Soda prices on Carnival cruise ships

Sodas on Carnival cruise ships cost between $2.50 and $3.50 per can or bottle, depending on the ship and when you purchase. A 16-ounce fountain drink at the buffet or pool bar runs about $3 to $3.50. Prices are higher than what you would pay on land, and Carnival does not include soft drinks in the base fare — you either buy them individually or add a beverage package.

The price varies slightly by ship class and location. Drinks ordered at a sit-down restaurant or specialty venue cost more than those from a poolside bar. Carnival also charges more for branded sodas and premium mixers, so a cola costs less than a specialty soda or energy drink.

If you plan to drink multiple sodas per day, the math shifts quickly. A single soda per day for a seven-day cruise costs $17.50 to $24.50 out of pocket. Most passengers find that a beverage package makes more financial sense if they drink more than one or two sodas daily.

Key Takeaways

  • Individual sodas cost $2.50 to $3.50 per drink on Carnival ships, with fountain drinks at the higher end of that range.
  • A beverage package that includes sodas costs roughly $15 to $18 per day, depending on the cruise length and package tier.
  • You can bring your own sealed, non-alcoholic beverages in your cabin, though Carnival limits the quantity to 12 standard bottles or cans per person.
  • Ordering sodas at specialty restaurants or premium venues costs more than at buffet or poolside bars.
  • Purchasing a package before your cruise is usually cheaper than buying drinks on board.

Beverage packages that include sodas

Carnival offers several beverage packages, and the ones that include sodas are the Cheers Beverage Package and the Premium Beverage Package. The Cheers package includes unlimited sodas, coffee, tea, and most alcoholic drinks. The Premium package adds premium spirits and wine selections. Both are priced per person, per day.

Pricing for these packages varies by cruise length and how far in advance you book. A seven-day Cheers package typically costs between $15 and $18 per person per day if purchased before your cruise. Buying the package on board costs more — usually $20 to $25 per day. A three-day cruise package runs lower, around $12 to $15 per day.

The math works in your favor if you drink more than one soda daily. At $3 per drink, two sodas a day equals $6, which exceeds the daily package cost. If you drink one soda or fewer per day, paying per drink is cheaper.

What you can bring aboard yourself

Carnival allows you to bring your own non-alcoholic beverages in sealed bottles or cans. The limit is 12 standard bottles or cans per person for the duration of the cruise. You can pack these in your cabin and drink them there, or bring them to the pool deck in a cooler.

This option works well if you drink sodas in your cabin or want to avoid the bar markup during the day. You cannot bring glass bottles, and opened beverages must be consumed or discarded before you board. Carnival staff may inspect your luggage at embarkation, so pack beverages where they are straightforward to show.

Many passengers combine this approach with occasional bar purchases. Bringing six cans of your preferred soda and buying a few drinks at the bar can cost less than a full beverage package while still giving you flexibility.

Where sodas cost the most on the ship

Specialty restaurants and premium venues charge the highest soda prices. If you dine at a steakhouse or specialty Italian restaurant, expect to pay $4 to $5 for a soda. Drinks ordered at the casino bar or nightclub also run higher than poolside prices.

The buffet and main dining room offer the best value for sodas. Fountain drinks at the buffet typically cost $3, and sodas included with a meal in the main dining room are sometimes complimentary depending on your package. Poolside bars and casual venues fall in the middle, usually $3 to $3.50.

Room service also carries a markup. Ordering a soda to your cabin costs more than buying it at a bar, and a delivery fee may explore. If you want drinks in your room, bringing your own is the most cost-effective choice.

How to reduce what you spend on sodas

The cheapest approach depends on your drinking habits. If you drink one soda per day or fewer, buy individual drinks at the bar. If you drink two or more per day, a beverage package purchased before your cruise saves money. If you drink sodas mainly in your cabin, bring your own supply.

Purchasing a package before you board is always cheaper than buying it on the ship. Carnival offers discounts for advance purchases, sometimes bundling packages with your cruise fare. Check your Carnival account or ask your travel agent about package pricing when you book.

Another option is to order water and ask for a cup of ice, then add your own soda from your cabin supply. This works well if you want a cold drink at a meal but do not want to pay for it separately. Carnival does not charge for water or ice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring soda in my checked luggage?

Yes, sealed, non-alcoholic beverages in cans or bottles count toward your 12-per-person limit. Pack them where they will not break during handling. Glass bottles are not allowed, so stick to cans or plastic bottles.

Do kids' sodas cost less than adult sodas?

No, Carnival charges the same price regardless of who orders the drink. A child's soda costs the same $2.50 to $3.50 as an adult's. Beverage packages explore to all passengers on the booking, including children.

What happens if I run out of my own sodas before the cruise ends?

You can buy more at the bar at the standard per-drink price. Some passengers bring fewer sodas and plan to purchase a few drinks, which can be cheaper than a full package if they drink sparingly.

Are diet sodas and regular sodas the same price?

Yes, Carnival charges the same price for all sodas, whether regular, diet, or zero-sugar. Brand does not affect the price — a Coke costs the same as a Sprite or other cola.

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

No, beverage packages are per-person and non-transferable. Each person on your booking must have their own package if you want unlimited drinks for everyone. You can purchase a package for some passengers and not others.