Drink Prices on Carnival Ships

Carnival does not include alcoholic drinks in your cruise fare. You pay for each drink when you order it, and prices vary by drink type and ship. A beer typically costs $6 to $8, a glass of wine runs $7 to $10, and mixed drinks range from $8 to $12. Specialty cocktails and premium spirits cost more — sometimes $14 to $16. These prices are set by Carnival and can change, so ask your server or check the menu at the bar when you board.

Prices are higher on newer ships than older ones, and they are higher in specialty venues (like the piano bar or poolside) than at the main bar. If you order a bottle of wine to share at dinner, expect to pay $25 to $60 depending on the selection. Carnival also charges a 15 percent gratuity on all bar tabs automatically, so factor that into your budget.

Key Takeaways

  • Beer costs $6 to $8 per drink, wine $7 to $10, and mixed drinks $8 to $12, with specialty cocktails running higher.
  • A 15 percent gratuity is added automatically to every bar tab, so your actual cost is higher than the menu price.
  • Drinks cost more on newer ships and in specialty bars than at the main pool or dining room bar.
  • Carnival offers a beverage package that lets you prepay for unlimited drinks, which may save money if you drink regularly during your cruise.
  • Prices can vary by ship and change over time, so confirm current pricing when you board or ask your server.

Beverage Packages as an Alternative to Pay-Per-Drink

If you plan to drink multiple times per day, Carnival's beverage package may cost less than paying for each drink. The package covers beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks at most bars and restaurants on the ship. You prepay before your cruise, and the cost depends on cruise length and when you purchase it. Buying the package early (when you book your cruise) costs less than buying it onboard.

The package does not cover premium spirits, top-shelf liquor, or drinks at specialty venues like the supper club or wine bar. It also does not cover drinks ordered in your cabin or at some poolside bars during certain hours. Read the terms carefully before you buy, because once you board, you cannot get a refund if you change your mind.

Where Drinks Cost More on the Ship

The main dining room bar and pool bars charge standard prices. Specialty venues charge a premium. The piano bar, nightclub, and supper club all add $2 to $4 per drink compared to the main bar. Drinks ordered at your cabin or through room service include a delivery fee and cost 20 to 30 percent more than the same drink at a bar.

Poolside bars during peak hours (late morning and afternoon) sometimes charge more than evening bars. If you want to keep costs down, order at the main bar or dining room rather than specialty venues, and avoid room service for drinks.

Comparing Carnival Drink Costs to Other Cruise Lines

Carnival's prices are in the middle range for cruise lines. Royal Caribbean and Disney charge slightly more — beer runs $7 to $9, and mixed drinks $9 to $13. Norwegian Cruise Line charges about the same as Carnival. Smaller luxury lines charge significantly more, sometimes $12 to $18 for a beer. Budget cruise lines like Cruise Direct do not exist as a major operator, but some regional lines charge less than Carnival.

The beverage package on other lines works the same way: you prepay and get unlimited drinks at most venues. Comparing package prices across lines is difficult because they vary by ship, season, and how far in advance you book. Your best move is to check the current pricing on the specific ship you are sailing and decide whether the package makes sense for your drinking habits.

Tips for Managing Your Drink Budget

Set a daily drink budget before you board and stick to it. Drinks add up quickly when you are on vacation and the bar is always nearby. If you drink one or two drinks per day, pay as you go. If you drink four or more per day, the beverage package usually saves money.

Ask your server or bartender for the price before you order, especially for specialty drinks or wine. Some bars will make a simpler version of a cocktail for less money if you ask. Soft drinks, coffee, and water are free at most venues, so alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones to pace yourself and lower your bill.

Keep your bar tab open throughout the cruise rather than paying for each drink separately. This makes it easier to track what you have spent and less likely you will lose track of the total. On your final night, review your bill before you leave the ship so you can dispute any charges you do not recognize.

What Happens If You Exceed Your Budget

Carnival charges your onboard account for every drink you order. Your bill is added to your cruise fare and charged to your credit card when you check out. If you go over budget, you will see the charges on your final bill. Carnival does not stop you from ordering drinks or put a limit on your tab, so it is your responsibility to keep track.

If you dispute a charge, contact Carnival's guest services before you leave the ship. They can review your bar tab and remove charges if there was an error. After you leave the ship, disputing charges is much harder, so handle it onboard if you can.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own alcohol onto a Carnival cruise?

No. Carnival prohibits passengers from bringing beer, wine, or spirits onboard. If security finds alcohol in your luggage, it will be confiscated. You must buy drinks from Carnival's bars and restaurants.

Do soft drinks and coffee cost extra?

No. Water, coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic soft drinks are free at most venues on the ship. You do not need a beverage package to get them. Specialty coffee drinks (like lattes) may cost extra at the coffee shop.

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

No. Each person needs their own beverage package. You cannot buy one package and have two people use it. Children under 21 cannot purchase alcohol, so they do not need a beverage package.

What if I want to skip the beverage package and just pay as I go?

You can. There is no requirement to buy a package. Order drinks individually at any bar, and the charge goes to your onboard account. This works well if you drink only once or twice per day or prefer to limit your spending.

Are gratuities included in the beverage package price?

No. The 15 percent gratuity is added on top of the package price. If you buy a beverage package, you still pay gratuity on top of what you prepaid.