NCL Drink Packages… Are they worth the price?

Should You Buy the “More At Sea” Drink Package on a Norwegian Cruise?

If you’re planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, one of the most common questions travelers ask is:

“Is the drink package actually worth it?”

Norwegian recently updated their offerings with the “More At Sea” program, which bundles perks like drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and excursion credits. While it’s often marketed as “free,” there are still service charges and some limitations travelers should understand.

So the real question becomes:

Should you buy it… or skip it?

Let’s break down what you get, how much drinks actually cost onboard, and when the package makes financial sense.

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What Is the Norwegian “More At Sea” Drink Package?

The More At Sea drink package is Norwegian’s upgraded beverage program offered with many cruise bookings. Instead of paying for drinks individually, the package allows guests to enjoy unlimited beverages up to a certain price limit during the cruise.

Typically, the package includes:

✔ Cocktails and mixed drinks

✔ Spirits and liquor

✔ Beer

✔ Wine by the glass

✔ Soda and fountain drinks

✔ Select juices

✔ Non-alcoholic cocktails

Most drinks are included up to about $15 per drink depending on the sailing.

If you order something more expensive, you simply pay the difference.

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What Drinks Actually Cost on a Norwegian Cruise

Cruise ship drink prices have risen significantly in recent years. Here are typical onboard prices you’ll see across Norwegian ships.

Beer

Domestic Beer: $7–$8

Imported Beer: $8–$10

Craft Beer: $9–$11

Wine by the Glass

House Wine: $10–$12

Premium Wine: $13–$18

Cocktails

Standard Cocktails: $11–$14

Premium Cocktails: $15–$18

Frozen Drinks

Pina Colada: $12–$14

Strawberry Daiquiri: $12–$14

Soda

Soda: $3–$4

Don’t forget the 20% gratuity that gets added to each purchase.

That means a $14 cocktail can easily become $17 after gratuity.

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What Does the Drink Package Actually Cost?

Many travelers think the drink package is free, but there’s an important detail.

Even when included as a promotion, Norwegian charges service gratuitiesbased on the retail value of the package.

Typical gratuity cost:

About $20–$30 per person per day

For a 7-night cruise, that usually means paying around:

$140–$210 per person

So while it’s cheaper than buying the package outright, it’s not completely free.

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How Many Drinks Do You Need to Break Even?

Let’s do some quick math.

Assume the gratuity cost is $180 for a 7-night cruise.

That equals about $26 per day.

If the average drink costs $13–$15, you break even with:

2 drinks per day

That’s it.

Two cocktails at the pool, a glass of wine with dinner, or a couple beers watching a show—and the package has already paid for itself.

For many cruisers, that’s extremely easy to reach.

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Who Should Definitely Get the Drink Package

For many travelers, the package is a no-brainer.

It makes sense if you:

You enjoy a few drinks each day

Even casual drinkers usually reach the break-even point.

You like specialty coffees or sodas

Many packages include these options, adding additional value.

You enjoy poolside cocktails

Frozen drinks by the pool can add up fast.

You like trying new drinks

With the package, there’s no hesitation about ordering something new.

You want predictable vacation costs

The package eliminates the surprise of a large onboard bar tab.

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Who Might Skip the Package

The drink package isn’t perfect for everyone.

You might skip it if:

You rarely drink alcohol

If you only have a drink every couple of days, paying individually may be cheaper.

You spend most days off the ship

Excursions can limit how much you drink onboard.

You only drink soda or water

In that case, a smaller beverage package might be better.

You’re traveling with teens or non-drinkers

Everyone in the cabin may be required to have a beverage package depending on booking rules.

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Hidden Advantages Most Travelers Don’t Think About

There are some unexpected benefits to having the drink package.

Faster bar service

Bartenders know you have the package, which speeds up ordering.

No hesitation ordering drinks

Guests tend to enjoy the vacation more without thinking about every purchase.

Better evening entertainment experience

Wine during a show or a cocktail in the lounge becomes effortless.

Pool and beach club drinks

Some private islands and destinations honor the package.

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A Few Important Limitations

There are still a few things travelers should know.

The drink package usually does not include:

❌ Bottled wine

❌ Mini bar purchases

❌ Room service alcohol

❌ Premium ultra-top shelf spirits

However, many bars onboard still offer plenty of options within the included price range.

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My Professional Travel Advisor Tip

As someone who helps travelers book cruises every week, here’s my honest advice:

If the drink package is included with gratuities only — take it.

Most people easily exceed the break-even point.

It also makes the cruise feel much more relaxed and all-inclusive.

Guests who decline the package often end up surprised by their final bar bill.

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Final Verdict: Is the Norwegian Drink Package Worth It?

For the vast majority of travelers cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line, the More At Sea drink package is absolutely worth it.

You usually only need two drinks per day to justify the cost.

Beyond the math, it adds convenience, flexibility, and a more carefree vacation experience.

And after all…

Isn’t that what a cruise is supposed to be about?

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Planning a Norwegian Cruise?

If you’re thinking about sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line, I’m happy to help you compare ships, itineraries, and promotions to make sure you get the best value.

📩 Reach out anytime to start planning your next cruise adventure.

— Mark’s Dream Vacations ✈️🚢

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If you’d like, I can also create:

• A short Facebook version that drives tra