Is The Beverage Package Worth Buying On Lindblad Expeditions: What Lindblad Expeditions Guests Should Know for 2026
Short answer first on whether the drink package is worth it, then the details that actually matter for Lindblad Expeditions guests.
To answer that, it helps to see exactly what the package covers: Gratuities are generally not included in the fare and are left to guest discretion, following typical expedition cruise tipping norms for the crew and expedition staff.
Since whether the drink package is worth it can vary by cabin category and sail date, an advisor at +1-800-406-8495 can confirm exactly what applies to your booking. Menus and package details can vary slightly by ship, so it's worth checking what's currently offered on your specific vessel. Easy to overlook, but it's worth a mental note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the beverage package worth buying on Lindblad Expeditions?
It depends on your habits - guests who'd have 4+ drinks a day typically save money with a package, while those who drink less often usually spend less paying à la carte. Comparing the package cost against your expected daily consumption is the most reliable way to know if it's worth it for your trip. That's the short version, at least.
Does the package include specialty coffees and bottled water?
Most premium packages include specialty coffees, bottled water, and soft drinks in addition to alcohol, though the exact inclusions vary by tier and cruise line. It's worth asking whether a package needs to be purchased before boarding to lock in a lower rate versus buying it once onboard. Easy to overlook, but it's worth a mental note.
Is there a cheaper non-alcoholic package option?
Yes, most lines offer a soda or non-alcoholic beverage package at a lower price point for guests who don't drink alcohol but still want unlimited specialty drinks. It's worth asking whether a package needs to be purchased before boarding to lock in a lower rate versus buying it once onboard. Good to know before you finalize anything.
Can I share a package with someone else in my cabin?
No, most lines require all adults sharing a cabin to purchase the same package rather than allowing one package to be shared. Specialty dining venues sometimes have their own separate rules from the main dining room, so it's worth asking about those specifically. Not a bad idea to keep that in your back pocket.
Is it cheaper to buy the package before sailing or onboard?
Almost always cheaper to prepay before sailing - onboard pricing for the same package is typically higher. It helps to check whether gratuities are already included in a package price or added separately at checkout. Not a bad idea to keep that in your back pocket.
Who can help calculate if a package makes sense for my Lindblad Expeditions cruise?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and our advisors can run the numbers based on your typical drinking habits. It's worth asking whether a package needs to be purchased before boarding to lock in a lower rate versus buying it once onboard. Easy to overlook, but it's worth a mental note.
How many drinks per day would make a beverage package worth it?
As a general rule of thumb, if you'd typically have 4 or more drinks a day, a package often pays for itself compared to paying per drink - light drinkers usually come out ahead without one. Pricing for packages tends to be updated periodically, so confirming the current rate before your cruise avoids surprises at checkout. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.
Does Lindblad Expeditions require everyone in the cabin to buy the package if one person does?
Some cruise lines require all adults sharing a cabin to purchase the same beverage package rather than letting one person buy it alone - check your specific line's current policy. If dietary restrictions are a factor, flagging them with the cruise line ahead of time usually gets a better result than asking once onboard. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.
Is the package cheaper if bought before boarding versus once onboard?
Yes, prepaying for a beverage package before your cruise is almost always cheaper than the price charged if you wait and purchase it once onboard. If dietary restrictions are a factor, flagging them with the cruise line ahead of time usually gets a better result than asking once onboard. That detail alone can save some back-and-forth later.
Does the beverage package include specialty coffee and bottled water?
Many packages include specialty coffee and bottled water, but this varies by cruise line and package tier, so it's worth checking the specific inclusions before buying. This can also depend on whether you're sailing during a promotional period, when packages are sometimes discounted or bundled with other perks. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.