norwegian cruise line hawaii beverage package

NCL drink packages: Should you take Norwegian Cruise Line’s free drinks offer?

For many cruisers, stepping aboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship means it's time to let loose and have at least a few drinks each day of vacation. But those beers and cocktails can add up quickly if you're not paying attention.

Like many cruise lines, NCL takes the cost anxiety away by allowing passengers to pre-purchase beverage packages ahead of their cruise. This means that the per-day price has already been set, and passengers can order as many drinks as they want without worrying about their bills adding up.

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Here, we go over what's included in the various NCL drink packages, how much they cost and whether they're worth the price depending on your drinking habits.

What's included in Norwegian Cruise Line's drink packages?

Before we go over which drinks are included in Norwegian Cruise Line's beverage packages, you should first know which options are included in the cruise fare. Lemonade, iced tea, a limited selection of juices, chocolate and regular milk, tap water and standard coffee and tea are free of charge. You can get these complimentary beverages in onboard restaurants (including the buffet) and in some bars and lounges.

Alcohol, soda, specialty coffees and drinks and other premium beverages cost extra. Norwegian Cruise Line offers four drink packages that let passengers pay a flat daily fee and get an unlimited amount of the included beverages.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Here is what each NCL drink package includes:

Unlimited Soda Package

This package includes unlimited fountain soda throughout the cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line serves Coca-Cola products, so expect to find Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Fanta. Ginger ale, tonic water and soda water are also included in this package. Soda packages are available to guests 3 years old and up.

Unlimited Starbucks Package

Norwegian's Starbucks package includes coffee and tea from Starbucks, as well as specialty beverages, Frappuccinos and Refreshers by the cup sold at the branded outlets on board select ships. Canned and bottled drinks, food and Starbucks merchandise are not included. To purchase the package, guests must be at least 18 years old. If one person purchases the package, all qualifying guests under the same method of payment for the cruise must also purchase it.

Unlimited Open Bar Package

The Unlimited Open Bar Package is the standard Norwegian drink package that includes alcohol. It covers cocktails and spirits priced under $15, beer and wine by the glass up to $15, a selection of premium juices and unlimited soda. It also gives guests 20% off all bottles of wine and Champagne. Passengers must be at least 21 years old to purchase this package. If one person purchases it, all other 21+ guests on the same reservation must buy it as well. Guests under 21 must purchase the soda package.

Premium Plus Beverage Package

If the Unlimited Open Bar does not cover your favorite drinks, Norwegian Cruise Line offers the Premium Plus beverage package. The line's most inclusive alcohol package covers everything the Unlimited Open Bar package includes, plus top-shelf cocktails and spirits; all beer, red wine, white wine and NCL's exclusive rose by the glass; unlimited still and sparkling bottled water; all Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks; energy drinks; and select premium bottles of wine and NCL's rose with dinner. The package also includes 40% off all other bottles of wine and Champagne.

The same rules apply for this package as they do for the Unlimited Open Bar package; all guests must be 21+ to purchase, and if one guest purchases the package, all other passengers on the same reservation must purchase it as well — with those under 21 required to buy the soda package.

Note: All of Norwegian Cruise Line's beverage packages extend to its private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. They do not include room service or the in-stateroom minibar.

Related: How to get free or cheap drinks on a cruise

How much do Norwegian's drink packages cost?

Norwegian Cruise Line's beverage packages are priced by the day but must be purchased for the duration of the sailing, either online before your sailing or on embarkation day. Unfortunately, you can't pick and choose the days you want the package; it's all or nothing. Here's the breakdown:

• Unlimited Soda Package: $9.95 per person, per day
• Unlimited Starbucks Package: $12.95 per person, per day
• Unlimited Open Bar Package: $109 per person, per day
• Premium Plus Beverage Package: $138 per person, per day

A 20% gratuity and beverage service charge is added to all packages at checkout.

What about NCL's Free at Sea program?

Unless you're booking a guarantee cabin (where you pay less to let NCL pick your specific cabin in your selected category), chances are your cruise booking comes with included Free at Sea perks . One of the inclusions is the Unlimited Open Bar package.

If you choose to keep the package as a perk (you can decline any perks you don't want), you will get a free beverage package — sort of. You won't have to pay the drink package's daily fee, but you will have to pay the package's automatic 20% gratuity charge ($21.80 per person, per day, at current prices).

This means that almost no one pays the $109 per day for the Unlimited Open Bar package. Even those who might have considered booking a guarantee cabin will likely choose to pay a bit for their room if they would have purchased any extras included in Free at Sea.

The bottom line is this: Most people who sail on NCL and plan to drink alcohol or other specialty beverages are going to end up with the Unlimited Open Bar package through Free at Sea.

Related: 8 best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package (and 3 to avoid)

But what if you want top-shelf liquor and wines, Starbucks beverages or bottled water? Those are all included in the Premium Plus Beverage package, but not the Unlimited Open Bar package.

It turns out most people don't pay the full price for the Premium Plus package either. Instead, they take advantage of the Free at Sea Plus upgrade option. For $49 per person, per day, the standard Free at Sea package can be upgraded to include the Premium Plus Beverage Package. The extra money gets you additional upgrades as well, including more specialty dining meals, more shore excursion credit and unlimited Wi-Fi.

Is there a limit on how many drinks you can have per day on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Unlike some other cruise brands, Norwegian Cruise Line does not put a daily limit on the number of alcoholic drinks you can order when you have a drink package. Bartenders, however, are trained not to serve passengers who appear visibly intoxicated and have the right to cut anyone off who has over-indulged.

Still, don't try to order five drinks at once. To prevent people from sneaking drinks to friends who don't have the package or ordering more than they can drink, Norwegian puts a limit of two beverages per person, per transaction, for anyone signed up for its drink package. Guests with the Starbucks package are entitled to just one beverage per person, per transaction.

Are Norwegian Cruise Line's drink packages worth it?

To help determine if Norwegian Cruise Line's alcoholic beverage packages are worth the cost, we must first get an idea of what drinks cost. For beer, you can expect to pay around $7 a glass, while most glasses of wine range from $8 to $20. You'll find that most cocktails using non-premium spirits cost $11 to $13, and soda costs $3 to $3.50. Most specialty coffees at Starbucks are at least $5, and a large carton of water (NCL doesn't sell plastic bottled water) is $6.50.

With this being said, if $10 to $12 is the average cost you'll pay for a cocktail or glass of wine on board, you'd need to drink at least 10-11 drinks per day to break even on the Unlimited Open Bar package at face value ($109).

However, as mentioned above, most guests aren't going to be paying face value for Unlimited Open Bar. Keeping this perk as part of Free at Sea means you're only paying $22 in gratuities each day — to break even you'd need just two cocktails or one cocktail and three or four sodas.

If you plan to drink any alcohol beyond just one or two per day, keeping the Unlimited Open Bar as one of your Free at Sea perks is well worth it. However, remember that all guests in the same cabin must choose the same perks. If you and your partner are sailing but only one of you will be drinking beverages that aren't included in the cruise fare, your daily drink spend would have to top $44 per day (four or so cocktails) on average to be worth keeping the drinks package as one of your Free at Sea perks.

Related: Are cruise line drinks packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

You'll have similar considerations when assessing the value of the Premium Plus Beverage Package. Unless you plan on drinking lots of Starbucks or want all of your libations to include top-shelf liquor, the Premium Plus package isn't worth it at face value. However, the $49 extra per day for Free at Sea Plus — especially with its other upgrades — could easily be worth it depending on your preferences.

Our recommendation for the vast majority of guests is to keep Unlimited Open Bar as one of the Free at Sea perks and only upgrade to Free at Sea Plus if you see the value for you and your travel mates in all of the extras that come with it.

Now let's talk about the soda and Starbucks packages. If you're under 21 but sailing with someone who's 21+ that's getting the Unlimited Open Bar or Premium Plus beverage package as part of Free at Sea, you're going to automatically receive the soda package as part of your cruise fare, so there's not much to decide.

Otherwise, do the math. If you love soda, don't drink alcohol and aren't interested in zero-proof cocktails, you might want to decline the Free at Sea drinks package offer and get the soda package instead; at $12, including the mandatory gratuities, it's about half the cost. To break even with the soda package, you'd need to drink four sodas (at $3 to $3.50 each) per day.

With the Starbucks package, you'll come out even if you drink two to three specialty coffees per day. If you only plan on having one, the package won't be worth it at $15 per day including gratuities.

Bottom line

For most guests, Norwegian Cruise Line's standard alcohol package is well worth it through the Free at Sea program. The Premium Plus upgrade and the Starbucks and soda packages can also bring value, depending on the preferences and budget of you and your travel party. Do the math on how much you're likely to drink throughout the cruise, then determine from there if paying the daily amount for a Norwegian drink package makes sense for you.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages: What’s Included and is it Worth it?

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Planning a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line ? You’ll definitely want to check out Norwegian’s beverage package options before you go.

NCL has several drink package options to choose from, and being honest, some of what’s included (and not included) in each can be a bit confusing.

In this post, I’ll share the details of the most popular beverage packages on Norwegian and answer some frequently asked questions. We’ll look at which packages offer the best value, and which drink packages will be “worth it” for you. I’ve sailed with NCL both with a beverage package, and without, and I definitely have an opinion.

Please note, even if you have the drink package included with Norwegian’s Free at Sea , you’ll need this information.

Norwegian Free at Sea Beverage Package “Free Perk” 

Norwegian has been running a very popular promotion for years. The Free at Sea program offers include a choice of free open bar , a free specialty dining package, a free wi-fi package , free shore excursions credits , and kids sail free (on certain sailings).

For your own reference, the open bar package which is included with NCL’s Free at Sea promotion is the Premium Beverage Package. If you have the Free at Sea drink package perk, you can upgrade to Premium Plus for $29 per day, per person.

More information about Free at Sea, including the details and pros and cons can be found in this post: NCL’s Free at Sea Explained .

Norwegian’s Alcoholic Beverage Packages

NCL Premium Beverage Package

Cost: $99 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Norwegian’s most popular adult beverage package option is the Premium Beverage Package. If you have the Free at Sea perk , this is the drink package that’s included.

Norwegian’s premium drink package includes:  Soft drinks, beer, frozen drinks, cocktails, spirits and liqueurs and wines by the glass up to $15 per drink.

What’s not included: It’s important to note that unlike the drink packages on Celebrity and Princess Cruises , Norwegian’s premium beverage package does not include bottled water or specialty coffee and tea.

According to Norwegian’s website, everyone in the cabin, as well as those who are traveling together in an adjoining cabin or additional cabin must purchase the drink package.

If passengers are under 21, they’ll be required to purchase the soda package (Pop Program).

NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package 

Cost: $128 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

What’s included in the Premium Plus Package?

With Norwegian’s Premium Plus Beverage Package, you’ll get all the drinks included in the Premium Package, plus premium brand liqueurs and spirits, and wines by the glass. In addition, you’ll enjoy specialty coffee, sparkling water, bottled water and energy drinks. 

If you’d enjoy a glass (or two) of Veuve Clicquot BRUT “Yellow Label” champagne at Sailaway, this and other popular favorites are available with Premium Plus.

Here’s the full list of drinks that are included:  NCL Premium Plus Drink List

Like the other beverage packages, everyone in the cabin, as well as those who are traveling together in an adjoining cabin or additional cabin must purchase the drink package.

Corks and Caps Wine and Beer Package

Cost: $65 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Norwegian’s wine, beer and soda package is a good drink package if you don’t drink liqueurs and cocktails. It includes draft and bottled beer, wine by the glass up to $15. In addition it includes unlimited fountain soda: Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mt. Dew, Ginger Ale, Tonic water, Club Soda.

Like the other alcoholic drink packages, all guests in the party need to purchase the package.

Hawaii Beverage Package for Pride of America Cruises (only)

Cost: $99 per guest, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

If you’ve opted for the Free at Sea perk on your Pride of America cruise, this is the drink package you’ll receive.

The Hawaii beverage package includes a nice selection of beverages up to $15 a glass. It includes fountain soft drinks, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and specialty coffee (in dining rooms only).

The Hawaii Beverage Package does not include specialty coffee outside of the restaurants, room service, mini bar purchases, or vending machines. For any drinks over $15, guests will be charged the difference. 

Norwegian Non Alcoholic and Soda Packages

There are 2 soda packages available on a Norwegian Cruise Lines, one for children 12 and under, and one for adults and kids 13 and over. The pop package includes these fountain sodas: Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mt. Dew, Ginger Ale, Tonic water, Club Pop.

If you’re likely to drink 2 sodas a day or more, this is 100% worth the money. A glass of soda or pop is over $4 per drink.

Adult and Teen Pop Program (13+)

Cost: $7.95 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Children’s Pop Program (12 & under)

Cost: $5.95 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Water Packages

Water packages are available on Norwegian and can be pre-ordered and delivered to your cabin. Norwegian has replaced all single use plastic water bottles, however single serving plant based carton bottles are used instead. This is better for the environment, refillable and recyclable.

6 litre package – $16.95

12 litre package – $29.95

24 litre package – $44.95

NCL Drink Package – Frequently Asked Questions

Is there drink limit with Norwegian’s beverage package?

Unlike Carnival and Princess Cruises, there is no daily drink limit with any of Norwegian’s drink packages. However, you are limited to ordering 2 drinks at a time.

Drink package rules to know

There is no sharing of drink packages. As well, all passengers in a cabin or travel party, must purchase a package.

Can you use the drink package at Norwegian’s private islands?

Yes and no. You can use your beverage package in Great Stirrup Cay, however it isn’t applicable at Harvest Caye in Belize.

What drinks are free or included on Norwegian cruise ships?

Like most other cruise lines, there are a lot of drinks included on your cruise. If you don’t drink alcohol or soft drinks often, this will help keep your extra costs on your cruise low.

On a Norwegian cruise, you’ll find unsweetened iced tea, lemonade, select juice, water, drip coffee and tea, and filtered water (no bottled) included with your cruise. Most of these drinks are available free of charge in the buffet and in the dining rooms and restaurants.

Random Cruise Tip: Make unsweetened ice tea taste better by adding a slice of lemon and a package of artificial sweetener like Splenda. As we learned in our years of cruising, when my husband would add 3 packages of sugar and still tell me his ice tea wasn’t sweet, sugar doesn’t dissolve in cold or icy water. You’ll need artificial sweetener to do this. 

Did you think you’d learn science on a cruise blog? LOL 🙂

How much are drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Knowing the cost of individual drinks onboard is a good way to calculate if a beverage package is worth it, and if so, which one is best for you.

On average, frozen cocktails and drinks on Norwegian cost about $9-13 a glass. Mojitos and martinis will be a bit higher at about $13-15 a glass. Drinks with premium liqueurs will be $18 and more.

Wine by the glass is about $9-10, while beer is $6-9. Specialty coffee is $3-4, as are soft drinks. Energy drinks and bottled water are $5-6 each.

Can you bring wine on a Norwegian cruise?

You’re allowed to bring bottles of wine and champagne on a Norwegian cruise, however you’ll be charged a corkage fee upon boarding. The cost is $15 per bottle of wine and $30 per magnum of champagne. This might still be worth it for you, as you can drink this in your cabin as well as in the lounges and restaurants on board.

