Carnival drink prices in 2024

A beer on a Carnival cruise costs between $6 and $8 per drink, depending on the ship and the type of beer you order. Well drinks (basic spirits mixed with soda or juice) run $7 to $9. Wine by the glass is $8 to $11. Specialty cocktails and frozen drinks cost $10 to $14. These prices are higher than you would pay on land, but they are lower than on some competing cruise lines.

Carnival does not include alcohol in the base fare. Every drink is an à la carte purchase charged to your onboard account, which you settle at the end of the cruise. Soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water are free at the buffet and dining venues, but bottled water and specialty coffee drinks (like lattes) cost extra.

Key Takeaways

  • Beer costs $6 to $8 per drink; well drinks run $7 to $9; cocktails and frozen drinks are $10 to $14.
  • Alcohol is not included in your cruise fare and is charged individually to your onboard account.
  • A beverage package that covers unlimited drinks costs $65 to $85 per person per day, depending on the length of your cruise and which package you choose.
  • If you drink fewer than three alcoholic drinks per day, paying per drink is usually cheaper than buying a package.
  • Beverage packages must be purchased before you board or during the first day of your cruise; you cannot add them later.

Beverage packages and whether they save money

Carnival sells two main beverage packages. The Classic Beverage Package covers beer, wine, well drinks, and house cocktails for $65 to $85 per person per day (the price varies by cruise length and ship). The Premium Beverage Package adds top-shelf liquor and specialty drinks for $85 to $110 per person per day. Both packages include non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, and bottled water.

A package makes financial sense only if you drink heavily. If you order three beers at $7 each, you spend $21. A beverage package costs $65 to $85 per day. You would need to drink at least nine to twelve drinks per day to break even. Most casual drinkers pay less by ordering drinks individually.

Packages are non-refundable once purchased and cannot be added after you board (with rare exceptions during the first day). If you are unsure whether you will drink enough, skip the package and order as you go. You can always ask the bartender for a total at the end of the day if you want to track spending.

Where to buy drinks on the ship

Drinks are sold at the main pool bar, the piano bar, the nightclub, specialty lounges, and the dining room during dinner. You can also order from your cabin via room service, though a gratuity is automatically added. Bars close at set times (usually midnight to 2 a.m., depending on the venue), so plan accordingly if you want a late-night drink.

Some bars offer happy hour pricing in the late afternoon, typically $1 off well drinks or beer. These deals are posted in your daily program or announced by the bartender. Tipping is customary: $1 to $2 per drink is standard, though it is not mandatory.

Comparing Carnival to other cruise lines

Carnival's drink prices are competitive but not the lowest. Royal Caribbean charges $7 to $9 for beer and $8 to $12 for cocktails — slightly higher than Carnival. Norwegian Cruise Line includes beer and well drinks in some cabin categories, which can save money if you book the right stateroom. Disney Cruise Line charges $9 to $12 for beer and does not offer a beverage package, making it the most expensive option for drinkers.

If you plan to drink regularly, compare the total cost of beverages across lines before booking. A cheaper cruise fare can be offset by higher drink prices over a week-long voyage.

Bringing your own alcohol aboard

Carnival prohibits passengers from bringing beer, wine, or spirits onboard. The policy applies to all passengers and is enforced at embarkation. Violations can result in confiscation and removal from the ship. Some passengers attempt to hide alcohol in water bottles or other containers, but security screening catches most attempts.

The only exception is wine purchased at the port of call on the last day of your cruise, which you may bring to your cabin (not to public areas). This loophole allows you to buy wine at a port shop and drink it in your stateroom that evening, but you cannot bring it to dinner or the bar.

Tracking your drink spending

Every drink is charged to your onboard account automatically. You can check your balance at any time using the Carnival Hub app or by visiting the front desk. The app shows itemized charges, so you can see exactly what you ordered and when.

If you notice an error or a drink you did not order, report it to the front desk before you disembark. Carnival will investigate and correct legitimate mistakes. Keep your receipt from the bartender if you want proof of what you purchased.

Money-saving strategies

Order water or iced tea instead of soda to cut costs. Both are free at meals and at the buffet. If you want a mixed drink, order a well drink instead of a premium spirit — the difference is $2 to $4 per drink. Some passengers buy a bottle of liquor at a port and drink it in their cabin before dinner, then order non-alcoholic drinks at the bar; this is legal as long as you do not bring the bottle into public areas.

If you are traveling with a group, split a bottle of wine at dinner instead of ordering individual glasses. A bottle costs roughly the same as three to four glasses but serves more people. Ask your server if this option is available at your dining time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a bottle of wine from home onto the ship?

No. Carnival prohibits all outside alcohol. The only exception is wine purchased at a port shop on the last day of your cruise, which you may bring to your cabin but not to public areas.

Do kids' drinks cost money?

Soft drinks, juice, and water are free for children at meals and the buffet. Specialty drinks like smoothies or bottled beverages cost extra, typically $3 to $5.

What happens if I lose my room key and cannot pay my drink tab?

Your onboard account is linked to your cabin, not your key. You can settle your bill at the front desk using your cabin number and last name. If you dispute charges, report them before disembarkation.

Are there any free drinks on a Carnival cruise?

Water, coffee, tea, and soft drinks at meals and the buffet are free. Alcoholic drinks, bottled water, and specialty beverages are always charged separately.

Can I purchase a beverage package after I board?

Beverage packages are sold before boarding and during the first day of your cruise. After that, you cannot add a package and must pay per drink for the remainder of the voyage.