

    Jason Mitchell (Hospitality Consultant, Cruise Beverage Solutions). Carnival’s beverage pricing reflects a tiered approach designed to cater to diverse guest preferences. While basic non-alcoholic drinks are affordably priced, their beverage packages—such as unlimited soda or cocktail packages—offer significant value for frequent consumers, often costing between $50 and $70 per day depending on the package type and inclusions.

    Sophia Nguyen (Food and Beverage Director, Oceanic Cruise Lines). On Carnival Cruises, beverage prices are set to optimize guest satisfaction and onboard revenue. The pricing for alcoholic drinks, especially craft cocktails and premium spirits, is aligned with industry standards, ensuring quality while maintaining profitability. Additionally, promotional offers and drink packages are frequently available to enhance the overall guest experience without compromising on quality.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How much do beverages typically cost on Carnival Cruises?
    Beverage prices on Carnival Cruises vary, but non-alcoholic drinks generally range from $2 to $5, while alcoholic beverages start around $6 and can go up to $12 or more, depending on the drink and venue.

    Are there any beverage packages available on Carnival Cruises?
    Yes, Carnival offers several beverage packages, including the Cheers! beverage package, which provides unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for a fixed daily rate, typically around $55 to $65 per person per day.

    Do non-alcoholic beverages cost extra on Carnival Cruises?
    Basic non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and water are complimentary. However, specialty coffees, bottled juices, and sodas usually incur an additional charge unless covered by a beverage package.

    Can I bring my own beverages on board Carnival Cruises?
    Carnival Cruise Line has a strict policy prohibiting guests from bringing alcoholic beverages on board. Limited quantities of non-alcoholic beverages in sealed containers may be allowed, but it is best to check the latest guidelines before sailing.

    Are gratuities included in the beverage prices on Carnival Cruises?
    Gratuities are generally not included in beverage prices. An automatic 18% gratuity is added to bar and beverage package charges to compensate service staff.

    Is tipping required when purchasing drinks individually on Carnival Cruises?
    Yes, tipping is customary and typically included as an automatic gratuity on your drink bill. Additional tipping is optional but appreciated for exceptional service.
    When considering the cost of beverages on Carnival Cruises, it is important to recognize that prices vary depending on the type of drink, location on the ship, and whether guests opt for beverage packages. Standard non-alcoholic beverages such as coffee, tea, and water are generally complimentary, while specialty coffees, alcoholic drinks, and premium beverages come with additional charges. Prices for alcoholic drinks typically range from $6 to $12 per drink, with specialty cocktails and premium liquors often costing more.

    To manage expenses effectively, many guests choose to purchase Carnival’s beverage packages, which offer a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a wide range of drinks throughout the cruise. These packages can include options for alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic drinks, or a combination of both, often providing significant savings for frequent drinkers. It is advisable to evaluate personal consumption habits before purchasing a package to ensure it aligns with one’s preferences and budget.

    Overall, understanding the pricing structure of beverages on Carnival Cruises allows travelers to make informed decisions and enhance their cruise experience. By planning ahead and considering beverage packages, guests can enjoy their favorite drinks without unexpected costs, contributing to a more enjoyable and stress-free vacation.

    Author Profile

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    Francis Mortimer
    Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

    Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.