How To Pay For Drinks On Scenic Luxury Cruises: What Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Guests Should Know for 2026
Short answer first, then the details that actually matter for Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours guests.
Gratuities are included in your fare, one of several all-inclusive touches Scenic is known for, alongside included drinks, Wi-Fi, and most excursions - including helicopter and submarine excursions on select sailings.
Our advisors can confirm the current details for your exact sailing - call +1-800-406-8495 anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pay for drinks on Scenic?
Drinks are charged to your onboard account, which is linked to a credit card (or cash deposit) when you check in - you'll sign for each purchase and the full balance settles automatically at the end of the cruise.
Can I use cash to pay for drinks onboard?
Most ships are largely cashless for onboard purchases, though some allow a cash deposit to fund your onboard account instead of a credit card.
Is gratuity automatically added to drink purchases?
Yes, most lines automatically add an 18% service charge to each drink purchase in addition to any daily gratuity charge on your account.
Can I set a spending limit on my onboard account?
Some lines let you set alerts or limits through the app, though a hard spending cap isn't standard across all cruise lines - check your specific line's account settings.
Do drink package holders still need to pay per drink?
No, package holders simply present their card or wristband at the bar - the package covers included drinks up to the package's price ceiling, with no separate charge.
Who can explain the drink pricing on Scenic before I sail?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and our advisors can walk through current à la carte and package pricing.
Do I need cash onboard to pay for drinks?
No, cruise ships operate on a cashless system where drinks and other purchases are charged to your onboard account, tied to a credit card or cash deposit set up at check-in.
Can I set a spending limit for drinks on my Scenic onboard account?
Some lines allow you to set a spending cap or alert on your onboard account, which can help manage costs if you're not on an unlimited drink package.
How do I know how much I've spent on drinks so far?
Most cruise line apps let you check your real-time onboard account balance, including itemized drink purchases, throughout the cruise.
Can I split a drink tab with someone else in a different cabin?
Generally no, each onboard account is tied to an individual guest's cabin folio, so purchases are charged to whoever ordered, though some lines allow linking accounts for a shared family tab.