When it comes to enjoying a cruise, especially with Carnival, having a drink package can be an attractive option for many travelers. After all, you’re on vacation, and the allure of sipping cocktails by the pool or enjoying a nice wine with dinner is undeniably appealing. But before making any decisions, it’s crucial to dive into what drink packages Carnival offers, how much they cost, and what they include. It’s not just about slapping down a card and expecting unlimited drinks; understanding the nuances helps to truly maximize your travel experience.
Types of Drink Packages Available
Carnival offers various drink packages to cater to different tastes and preferences. The most well-known is the Bottomless Bubbles package, specifically designed for those who enjoy soft drinks and juices. This package generally runs around $8.50 per day for adults and $5.95 for children aged 17 and under. Then there’s the Cheers! Beverage Program, which is aimed at adults who want to indulge in alcoholic beverages. The pricing for this comprehensive package typically hovers around $59.95 per day per person, though the cost might vary slightly depending on the specific cruise and itinerary.
What’s Included in the Cheers! Package?
Now, if you’re thinking about opting for the Cheers! Beverage Program, it’s essential to know exactly what you’re getting for your money. The package includes a wide variety of drinks – all alcoholic beverages priced at $20 and under. This means you can savor cocktails, wines, and frozen concoctions without worrying about running up a hefty bar tab. Additionally, the package covers certain non-alcoholic drinks like sodas, juices, and specialty coffees, keeping your beverage options open throughout the cruise.
Limitations of the Drink Packages
Although the drink packages sound amazing, they do come with some restrictions. For example, Carnival’s Cheers! package has a daily limit of 15 drinks per person. This limitation ensures that the cruise experience remains enjoyable and safe for everyone on board. Furthermore, the package can’t be shared or transferred between guests, which means each adult wanting to indulge in this package needs to purchase their own. Keeping these details in mind is crucial for planning your onboard experience without any surprises!
When to Purchase Your Drink Package
Purchasing a drink package can be done online during the booking process or at any time before your cruise sets sail. Many cruisers find that buying the package in advance can sometimes result in slight savings. Waiting until you’re on board is another option, but be prepared for potential price changes or the possibility that you might forget to buy it in the excitement of boarding the ship. Either way, consider when and how much you’ll drink—this can significantly affect your total vacation expenses.
Comparing Costs: Is It Worth It?
Deciding on whether to purchase a drink package boils down to a simple calculation: what do you plan to drink? If you’re a cocktail enthusiast who enjoys several drinks per day, the Cheers! package might be a savvy financial move. However, if you typically enjoy just a cocktail or two, or prefer non-alcoholic options, you might find that individual purchases are more cost-effective. Weighing your drinking habits against the package’s daily fee can help clarify whether it’s worth investing in a drink package for your trip.
The Bottomless Bubbles Package
For families traveling or individuals who aren’t keen on alcohol, the Bottomless Bubbles package proves to be a good alternative. Not only is it more affordable, but it’s also a straightforward way to enjoy unlimited soda, juices, and other non-alcoholic drinks. For children, the value is undeniable, especially for those who love fizzy treatments while on vacation. This package really simplifies things for parents who want to keep kids hydrated and happy without constantly purchasing drinks individually.
Dinings and Drinks: Pairing Options
Knowing the drink packages allows you to pair your meals intelligently. If you’re dining at one of Carnival’s sophisticated restaurants, you might want to consider pairing a wine with your dinner—which becomes even more enjoyable with the Cheers! package. Imagine savoring a quality Merlot with your steak or a refreshing rosé with fish, knowing you aren’t adding to a soaring bill. It transforms dining into a holistic experience—not only is the food delightful, but the right drink elevates everything.
Benefits of the Drink Package Outside Bars
The beauty of the drink packages doesn’t just lie in bar areas; it stretches throughout the ship. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, watching the sunset on deck, or attending a party, your drinks are covered. Carnival has bars and lounges galore, so you can always find a spot to unwind while enjoying your favorite beverages. Being able to grab a drink at various locations makes the cruise feel all the more luxurious as there’s no need to keep track of individual drink costs.
Considerations for Budgeting Your Cruise
Trying to figure out your cruise budget can be tricky, especially with the added costs of drink packages. It’s essential to factor this into your overall cruise budget plan. Beyond the drink packages, you’ll also want to keep a close eye on other expenses like dining, excursions, and gratuities. Knowing how much you typically spend on drinks can guide your decision-making process. If you enjoy indulging in a few cocktails while relaxing, prioritize this cost and allocate enough budget space for the package.
Final Thoughts on Drink Packages
The choice of whether or not to get a drink package ultimately comes down to personal preference and habits. If you love relaxed afternoons sipping cocktails or look forward to complimentary drinks during meals, investing in one of the drink packages can enhance your Carnival cruise experience significantly. On the flip side, if you’re more of a casual sipper or enjoy water and soda over alcoholic options, opting for individual drinks may be the wiser choice. Weighing these factors ensures you can enjoy all that Carnival has to offer without any financial hangovers!
