The cruise industry is sailing ahead at full speed after a rough few years.
Boats are at full capacity and cruise passengers are flying to ports across the country to travel to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, scenic inland rivers and more.
But one question remains before you board that long-awaited cruise and unwind with a fancy umbrella drink: Are you paying too much for that drink? And if you bought a drink package, will you get your money’s worth? Every veteran cruiser has weighed those questions, and the short answer is that it depends on how much — and what — you drink.
About 40% of cruise passengers spend at least $100 on alcoholic drinks and 89% spend some money on drinks, according to a study by Cruzely. But drink packages also cover a variety of non-alcoholic drinks and most include gratuities, which may tip the math in your favor.
If you want lots of options, a drinks package may be right for you and could help you save money on a cruise. You might also see some savings if you select a drink package before you set sail.
What Is a Cruise Drink Package?
When it comes to drinks on a cruise, not everything is included in your fare. Most cruise lines offer complimentary tap water, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, milk and some basic juices.
Outside of that, you’re paying (with the exception of Disney, which offers free soft drinks). If you’d like a little more variety, you
