Are you curious about the cost of Carnival Cruise drink packages? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the pricing of Carnival Cruise drink packages and provide you with all the details you need to know. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking to relax with a refreshing beverage, we’ll break down the different options available and help you find the perfect package to suit your needs and budget. So sit back, grab a drink (or maybe wait until after you’ve read this), and let’s find out just how much those Carnival Cruise drink packages actually cost.
Different types of drink packages
If you’re planning to embark on a Carnival Cruise, you’ll want to make sure you have the perfect beverage package to suit your needs. Carnival offers several different options to choose from, each designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. Let’s take a closer look at the various drink packages available and what they have to offer.
Package 1: Cheers! Beverage Program
One of the most popular drink packages offered by Carnival is the Cheers! Beverage Program. With this package, you’ll have the freedom to enjoy a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise. The price for the Cheers! Beverage Program varies depending on the duration of your cruise.
For 2-4 days cruises, the price is set at a reasonable rate. If you’re embarking on a journey that lasts 5-8 days, the price will be slightly higher. For cruises that span 9 days or longer, there is yet another price tier. This tiered pricing system ensures that you’ll always have a fair price based on the length of your cruise.
Package 2: Bottomless Bubbles
If you’re not a fan of alcoholic beverages and prefer to stick to soft drinks, the Bottomless Bubbles package is perfect for you. For a fixed price per person, you can enjoy unlimited soda and other non-alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise. This package is ideal for families with children or anyone who prefers to stay refreshed with refreshing non-alcoholic options.
When it comes to age restrictions, the Bottomless Bubbles package has none. It’s available to guests of all ages, making it a convenient choice for families or groups with varying preferences. The eligibility of beverages included in this package is solely limited to non-alcoholic options.
Package 3: Classic Soda Package
Similar to the Bottomless Bubbles package, the Classic Soda Package is designed for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. For a fixed price per person, you’ll have access to unlimited soda and non-alcoholic drinks throughout your cruise. However, unlike the Bottomless Bubbles package, the Classic Soda Package may not be available on every Carnival ship.
The selection of eligible beverages for the Classic Soda Package remains the same as the Bottomless Bubbles package, with a focus on non-alcoholic options. Therefore, if you’re looking to quench your thirst with sodas and other non-alcoholic drinks, this package can be a great option. Just remember to double-check its availability on your specific cruise ship.
Package 4: Alcoholic Beverage Package
For those who enjoy indulging in alcoholic beverages during their vacation, Carnival offers an Alcoholic Beverage Package. This package allows you to savor a wide range of alcoholic drinks, including a variety of beers, wines, and spirits. The price per person for the Alcoholic Beverage Package is set at a fixed rate.
However, it’s essential to note that the Alcoholic Beverage Package does come with certain restrictions based on the duration of your cruise. Be sure to check the specific limitations associated with this package before making your purchase. This way, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of what is included and plan accordingly.
Additional costs and considerations
While the drink packages provide excellent value for unlimited access to beverages, it’s important to consider a few additional costs and factors. One such consideration is the gratuities associated with these packages. Carnival applies a service charge to all drink packages, typically charged per person, per day, which covers the gratuities for the bartenders and waitstaff.
It’s also worth noting that there may be additional charges for premium or specialty beverages not included in the selected drink package. If you have specific preferences for high-end wines or premium liquors, you may need to pay extra for these options. However, the vast majority of beverages are already included in the packages, ensuring you can enjoy a wide range of drinks without incurring any additional costs.
Another factor to consider is the availability of non-alcoholic options. While the Cheers! Beverage Program and Alcoholic Beverage Package primarily focus on alcoholic beverages, there are still many non-alcoholic options available. Whether you prefer refreshing mocktails or non-alcoholic beer, you’ll be able to find a variety of choices to suit your taste.
Validity and restrictions are also important to keep in mind when selecting a drink package. Each package has its own terms and conditions, including the length of time it is valid for and any restrictions on sharing between guests. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these details to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free experience during your cruise.
