When planning your dream getaway aboard a Carnival Cruise, one question often bubbles to the surface: how much are drinks on a Carnival Cruise? Whether you’re savoring a fruity cocktail by the pool, enjoying a crisp glass of wine at dinner, or simply sipping on a refreshing soda, understanding drink policies can help you budget smarter and make the most of your vacation. Carnival Cruise offers a variety of drink options to suit every traveler’s taste and budget, making your experience at sea as indulgent or as budget-friendly as you’d like.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the cost of drinks on Carnival Cruise ships, explore the rules about bringing beverages on board, and unpack the value of drink packages to help you sail away worry-free. Let’s get sipping!
Breakdown of Drink Costs on Carnival Cruise
When it comes to beverages, Carnival Cruise caters to all palates, whether you’re after a refreshing soda, a morning latte, or a celebratory champagne toast. Here’s what you can expect:
Alcoholic drinks
- Cocktails: Prices typically range from $10 to $14 per drink. Signature drinks like margaritas or mojitos fall within this range, and they’re always mixed to perfection.
- Beer: A bottle or can of beer costs $6 to $8, depending on the brand. Domestic options tend to be slightly cheaper than imported varieties.
- Wine: Glasses of wine range from $8 to $14, while bottles start at around $30 and can go much higher for premium selections.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Soda: Individual sodas cost about $2.50 to $3.50 each. Opting for a soda package can save you money if you’re a frequent soda drinker.
- Specialty Coffees and Teas: Espresso-based drinks, such as lattes or cappuccinos, cost $3 to $5.50. These are perfect for caffeine lovers seeking a pick-me-up.
- Bottled Water: A single bottle of water costs $3.75, but you can save by purchasing a case before boarding.
Can You Bring Wine on a Carnival Cruise?
Yes, Carnival Cruise allows passengers to bring wine on board, but there are restrictions.
- Allowance: Guests aged 21 and over can bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person in their carry-on luggage.
- Corkage Fee: If you choose to enjoy your wine in the main dining room or specialty restaurants, a $15 corkage fee will apply.
- Prohibited Items: Hard liquor and beer are not permitted.
Bringing your own wine is a great way to enjoy your favorite vintage while keeping costs down, especially during those romantic sunset dinners.
Can You Bring Bottled Water on a Carnival Cruise?
Carnival Cruise has specific rules about bottled water:
- Pre-Order Option: You can purchase cases of bottled water through Carnival’s Fun Shops before your cruise. Prices start at $9.95 for 12 bottles, which is significantly cheaper than buying water on board.
- Carry-On Restrictions: Guests are not allowed to bring bottled water in their luggage due to past security concerns. However, you can bring sealed, non-alcoholic beverages like soda or juice in cans or cartons (up to 12 cans or cartons, 12 ounces each).
Is the Drink Package on Carnival Cruise Worth It?
For guests who love indulging in drinks throughout the day, Carnival offers the Cheers! Beverage Package, which provides unlimited access to many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Here’s what you need to know:
Cheers! Beverage Package
- Cost: The package costs $59.95 per person per day if purchased before the cruise and $64.95 per day if bought onboard.
- What’s Included:
- Cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass (up to $20 per drink)
- Soda, specialty coffees, and non-alcoholic frozen drinks
- Bottled water and energy drinks
- 25% discount on bottles of wine and certain spirits not included in the package
Is It Worth It?
If you plan to enjoy 5–6 alcoholic drinks per day, the Cheers! package can save you money. However, keep in mind that all adults in the same stateroom must purchase the package, and there’s a daily limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per person.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks on a Carnival Cruise
- Bring Your Own Allowed Beverages: Pack your favorite bottle of wine or up to 12 cans of soda to save on onboard drink costs.
- Take Advantage of Happy Hours: Many Carnival bars offer discounted drinks during select times, so keep an eye out for these specials.
- Pre-Purchase Water Cases: This is a convenient and cost-effective way to stay hydrated throughout your trip.
- Share a Drink Package: If you’re cruising with a partner or family, plan your drink consumption to see if one drink package is worth splitting beverages during shared meals.
Rules About Bringing Beverages on Carnival Cruise
Carnival Cruise has straightforward rules about bringing drinks aboard:
- Allowed Items: One bottle of wine or champagne per adult and up to 12 cans of non-alcoholic beverages.
- Prohibited Items: Bottled water (except pre-ordered cases), hard liquor, and beer.
- Carry-On Requirement: All beverages must be brought in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
Following these guidelines ensures a smooth embarkation process and prevents any confiscated items.
Conclusion: Savor Every Sip on a Carnival Cruise
Whether you’re unwinding with a tropical cocktail or enjoying a homemade picnic with your own bottle of wine, Carnival Cruise makes it easy to tailor your beverage experience to your taste and budget. By understanding the cost of drinks, exploring drink packages, and taking advantage of bring-your-own policies, you can elevate your journey without overspending.
Now that you’re ready to toast to your next adventure, don’t forget to check out the latest drink packages and deals available for your Carnival Cruise. Cheers to smooth sailing and even smoother sipping!