Cocktail prices on Carnival cruises range from about $7 to $15 per drink, depending on what you order and whether you buy them individually or as part of a package

Most mixed drinks at the bar cost between $8 and $12. Specialty cocktails—the ones with multiple ingredients, premium liquor, or a fancy presentation—run closer to $13 to $15. Beer is typically $6 to $8, wine by the glass is $7 to $10, and soft drinks are $3 to $4. These prices are per drink, charged when you order, unless you purchase a beverage package that covers multiple drinks upfront.

Carnival does not include alcohol in the base cruise fare, so every drink is an add-on cost. The ship has multiple bars, pool bars, and specialty lounges, so you will encounter these prices throughout your voyage. Knowing the structure ahead of time helps you decide whether to pay as you go or buy a package.

Key Takeaways

  • Individual cocktails cost $8 to $15 depending on the type; beer and wine are $6 to $10.
  • Beverage packages cover unlimited drinks for a flat daily rate, which may save money if you drink more than two or three cocktails per day.
  • Packages must be purchased before or on the first day of your cruise and explore to your entire stay.
  • Specialty venues like the wine bar or premium lounges charge extra on top of package prices or cost more per drink if you pay individually.
  • Non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, and water are included in your cruise fare or available at no charge at most venues.

How beverage packages work and what they cover

Carnival offers several beverage packages that let you pay one flat rate per day instead of buying drinks individually. The most common is the Cheers Package, which covers unlimited beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks at most bars and restaurants on the ship. The daily cost varies by cruise length and when you book—typically ranging from $15 to $20 per person per day if purchased before your cruise, or $17 to $22 if bought onboard.

A second option is the Premium Beverage Package, which includes everything in Cheers plus premium spirits and specialty cocktails. This costs more—usually $25 to $35 per person per day depending on when you purchase it. Both packages are per-person, per-day charges that you pay upfront for your entire cruise.

If you drink only occasionally, paying per drink may be cheaper. If you plan to have two or more cocktails daily, a package usually saves money. The math depends on your drinking habits and how long your cruise lasts.

What is not covered by beverage packages

Beverage packages do not cover drinks at specialty venues. Carnival's premium lounges, wine bars, and some themed bars charge extra even if you have a package. For example, the Alchemy Bar or wine-tasting venues may add $5 to $10 per drink on top of your package, or charge a separate fee to enter.

Room service drinks are also not included in most packages. If you order alcohol to your cabin, you will be charged separately. Bottled water and coffee from the main dining room or buffet are free, but premium coffee drinks from specialty coffee bars cost extra.

Drinks purchased at ports of call are not covered either. If you buy a cocktail at a beach bar or restaurant when the ship is docked, you pay the local price, not your onboard rate.

How to purchase a beverage package

You can buy a beverage package online through Carnival's website before your cruise, during the final payment period, or onboard on the first day of your voyage. Buying before your cruise usually gives you the lowest price. Purchasing onboard costs more but is an option if you decide once you are already on the ship.

To buy online, log into your Carnival account, find your reservation, and select the beverage package option. You will see the daily rate and the total cost for your entire cruise. The charge is added to your onboard account, which you settle when you leave the ship.

If you buy onboard, visit the Guest Services desk on your first day. Staff can explain the current package prices and add it to your account when ready. Packages take effect the day you purchase them, so buying on day one means you pay for the full remaining length of your cruise.

Comparing individual purchases versus a package

Here is how to decide which option makes sense for you. If you plan to have one drink per day or fewer, paying individually is cheaper. At $10 per cocktail, one drink daily costs $70 over a seven-day cruise. A Cheers Package for seven days might cost $105 to $140, so you would lose money.

If you plan two to three drinks per day, a package breaks even or saves a small amount. Three cocktails at $10 each is $30 per day, or $210 over seven days. A package at $17 per day is $119 for the week—a clear savings.

If you plan more than three drinks daily, a package saves significantly. Four drinks at $10 each is $40 per day, or $280 over a week. The same package at $17 per day costs $119 total.

Remember that package prices vary by cruise length and booking date. Always check Carnival's website for your specific sailing to compare the exact numbers.

Tips for managing drink costs on your cruise

If you do not buy a package, order water and soft drinks at meals—these are free. Many guests do not realize that coffee, tea, and juice at breakfast are included, which saves money if you drink them instead of alcohol.

Happy hour specials sometimes appear on the daily program or at specific bars. These offer discounted drinks for a limited time, usually in the late afternoon. Check your cabin's daily newsletter or ask at the bar what specials are running.

If you are traveling with a group, consider whether everyone should buy the same package. Some people may prefer to pay per drink while others buy a package. Each person can choose independently, so you do not all have to match.

Bring your room key card to every bar—you cannot order a drink without it, and it is how charges are added to your account. If you lose it, report it to Guest Services when ready so no one else can charge drinks to your room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a beverage package for only part of my cruise?

No. Packages are sold per day for your entire cruise length. You cannot buy a package for days three through five only. However, you can buy a package onboard on any day, and it will cover from that day forward for the remainder of your voyage.

Do tips for bartenders and servers get included in the package price?

No. Beverage packages cover the drink itself. Gratuity is separate and is typically added automatically to your onboard account at a standard rate (usually 15 to 18 percent). You can adjust this at Guest Services if you wish.

What happens if I buy a package and do not drink much?

The package cost is non-refundable. If you purchase it and then drink fewer cocktails than you expected, you cannot get a refund for the unused portion. This is why estimating your drinking habits before buying is important.

Are there free drinks anywhere on the Carnival ship?

Yes. Coffee, tea, juice, and water are free at meals and at most buffet areas. Soft drinks are free in your cabin if you request them from room service (though premium drinks are not). Alcoholic drinks are never free unless you have a beverage package.

Can I share a beverage package with someone else in my cabin?

No. Each package is tied to one person's room key card. If two people want package coverage, each must purchase their own package. You cannot pool money and buy one package to share.