One of the biggest cruise expenses usually isn’t the cruise itself. It’s the bar tab afterward
A lot of first-time cruisers book what looks like a great deal…
Then suddenly realize they’re paying extra for:
- Bottled water
- Specialty coffee
- Soda
- Cocktails
- Wine at dinner
- WiFi
- Gratuities
And by the end of the trip?
The onboard bill can feel shockingly high.
That’s why more travelers are now specifically looking for cruise lines that either:
- Include drink packages automatically.
- Bundle them into upgraded fares.
- Or offer all-inclusive cruise pricing from the start.
The good news is that several cruise lines now make it possible to sail without constantly signing bar receipts all week long.
And honestly, once you experience cruising without worrying about every drink purchase…
It’s hard to go back.
Cruise Lines That Include Drink Packages in Select Fares
Not every cruise line is fully all-inclusive, but several major brands now offer upgraded fare packages that bundle drinks into the cruise price.
For many travelers, these packages end up saving a surprising amount of money — especially on longer sailings.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises takes a slightly more upscale approach with its “All Included” pricing option.
Instead of adding packages individually, guests can choose fares that already include:
- Classic drink packages.
- Basic WiFi.
The cruise line says the bundled pricing can save passengers hundreds compared to purchasing everything separately onboard.
This option has become especially popular among travelers who prefer:
- A more relaxed onboard experience.
- Fewer surprise charges.
- Simpler budgeting before sailing.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line has become one of the best-known mainstream cruise lines for bundled drink deals thanks to its popular “Free at Sea” offers.
With many bookings, guests can receive:
- Unlimited open bar packages.
- WiFi.
- Specialty dining credits.
- Shore excursion discounts.
That means many passengers board already knowing most of their vacation extras are covered.
And let’s be honest…
Unlimited mojitos by the pool feel a lot better when you’re not mentally calculating every single one.
Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises does things a little differently.
Instead of automatically including drinks, guests often choose between:
- Shore excursion credits.
or - A complimentary House Beverage Package.
For passengers who care more about wine with dinner than organized tours in port…
The beverage package can end up being the smarter value.
Oceania especially appeals to travelers who prioritize:
- Food
- Longer itineraries
- Destination-focused cruising
Windstar Cruises
Small-ship cruise fans also have options.
Windstar Cruises frequently offers all-inclusive upgrade promotions that bundle:
- Alcoholic beverages
- WiFi
- Gratuities
Because Windstar ships are much smaller and more intimate than mega-ships, many guests appreciate not constantly worrying about extra charges during a more relaxed sailing experience.
Cruise Lines Offering “Bundle” Packages With Drinks Included
Some cruise lines don’t include drinks automatically…
But they offer combo packages that can significantly reduce overall vacation costs.
And in many cases, frequent cruisers say these bundles are worth it.
Azamara Cruises
Azamara Cruises leans even further into bundled luxury-style pricing.
Its combo packages may include:
- Ultimate beverage packages.
- Shore excursion credits.
- Spa credits.
- Laundry.
- WiFi.
Azamara focuses heavily on immersive destination cruising, so many guests appreciate having most onboard expenses handled upfront before longer port-intensive itineraries begin.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers its “Have It All” package, which combines:
- Drink packages.
- Shore excursions.
- Specialty dining.
- WiFi.
The package usually starts around:
- $60 per day, per person.
And for travelers who already planned to purchase WiFi and drinks anyway…
The math often works in their favor pretty quickly.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises now heavily promotes its:
- Princess Plus
- Princess Premier
packages.
Both include drink packages, though there’s an important difference.
Princess Plus:
- Includes drinks.
- Has a 15-drink daily cap.
Princess Premier:
- Offers much more extensive beverage coverage.
- Includes unlimited drinks in many situations.
These packages also typically bundle:
- WiFi
- Crew appreciation/gratuities
- Casual dining perks
For many Alaska and Caribbean cruisers, Princess Plus has become almost the “default” way people book.
Cruise Lines That Basically Include Everything
Then there’s the luxury category…
Where cruise fares often already include almost everything from the start.
These cruises usually cost more upfront, but onboard spending can end up being dramatically lower.
Fully All-Inclusive Cruise Lines
These luxury cruise brands typically include drinks automatically in the fare:
- Crystal Cruises.
- Silversea Cruises.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
- Explora Journeys.
- Seabourn Cruise Line.
On these lines, fares often include:
- WiFi
- Gratuities
- Fine dining
- Premium alcohol
- Butler service (on some ships)
- Excursions on select itineraries
The pricing can look expensive initially…
But many luxury cruisers love the fact that once they board, they barely think about money again.
Are Drink Packages Actually Worth It?
That depends heavily on:
- How much do you drink?
- Whether you buy specialty coffee or soda.
- If WiFi is bundled too.
- Your cruise length.
- Your travel style.
For some passengers, drink packages save hundreds.
For others who only occasionally drink wine at dinner…
Paying separately may still be cheaper.
That’s why experienced cruisers usually compare:
- Daily package pricing.
- Included extras.
- Drink limits.
- Gratuities attached to beverage plans.
before booking.
Final Thoughts
Cruise lines know passengers hate surprise onboard bills.
That’s exactly why more brands are shifting toward:
- Bundle pricing.
- Included beverage packages.
- More all-inclusive-style fares.
And for many travelers, it genuinely makes the vacation feel less stressful.
Because there’s something really relaxing about ordering a cocktail by the pool…
Without wondering what it’ll cost when the final bill arrives.