Make sure to pack them in your carry on bag and as you board on embarkation day . Other alcohol is prohibited from being brought onto the ship and will likely be confiscated .

Read: 10 Things NOT to Pack for a Cruise 

Is there a coffee package on Norwegian?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a separate coffee package that you can buy on a Norwegian Cruise. If you do want to have specialty coffee included, consider the Premium Plus package, which includes premium liqueurs and wine, unlimited soda, and Lavazza coffee .

Is bottled water included in NCL beverage package?

Bottled water isn’t included with Norwegian’s Premium Beverage Package, the once which comes included as a Free at Sea perk. However, you can purchase or upgrade to the Premium Plus drink package, where bottled water is included. 

Is there a price discount onboard?

It’s important to note that there is no discount on any of Norwegian’s drink packages when you purchase it onboard. It’s definitely better to purchase this online before you cruise.

Which Norwegian Cruise Ships have Starbucks?

Starbucks is now available on several Norwegian cruise ships including, the Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Sky. The onboard Starbucks has a full menu and you can even use Starbucks gift cards or the app to pay onboard. Starbucks is not included with the Norwegian’s beverage packages.  

Is the drink package worth it on NCL?

Whether or not Norwegian’s drink package is worth it, depends on 2 things. How much you drink and if an all-inclusive vacation feel is important to you. There’s also one extra thing – if you have the premium beverage free at sea perk.

While you will have to pay the gratuity charge on the value of the package ($19.80 per day, per person), this is clearly worth it if you have a couple drinks a day. It’s important to keep in mind that the “free” perk includes alcoholic drinks up to $15 each, and soda. However, it doesn’t include specialty coffee or water bottles.

Cost breakdown

Without the Free at Sea drink package perk, the premium beverage package will cost you $99 per day, plus $19.80 (20% gratuity). The total cost is $118.80 per person for each day of your cruise. Also, both guests in the cabin must purchase.

As an example, a couple will pay $1663.20 for a 7 day cruise. A 10 day cruise will cost $2376 per cabin.

*Pricing throughout this post is in US dollars

Going on a cruise? Read these posts next:

• Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise
• Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Perks Explained
• 25+ Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise
• How to Save Money on a Cruise (27 Tips & Hacks)
• 30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know

Final Thoughts: Norwegian’s Beverage Package – Is it worth it?

Even though I love to cruise with drinks included, I normally would not spend this much on drinks on a cruise. As well, I love a fancy coffee on occasion, and to get coffee included, I’d need to upgrade to the Premium Plus package at an extra $29 per person, per day.

Verdict – For me, unless it’s the Free at Sea perk, NCL’s adult beverage packages are not worth it. As a suggestion, bring along a 3 or 4 bottles of wine and pay a corkage fee of $15 each.

Of course, this is me, and you’re you. So I hope I’ve given you enough information and tips about Norwegian’s Drink packages for you to make a decision based on your preferences.

Please let me know in the comments what you think? Have you ever had a Norwegian beverage package and was it worth it for you? Please share any additional tips below.

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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Hi I’m going on my first cruise as a passenger on Epic in december 2022. Although i have worked on a cruise liner for 9 months in 1999 previously largest in world at time. I have booked a balcony suite next one down from haven package. I also Don’t drink Alcohol so was wondering what peoples experience of non alcoholic options is. I have all the free at sea packages. At home i drink kopperberg budweiser peroni heneiken Gordons non alcoholic gin. I know there are frozen cocktails that can be mocktails or Virgin ur help be appreciated

Fun cruise to look forward to! I’m not aware of the all the non alcoholic options, however mocktails are definately available. You may want to ask in a Norwegian fan facebook group, or feel free to join the Life Well Cruised community group and ask folks there.

Have an awesome cruise!

Hello- Thanks for the wonderful article. We are going on an NCL cruise and have the free at sea drink package. However the gratuity alone is $330. I don’t think we will drink this much in sodas or alcohol. My wife is concerned about getting water out of the soda fountains. Can we get that without a drink package? Thanks again!

This is a good point. If you don’t think you’ll drink enough to make it a good value, you can opt out of the “free” drink package. There is clean, drinkable water available onboard.

Hope this helps,

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A Comprehensive Guide to NCL Drink Packages

What are the NCL Drink Packages? Let’s dive into Norwegian Cruise Line’s Beverage Packages with our 2024 guide.

While your cruise fare includes essentials like filtered water, regular coffee, tea, and buffet fountain juices, enhancing your experience with an NCL Drink Package or opting for the popular NCL Premium Beverage with the Free-at-Sea Promotion offers a wider, unlimited selection of drinks. This allows you to savor some NCL favorite drinks and can be a cost-effective choice if you enjoy more than a few drinks daily.

Use our cruise drink calculator below to compare costs and determine whether purchasing a soda package or paying gratuities for the Free at Sea Open Bar perk makes more financial sense.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

This article will explore the available NCL Drink Packages for purchase through Norwegian Cruise Line.

Table of Contents

Norwegian Beverage Packages Available

• Soda Package Unlimited fountain sodas and non-alcoholic beverages for the cruise.
• Premium Beverage Package A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, beer, wine, and sodas.
• Premium Plus Beverage Package An upgraded version of the Premium Beverage Package offering additional premium spirits, cocktails, wines, and specialty coffee, including unlimited Starbucks.
• Hawaii Beverage Package Tailored for cruises in Hawaii, on Pride of America, this package includes a selection of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
• Starbucks Package Unlimited specialty coffees and teas from Starbucks throughout the cruise.

Note: the NCL Corks & Caps package no longer exists.

First, it’s important to note that the NCL drink packages that are alcoholic are only available for passengers aged 21 and over.

Second, the price of the package will vary depending on the length of your cruise . Any examples we provide are based on a 7-day cruise .

Third, Tasty Itinerary is not affiliated with Norwegian Cruise Line, nor do we work for the cruise line.

NCL Drink Packages Explained

We answer some of the most frequently asked questions and dive into the NCL Beverage Packages the cruise line offers below.

NCL Soda Package

The Soda Package on Norwegian Cruise Line

• Popularity: A favored choice among beverage packages, especially for non-alcoholic drinkers.
• Pricing: $9.95 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity
• Inclusions: Indulge in unlimited fountain soda drinks.
• Exclusions: No canned soda, mini bar options, or room service delivery.

The best Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package depends on your drinking habits. If you’re a light drinker, meaning you don’t drink alcohol at all, but you do soda, we recommend the Classic Soda Package. This package includes unlimited fountain sodas. The soda package is available for purchase on all NCL ships.

• Norwegian Cruise Line used to serve Pepsi, but they have officially transitioned their ships to Coca-Cola.

What is the cost of the NCL Soda package?

The soda package costs $9.95 per person daily plus a 20% gratuity.

Is the NCL Soda Package worth it?

The NCL Soda Package is a great option for those who don’t drink alcohol or want to save money. With the package, you’ll have unlimited access to fountain drinks, saving you money in the long run.

Consider that a cup of soda is around $3-4 each. So if you order 2-3 a day, even if it’s just club soda, it will make up for the price.

If you don’t drink much alcohol, you may consider purchasing a soda package on embarkation day rather than investing in the gratuity that comes with the Unlimited Open Bar Perk ($305 in gratuities for two guests). However, always do the calculations.

The soda package costs about $84 per passenger, which is $168 for two passengers. Wouldn’t the extra $137 towards the Unlimited Open Bar Perk be worth it? That’s what you have to ask yourself. You can enjoy some virgin frozen drinks.

Save now, share with friends, or come back to it later.

NCL Premium Beverage Package

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium Beverage Package

• Pricing: $109 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity
• Inclusions: Featured in the Free at Sea promotions as the Unlimited Open Bar Perk
• Beverage Range: Enjoy a variety of sodas and alcoholic beverages, including options up to $15 and selected premium drinks within the same range.
• Exclusions: Specialty coffee, such as Starbucks, energy drinks, room service orders, and mini-bar items are not covered.

The NCL Premium Beverage Package is the most popular and for a good reason. It’s a great value for what you get and one of the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea perks.

As we mentioned, you can choose this package as a Free at Sea perk when booking a cruise if it suits your budget and cruising needs.

What does NCL Premium Beverage Package include?

The NCL Premium Beverage Package includes a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for up to $15 and 20% off bottles of wine and champagne.

This package does not include specialty coffees, bottled water, room service, or mini bar purchases.

What is the cost of the NCL Premium Beverage Package?

The NCL Premium Beverage Package costs $109 per person daily, plus 20% gratuities . The total cost will vary depending on the length of your cruise.

If you choose this as a free perk, remember that you will have to pay gratuities for the value of the Premium Beverage Package. Which currently adds up to $305 for guests 1 & 2 on a 7-day cruise . Again, we advise you to calculate to see if it’s worth the gratuities.

The Unlimited Open Bar Perk now applies to guests 1-8 who are 21 and over. Minors will receive the soda package if they are guests 2, but not 3-8.

There is an additional tax if you order drinks while docked at a US Port.

You can read the terms and conditions for the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium Beverage Package: here .

What happens if you order a drink that is over $15?

If you have the NCL Premium Beverage package that only covers certain alcoholic drinks, liquor, and beverages up to $15, you can pay for the difference out of pocket.

Example: If you order an $18 martini, the premium beverage package will only cover up to $15, so the difference of $3 plus 20% gratuity will be charged to your Seapass. Of course, bartenders will always tell you when a drink isn’t fully covered with the premium beverage package and the cost difference. You can then decide if you want to proceed with the extra cost or not.

Check out NCL’s updated PDF that lists all of the alcohols and beverages that are included in the Premium Beverage Package and the Premium Plus Beverage Package.

NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium PLUS Beverage Package

• Package: An upgraded version of the NCL Premium Beverage Package
• Pricing: $138 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity
• Upgrade Cost: Additional $29 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity
• Unlimited specialty coffees featuring Starbucks
• Bottled water for added convenience
• Energy drinks to keep you energized
• Premium spirits for a heightened experience
• A 40% discount on flights and wine tastings, enhancing your journey with exclusive savings.

The NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package is the boosted version of the NCL Premium Beverage Package. This package is worth purchasing or upgrading if premium spirits are important to you and you want unlimited access to bottled water, sparkling bottled water, and energy drinks.

What does NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package include?

The NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package includes all the benefits of the NCL Premium Beverage Package, including specialty coffees (Starbucks), bottled water, bottled sparking water, energy drinks, and premium spirits.

What is the cost of the NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package?

The NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package is priced at $138 per person daily, plus 20% gratuities, with the total cost varying based on the cruise duration.

If you already have the Premium Beverage Package as a Free at Sea perk, consider upgrading to the NCL Free at Sea Plus program for an additional $49 per person daily, plus gratuities. This exclusive upgrade is available for cruises of 3 days or more. Contact your travel agent or Norwegian cruise consultant for assistance if the offer isn’t visible on your NCL account.

If the option is available for your sailing and cruise cabin, you can upgrade from the Premium Beverage Package to the Premium Plus Beverage package for an additional $29 per person per day (adult guests 1 & 2) . This upgrade applies to your NCL Free at Sea Open Bar and does not include the other NCL Free at Sea Plus promotions.

Is the NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package worth it?

If you’re a heavy drinker, this is the package for you. Cruisers love its ease and freedom to order what they want to drink throughout the cruise.

Whether that’s Starbucks coffee all day long or full bottles of wine at dinner, the premium spirits also make this package a great value. If you’re looking for the ultimate Norwegian Cruise Line drink package, the premium plus beverage package is it.

Also, note that if you upgrade to the Free at Sea Plus , the upgrade comes with two additional dinners at specialty dining restaurants for guests 1 and 2, unlimited Internet (no streaming), and $50 off a shore excursion for the 2nd guest.

Does NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package include Starbucks?

Yes! Starbucks and specialty coffees are included with the NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package.

You can read the terms and conditions for the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium Plus Beverage Package: here .

NCL Hawaii Beverage Package

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Hawaii Beverage Package

• Package: Exclusive to Pride of America sailings
• Similarity: Resembles the Premium Plus Beverage Package
• Flat or sparkling bottled water
• Specialty coffee in restaurants
• Freshly squeezed juices
• Exclusions: Specialty coffee outside restaurants, mini-bar selections, or vending machine purchases are not covered.

The NCL Hawaii Beverage Package is great for those cruising to or from the islands on the Norwegian Pride of America sailings. This package is similar to the Premium Beverage package. The biggest difference is that it does include bottled water and specialty coffee in dining rooms.

This package is offered as a Free at Sea promotion if you add it to your cruise fare.

What does the NCL Hawaii Beverage Package include?

The NCL Hawaii Beverage Package includes unlimited beverages from non-alcoholic to alcoholic drinks for up to $15. That includes all bottled water, restaurant specialty coffee, and fresh juices.

What is the cost of Norwegian’s Hawaii Beverage Package?

The NCL Hawaii Beverage Package costs $109 per person daily, plus 20% gratuities. The total cost will vary depending on the length of your cruise.

Note that if you choose this as a free perk, you will have to pay gratuities for the value of the NCL Hawaii Beverage Package. Which currently adds up to $305 for two people on a 7-day cruise.

Read the terms and conditions for Norwegian Cruise Line’s Hawaii Beverage Package.

Unlimited Starbucks Package

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Unlimited Starbucks Package

• Package: Unlimited Starbucks drinks
• Pricing: $12.95 per person per day, with a 20% gratuity added to the total cost
• Inclusions: Enjoy limitless indulgence in all specialty coffee and tea drinks served in cups at Starbucks.
• Availability: Exclusive to ships featuring Starbucks onboard.
• Exclusions: Bottled water, canned drinks, and food purchases at Starbucks are not covered.

What is the cost of the Starbucks Package?

The Starbucks package on the Norwegian Cruise Line costs $12.95 per person per day for unlimited Starbucks drinks. It adds to a total of $108.78 per person based on a 7-day cruise.

The package has to be purchased for everyone staying in the same cabin if they are 18 and over.

Is the Starbucks Package worth it?

If you’re a huge specialty coffee drinker not planning to upgrade to or purchase the Premium Plus package (it comes included), YES.

And if you’re not purchasing any drink package but love your lattes, frappuccinos, and teas, the cost of a Starbucks package is a good alternative.

When we cruised the Norwegian Joy, we spent $19 with a tip at Starbucks for two lattes one afternoon. The Starbucks drinks a la carte are slightly more expensive than on shore, but we believe it was better prepared than any Starbucks on land near us.

Bottled water, canned drinks, and food at Starbucks are not included . Read the terms and conditions for Norwegian’s Starbucks Package.

Drink Prices on Norwegian Cruise Line

We recently sailed on the Norwegian Encore . While we had upgraded to the NCLs Premium Plus Package, I did keep an eye on the cost of the drinks.

Here is a price list of some of the common drinks. You can calculate if a Beverage Package, whether the Free-at-Sea or the Premius Plus package, works for your budget.

Or if you plan to pay for drinks without a beverage package. 

Don’t forget to add that 20% gratuity that will be added automatically with each drink ordered.

The Free-at-Sea Beverage Package covers alcoholic drinks up to $15. If you order anything over $15, you can pay for the difference and gratuities. That includes if you decide to order your drink with top-shelf liquor rather than well. 

Note that some drinks may vary in price by $1-2 throughout the fleet.

