Is The Beverage Package Worth Buying On Norwegian Cruise Line: What Norwegian Cruise Line Guests Should Know for 2026
Plenty of Norwegian Cruise Line guests ask about whether the drink package is worth it, so here's a clear rundown of how it actually works.
To answer that, it helps to see exactly what the package covers: $20 per person, per day for Club Balcony Suites and below, rising to $25 per person, per day for The Haven and other top suite categories.
Rules on whether the drink package is worth it can shift by ship and season, so it's worth a quick call to +1-800-406-8495 before you finalize plans. This is one of those details worth confirming close to your sail date, since packages and pricing are occasionally refreshed each season. Worth keeping in mind either way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the beverage package worth buying on Norwegian?
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. This can also depend on whether you're sailing during a promotional period, when packages are sometimes discounted or bundled with other perks. Not a bad idea to keep that in your back pocket.
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. Menus and package details can vary slightly by ship, so it's worth checking what's currently offered on your specific vessel. That detail alone can save some back-and-forth later.
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. Menus and package details can vary slightly by ship, so it's worth checking what's currently offered on your specific vessel. That's the short version, at least.
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. It helps to check whether gratuities are already included in a package price or added separately at checkout. Good to know before you finalize anything.
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. 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.
Who can help calculate if a package makes sense for my Norwegian cruise?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and our advisors can run the numbers based on your typical drinking habits. Menus and package details can vary slightly by ship, so it's worth checking what's currently offered on your specific vessel. Good to know before you finalize anything.
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. Menus and package details can vary slightly by ship, so it's worth checking what's currently offered on your specific vessel. Worth keeping in mind either way.
Does Norwegian 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. Comparing the package cost against your expected daily consumption is the most reliable way to know if it's worth it for your trip. Worth keeping in mind either way.
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. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.
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. For groups sharing a cabin, it's worth checking whether everyone in the room is required to buy the same package. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.