How to purchase drink packages
Purchasing a drink package for your Carnival cruise is a straightforward process. You have two options for making your purchase—before your cruise or during your cruise.
If you prefer to plan ahead and have everything sorted before you board the ship, you can purchase your desired drink package online. Carnival allows guests to make their drink package selections and complete their purchase through the online Cruise Personalizer. This ensures that you have one less thing to worry about when you embark on your much-anticipated journey.
However, if you decide to wait and see what’s available once you’re onboard, you can also purchase a drink package during your cruise. Carnival’s friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you in making your selection and making the necessary arrangements.
Promotions and discounts
Carnival often offers promotions and discounts on their drink packages, giving guests the opportunity to save even more on their vacation expenses. One of the most common types of promotions is the early booking promotions. By booking your cruise in advance, you may be eligible for discounted rates on various drink packages, including the Cheers! Beverage Program, Bottomless Bubbles, and the Alcoholic Beverage Package.
Another opportunity to score great deals on drink packages is through onboard promotions. During your cruise, Carnival may offer special discounts or incentives for guests who haven’t yet purchased a drink package. Keep an eye out for these onboard promotions, and take advantage of the fantastic opportunities to enjoy your favorite beverages at discounted prices.
Prepaid vs Pay-as-you-go
When it comes to purchasing a drink package, you’ll have to decide whether prepaid or pay-as-you-go is the better option for you. Both choices have their own advantages, and it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and budget before making a decision.
One of the advantages of prepaid packages is the ability to budget and plan your expenses in advance. By purchasing a drink package before your cruise, you can have complete peace of mind knowing that your beverage costs are already taken care of. This can be especially helpful for those who prefer to have a predictable spending plan for their vacation.
On the other hand, pay-as-you-go allows for more flexibility and spontaneity. If you’re not entirely sure how often you’ll be indulging in beverages during your cruise, or if you prefer to have the freedom to choose on a daily basis, pay-as-you-go might be a better option for you. With this option, you’ll only pay for the drinks you consume, making it a more suitable choice for those who aren’t heavy drinkers or have specific preferences.
Several factors should be taken into consideration when deciding between prepaid and pay-as-you-go. These factors include your drinking habits, anticipated consumption, and overall budget. By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Comparison with other cruise lines
While Carnival offers a wide selection of drink packages, it’s always helpful to compare their offerings with those of other cruise lines. This comparison will give you a better understanding of the value and variety available across the industry. Let’s take a quick look at how Carnival’s drink packages stack up against two other popular cruise lines.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean, another renowned cruise line, offers a comparable beverage package known as the Deluxe Beverage Package. This package includes a vast selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including premium brands and specialty coffees. However, it’s worth noting that the pricing for Royal Caribbean’s drink package is separate from the cruise fare, whereas Carnival incorporates it into the overall cruise price.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line offers various drink package options, including the Ultimate Beverage Package and the Corks and Caps Wine and Beer Package. These packages cover a wide range of alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic options, allowing guests to find a package that suits their preferences. Norwegian’s pricing for drink packages is similar to Carnival, with rates varying based on the duration of the cruise.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises provides several beverage packages to cater to different preferences. The Premier Beverage Package is the most inclusive package available, offering a range of cocktails, beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, Princess Cruises offers a Soda Package for those who prefer unlimited soft drinks during their cruise.
By comparing the offerings of various cruise lines, you can determine which drink package provides the best value and variety for your specific needs. It’s always a good idea to explore all the options available and consider the individual benefits of each cruise line’s offerings.
In conclusion, Carnival offers a variety of drink packages to suit every guest’s preferences and budget. Whether you’re looking for unlimited alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic options, or a combination of both, Carnival has you covered. By familiarizing yourself with the different packages, additional costs, and promotions available, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your cruise experience and keep your thirst quenched throughout your voyage. Cheers to a memorable and refreshing vacation with Carnival!