• Boxed Water: $4 
• Sparkling Pelligrino: $7
• Bottle of Beer: $7-8
• Starbucks: $3.50-$6.45
• Wine/Sparkling Wine: $8-$31 per glass
• Popular Cocktails: $9 to $12
• Whiskey Libations: $11 to $14 The whiskey flights with top-shelf liquor at Malting’s are $20.
• Martini’s: $11 to $18 The espresso and chocolate martini everyone loves is the most expensive at $18. Martini flights are $20. 

Cruise Drink Package Calculator

Don’t stress about which package to choose. Our cruise drink package calculator will help you determine if the gratuities charged for the Free-at-Sea NCL Drink Package is worth the cost. Or if you should consider upgrading to the NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package.

See which NCL drink package is the best bang for your buck. You might realize that you do not plan to drink as much to justify the cost of any of them, and it will be cheaper to pay for drinks as you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are drinks free on norwegian cruise line.

No, drinks are not free on the Norwegian Cruise Line. Not even if you choose the Norwegian Premium Beverage Package as a Free at Sea perk because you still have to pay a 20% beverage service charge of the value of the package ($305 in gratuities for two passengers for a 7-day cruise), however, it is still a fantastic value.

Does NCL drink package include gratuity?

No, the gratuities are not included with the NCL drink packages. An additional 20% service charge will be added to the value of the drink package.

Is NCL drink package worth it?

The NCL drink packages can be worth it if you justify the price and gratuities paid with the number of drinks you think you’ll consume. If you like to drink multiple alcoholic beverages daily, the gratuities paid for the NCL Premium Beverage Free at Sea perk will likely be worth it.

The best to find out if any of these drink packages are worth it is by calculating if the amount of drinks you’ll have throughout the cruise will add up to the amount of the package or more. Calculation example: ($10 per drink) x (how many drinks a day) = estimated total for one cruise day (total of one cruise day) x (# of days of your cruise) = estimated total for the entire cruise. You can check out some NCL Drink Prices below and use our handy Cruise Drink Package Calculato r .

Does NCL Premium Beverage Package include bottled water?

The short answer is no. Bottled water is not included with the NCL Premium Beverage Package.

Be aware there are conflicting reports as NCL temporarily included 6 1L water bottles (delivered to your stateroom on embarkation day) with the Free at Sea NCL Premium Beverage Package. According to reports, that is no longer the case. Customer service onshore and offshore can’t seem to provide a straight answer.

Bottled water packages can be purchased separately.

The only beverage package that does include unlimited bottled water (still and sparkling) is the NCL Premium PLUS Beverage Package.

The free drinks included with your cruise on NCL are iced tea, regular coffee, filtered water, and some free fountain juices in the buffet.

Sodas, specialty coffee, alcoholic drinks, frozen drinks, and bottled water are an extra charge unless you have an NCL Beverage Package that covers these drinks.

Are frozen drinks included in NCL drink package?

Frozen drinks are included in the Premium Beverage Package, Premium Plus Beverage Package, and the Hawaiian Beverage Package.

Does my Free at Sea Open Bar apply if the 2nd guest is a minor?

If your 2nd guest on your Norwegian cruise reservation is minor and you choose the Open Bar Free at Sea perk, the child will get the soda package.

The NCL Drink Packages provide great drink deals while cruising if you plan to take advantage of them. There are a variety of packages to choose from, so find the one that best suits your needs.

If you don’t drink soda or consume alcoholic drinks, don’t feel obligated to purchase a drink package. To save money , you can go to the buffet for free water, coffee, and juices. Filtered water and regular coffee are always provided in the dining rooms.

Cruise tip: Pack a thermal coffee mug or water flask, and refill these at the buffet. This is one of many things we list in our cruise packing list .

You can also always order drinks à la carte. Just make sure you do those calculations before the first day of your cruise. You can always add a beverage package on embarkation day.

🚢 Book a Cruise with NCL

Before you set sail, here are some related articles you don’t want to miss:

• Norwegian Cruise Drinks Cruisers Love
• NCL’s Free-at-Sea Promo Guide: Everything You Need to Know
• 10 Things to Love About Norweigan Cruise Line

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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14 Comments

Why is the “Plus” package not offered on Pride of America? The article mentions that the Hawaiian Package is comparable to the NCL Ultimate Beverage Package. Why don’t they also offer a comparable “Plus” Package? My wife and I enjoy fine wine and the Hawaiian Beverage Package limits us to glasses of wine of $15 or less. This is unfair and will ultimately cost NCL revenue as it encourages us to bring our own bottles, and incur the corkage fee, instead of purchasing them from NCL.

I understand the frustration. You will have to contact Norwegian Cruise Line to give them your thoughts. Hopefully, they are working on a special “plus” upgrade program for the Hawaiian Beverage Package. Meanwhile, I wish that the bottled water included in the Hawaiian Beverage Package was included in the Premium Beverage package without having to upgrade to Plus for an additional cost.

So here is our issue. I drink strictly Starbucks, no sodas whatsoever. My husband only drinks Diet Coke. There are only two of us in the cabin. So do we have to get drink packages galore or what?

Hi Holly – That’s where it gets tricky. NCLs policy is that all passengers within the same cabin must purchase the same package. It is not helfpul in situations like this.

I can totally relate as my husband doesn’t drink alcohol and yet I do, this becomes an issue sometimes when cruising. I pay for alcohol as I go now. However, from personal experience we have been able to purchase a soda package just for him and not me once onboard NCL ship in the past. I’ve read others that have done similar, even with upgrades when one person upgrades a package and the other doesn’t, once onboard. You can try to go that route and wait to see if they’ll allow you to make these separate purchases on board, but it is not a guarantee.

The other dilemma is that I believe that the Starbucks package is sold online and not onboard, don’t believe that has changed. We do have an upcoming cruise on NCL and I’ll be on the lookout to see.

Thank you so much for all the incredible info! Headed out of NYC to Bermuda this summer with our giant family of 21 people ranging from 5 to 80 years old! Trying to manage the expectations of the 20-year old’s in the group in regards to the drinks package. A promotion that was included is the Ultimate Beverage Package for Groups. During a phone call with NCL they explained it as 2 drinks per person per transaction. So I assume that works great say at the pool bar or casino, but they said that would be 2 drinks per sit down meal. Do you know if that’s enforced or is it a little more open at the dinner table to order say a pre-dinner drink, 2 glasses of wine with dinner and then a cordial? Would tipping the waiter help or make things awkward? Sorry first cruise for all of us! Thanks again 🙂

Hi Catherine – NCL’s policy states, a passenger with the Unlimited Beverage Package can order 2 drinks per transaction. Meaning that you can order 2 pina coladas at a time, if you wish.

Perhaps when speaking to customer service, they are see dinner as one transaction and stating that you’ll only be able to have 2 drinks max. That’s not the case, I’ve never experienced any limits ordering multiple drinks at dinner, including a cordial.

What I have experienced at times is the waiter being so busy that I don’t get the chance to order another drink. You should be able to order unlimited drinks that are included in the package.

It doesn’t hurt to get a pre-dinner drink and bring that with you to dinner. Many passengers do this, especially during busy dinner times. There are bars usually easily accessible not far from the dinner venues.

Tips are always appreciated. We always tip at the end of our meal if the service was excellent. Of course, you can tip ahead when placing your drink order and whisper, “keep ’em coming.” I’m sure they’d be happy to oblige.

We have the beverage package and three specialty dinners on the Getaway this fall. Is the beverage package included when we are at one of the specialty restaurants?

Hi Claudia – Apologies for the late reply, we just got off an Alaskan cruise on Norwegian. To answer your question, the beverage package can be used in the dining room and are subject to the same guidelines and restrictions. So if you have a Premium Beverage Package, you can order cocktails and wine up to $15 (you can always pay the difference if you do order anything over $15). If you have the Premium PLUS Beverage Package then you can literally order anything from top shelf cocktails, expensive glasses of wine and even the specialty coffee. Have a great cruise!

Why don’t any of these blog entries state how much a soda costs? If I knew how much a soda costs, I can determine if the ~$10/day is worth it for me. Thank you!

Hi Ann – Actually, yes, as stated above in the blog a cup of soda is around $3-4.

@Kathy, Thanks! I must have missed it.

No problem. Lots of info to absorb.

I am not a heavy drinker. I plan to only buy 2 beers a day. How much for a single can of say Bud or Miller light?

Hi Andy – A bottle of beer is around $7-8 each.

Comprehensive Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Package Guide (2024)

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Guests sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) have a variety of choices as to their beverage packages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. To help answer your questions, we put together a Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package guide.

We have sailed many times with NCL and have used both the Unlimited Open Bar Package and the Premium Plus Beverage Package . The one time we splurged on the Premium Plus package with Free at Sea Plus to check it out was fun but pricey.

Check Out Our New Calculators

Our new NCL beverage package calculators are included in the following posts:

Is NCL’s Unlimited Open Bar Worth It?

Is NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage Package Worth It?

Ultimate Cruise Planner

Need a little assistance organizing and planning your cruise? Our Ultimate Cruise Planner can help!

These beverage packages may be purchased with your booking or anytime before the cruise, either online or by calling NCL. If you choose not to include the Free at Sea offer with your booking but change your mind and would like a beverage package later, they are available for sale at the Atrium Bar for the first 48 hours of the sailing.

Note that all of these packages and prices are subject to change, and brand availability may change. All adults 21 and over on the same reservation must purchase the same beverage package, and those under 21 must purchase the soda package. Guests are eligible for two beverages per person per transaction. Packages may not be shared and are non-refundable.

There is no limit to the number of beverages you purchase daily, but you are expected to drink responsibly.

Two groups of beverage packages are offered: those for cruises on Pride of America, and those for all other cruises. We’ll start with the most common packages offered for all other cruises.

Beverage Packages For All Ships Except Pride of America

Unlimited open bar package.

This popular beverage package is included with NCL’s Free at Sea offer you can choose while booking. This package is available for use onboard for sailings of three days or more, as well as on Great Stirrup Cay, but not on Harvest Caye.

• What It Includes : Selected cocktails and spirits, wines by the glass, and beers under $15 USD, plus all sodas and juices
• What It Doesn’t Include : Bottled water (still or sparkling), room service, mini bar purchases, and pre-cruise wine bottle purchases, Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks, or energy drinks
• Ages : 21 years of age and older
• Discounts Included : 20% discount on wine and spirit experiences, tastings, flights, Connoisseur Collection beverages, and all wines by the bottle.
• Price Per Day : $109 per person per day
• Taxes and gratuities : 20% gratuities will be added, as well as VAT tax for certain ports and itineraries

Beverage packages are not usable on Harvest Caye because the island isn’t owned by NCL.

Premium Plus Beverage Package

This beverage package may be purchased on its own or as an upgrade to the Open Beverage Package offered with Free at Sea, or as part of Free at Sea Plus .

• What It Includes : All top-shelf cocktails and spirits. All beer, red wine, white wine, and NCL’s exclusive brand of rosé champagne by the glass. Select premium bottles of wine with dinner including NCL’s exclusive brand of rosé champagne and 40% off all other bottles (limited to one bottle per person per dinner). Unlimited soft drinks and juices. Unlimited still and sparkling bottled water. All Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks. Energy Drinks.
• What It Doesn’t Include : Room service, mini bar purchases, and pre-cruise wine bottle purchases
• Discounts Included : 40% discount on wine and spirit experiences, tastings, flights, Connoisseur Collection beverages, and all wines by the bottle
• Price Per Day : $138 per person per day, or as a $29 upgrade to the Unlimited Open Bar Package per person per day

Unlimited Soda Package

This beverage package may be purchased by adults and children ages 3 and over. Note that NCL offers Coke products.

• What It Includes : Fountain sodas including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Tonic Water, Fanta, and soda water
• What It Doesn’t Include : Bottled water (still or sparkling), room service, mini bar purchases, energy drinks, or canned sodas
• Ages : 3 years of age and older
• Price Per Day : $9.95 per person per day

Unlimited Starbucks Package

For Starbucks lovers, NCL offers a Starbucks package that includes coffees, specialty coffees, teas, and refreshers.

• What It Includes : Coffees, espressos, specialty coffees, teas, and refreshers
• What It Doesn’t Include : Starbucks food
• Ages : 18 years of age and older
• Price Per Day : $12.95 per person per day

Water Packages

If you would like to have bottled water for your stateroom, it is available for purchase as follows (water brand may vary):

• 6 one-liter bottles: $19.95
• 12 one-liter bottles: $34.95
• 24 one-liter bottles: $49.95

All Hawaii Beverage Packages

These packages are applicable to all Pride of America sailings only, with changes made to comply with Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law.

Hawaii Beverage Package

The alcoholic beverage package offered for cruises on Pride of America is slightly different from the Open Bar Beverage Package offered on all other ships.

• What It Includes : Unlimited craft cocktails, premium spirits, wines by the glass, and beers under $15 USD, plus bottled water (still or sparkling), all sodas and juices, non-alcoholic beer, and specialty Starbucks coffee while dining
• What It Doesn’t Include : Room service, mini bar purchases, and pre-cruise wine bottle purchases, Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks while not dining, or energy drinks

Hawaii Soda Package

This beverage package may be purchased by adults and children ages 3 and over.

• What It Includes : Unlimited refills of fountain soda and juices

Hawaii Starbucks Package

The Hawaii Starbucks package is perfect for coffee lovers.

• What It Includes : Coffees, espressos, specialty coffees, teas, and frappucinos

Hawaii Water Package

Free drinks in the casino with casinos at sea.

NCL’s casino loyalty program, Casinos At Sea, rewards loyal players with drinks while playing in the casino. There are five tier levels: Jade, Pearl, Sapphire, Ruby, and Elite. Complimentary drinks while playing in the casino are as follows by tier:

• Jade – No complimentary drinks
• Pearl – Complimentary house drinks
• Sapphire – Complimentary premium drinks
• Ruby – Complimentary ultra drinks
• Elite – Complimentary ultra drinks

We are members of Casinos at Sea and always stop at the casino bar at the end of the night to pick up a few free bottles of water to take back to our stateroom.

For more information about how to become a member of Casinos at Sea, stop by the casino and ask.

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Bring your own wine or champagne onboard.

NCL allows you to bring wine or champagne onboard with certain caveats. Wine brought onboard on Embarkation Day is subject to a corkage fee as seen below, with no exceptions. No matter where you consume the wine you bring onboard, whether in a lounge, a restaurant, or your stateroom, the corkage fee applies.

• 750 ml bottle: $15.00 USD
• 1,500 ml magnum: $30.00 USD

Any alcohol you purchase at a port will be held for you until the end of the cruise.

NCL Drink Prices

For reference, below are the price ranges for various beverages onboard NCL ships. Beverage prices can vary from bar to bar, plus 20% gratuities will be added to the prices that follow.

• Cocktails – $10 to $14 and up
• Beer – $7 and up
• Wine by the glass – $8 and up
• Fountain soda – $3 to $3.50
• Canned soda – $3 to $3.50
• Energy drinks – $6 to $7
• Bottled premium water – $6
• Bottled water – $4
• Martini flight – $20
• Starbucks coffees – $3 to $7

Is The Unlimited Open Bar Beverage Package Worth It?

The answer to that question will be different for everyone. The easiest way to answer that for yourself is to divide the daily cost of the package by the highest drink price, then ask yourself if you normally drink that many cocktails, beers, glasses of wine, fountain sodas, and juices per day.

