What drinks are included on a cruise and are drinks packages worth it?

Find out which drinks are included on cruise holidays, how beverage packages work and when they may help control your onboard costs.

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Basic tea and coffee are usually included in the main buffet and restaurant areas. This does not always include espresso-based drinks, branded coffee, speciality teas or drinks bought in cafés and bars. Filtered water is commonly available, while bottled water may cost extra unless it is included in your fare or package.

If you have dietary, medical or infant-feeding requirements, check what is available before sailing and consider asking the cruise line whether you can bring suitable drinks onboard.

A cruise beverage package may be worthwhile if you expect to buy several chargeable drinks each day, prefer premium brands, or want a simpler way to manage cruise onboard costs. It may be less suitable if you mainly drink included tea, coffee and water, spend time ashore, or do not drink alcohol.

Compare the package’s daily cost with the prices of the drinks you would realistically order. Check whether the package includes service charges, whether there is a daily limit, and which brands, venues and drink sizes are covered. Some cruise lines require everyone sharing a cabin who is of legal drinking age to buy a package, while others apply different rules. Package terms can also vary by fare and itinerary.

Read the cruise line’s current terms before booking, as exclusions and package conditions can change.

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The best choice depends on your drinking habits, itinerary, fare and the cruise line’s terms. A package can provide convenience, but paying as you go may offer better value for guests who mainly choose the cruise drinks included in their fare.