Do you pay for drinks on a cruise?

Navigating Complimentary and Paid Beverages on Cruises

Cruises provide a unique and memorable vacation experience, offering an array of amenities and entertainment options. Among these amenities is the availability of beverages, which can vary in terms of complimentary and paid options.

Complimentary Beverages:

Most cruises offer a range of complimentary beverages, ensuring that passengers stay hydrated and refreshed throughout their journey. These beverages typically include:

• Tea: A variety of teas, including black, green, and herbal, are usually available at no charge.
• Coffee: Freshly brewed coffee, both regular and decaf, is commonly offered complimentary.
• Water: Purified or bottled water is readily available throughout the ship, ensuring passengers have access to clean drinking water.

Paid Beverages:

While complimentary beverages cover basic hydration needs, passengers can also expect to purchase additional beverages separately. These typically include:

• Alcoholic Beverages: Cruises offer a wide selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits, which must be purchased by the glass or bottle.
• Specialty Drinks: Premium coffee drinks, blended cocktails, and specialty juices are often available for an additional charge.
• Soft Drinks: While some cruise lines include soft drinks in their complimentary beverage packages, others may charge for these as well.

Availability of Free Drinks:

The availability of free drinks varies by location on the ship. While tea, coffee, and water are usually complimentary in all public areas, alcoholic and specialty beverages may only be available in certain bars or restaurants.

Tips for Saving on Drinks:

To minimize beverage expenses while on a cruise, consider the following tips:

• Bring a water bottle: Staying hydrated with the complimentary water is a budget-friendly way to avoid purchasing bottled water.
• Take advantage of happy hours: Many cruise bars offer discounted drinks during designated happy hour times.
• Consider beverage packages: Some cruise lines offer beverage packages that include unlimited alcoholic and specialty drinks for a set price.

By understanding the availability and pricing of beverages on a cruise, passengers can plan their expenses accordingly and enjoy a refreshing and affordable vacation experience.