Note that I have not included the gratuities in the equation because they would be added either way.

Doing the math for the Unlimited Open Bar Package ($109 ÷ $15 = 7.3) shows that if you consume more than seven of the drinks covered in that package per day, then the package is worth it.

Doing the math for the Premium Plus Package ($138 ÷ $15 = 9.2) shows that if you consume more than nine of the drinks covered in that package per day, then the package is worth it. If you like premium spirits, bottled water, and Starbucks and drink them often, then the package is worth it.

If you don’t want to do the math, check out our new beverage package calculators included in these posts:

Also, you need to take into consideration if you have a port-intensive cruise. If you do, you won’t be on board as much to enjoy your beverage package.

Beverage Package Flyers

Would you like a flyer about the beverage packages to take on the cruise with you? NCL has made the following available to you, and they are so helpful. Not sure what you want to drink next? Just check the flyer for ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if i order a drink over $15 with the open bar package.

Your order will be discounted $15 and you will be charged the difference.

I like The Hawaii Package Better. Why Can’t I Purchase That One?

The Hawaii packages are only available on Pride of America to comply with Hawaiian law.

If I Decide I Don’t Want A Beverage Package Mid-cruise, Can I Get a Refund?

No. Refunds are not offered on beverage packages.

Can I Order Drinks For Myself and My Partner?

Yes, a guest is entitled to order two drinks per transaction.

Is there a limit to how much I can drink Per Day?

No, but you are expected to drink responsibly.

Can I buy drinks for someone not in my cabin?

No, you cannot share your drink package with people not on your reservation. Doing so can cause your drink package to be revoked.

What If I Don’t Want To Buy A Beverage Package? What Can I Drink on NCL For Free?

The following drinks are complimentary: filtered water, tea, milk, chocolate milk, fountain juices, and lemonade.

How Can I Get A Free Open Bar Beverage Package?

By purchasing the Free at Sea offer with your booking.

Final Thoughts on Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages

If you enjoy alcoholic beverages and other drinks covered by the beverage packages, NCL’s beverage packages can be a cost-saver for you. Do the math and decide for yourself if the packages are right for you.

Happy cruising!

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2024 Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: April 2, 2020  - Last updated: February 11, 2024

For many cruisers, your bar bill can end up being a significant portion of your vacation budget! If you’re cruising on Norwegian Cruise Line, having an NCL drink package lets you pre-plan your drink costs so you’re not hit with a huge bar tab at the end of your cruise .

Norwegian offers a variety of drink packages for all ages, at various price points. But is an NCL beverage package worth it? I’ll explain what each package currently includes and how much it will cost for your cruise, so you can decide if you should buy one and which drink package is right for you.

Norwegian Cruise Line raised prices and changed drink package selection in 2023

NCL overhauled its beverage package selection back in 2023, removing some fan favorites and adding a new tier. At the same time, Norwegian also raised all drink package prices.

Although Norwegian hasn’t announced any drink package increases for 2024, they have made a few changes to some programs since last year.

Even if you’ve cruised NCL with a beverage package in the past, you’ll want to read carefully to see what’s changed!

All beverage packages increased in price in 2023

Beginning in January 2023, NCL raised the price of all drink packages by $10 per day. Although post-shutdown price hikes are becoming the norm, Norwegian already charged among the highest per-day costs for beverage packages in the cruise industry.

Many NCL cruisers choose a free drink package as part of NCL’s ongoing Free At Sea promotion, but gratuities aren’t included—and that per-day charge just increased as well.

Norwegian removed two popular drink packages

As part of the beverage package overhaul, NCL removed two of the most budget-friendly beverage packages from its portfolio: Corks & Caps and the Children’s Soda Program .

Wine and beer lovers might remember Corks & Caps—for just $65 per day, you could enjoy unlimited draft and bottled beer, wine-by-the-glass, and fountain sodas. That package has been scrapped, and the cheapest option for unlimited wine and beer now costs double the price.

Norwegian also removed the Children’s Soda Program from its options. As late as 2022, parents of kids aged 12 and under could pay just $5.95 per day to let each kid have unlimited fountain sodas.

Currently, children and adults who want unlimited soft drinks have now been lumped into the same package, almost doubling the per-day price for kids!

NCL added a new drink package

All’s not gloomy on the Norwegian drink package front. The cruise line actually added a new tier that has been popular with specialty coffee drinkers— Unlimited Starbucks!

This new Norwegian beverage package includes all you can drink from the onboard coffeehouse, for the price of just a couple of venti lattes. Read on for all the details!

For all of Norwegian’s drink packages, you can order an unlimited amount of any included beverages at bars and restaurants on the ship, but drink selection can vary by venue.

NCL drink packages available for 2024

For 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line offers five beverage packages:

Unlimited Soda Package

Unlimited starbucks package, unlimited open bar package , premium plus beverage package , pride of america hawaii beverage package.

As a guide, I’ve included how much each drink package costs in total (including gratuity) for a seven-day cruise. Note that packages are only available for cruises that are three days or longer. Pride of America Hawaii cruises have their own special drink package (detailed below), and some packages aren’t available on that ship.

These are the current drink packages for 2024, with updated pricing. Note that NCL adds a 20% gratuity to the price of all drink packages.

Available for anyone age 3 and up, NCL’s Unlimited Soda Package costs $9.95 per day. Only fountain sodas are covered (including Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, ginger ale, tonic water, and club soda). Cans of soda are charged at full menu prices.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($9.95 x 7 x 1.2) $83.58

NCL’s Unlimited Starbucks Package includes all your Starbucks favorites, from classic coffees and teas and Refreshers to Frappuccinos and other specialty coffee drinks.

The Starbucks drink package costs $12.95 per day, and cruisers must be at least 18 years of age to purchase.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($12.95 x 7 x 1.2) $108.78

NCL’s Unlimited Open Bar Package  (formerly known as the Premium Beverage Package or the Ultimate Beverage Package) costs $109.00 per day. The package includes spirits and cocktails along with a selection of soft drinks, juice, draft and bottled beer, and wine-by-the-glass.

Any of these drinks with a menu price under $15 are included in the program. NCL has a list of brands included in the Unlimited Open Bar Package . However, not all ships carry all of the listed brands, and availability can vary by venue. Brands are subject to change.

The Unlimited Open Bar Package doesn’t include specialty coffee and tea drinks, bottled water, energy drinks, fresh-squeezed juices, and bottles of wine (although they’ll give you a 20% discount on certain bottles). Other exclusions are room service, mini-bar drinks, and drinks served in souvenir glasses.

If a drink costs $15 or more, you’ll be charged the difference plus a 20% gratuity on that amount.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($109.00 x 7 x 1.2) $915.60 . If you choose this package with Free at Sea, it costs ($109.00 x 7 x 0.2) $152.60 for gratuities.

NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage Package costs $138.00 per day. The package includes everything in the Unlimited Open Bar Package, but the $15 menu price cap is lifted.

In addition, specialty coffees and teas, energy drinks, fresh-squeezed juices, bottled water (still and sparkling), and select bottles of wine are covered in this package. Dining room wine lists have an asterisk next to bottles that are included in the package.

NCL also publishes a list of brands included with Premium Plus , so you can have an idea of which brands are complimentary with the package. Brands are subject to change.

If you have a free Unlimited Open Bar Package from the Free at Sea promotion, you’ll be able to upgrade to Premium Plus by paying the difference. Currently, you can upgrade for $29 per day plus the 20% gratuity charge.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($138.00 x 7 x 1.2) $1159.20 .

Sailing on NCL’s Pride of America in Hawaii? As recently as 2023, the ship offered only one drink package for adults, teens, and kids—the $109 per day Hawaii Beverage Package .

Thankfully, the cruise line has come to its senses and now offers a range of drink packages aboard Pride of America , including the soda and Starbucks packages.

If you’re interested in an adult beverage package, it’s included in your fare for the first two passengers in a stateroom—you just pay the 20% gratuity.

The Hawaii Beverage Package includes a variety of both adult and soft drinks. Wine-by-the-glass, beer, and liquor are included, up to $15 per drink. Other included options are fountain sodas, freshly-squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and specialty coffees (in the dining rooms only).

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package (gratuities only) would cost ($109.00 x 7 x 0.2) $152.60

If you have more than two adults in your stateroom, guests 3 and 4 will need to buy the Hawaii Beverage Package at the full price of $109 per person, per day, plus gratuity.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($109.00 x 7 x 1.2) $915.60

Currently, Norwegian Cruise Line does not offer the Premium Plus Beverage Package aboard Pride of America .

NCL drink packages FAQ

If you’ve never cruised with Norwegian before, or it’s been a while since your last cruise, you probably have some general questions about how the drink packages work. I’ll answer the most common ones here. If you have a question that I haven’t answered, just leave it in the comments and I’ll answer it.

Do you need to tip for drinks purchased with an NCL beverage package?

All drink packages cost an extra 20% gratuity on top of the list price. You don’t need to tip your bartender or server each time you order a drink with your beverage package—you’ve already pre-paid your tips.

That said, you can always add an extra tip for your favorite bartenders, if you choose.

Do you need to pay tax on your drinks?

When you’re out at sea in international waters, you don’t need to worry about paying tax on any of your drinks. But when you’re in port, some local authorities require cruise lines to collect tax on the menu price of any beverages you buy. Taxes are charged to your onboard account if you’re buying drinks one by one or using a beverage package.

The tax percentage varies by port , but it’s never a huge amount – generally somewhere between 5-10% of the cost of each drink. If a jurisdiction charges tax, it will be charged on each drink when the ship is in port and in its territorial waters.

Do NCL drink packages work on their private islands?

If you’re stopping for the day at one of Norwegian’s private islands , drink packages are accepted at Great Stirrup Cay but not at Harvest Caye. Wondering why? NCL developed Harvest Caye in partnership with the government of Belize. Part of that deal specifies that visitors must pay for food and drinks ordered on the island.

How old do you have to be to buy an alcoholic beverage package on NCL?

Passengers need to be at least 21 to purchase an alcoholic beverage package on Norwegian cruises worldwide. Guests aged 18 to 20 can purchase alcohol by the drink on round-trip cruises in Europe and Australia. 18-to-20-year-olds can buy wine and beer on some cruises sailing from the US with the signed consent of an accompanying parent.

However, you still need to be 21 to have a drink package that includes alcohol, even if you’re old enough to drink on the cruise.

Can you share your NCL beverage package with another guest?

Norwegian, like many cruise lines, has been cracking down on passengers sharing their drink packages. Because of this issue, if one guest on a reservation buys a drink package, the other guests must as well. Passengers under 21 would be required to buy a soda package.

Exceptions can be made in certain circumstances. If you’re pregnant, have a medical condition, a history of substance abuse, or have religious beliefs that don’t allow you to drink any alcohol, contact NCL to ask for an exception.

How do you buy a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package?

Many Norwegian cruises offer their Free at Sea promotion , and the most popular perk for cruisers is the drink package. But if you don’t have Free at Sea (or you chose another perk), you can pre-purchase a drink package, starting 90 days before sailing, on your MyNCL account .

You can also buy a drink package on board the ship, but this option will usually only be available for the first couple of days of the cruise.

Can you buy a drink package for certain days of the cruise?

Although it would be nice to pick and choose which days you have a drink package (like sea days only, please!), once you buy a package you need to pay for each remaining day of your cruise. Take this into consideration if you have a lot of longer shore excursions when you won’t be on the ship to use the package.

NCL drink prices for 2024: how much are drinks on a Norwegian cruise if you buy them individually?

Based on recent menu prices, specialty coffees on ships with a Starbucks are in the $3-6 range. Fountain sodas are about $3.

Many wines-by-the-glass are in the $8-9 range, up to about $27-31 for higher-end selections. Beer is about $7-9 per glass. Cocktails from the bar menus are generally $9-15 (but ultra-premium liquor can cost significantly more).

Is there a limit to how many drinks you can get per day with an NCL beverage package?

Unlike some cruise lines, Norwegian doesn’t currently have a limit on how many drinks you can have per day with any of their packages. Obviously, you should be safe and drink responsibly! But as of right now there’s no set limit. They do have a limit of two drinks per person per order, which is helpful to know when there’s a long line at the pool bar.

Is it worth it to get a drink package on NCL?

Honestly, it all depends on how much you think you’ll be drinking. Norwegian’s alcoholic drink packages are among the most expensive in the cruise industry, so the expense can be significant if you’re paying out-of-pocket. If you’re sure you’ll only have a couple of drinks each day, it’s a far better deal to just pay as you go.

When you choose the Unlimited Open Bar Package as a Free at Sea perk, you’ll only be paying the gratuity (about $22 per day). Drinking just one soda with lunch, an afternoon cocktail by the pool, and a glass of wine with dinner, you’ve had your money’s worth for the day.

If you’re a soda drinker, the soda package can be a money-saver. Know you’ll want to order at least two or three soft drinks each day? Then it really makes sense to buy this package.

Want to learn more about cruise line beverage packages? Read my article Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It? to learn more.

Don’t forget to check out these resources before your Norwegian cruise:

• 25 Norwegian Cruise Tips You Need to Know
• Norwegian’s Free at Sea: The Ultimate Guide
• How to Get Onboard Credit for Owning Norwegian Cruise Line Stock
• Ultimate Guide to NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay

Have you bought a drink package on a Norwegian cruise? Did you think it was worth it? Let me know in the comments below!

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Saturday 15th of July 2023

Does the menu changes everyday at the freestyle restaurants ? Also is it the same menu at every complimentary restaurant ?

Sunday 16th of July 2023

Hi again Jazz! The first half of the dinner menu in the complimentary main dining rooms will change each evening, but there will always be a selection of classic entrées that remain the same. For breakfast and lunch in the MDR, you'll often see a similar menu each day with just a couple of daily features that change. The menu at one main dining room won't differ from another at any given time.

You'll also find complimentary restaurants on board (like O'Sheehan's or the Local) that don't change their menus from day to day. Hope this helps!

How strict is Norwegian about sharing alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks with someone who didn’t purchase the package ? I mean do they really keep an eye on you even if you are sitting far away.

Hi Jazz, thanks for the question! NCL, like most cruise lines, strongly discourages "sharing" drinks packages. Will bartenders or other crew members be watching you like hawks to see if you share a drink or two? Probably not, but it could happen. If you're caught, the cruise line can cancel your drink package (with no refund!) for the rest of the cruise. If you're concerned about the cost, consider booking during one of NCL's Free At Sea promotions. They run these very frequently, and you can choose a drink package as one of the free perks.

Tuesday 14th of February 2023

We're sailing on the NCL Bliss, and have purchased the unlimited open bar package with free at sea. I'm not much of an excursion person, and was curious to know if my drink package still allows me to take advantage of the open bar while we're docked in ports. Everything i've read so far on the free at sea is that the drinks are only "free" while sailing, and not while docked. Thanks!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Hi Julia, the drinks with Free At Sea's open bar are definitely free aboard the ship regardless of whether she's sailing or docked in port. However, you'll need to pay tax on the menu price of each drink when you're not in international waters (like when you're in port). But the tax charges, which vary by jurisdiction, are usually very minimal. Happy cruising!

