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One of the biggest questions guests ask before sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line is whether the drinks package is worth it. From cocktails by the pool to a glass of wine with dinner, having your drinks covered can make your holiday feel even more relaxing.
If you’re wondering what the NCL drinks package includes, how much it costs or whether gratuities are included, you’ve come to the right place. This guide explains everything you need to know about the current Free at Sea offer from the cruise line and its Unlimited Open Bar package.
For most guests, the NCL drinks package is available as part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Free at Sea promotion. It includes the Unlimited Open Bar package, giving guests aged 21 and over unlimited premium beverages throughout their cruise.
The package includes:
Guests can also enjoy a wide selection of premium brands, including Grey Goose, Casamigos and Woodford Reserve.
There are a few exclusions to be aware of. Starbucks drinks, bottled water, fresh-squeezed juices and certain ultra-premium beverages aren’t included in the standard package, although these are available through separate beverage packages or the upgraded Free at Sea Plus package.
The answer depends on how you book your cruise. Most guests choose the drinks package through Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea promotion, where it’s included as one of the package benefits. Rather than paying the full cost of the drinks package, guests simply prepay the applicable beverage package gratuities.
If you decide not to select Free at Sea when booking, the Unlimited Open Bar package can also be purchased separately. Current onboard pricing starts from $45 per person, per day, plus a 20% gratuity, taxes and fees, although prices may vary depending on your itinerary and are subject to change.
This is one of the most searched questions about Norwegian Cruise Line. If you choose the drinks package through Free at Sea, you’ll pay the required beverage package gratuities when you add the promotion to your booking. Once that’s taken care of, you won’t be charged an additional gratuity every time you order an included drink on board.
It’s important to remember that these beverage gratuities are separate from Norwegian Cruise Line’s daily hotel service charge, which still applies to your cruise.
For many guests, absolutely. If you enjoy a cocktail by the pool, wine with dinner, a beer while watching a show or an evening nightcap, the package can offer excellent value and removes the need to think about the cost of each individual drink.
It’s particularly good value when booked as part of Free at Sea, as the drinks package is combined with other popular benefits, including:
Together, these extras can add significant value to your holiday.
If you rarely drink alcohol or prefer just the occasional soft drink, paying as you go may be the better option whether you’re on a family cruise or travelling solo.
Yes. If you didn’t choose Free at Sea when making your reservation, you can usually add it to your booking up to 24 hours before sailing through MyNCL, or by contacting your Cruise Expert.
Yes. Unlimited fountain soft drinks and juices are included as part of the Unlimited Open Bar package for eligible guests.
No. Bottled water isn’t included in the standard drinks package. It’s available through separate beverage upgrades, including Free at Sea Plus.
You can order one drink at a time, and there is no set limit on the number of drinks you can order. However, guests are expected to drink responsibly, and staff may refuse service if necessary.
Yes, you can book NCL’s Free at Sea package whether you’re sailing on a new ship such as Norwegian Aqua, or one of the older members of the fleet such as Norwegian Jade.
Still deciding whether the NCL drinks package is right for you? The Cruise Experts at Bolsover Cruise Club are here to help. Whether you have questions about Free at Sea, drinks packages or choosing the right Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary, we’ll help you find the perfect cruise and ensure you know exactly what’s included before you book.