Susan Weule

Friday 27th of January 2023

Hi going on NCL Pride of America in March 2023. As we are in port everyday at a different Hawaiian island. Do we have to pay extra tax if we have purchased the drink package? If we happen to stay on board. Just so you know we also received free gratitudes in the deal. So wondering if there’s any hidden costs so I can budget. Thank you.

Sunday 29th of January 2023

Hi Susan, excellent questions! If you've already purchased the Hawaii beverage package, you'll have already paid the gratuities for the package at checkout. (The free gratuities you received as part of your package are crew gratuities, not drinks gratuities - you can read more about that in my post What You Need to Know About Cruise Gratuities)

As for taxes on your drinks, you won't need to pay anything extra when you're sailing in international waters. But whenever you order a drink while you're in territorial waters (like if you stay on the ship as you mentioned, or whenever you're within about 12 nautical miles from land), local taxes on the menu price of each drink you order will be charged to your onboard account.

My rule of thumb to figure out when you're sailing in international waters is if the onboard shops and/or casino are open, you're all set and won't be charged tax on your drinks :) Hope this helps, and have an amazing time on your cruise!

Judy Plummer

Sunday 14th of August 2022

What is included in the adult beverage package that is included as a perk on NCL Escape?

Tuesday 16th of August 2022

Hi Judy, when you choose the drink package as part of your Free At Sea perks on any NCL ship, you'll get the Premium Beverage Package (scroll up to read my complete description of the package). In a nutshell, the package includes any drink $15 and under, with some exclusions like boxed water, specialty coffees, and fresh juices.

Ultimate Guide to NCL Drink Packages | Are they worth it?

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: August 27, 2023

Categories Cruise Tips

Considering the NCL Drink Packages and wondering what they cost? We travel on Norwegian cruise line quite a bit and have the low down on whether buying the drink package is worth it or not when cruising NCL. 

If you are thinking to take a NCL cruise in 2023 here is a guide with everything you need to know about NCL Beverage Packages (including a beverage package comparison) to help you decide what is right for you to buy the adult beverage package or even soda package. Happy cruising!

The Ultimate Guide to NCL Drink Packages

When we travel in a group on Norwegian cruises (like we recently did on the Norwegian Star ) we always go for the NCL Premium Beverage Package which allows you to drink premium cocktails & spirits under $15 USD and a variety of beer and wine by the glass under $15 USD.

You can purchase this for $109.00 USD per person per day but we normally get it included as part of our cruise with their “Free at Se” a promotion which includes this drink package as a perk of booking. Sometimes, you can choose this perk or another perk that might suit you better like speciality dining or internet. This is not always offered and you need to look out for a “Free at Sea” promotion when booking your cruise if this is important to you.

If you don’t purchase a drink package on your cruise, what you will have access to is table water at the buffet, standard tea and coffee and some cordials at the buffet.

A great bartender called Rico on the Norwegian Star

When we travel on our own, we sometimes don’t get the beverage package as we don’t drink a lot normally but when we are traveling in a group and want to down a bit more grog, the NCL Drink Packages are really good value and save us a tonne of money while cruising.

Due to the affordable drinks packages, Norwegian cruises are a great cruise for young adults so if you are in your 20s/30s and thinking to book this cruise we would say, go for it!

Drink packages also make cruising a little more interesting as you can try a lot of different drinks. For example, if you are traveling on a girls trip and want to try quite a lot of different cocktails, it will be well worth your while having the beverage package.

Even if it is included in the “Free at Sea” package” the NCL Drink Packages are not exactly free (more of this later) as there is a 20% service charge/gratuity added to the package so you need to weigh up how much you will be drinking to determine if it is worth it to you.

There are also beverage package options available for the non drinkers in the form of a soda package which we will discuss below.

Keep reading to find out more about all the NCL Drink Packages that are available for purchase including the Premium Beverage Package, the Premium Beverage Package Plus and the Soda Package including a comparison of what you get in each.

FAQ on NCL Drink Packages

How old do you have to be to get a beverage package on ncl.

To get a beverage package OR to drink on Norwegian cruises in general, you need to be 21 years of age. This is the same rule no matter what country you are cruising.

This is the case as NCL are a US company and have adopted the same drinking age as the USA.

What is a “Free at Sea” beverage package perk?

Norwegian often offers promotions when you book your cruise called “Free at Sea” promos. This often includes getting a free Premium Beverage Package included in the price of your cruise.

As explained later, it is not entirely free as you still need to pay a service fee or gratuity on the price of the beverage package which is 20% of the usual price.

If I don’t have a”Free at Sea” beverage package perk, how much will it cost me for a beverage package?

Norwegian cruise line has 5 different beverage packages with all different prices:

• Premium Beverage Package: $109.00 USD per person per day;
• Premium Plus Beverage Package:$138.00 USD per person per day;
• Hawaii Beverage Package (all ages) – Pride of America only: $109.00 USD per person per day;
• Unlimited Soda Package: $9.95 USD per person per day;
• Unlimited Starbucks package: $12.95 USD per person per day.

People enjoying the drink package on NCL Star. If you look closely they have “Blame it on the drink package cruise shirts “

On top of this price, you will be subject to a 20% service charge on a daily rate on the price of your beverage package. 

Are there additional taxes on beverage packages?

Yes, if you order drinks while docked at a US port.

Is bottled wine included in any of the beverage packages?

No, bottled wine is not included in any of the beverage packages on NCL.

If you at a Platinum member, one of the perks is a bottle of wine included with a specialty dining meal.

A wine we enjoyed as part of being platinum members at Le Bistro French restaurant

Can I bring my own bottles of wine or champagne onboard?

Yes, you can but they will be subject to a $15 corkage fee per bottle of wine. This technically applies whether you drink the wine or not.

In reality, they probably won’t charge you the corkage and simply put your bottles in “wine jail” until the end of the cruise.

If you find a nice bartender, you may not be charged the corkage fee but I would expect to pay it if you bring wine on the ship.

The average bottle of wine is around $40 to purchase on the ship so if your wine costs $25 or more + the $15 corkage it might not be worth it.

If you purchase a bottle of wine and you don’t drink the whole bottle, the staff are happy to cork it and put it away for your next dinner which is a great economical option if you are not a big drinker.

Can I bring my own bottles of spirits onboard?

No, bottle of spirits are not allowed on the ship. If you bring them, they will be likely detected in your luggage while going on the cruise and put in “spirit jail” until the end of the cruise.

We met some travelers who got very crafty and successfully got spirits on by putting the spirit inside their camel pack . For me, the embarrassment of them seeing me smuggle spirits in via a camel pack isn’t worth it plus I’m not that serious of a drinker to need it that badly.

Does the drinking package cost the same no matter the length of the cruise?

No, the cost varies depending on the amount of nights you are on the cruise. This is the case even if you are on a “Free at Sea” perk as the service charge/gratuity will increase.

What drinks are free on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The only drinks that are free are filtered water at the buffet, standard coffee, tea and some cordials at the buffet.

There is still an additional cost of a gratuity even if you get a “free at sea” perk and get a Norwegian Premium Beverage Package included in your cruise deal.

How much gratuity/service charge will I have to pay on the beverage package?

You pay a 20% gratuity on the value of the NCL drink package, regardless if you get it for free as a perk when booking your cruise.

For example, if you are buying the package direct, it normally costs $109.00 USD per person per day for the premium beverage package. That means for a 7 day cruise you will pay around $152 pp or around $22 pp a day in gratuity.

If you get the NCL premium beverage package included as a perk of your cruise, it means essentially if you are wanting to drink more than 1 alcoholic beverage a drink on your cruise (they usually cost between $10 – $15 USD a drink) it is worth it.

Is buying a drink package worth it?

It really depends on how much you are going to drink and if you are getting the package as a free at sea perk or paying the standard rate for it.

As stated above, drinks on NCL cost around $10 – $15 USD a drink for an alcoholic beverage.

If you are getting the free at sea perk where you get a beverage package included and just have to pay for the gratuity, you only have to drink more than 1 drink a day to make paying the service fee worthwhile.

If you are paying for the beverage package direct to NCL without a free at sea perk, you would have to be drinking 10 drinks a day so unless you are a very heavy drinker, I would not think purchasing the beverage package would be worthwhile.

Here is an example of a cruise on the Norwegian Prima we recently purchased from Iceland. As you can see, the cruise only rate was 858 Euros pp. If you want the Free at Sea upgrade which includes the beverage package, it increases the price to 1057 Euros pp. For clarity, the specialty dining is usually 1 paid restaurant per cruise and the internet package is usually 150 minutes (for a 10 day cruise, the amount increases per number of days at sea)

The total amount when you add in taxes etc came to 1716.20 Euros for two people without the beverage package or 2,114.20 Euros per person with the beverage package, a difference of 398 Euros for a 10 day cruise.

Is that worth it? Well, depends how much you are going to drink. We went with it on the Star and without it on the Norwegian Prima when it was just the two of us and we thought we would drink less.

Can just one person in a cabin purchase a beverage package?

No, everyone in the cabin must have the same package. You cannot mix and match UNLESS the person in the cabin is a minor in which case they will get the Unlimited Soda package.

We met a couple recently onboard where one person was a drinker and one wasn’t and it simply was not worthwhile for them to purchase the drinks package for this reason.

Does NCL Premium Beverage Package include bottled water?

No, it does not. You will need to get the Premium Plus Beverage Package to get unlimited still and bottled water at a price of $138 USD pp per day.

The bummer is the Premium Plus Beverage Package is never (as far as I have ever since) included in a free at sea promotion. Only the Premium Beverage Package is usually included in this perk. This means if bottled water is important to you, you will be up for quite a pretty penny.

Norwegian cruises are now offering a bottled water package which costs $19.95 for 6 one litre bottles, $34.95 for 12 and $49.95 for 24 bottles. If you just want to pay as you go, bottled water sets you back around $6 USD a litre. The brand they are selling is called “Flow” which is meant to be alkaline spring water. I tried it and it wasn’t my favorite bottled water I have ever tasted but it was better than the filtered water from the buffet.

You can fill your own water bottle up at the buffet. You aren’t allowed to put the bottle under the dispense but you can transfer glasses into your own bottle.

Can you get frozen drinks in any of the NCL beverage packages?

Yes, you can get frozen drinks in the Premium Beverage Package, Premium Plus Beverage package, and the Hawaiian Beverage Package.

They are not included in the soda package however, there are non alcoholic frozen beverages available. If you are on a Premium Beverage Package and your child has a soda package but wants a non alcoholic frozen beverage, you can simply get one for him or her on your card.

What happens on the Free at Sea perk if the second guest is a minor?

If you have the Free at Sea promotion and your second guest is a minor, they will get the soda package and you will pay the service charge on that package. That only applies if the second guest is a minor.

NCL Beverage package comparison

NCL Soda Package

A great option for non drinkers or children, the NCL Soda package will only set you back $9.95 per person, per day plus 20% gratuity.

This is a really good option if you like a soda like a coke or lemonade or even a soda water with lime (my personal favorite).

Each soda will set you back around $3-4 USD per drink so if you regularly drink over 3 sodas a day the Nowegian Soda package will be a good option for you.

For a 7 day cruise the soda package will cost $69.65 plus a $14 gratuity.

If you are a non drinker and don’t purchase the NCL Soda package or have a free at sea perk, you will be limited to filtered water, standard coffee, tea and cordials at the buffet.

NCL Premium Beverage Package

This is the most popular beverage package on NCL cruises largely because many guests get this included as part of a free at sea promotion, where they don’t have to pay the cost of the beverage package and just pay the service fee.

NCL Premium Beverage Package costs $109 per person, per day, plus a 20% gratuity. 

One of the best tips we have is to try to get it included in one of Norwegians “Free at Sea” promotions when you book your cruise as then you are only paying the 20% service charge which is $152 pp for a 7 day cruise or around $22 pp a day in gratuity.

As a general rule, you can order on this package any alcoholic drinks or sodas under $15 in value. This gives you quite a lot of choice. We have never felt that we couldn’t find a drink we liked for this value.

What I personally thought was a bit poor was that specialty coffee like Starbucks and energy drinks, even if they were under $15 value were not included in this package. Bottled water is also not included as well as anything in the mini bar and room service is subject to an additional fee.

Click here for NCL’s updated ncl drink package list of what is included in the Premium beverage package

As you can see based on the graphic above, the NCL Premium Beverage Package includes a wide range of options.

There are also many wines and beers that you can find of the ship that aren’t listed here but are included.  For example, we found out on our recent cruise on the Norwegian Star that Guinness beer is able to be ordered only from the Irish pub and is included in the NCL Premium Beverage Package which was a bit of a win for my husband and Dad.

If it’s under $15 you are generally okay to order it but if in doubt, the bartenders are always happy to help out.

If you want a drink over $15 in value, you can simply pay the difference. For example, if you want a glass of Veuve Clicquot champagne that is $35 in value, you would pay $20 out of pocket plus 20% gratuity extra on the additional $20.

You can find the full terms and conditions of the Premium beverage package here .

NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package

If you have a taste for finer wines, champagne and spirits for example Veuve Clicquot champagne, you may want to look into Norwegian cruise lines’s Premium Plus Beverage.

This costs $138 per person, per day plus a 20% gratuity. As far as I have ever seen, it is never included in the Free at Sea promotion so you will looking at spending this money if the finer things in life are important to you.

What is great about this package is that Starbucks specialty coffees, energy drinks as well as bottled water is included. This means you can drink as much Starbucks and bottled water until your hearts content on the cruise with this package.

You should calculate how many top quality beverages you can consume in a cruise to work out if NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage is worth it or not for you. If you have the Free at Sea Premium Beverage Package, it may be more worthwhile to add a Starbucks or water package to your room and pay for the increased price of drinks. As noted above, you will pay the amount over $15. It is important to do the maths to work out what is the best option for you.

NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage is NCL’s top quality beverage package which includes the best quality champagne, wine and spirits on the ship.

NCL premium beverage package vs premium plus? Basically you can order whatever you like on the Plus package including Starbucks and bottled water. It does not include room service or mini bar and no package does this.

NCL Premium plus Beverage drink package list

Can you upgrade the NCL Premium Beverage Package to the Plus Package?

Yes, you can which might work out the most economical for you. There is a new program called NCL Free at Sea Plus which costs $49 per person daily, plus gratuities to upgrade from the NCL Premium Beverage Package to the Plus Package.

You can only do this if you are sailing for 3 days or more.

Whether the upgrade is worth it or not depends on how much you are going to drink on the ship and what you are going to drink. It’s always good to do the maths so Norwegian doesn’t win 😉

For example, Veuve Clicquot champagne that is $35 a glass, you would pay $20 out of pocket plus 20% gratuity, you would need to want to consume more than 2 of these a day to make it more economical to upgrade your package rather than just pay the difference.

The other benefit the Free at Sea Plus comes with two additional dinners at specialty dining restaurants for guests 1 and 2 and unlimited Internet (no streaming). If you purchase two additional dinners at specialty dining restaurants onboard it will cost you $100 each person.

If you were going to do this in any event, it really lowers how much Veuve Clicquot champagne you have to consume to make the upgrade worthwhile.

NCL Hawaii Beverage Package

This beverage package only applies to the Norwegian Pride of America sailings so it is a very specific beverage package that cannot be used on every cruise.

This package is very similar to the NCL Premium Beverage Package, it costs $109 per person, per day, plus 20% gratuity.

Like the regular NCL Premium Beverage Package, you get unlimited beverages up to $15 in value.

It is also included as one of the Free at Sea perks. It is slightly better value than the regular NCL Premium Beverage Package as it does include bottled water and specialty coffee in dining rooms as well as freshly squeezed juices.

You do get better with this beverage package however, Hawaii sailings tend to be at a higher price point as a whole so if I was to guess, NCL feel they need to offer slightly better value on this cruise in order to be competitive with other lines.

The Hawaii beverage package still goes not include mini bar items or specialty coffee outside restaurants like for example at the Starbucks store.

Click here for NCL’s updated list of what is included in the Hawaii beverage package

Unlimited Starbucks Package

Of course NCL also has a package for the specialty coffee lovers.

For $12.95 per person per day plus 20% gratuity added to the total cost you can get unlimited specialty coffee from the onboard Starbucks store. This adds up to $90.65 for a 7 day cruise plus a service charge of 20% on top.

It is includes all drinks served at Starbucks but excludes bottled water and food served there.

This package is only available on ships which have Starbucks onboard.

Like the rules with all Norwegian beverage packages, everyone in the cabin over 18 must have the same package so you cannot just buy it for 1 person and order drinks for everyone, unfortunately.

Starbucks coffees tend to sit around $5 USD per coffee onboard so you would need to be drinking more than 2 per day to make this package worthwhile. I really like coffee but I would be absolutely buzzing on 3 coffees a day. If you want more speciality drinks like Frappuccino, the value gets slightly better.

Should you get one of NCL’s beverage package?

This question is really an individual decision and it depends entirely on how much you intend to drink onboard.

If you are cruising with a group of friends and plan to go wild, getting a drinks package is very worthwhile especially if you can score one as part of Norwegian’s free at sea promos and just have to pay the gratuity. 

On the other hand, paying the gratuity which is around $152 pp for a 7 day cruise is not worth it if you plan to only drink a few glasses of wine on board. In this case, I would advise just buying a few bottles of wine at dinner.

If you can’t find a free at sea promo and just want to have a think, drink packages are possible to be purchased on embarkation day.

So let us know, do you or will you purchase a NCL Drink Package? And if you have already sailed with NCL – what did you think? Worth it – yay or nay?

More NCL cruises:

• Best NCL Cruise deals this month
• Norwegian Getaway review
• Best Bahamas cruise for couples
• Are Norwegian cruise line good ?

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Package Options

Enhance your vacation with any choice of the following beverage packages while optional, many guests opt for these choices for a worry-free, inclusive cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a diverse variety of beverage packages to satisfy passengers on any of their fantastic cruises. Whether you're looking for premium liquors, name-brand alcohols, refreshing soft drinks, or an array of other tasty drinks, there's a package designed to fit your needs. Traveling with children? No worries, Norwegian Cruise Line has them covered. Depending on your destination and which ship you're traveling on, there are six unique packages to choose from. Note: All soft drinks onboard Norwegian Cruise Line are Pepsi products.

Call 1-800-377-9383 to learn more about Norwegian Cruise Line's beverage packages!

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Why should I choose a beverage package?

• Convenience - Any drink you want, from any place on the ship, and it's all included. How easy is that?
• Transparency - Kick back and relax on vacation without worrying about the money! Simply add on a drink package, have a few, and enjoy your cruise.
• Variety - Sodas, bottled water, tea, coffee, top-shelf liquors, and more are included in many of the drink packages! Without one, you'll be limited, or worse, paying for each drink individually.

Premium Beverage Package

The Premium Beverage Package gives you a little bit of everything. Along with some of the world's favorite top-shelf liquors, you can sample many beers in bottles or on tap, wine by the glass, and any cocktail their bartenders can concoct. While this package is limited to guests twenty-one years or older, it also allows you access to every type of soft drink, tea, or other beverage onboard your cruise! The drinks are unlimited, so please enjoy them responsibly.

$99.00 USD per person, per day. (20% gratuity not included.)

Click here to view all included drinks in this package.

Premium Plus Beverage Package

The Premium Plus package incorporates everything included in the Premium Package with a number of high-end extras. Scotches, bourbons and cognacs, as well as fancier rums, tequilas and white spirits, top the list of preferred beverages in this package. During dinner, you get to choose select bottles of wine to enhance your dining experience. Plus, you'll receive discounts on all wine bottles and all tasting experiences for the duration of your vacation.

$128.00 USD per person, per day. (20% gratuity not included.)

Corks & Caps Wine and Beer Package

If hard liquor isn't your thing, but you still crave the allure of a few adult beverages, this is the package for you. Sip on the same selection of beer or wines by the glass available in the Premium Package. Also, feel free to unwind with a fizzy glass of any available soft drinks.

$65.00 USD per person, per day. (20% gratuity not included.)

Adult & Teen Soda Program

This package is great for adults who choose not to imbibe, along with guests who are younger than twenty-one but older than thirteen. It grants unlimited access to all fountain sodas, all well as club soda and tonic water.

$7.95 USD per person, per day. (20% gratuity not included.)

Children's Soda Program

This is the same package as the Adult & Teen Soda Program but designed for guests under thirteen.

$5.95 USD per person, per day. (20% gratuity not included.)

Hawaii Beverage Package - Exclusively on Pride of America cruises

Pride of America is a special ship that sails to and from her port in Honolulu, Hawaii. And aboard this special ship, you're privy to a specialized beverage package. This all-ages package offers unlimited access to a wide selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available throughout your entire cruise. This package covers onboard beverages under $15 USD.

Learn More About Royal Caribbean

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* Drink package details and pricing subject to change; accurate at time of publication.

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• Cruising Hawaii

Review of NCL Pride of America cruise around Hawaii

• 13 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

The ncl pride of america hawaii itinerary, ncl pride of america ship overview, staterooms on the pride of america, dining and drinking aboard the pride of america, pride of america entertainment and activities, spa and fitness on pride of america, hawaiian influences on the pride of america, excursions from the ncl pride of america, pride of america video overview, final thoughts on our pride of america cruise of hawaii.

We cruised through the Hawaiian Islands on Norwegian’s Pride of America in October 2019.

What did we think of the experience?

We’ll share all the details, but if this is TLDR, the skinny is that the cruise itinerary is excellent, the destinations are amazing, the cabins are adequate, the food experience was sub par. Check out our video overview from our Pride of America cruise of Hawaii .

Possibly one of the very best aspects of the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America Hawaii cruise is the itinerary. It starts in Honolulu on Oahu on Saturday, sails to Maui by Monday morning and stays overnight in Maui. Next, the cruise moves to Hawaii, the Big Island with a day in Hilo followed by a day in Kona. From there, the cruise goes to Kauai with an overnight stay there. The cruise finishes with a scenic cruise of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, then goes back to Honolulu, Oahu to disembark. This Saturday to Saturday itinerary is repeated week after week.

So, the NCL Pride of America itinerary includes all of the four major Hawaiian Islands – Maui, Kauai, Hawaii’s Big Island, and Oahu , but there’s not much time to explore Oahu within the cruise itinerary, so we recommend extending your stay on Oahu by a night or two at a hotel — either on the front-end or the back-end of the cruise.

If you’ve never been to Hawaii or tend to just go to one of the islands, this itinerary is a very good one. The Pride of America itinerary is especially good if you’re short on time and you want to get a taste of each of the four major islands . It’s a very efficient itinerary in that you travel from island to island while you’re having dinner, enjoying evening entertainment and sleeping.

The Destinations with Pride of America

Hawaii is an outstanding destination with so much beauty and culture. Though there’s little time to explore the embarkation/disembarkation port of Honolulu on Oahu, there’s a good amount of time to discover the three other major islands — Maui, Hawaii (Big) Island and Kauai. Actually there are two days each at those islands, which is double what you’d find on other cruises to Hawaii.

Each Hawaiian island has its own features and personalities. It’s definitely not the case that if you’ve seen one island, you’ve seen them all. Every island is amazing with way more to explore than the allotted time. So, the destinations of the Pride of America are all excellent!

You will have opportunities to see waterfalls, tropical flowers, volcanos and, of course, beautiful beaches. Hawaii is breathtakingly beautiful!

NCL’s Pride of America’s Major Advantage – No days at sea – All Hawaii all year long!

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is the only ship that sails roundtrip solely within Hawaii. There are no days a sea on the Pride of America and every day is spent in Hawaii.

For any other ship or cruise line, they must sail to Hawaii from faraway destinations, such as from the west coast of North America, French Polynesia, Asia, Australia or New Zealand. For travel from those destinations, those ships will be in transit, at sea, for at least four or five days. That’s a lot of days at sea!

For comparison, I looked at the itinerary of another NCL cruise to Hawaii on their ship the Norwegian Jewel. It’s an 11-day cruise from Vancouver. This cruise is fairly representative of other cruises that don’t start and stop in Hawaii like NCL’s Pride of America. Here’s a screenshot of that itinerary:

Notice that on this Norwegian Jewel itinerary, there are five, full days at sea and only five days actually in Hawaii, with a disembarkation morning on Oahu. That’s a lot of travel time and distance for not many days in Hawaii!

How much can you see of Hawaii on a one-week cruise itinerary?

With any cruise in Hawaii, you’re only going to get to see a few highlights of each island and that’s it. There’s far more to see and do on every island than what can be toured in just one or even two days! We’ve created some excellent week-long vacation itineraries for each Hawaiian Island . Even with a week on each island, you’re not going to get to do “everything” the islands’ have to offer. We’ve lost count of the number of times we’ve been to Hawaii and we experience something new every time. So, with a cruise, you should set your expectations that you’re going to get to see some amazing places, but you’re not going to get to do everything.

The ship accommodates over 2,100 passengers. For a “floating hotel” of that size, it never really felt crowded, except for the arrival at Kona, when there were long, crowded waits for the tender boats to shuttle us from the ship to shore.

The ship was fairly well kept. In some ways, the Pride of America looked brand new – especially in the common areas such as dining rooms, shops, guest relations, hallways, etc. The ship was built in 2005 and refurbished in 2016.

Most of the common areas of the ship are decorated with bright, exciting colors. Generally speaking, the decor was in good taste and reflected the excitement and adventure of a cruise.

Decor-wise, we liked the restaurants and lounges that had a “Hawaiian-feel” to them, but there weren’t many places onboard like that. The Aloha Cafe, the main buffet restaurant of the ship, had some Hawaiian touches. We normally grabbed breakfast from here and took it out to the adjacent Aloha Lana’i Bar seating, which is alfresco. Pinks Champagne Lounge seemed to be an ode to the Royal Hawaiian hotel. For a ship that’s dedicated to sailing within the Hawaiian Islands every day of the year for many years, it sure could use more Hawaiian or tropical decor.

There are some odd themes on the Pride of America, too. For example, there’s a Gold Rush Saloon, decorated in a rustic, old west, 1800s style. It really felt out of place on a ship that only circles the Hawaiian Islands. The ship has two main restaurants, Liberty and Skyline. Liberty is decorated like something out of Washington D.C. with velvet and sequined drapes. Skyline is decorated like something you would see in an art deco style building in New York City. That was all interesting decor, but seemed really out of place for Hawaii.

If the ship could change anything structurally, which is extremely unlikely, we would suggest more elevators. At peak times of island arrivals and returns from tours, there could be long elevator waits. Many times, we opted to climb up or down four or five deck levels instead of waiting for the elevators.

The Pride of America has many stateroom options , from a studio that’s designed for the solo traveler, balcony rooms and for the posh experience, suites . While a limited number of staterooms can accommodate up to eight people, most comfortably accommodate two people.

There are quite a few options, from interior rooms without views, rooms with picture windows and rooms with balconies. Some rooms with windows or balconies have obstructed views and are noted in the room category.

We chose a balcony room with a non-obstructed view for our cruise. We were assigned to stateroom 8630. While it’s considered a non-obstructed room, we felt that the view of the lifeboat wasn’t exactly unobstructed. We didn’t complain, but we were disappointed.

For a quick overview, check out our video tour of our balcony stateroom on the Pride of America :

Our balcony room sleeps two people comfortably and a third with the pull out sofa bed. It’s difficult for us to imagine trying to fit a third person in the room. It would definitely be tight particularly if the third person is a teen or adult.

The bathroom is quite small with limited storage space. The shower space is also very confined. The following photo actually makes it appear larger than it really is. There’s only room for one person to move around in it.

The ship provides soap and shampoo in dispenser containers. It’s nice that you don’t have to worry about individual plastic containers and that’s a win for the environment. These toiletries were branded by NCL. It would have been better to have had a name brand soap and shampoo or something with a tropical scent to fit the Hawaiian Islands, instead of of what appears as a mass-produced, inexpensive product.

Our room seemed clean enough, though not overly so. I wiped off the little desk/vanity shelf to remove some powder I had dropped and a lot more dirt and gunk came off than just the powder I spilled. Also, the sofa was soiled. Overall, the cleanliness of the room wasn’t horrible, but still left me questioning how much the room actually gets cleaned in between guests.

Our room adjoined to the room next door. We could hear talking, coughing, etc from that room.

The ship’s plumbing seemed to be an issue occasionally. Sometimes we had issues flushing the toilet and once in the middle of the night, we didn’t have any water at all.

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for their “freestyle” dining. You can dine when you like, where you like and with who you like. You are not limited to a set dining time or assigned to a group table.

A limited number of beverages are included in the standard cruise fare. Regular coffee, tea and ice water are generally your only “free” options, except some fruit juices at the breakfast buffet. The package we booked included a free perk of the “Hawaii Beverage Package” which included bottled water, sodas, beer, wine and mixed-drinks up to $15. A 20% service charge was applied to our package prior to the cruise. We were glad to have the beverage package.

The Pride of America offers plenty of restaurants and lounges to enjoy throughout the one-week itinerary. If you prefer casual fare, they’ve got it. If you want a more upscale meal, they’ve got that, too.  This link describes all the complimentary (included in your cruise) restaurants on board and this link lists the specialty ($) dining options.

The complimentary main dining rooms of Liberty and Skyline were not as upscale as we’ve experienced on other cruise lines. We heard other passengers sharing similar sentiments. I’ll give an example from just one dinner at Skyline:

• My glass was chipped and cut my lip.
• I ordered a pork chop that must have been microwaved to re-heat it as it was super hot, tough and chewy. Even the flavor seemed missing. I only ate a few bites.
• I ordered a warm apple dessert. It was served cold.

So, those were all kind of first-world problems, but still, when you’re paying for a good experience and not getting it, it’s disappointing.

Our travel package included three specialty dining options. We’re glad that we had those options as the better food is definitely in the specialty restaurants. Jefferson’s Bistro, the French restaurant, was our favorite and the best meal we had on the ship. Cagney’s Steakhouse was good, and the only restaurant that we found that had lobster, but the service was very slow and our server got our order mixed up. I think our server must have been stretched too thin. At the Teppanyaki restaurant, our chef put on a great show, but the food was just okay.

For convenience, you can book reservations for both the specialty and the complimentary restaurants. We recommend booking your specialty restaurant reservations within the first day or two of boarding to make sure you get the time and day you want. You can book reservations during specific hours beside the Guest Relations desk. (Note that the off-site luau excursion is held on the overnight day on Kauai. If you plan to go to the luau, keep that evening open from dinner reservations on the ship.)

We only ate lunch on board one day. Most of the excursions we took were quite long and included lunch.

The islands of Hawaii have wonderful food. We always enjoy Hawaii regional cuisine at restaurants in Hawaii, but we didn’t find anything like that on the ship. At the Aloha Cafe on the final evening, they tried to have a “Taste of Hawaii” dinner, but it was disappointing. So, from a culinary standpoint, the ship doesn’t offer a true Hawaiian experience.

Overall, the food was edible, but far from being memorable. The waitstaff seemed to want to provide a good experience, but they also seemed very stretched trying to take care of so many other guests at the same time. With dining being such a big part of most people’s expectations of cruise, we felt that Norwegian fell short.

The Pride of America offers quite a bit of entertainment and activities . The “Freestyle Daily” lists the complete schedule of what’s happening each day. There’s so much going on — Hawaiian cultural lessons, culinary demonstrations, cornhole tournaments, trivia, live music, pool games, dance classes, karaoke and much more. If you are traveling with children or teens, the ship offers youth programs for them.

The staff delivers a “Freestyle Daily” to your cabin every night with information for the following day. It was usually four pages in length and full of great information on activities and entertainment.

Unfortunately, our full days of exploring the islands plus our jet lag got the best of us most evenings. We usually went to sleep shortly after having dinner. So we didn’t get to catch one of the evening shows in the Hollywood Theater. We especially wanted to see the Aloha Polynesia show, which sounds like the type of show you’d find at a luau.

What you won’t find on the Pride of America is a casino. This may be good news for your wallet. 😉

For some pampering, there is a spa onboard. Their menu includes several massage and facial offerings.

The fitness center is by far the largest we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. It was stocked with quality equipment. It was also one of the most sparsely populated areas of the ship. In addition to the fitness center, water aerobics was offered at the pool.

We were pleased to find several Hawaiian influences during our cruise. Here’s what we found:

• Passengers are greeted with a lei at embarkation.
• A dedicated Hawaiian Ambassador was on board to introduce passengers to the Hawaiian culture. He taught lei-making classes, hula dancing and narrated the ship’s tour of the Na Pali Coast. I attended the kukui nut lei-making class and really enjoyed hearing about the significance and culture of this type of lei.
• You can enjoy live bands playing Hawaiian music on most days.
• Most of the staff wore a Hawaiian shirt and/or lei and often greeted passengers with a warm “Aloha.”
• Stateroom decor have artwork and/or fabrics with beach-y influences.
• Photos from Hawaii and some artifacts were on display in the stairwells and by the elevators.

NCL has done a nice job curating their menu of excursions to suit both the adventure seeker and the casual sightseer. For adventures, there’s hiking, zip lining, kayaking and snorkeling. For the sightseer, there are many tours filled with amazing island scenery that hit some of each island’s highlights. Skim through this link for some examples of the excursions offered through NCL.

We enjoyed a mix of excursions offered through Norwegian Cruise Line and some that we booked independently. We enjoyed them all. We’ll be writing more about excursion selections and our recommendations to help you get the most out of your limited time and vacation budget. Stay tuned!

We did some price comparison between what the ship offered and what we could find independently. The ship’s prices were always more expensive. We noticed that the closer that we got to our sailing date, the prices of the excursions increased.

The ship heavily pushes the Luau Kalamaku on Kauai. I heard mixed reviews from fellow passengers.

For more insight into the cruise experience, check out our Pride of America Hawaii cruise video .

Miscellaneous notes:

• You can look through more of our photos here .
• The Pride of America falls under the Jones Act, which requires that the crew consists of at least 75% U.S. citizens.
• The ship has some shops where you can buy souvenirs, clothes with “Hawaiian” prints and sundry items.
• There’s a library onboard.
• There’s a photography center.
• There is no casino on Pride of America.
• A tent was stationed at the end of the gangway at each port to sign out beach towels.
• We booked our cruise through Costco Travel.
• As is common with most cruises throughout the world, most of the dock locations were more industrial than scenic. Oftentimes there was a flurry of fork lift activity going on near our docked location.
• In Kona, there is no cruise ship dock, so passengers are transported by tender/lifeboats to the shore.
• We were glad that we had a port side cabin on the day of the Na Pali Coast tour as we only had to step out onto our balcony to enjoy the scenery.
• The best opportunities to enjoy a Hawaiian sunset are from Kona and after the Na Pali Coast cruise on the final evening.
• If you have questions about this cruise, check out NCL’s FAQs .

The itinerary is excellent and the island destinations are fantastic. It’s a great way to see the four major islands in seven nights , though, as the itinerary is planned, there’s minimal sightseeing time for Oahu.

The food and service were unfortunately sub par.

The stateroom cabins are compact , but adequate.

Our cruise fare with a balcony room, the beverage package, speciality dining package and some nominal credits totaled $4,768 for the two of us. That does not include excursions. That’s quiet a hefty price for seven nights. In my opinion, that’s not a good value. The food and stateroom experience felt budget-level, but the cruise cost was far from being a budget price.

New – we’ve compiled a detailed list of what to see and do on a cruise at each Hawaiian port .

Have you taken the Pride of America cruise in Hawaii? How was your experience?

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

I cruised on Pride of America nearly 13 years ago and I still talk about it today. It was amazing! The cabin was homely & very comfortably, the food was lovely, the entertainment was very good, the places it took us was breathtaking & the staff….. well they were amazing! What ever you wanted they would do their best to sort it. They are so hard working, very friendly, considerate, helpful, if they had time they would have a chat with you. I recommend NCL Pride of America to everyone that talks about cruises. I can’t speak highly enough of it.

By the way I’m from the UK

Thank you for this wonderful website and overview of NCL Pride of America cruise. I’m curious to know what you did at each port. Which NCL excursions did you take? Any excursions through other companies? Rent a car? I’m cruising on POA in April staying two nights in Oahu before embarkation. Thank you!!!

Those are great questions. We did a mix of NCL excursions and non-NCL excursions. We’ve intended to write about which excursions we did along with recommendations for others. We’ll aim to get that article written my mid-January, hopefully before. If you’d not already subscribed to our free articles by email, you can do so here: https://govisithawaii.us6.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ff2ac3a235f8da3d2131ef4c7&id=f471f8c491 That way, you’ll get the article in your inbox when it’s published.

Belinda – we just published our recommended activities at each port https://www.govisithawaii.com/2023/01/10/the-best-hawaiian-island-excursions-on-ncl-pride-of-america-and-other-hawaii-cruises/

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Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

C ruise drink packages can provide incredible value for people who plan to regularly imbibe on their voyage and want the convenience of an unlimited open bar package – whereas they may not be a good deal for light drinkers. Other options include alcohol-free drink packages, which let cruisers indulge in soft drinks, hot chocolate, specialty coffees and a range of other nonalcoholic beverages.

Whether or not to get the drink package is a question all cruisers face, and there's no perfect answer for everyone. Read on to learn about the drink packages offered by the major cruise lines and what each beverage package includes.

Expert tip: The price of each beverage package will vary from sailing to sailing and may change at any time. Also note that cruise drink packages are almost always nontransferable and nonrefundable, and that everyone in your cabin needs to buy a package. If kids are cruising with adults who purchase an alcoholic drink package, a nonalcoholic package must be purchased for them.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Cruise Drink Packages

Carnival Cruise Line

Cheers beverage program.

What it includes: All spirits (including cocktails) are included. Beer and wine by the glass are also included in this package if they cost $20 or less on the menu. Individuals also get unlimited nonalcoholic frozen cocktails, energy drinks, specialty coffees, bottled water, hot tea and other nonalcoholic drinks. This package comes with 25% off the following categories: spirits or wine by the glass that cost more than $20, the menu price for wine or Champagne by the bottle, and beverage seminars and classes.

What it doesn't include: Beverages not included in this package are limited to: drinks in souvenir glasses, full bottles of liquor, drinks offered on the gangway, drinks delivered through room service or in the cabin's minibar, larger shared drinks, and beverages sold in enomatic wine machines. The Cheers! Beverage Program also does not cover food items and drinks offered through special promotions that relate to merchandise, cigars or cigarettes.

Cost: Starts at $59.95 per day, per person

Additional details: This drink package can be offered on all Carnival Cruise Line sailings, including ships like the Carnival Venezia, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration. Individuals must be at least 21 years old to buy this package for their cruise. It can be purchased before embarkation or once on the ship. Note that, for sailings out of New York and Texas, this package doesn't kick in until 6 a.m. the day after departure.

Bottomless Bubbles

What it includes: All-you-can-drink soda and juice are included.

What it doesn't include: Specialty coffee drinks, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages and all other drinks not specifically listed in the package are not included.

Cost: Starts at $9.50 per day for adults and $6.95 per day for kids

Additional details: This package doesn't include drinks delivered through room service or available in the cabin minibar. It's available to be purchased before or during the cruise; if purchased after a sailing departs, Bottomless Bubbles is nonrefundable.

Book a Carnival Cruise Line sailing on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Celebrity Cruises

Classic drink package.

What it includes: This package includes liquors, cocktails, frozen drinks, wines by the glass and beers up to $10. Wines by the bottle qualify for a 15% discount.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include energy drinks, soda, specialty coffees or any other beverages not specifically listed in the package.

Cost: Starts at $89 per day, per person

Additional details: This package can be used at the ship's bars, in the main dining room, and in casual dining and specialty restaurants. Drinks in the in-room minibar or delivered via room service do not qualify. You can only order one drink at a time with any of the Celebrity Cruises drink packages.

Premium Drink Package

What it includes: This package includes everything in the Classic Drink Package, in addition to: specialty coffees and teas, craft and artisan beers, Coca-Cola products, bottled water, and wine by the glass up to $17 per serving. It also comes with a 20% discount on wine by the bottle.

What it doesn't include: Drinks that cost more than $17 per glass are not included.

Cost: Starts at $109 per day, per person

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, in the main dining room, and in casual dining and specialty restaurants. Drinks from the minibar or room service are not covered by the package.

Zero-Proof Drink Package

What it includes: This drink package comes with a range of nonalcoholic drinks, including premium bottled water such as San Pellegrino and Panna, organic teas, specialty coffees, Red Bull energy drinks, frozen smoothies, Coca-Cola products, mocktails, Vitamin Water drinks, bottled iced tea and more.

What it doesn't include: Alcoholic beverages are not included in this package.

Cost: Starts at $30 per day, per person

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, in the main dining room, and in casual dining and specialty restaurants. Minibar and room service drinks do not qualify.

Find a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is unique because it does not offer traditional drink packages you can purchase pre-cruise or on the day of embarkation. Not only that, but all Disney cruises include the following beverages at no additional charge:

• Soft drinks, coffee and tea during meals
• Nonalcoholic beverages offered at drink stations throughout the ship
• Soft drinks served at the Vibe lounge for teens

Disney also lets cruisers prepay for specialty packages of wine, Champagne, beer or seltzers, although available packages can vary by departure port. As an example, cruise passengers departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, can pre-purchase a seven-bottle premium wine package for $330, a six-pack of beer for $36.25, or a six-pack of Truly seltzers for $32.50, among many other options.

Explore Disney Cruise Line deals on GoToSea.

MSC Cruises

Easy package.

What it includes: This package includes select cocktails, nonalcoholic cocktails and mixed drinks, one brand of each type of spirit, house wines, draft or bottled Heineken, fountain soda, canned soda, fruit juices by the glass or bottle, bottled water, hot tea, specialty coffees, hot chocolate and beverage gratuities.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include brand-name spirits or beers other than Heineken, or any other drinks not specifically listed in the package.

Cost: $322 per sailing, per adult for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, lounges, buffets, in the main restaurants and on MSC Cruises ' private island. It does not apply in the in-room minibar or specialty restaurants.

Easy Plus Package

What it includes: The Easy Plus Package gives cruisers access to a broader range of drink options that cost up to $10 (or 9 euros), so more alcoholic brands are included overall. Drinks that qualify include frozen drinks and cocktails, protein shakes, spirits, draught and bottled beers, nonalcoholic cocktails, bottled water, various hot drinks, wines by the glass and gratuities. A 10% discount on bottled wine purchases on board also applies.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include brand-name spirits, and beer options vary. Drinks that cost more than $10 (or 9 euros) are not included.

Cost: $427 per sailing, per adult for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, lounges, buffets, in the main and specialty restaurants, and on the cruise line's private island . Drinks in the signature venues are not covered.

Premium Extra Package

What it includes: This drink package covers a wider range of brand-name alcoholic beverages that cost up to $16 (or 14 euros). Beverages that qualify can include pretty much any drink you can purchase on the ship with very few exceptions. Covered drinks include: premium cocktails, all nonalcoholic cocktails and drinks, protein drinks, premium spirits, fine wine by the glass, Champagne by the glass, draft and bottled beer, bottled water, specialty hot drinks, and gratuities. A 25% discount on bottled wine purchases on board also applies.

What it doesn't include: Drinks all over the ship that cost more than $16 (or 14 euros) are not included.

Cost: $595 per sailing, per adult for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: This package can be used everywhere except in MSC's signature venues.

Alcohol-Free Package

What it includes: This drink package includes most nonalcoholic beverages on the ship, including mocktails, fresh fruit drinks, protein drinks, energy drinks, sodas, flavored water, hot drinks, soft serve ice cream and gratuities.

What it doesn't include: Alcoholic drinks offered on the ship are not included.

Cost: $196 per sailing, per adult or $133 per kid for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: The nonalcoholic package can be used at bars, lounges, buffets, in the main restaurants and on MSC Cruises' private island. It does not apply in the in-room minibar or in specialty restaurants.

Compare MSC Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Unlimited open bar package.

What it includes: This package includes drinks all over the ship that cost $15 or less, such as cocktails, spirits, beers and wine by the glass. Unlimited soft drinks and juices are also included, and cruisers get 20% off bottles of wine and Champagne purchased on board.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include alcoholic beverages that cost more than $15 per glass.

Cost: Starts at $109 per day, per person; cruisers can get this package automatically added to their sailing with the "Free at Sea" promotion.

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink, and this package can be used all over the ship and on Norwegian Cruise Line 's private island.

Premium Plus Beverage Package

What it includes: This package is an upgrade from the Unlimited Open Bar Package you can buy or get included with the "Free at Sea" promotion. It comes with a broader selection of drinks that can cost more than $15, including spirits, cocktails, beer and wine by the glass. Guests can also enjoy the cruise line's brand of rose Champagne by the glass plus select premium bottles of wine at dinner. Also included are unlimited soft drinks, juices, bottled water, energy drinks, specialty drinks and Starbucks drinks. Premium Plus also comes with a 40% discount off bottles of wine and Champagne not included in the package.

What it doesn't include: This package includes all drinks by the glass offered on Norwegian vessels.

Cost: Starts at $138 per day, per person; cruisers can upgrade from the Unlimited Open Bar Package for $29 per day.

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink. Use this package all over the ship and Great Stirrup Cay.

Hawaii Beverage Package

What it includes: This package is for Hawaii sailings only, which applies to the Pride of America . Drinks up to $15 per glass are included, such as cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, beer, bottled water and soft drinks. Starbucks drinks also count toward the package during meals.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include drinks that cost more than $15 per serving.

Cost: $109 per day, per person

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink, and this package can be used all over the ship.

Unlimited Soda Package

What it includes: True to its name, NCL's unlimited soda package comes with bottomless soft drinks like Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta and more.

What it doesn't include: This package only includes unlimited soft drinks, so no other drinks qualify.

Cost: $9.95 per day, per person

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink. This package cannot be purchased on cruises that are two days or less.

Unlimited Starbucks

What it includes: This package includes any drinks you can dream up at Starbucks, including Frappuccino beverages, lattes, classic coffees, teas and more.

What it doesn't include: No other drinks are included in this package.

Cost: $12.95 per day, per person

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink. You must be at least 18 at the time of the sailing to purchase.

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary on GoToSea.

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Princess Cruises

Plus beverage package.

What it includes: This package includes beverages up to $15. Included in the package are cocktails, wine by the glass, specialty coffees, beer, fountain sodas, bottled water, smoothies, juice bar drinks, mocktails and specialty cocktails curated by Rob Floyd. In total, 50 spirits, 25 wines by the glass and 25 different beers qualify. Cruisers also get 25% off bottles of wine, large bottles of water and cans of soda.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include large bottles of water or cans of soda; you get a discount instead. Drinks over $15 also do not qualify.

Cost: $64.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This Princess Cruises package is offered for purchase before the cruise and on embarkation day, but it is not available for pre-purchase within three days of sailing. It can be used all over the ship, although minibar items and drinks in souvenir glasses do not qualify.

Premier Beverage Package

What it includes: This package includes beverages up to $20, as well as everything that the Plus Beverage Package covers. Premium wines by the glass like Duckhorn, Stag's Leap, Grgich Hills and Cattier Champagne are included in this package, as are Woodford Reserve bourbon and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select whiskey. In total, 75 spirits, 40-plus wines by the glass and 20-plus high-end cocktails qualify. Cruisers also get 25% off bottles of wine and rare specialty wine, large bottles of water and cans of soda.

What it doesn't include: Some wines do not qualify, nor do large bottles of water or cans of soda, although discounts apply.

Cost: $84.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This package is offered before the cruise and on embarkation day, but not for pre-purchase within three days of sailing. Minibar items and drinks in souvenir glasses do not qualify.

Zero Alcohol Package

What it includes: The Zero Alcohol Package comes with premium and specialty coffees, teas, fountain sodas, fresh juices, smoothies, hot chocolate, mocktails, bottled water and Red Bull energy drinks.

What it doesn't include: This package does not include alcoholic beverages or any other drinks not specifically listed.

Cost: $29.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This package is offered up until three days before the cruise as well as on embarkation day. You cannot use it at the in-room minibar or for souvenir glasses.

Classic Soda Package

What it includes: Enjoy sodas, fruit juices, mocktails and smoothies throughout the sailing.

Cost: $14.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This package is available for purchase until three days before the cruise or on embarkation day. Minibar items and souvenir glasses are excluded.

Explore Princess Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

What it includes: Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package includes Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages, Coca-Cola drinks served in a souvenir cup and all fountain soda on an unlimited basis.

What it doesn't include: No other drinks are included in this package, including alcoholic drinks.

Cost: Varies

Additional details: An 18% gratuity is added to drink packages on most Royal Caribbean sailings. Drink packages work at cruise ship bars, lounges, the main dining room, the Windjammer Cafe and the line's private destinations. Drinks delivered through room service or available in the minibar are not covered.

Refreshment Package

What it includes: The Refreshment Package includes everything in the Classic Soda Package plus premium coffees and teas, juices, bottled water, mocktails and milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

What it doesn't include: Alcoholic drinks are not included in this package.

Additional details: An 18% gratuity is added to Royal Caribbean drink packages on most sailings. Drink packages apply across cruise ship bars, lounges, the main dining room, the Windjammer Cafe and the line's private destinations. Room service and minibar beverages do not qualify.

Deluxe Beverage Package

What it includes: This package includes everything you get in the Classic Soda and Refreshment Packages, plus alcoholic beverages. The Deluxe Beverage Package is inclusive of cocktails, spirits, liqueurs and beer.

What it doesn't include: This package excludes drinks in Starbucks venues on Royal Caribbean sailings.

Additional details: An 18% gratuity is added to drink package drinks on most sailings. Drink packages work at cruise ship bars, lounges, the main dining room, the Windjammer Cafe and the line's private destinations. You cannot use this package for room service or minibar drinks.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Viking's river and ocean cruises offer complimentary beverages on board – even alcoholic beverages during meals. Specifically, guests can enjoy house wines, beers and soft drinks on the ship during lunches and dinners. Specialty coffees and hot teas are also available around the clock.

Guests who want more access to drinks can purchase the one available upgraded drink package through Viking. Also note that Viking lets guests bring your own alcohol on board the ship ahead of time, which you can consume without any added fees.

Silver Spirits

What it includes: For both ocean and river sailings, this package includes an open bar with local wines by the glass, cocktails, beers, specialty coffee drinks, juices and more throughout the day and outside of mealtimes.

What it doesn't include: This package includes almost all potential beverages offered on Viking sailings. For ocean sailings , the package excludes Champagne and drinks that cost more than $18.

Cost: $25 per night, per person

Additional details: Drink packages are not available on river cruises that travel through Egypt.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

FAQ Module : Travel - Cruise Drink Packages FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 30 times across most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries around the world. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate this article.

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• Cruise Line Restaurant, Room Service, and Bar Menus / Cruising / Food and Drink / NCL Menus

NCL Encore Menus 2024

by Prof. Cruise · May 13, 2024

These Norwegian Encore menus were collected on a 2024 Alaska itinerary and should give you a very good idea of what to expect. Those who have cruised with NCL in the past will notice fairly significant cuts to the appetizer and dessert sections of the MDR menus. My understanding is that these slimmed down menus will be phased in across the line, but I don’t have final confirmation of that yet. If you’ve cruised on another ship with them, please share to the comments. As always, know that offerings and prices can change at any time, but these should give you a pretty good idea of what to expect.

INDEX (jump to):

Norwegian Encore Main Dining Room (MDR) Menus Breakfast menu Lunch menu Dinner menu Kids menu Norwegian Encore Fast Casual Restaurants The Local American Diner menu Norwegian Encore Service Menus Breakfast room service menu All-day room service menu Norwegian Encore Specialty Restaurants Cagney’s Steakhouse menu Coco’s menu Dolce Gelato menu Food Republic menu Le Bistro menu Los Lobos menu Ocean Blue menu Onda Q Texas Smokehouse menu Teppanyaki menu The Bake Shop menu

NCL Encore Dining Room Breakfast Menu 2024

This menu is available in the main dining room. The Daily Feature will rotate, but the remainder of the items will be offered every day.

NCL Encore Lunch Menus 2024

There are three different lunch menus that rotate on the Norwegian Encore.

Lunch Menu 1 on the Encore

Lunch Menu 2 on the Encore

Lunch Menu 3 on the Encore

NCL Encore Main Dining Room Dinner Menus 2024

These menus are available in the main dining rooms for 7 night cruises on the Encore. Note that the “Classic Entrees” are available every night , but I only posted them for night 1 to avoid repetition.

Night 1 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

Night 2 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

Night 3 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

Night 4 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

Night 5 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

Night 6 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

Night 7 Dinner Menu on the Norwegian Encore

NCL Encore Main Dining Room Kids Menu 2024

Or kids at heart – I’ve ordered the Mac and Say Cheese and pizza many times!

NCL Encore The Local Menu 2024

All items are included in your cruise fare at no extra charge unless otherwise noted.

NCL Encore Breakfast Card 2024 (Extra Charge)

Breakfast room service on NCL is $4.95 + 20% gratuity for each order (regardless of how many items are ordered) for all non-suite guests. Breakfast room service is available from 6:30am-10am.

NCL Encore Room Service All-Day Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

Lunch, dinner, and late night room service on NCL is $9.95 + 20% gratuity for each order (regardless of how many items are ordered) for all non-suite guests.

NCL Encore American Diner Menu 2024 (Complimentary)

NCL Encore Cagney’s Steakhouse Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Coco’s Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Food Republic Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Le Bistro Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Los Lobos Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Ocean Blue Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Onda Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Q Texas Smokehouse Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore Teppanyaki Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

NCL Encore The Bake Shop Menu 2024 (Extra Charge)

Don’t forget your  Cruise Ship Calories Don’t Count shirt  and your  Ship Faced travel mug !

Today’s Cruising Pro Tip:

Never purchase cruise/travel insurance through NCL. You’ll pay more and get less than if you purchase it on your own. Use a site like  TravelInsurance.com * to compare rates and plans and get exactly what you want for the least amount of money. Simply enter your travel dates, total travel cost, and a few basic pieces of information about yourself and see a list of quotes to compare. Savings can be significant and mean more to spend onboard, at port, or on another cruise!

And with that…

Class Dismissed.

Don’t forget to PIN these menus so you can refer back to them later!

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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By Dthorne1 , December 20, 2018 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Sailing on this ship on January 19th.  The wording on this is a bit different.  Does this include Alcohol?  It states it includes non-alcoholic beer.

It's $99 per day so I would assume so, but just wanted clarification.

If not, it's no different than the $7.95 per day soda package.

They put this out today. 

Hawaii Beverage Package is applicable to Pride of America sailings only.

Applicable to guests 1-2 on the reservation.

Eligible guests are entitled to two beverages per person per transaction.

Includes a variety of beverages up to $15 USD retail price. Anything consumed above the promotional benefit will be the responsibility of the guest at prevailing rates.

Also includes fountain soda, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and specialty coffee (specialty coffee inclusion shall be limited to dining rooms only).

Does not include: specialty coffee outside of the restaurants, room service, mini bar purchases, or vending machines.

Guest is responsible for 20% gratuities on the retail value of the Hawaii Beverage Package ($19.80 USD per person per day) prior to cruise. Retail value of Hawaii Beverage Package is $99.00 USD per person per day. Package price is subject to change.

The purchase of any alcoholic drinks within the Hawaii Beverage Package may, in certain individual circumstances, be restricted in accordance with Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law and applicable local rules and regulations.

No substitute for package if guest cannot consume all beverages included.

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Share on other sites.

Yes to alcohol.

BirdTravels

Yes. The wording is crafted to be legal in Hawaii. 

• 5 months later...

Are the specialty coffees served in the main dining rooms comparable to those served at the Coffee Bar?  Thanks.

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* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Discount Benefits

5% Off All Cruise Fares

Discount extends to the entire stateroom.

$50 Onboard Credit

From an indulgent spa service to a speciality dining meal, this extra cash is yours to spend on board!

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Norwegian's Giving Joy Programme

Each year during Teacher Appreciation Week, NCL launches Norwegian's Giving Joy contest inviting the public to nominate a deserving educator and recognise their incredible efforts within their classrooms. Since 2019, the programme has received over 58,000 teacher nominations, over 1.8 million votes, awarded more than 250 educators with the holiday of a lifetime, and donated over $445,000 to educators and their schools which has truly helped make an impact in each of their communities. In addition to the prizes, the nomination platform itself recognises hundreds of spectacular individuals, who all too often go underappreciated and unrecognized.

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RYAN PRICE BUCKINGHAM COLLEGIATE CHARTER ACADEMY | VACAVILLE, CA

Mr. Price is an amazing teacher. He takes time out of his day to make sure our class is enjoyable and that English is understandable. He makes sure we're comfortable in his class and works so hard just to be able to provide us with the top-tier education that we as Buckingham students thoroughly enjoy. He deserves a holiday and a rest from the difficult but rewarding life of a teacher, which is why I nominate Mr. Price for the cruise prize on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

CAROLYN REARDON JAMES OTIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | CHICAGO, IL

Ms. Reardon is a fantastic music educator. Working in the Chicagoland area for over 7 years in general music band and orchestra, she takes programmes that have nothing and makes them into ones that are highly sought-after. Her drive and dedication to her students are unparalleled. Ms. Reardon deserves the world for all that she does for her students. She creates a loving, compassionate, and inclusive space that encourages her students to become the creative souls they were meant to be. Ms. Reardon has worked so hard for 7 years. It's time for her efforts to be honoured and a cruise would be the perfect gift to such an inspiring educator.

ANGELO MIRANTE LAKEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL | ARLINGTON, WA

"I was put on this earth to be a teacher. Educators have always had an impact on me, especially when I needed it most. I know the power teachers hold to inspire and motivate students in the right direction. This is not a job or career; in my mind, this is my passion. I make students feel welcome in the classroom and I truly connect with them. If they know I "see" them for who they are, they will succeed. My classroom is full of movie, music and sport posters of all genders and races. The classroom community I build throughout the year makes all students from all walks of life comfortable and happy to be here. This philosophy makes them want to learn. In my opinion, a teacher won't get anywhere with a student if no connection pursues."

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• Legal residents of Canada or the 50 United States (including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico)

NCL partners with ID.me , our trusted third-party verification service, which uses private and secure data sources to confirm the accuracy of the information you provide. The verification process typically takes five minutes or less. Once your credentials are verified, you will begin seeing your discounted rates on NCL.com at checkout when logged in. The discounted rate displayed at checkout is reflective of 5% off the cruise fare portion of any cruise.

To learn more about the offers and benefits of ID.me, or for company information, please visit www.ID.me

After validating for the NCL Teacher Cruise Discount, you save 5% off the cruise fare portion of any cruise. Participants will also receive $50 Onboard Credit to spend on a spa service, speciality dining, casinos and more. To make it even sweeter, this discount is in addition to Norwegian's Free at Sea promotion which includes unlimited open bar, free speciality dining, free excursions*, free airfare^ and more.

* Receive $50 USD Discount Per Shore Excursion ^ Buy an air ticket and the 2nd guest flies for free. View for full terms and conditions

You must validate for the discount prior to booking to receive the discount.

• 5. Why do I need a My NCL account to receive my discount? You will need a My NCL account so we can link your teacher discount to your account. This will allow you to see your discounted prices when logged in to NCL.com and/or allow your travel agent to see your discounted prices.
• Visit www.ncl.com/teachers
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• Follow the prompts to verify with ID.me which will pop up in a separate window.
• After you complete the ID.me registration and verification process, you will be returned to NCL.com to begin shopping for your next cruise holiday. If you are logged in to your My NCL account, the prices displayed will be inclusive of your 5% off.
• 7. Will my discount apply to all members of my group? The 5% cruise fare discount will apply to the verified teacher's entire stateroom. The discount is limited to one stateroom per verified teacher per sailing.
• 8. Can my spouse use my discount if I'm not travelling with them? No, your spouse is only eligible for the discounted rates if also a verified teacher via ID.me .
• 9. Can I provide my discount to non-eligible friends? No, the discount is only for eligible members. ID.me's identity platform can detect fraudulent use across accounts and reserves the right to revoke access/membership from anyone abusing the terms of usage.
• 10. What should I do if I have issues enroling? Visit https://help.id.me/hc/en-us for assistance with the registration process and/or to get additional information on the documents required for verification.
• 11. Can I book through my travel agent and still receive the discount? Absolutely. All you have to do is visit www.ncl.com/teachers to enrol in the discount. Then provide your travel agent with your My NCL/Latitudes number. The discount is tied to your account.
• 12. Do I have to verify with ID.me every time I want to book a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line? You only have to validate with ID.me once. Your eligibility will be permanently associated with your My NCL account.

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