How Does The Drink Package Work On Carnival
Alright, cruisers! Let's talk about something that can seriously level up your vacation vibes: Carnival drink packages. You've probably seen the question pop up when you're planning your dream getaway, and maybe you've even wondered, "Does this thing really work?" Well, buckle up, because we're about to break it down in a way that’s as easy and breezy as a sea breeze on deck.
Think of your Carnival drink package like a magic key to unlocking a whole new level of enjoyment on your cruise. You're not just buying drinks; you're essentially pre-paying for a certain number of sips of happiness, a passport to poolside libations, and a VIP pass to all those evening cocktails with a view. Sounds pretty fantastic, right?
So, How Does This Magical Potion Work?
Carnival offers a couple of different drink packages, but the most popular one you'll likely encounter is the Bottomless Fun Ship 2.0 Package. (Seriously, they come up with some fun names, don't they?). This package is your ticket to unlimited soda, juice, mocktails, and even your favorite coffee shop beverages from the onboard coffee bar. Yes, you read that right! All those fancy lattes and iced coffees that would normally add up? Covered!
But wait, there's more! For those who like to add a little extra sparkle to their day (or night!), there's the Cheers!® Beverage Program. This is the one that usually gets all the buzz. The Cheers! program is your all-inclusive pass to a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for a flat daily rate. We're talking about your classic cocktails, a selection of beers and wines by the glass, and yes, even those fun frozen concoctions that are practically a cruise ship's unofficial mascot.
What's Inside the Cheers!® Treasure Chest?
Let's dive a little deeper into what makes the Cheers! program so appealing. It generally includes:
- Spirits, beer and wine by the glass up to $13 per drink.
- Cocktails and frozen drinks also up to $13.
- Sodas, juices and mocktails.
- Specialty coffee and tea drinks from the coffee bar.
- Bottled still and sparkling water.
- 25% off bottles of wine and spirits. (A little bonus for the discerning sipper!)
Now, a quick but important heads-up: there are always a few things that are not included. Think of them as the rare treasures you might have to pay a little extra for. This typically includes premium spirits and top-shelf wines, drinks from in-stateroom honor bars or mini-bars, and drinks served in souvenir glasses. Also, any drinks that go for more than $13 will require you to pay the difference. But honestly, for the vast majority of your drinking needs, the Cheers! program has you covered.
One of the most brilliant things about these packages is how they help you budget your vacation. Instead of constantly pulling out your wallet or SeaPass card and cringing at the running total, you have a predictable cost upfront. This can be a total game-changer for families or groups who want to keep track of their spending without the constant "who's paying for what?" dance.
Think about it: you're on vacation! You're supposed to be relaxing, right? You shouldn't have to do complex mental math every time you want a refreshing Diet Coke by the pool or a delightful mojito as the sun dips below the horizon. With a drink package, you can simply say, "Yes, please!" without a second thought. That's the kind of carefree bliss we're talking about!
Who Is This Package For?
So, is a drink package the right choice for you? It really depends on your cruising style and how much you plan to imbibe. Generally speaking, if you're someone who enjoys:
- A few alcoholic drinks throughout the day (a morning mimosa, a poolside piña colada, an evening glass of wine, maybe a nightcap...).
- Plenty of sodas, juices, or specialty coffees.
- You're looking for a predictable vacation budget.
- You want to avoid the "surprise" bill at the end of your cruise.
...then the Cheers! program is likely a fantastic investment. It can save you a significant amount of money compared to paying for each drink individually, especially if you're a regular consumer of these beverages.
On the flip side, if you're more of a "one or two drinks a day, maybe even just water" kind of cruiser, then purchasing drinks a la carte might be more cost-effective. The beauty of Carnival is that they give you options, and that's always a good thing!
Important Little Nuances to Keep in Mind
There are a few more things to know that will make your drink package experience even smoother. First, the package needs to be purchased for your entire cruise. You can't buy it for just a couple of days. Also, and this is a biggie, everyone in the same stateroom must purchase the same package. So, if you opt for Cheers!, your cabin mate has to get it too. This is to prevent people from sharing and to ensure everyone is enjoying the benefits responsibly.
You can purchase your drink package either online before your cruise (which is often the best way to snag potential discounts!) or onboard at guest services or a bar. It's generally recommended to buy it in advance, as prices can sometimes be higher once you're sailing.
And one more fun little detail: the Cheers! program applies to all bars, lounges, and dining venues on the ship, including the buffet and even room service for certain beverage options. So, whether you're enjoying a show in the lounge, having dinner in the main dining room, or just chilling on your balcony, your drink package is ready to serve!
Ultimately, a drink package on Carnival isn't just about the drinks themselves. It's about enhancing your overall cruise experience. It's about the freedom to indulge, the joy of not worrying about the cost of that extra cocktail, and the simple pleasure of having your favorite beverage readily available. It's about making your vacation feel a little more special, a little more carefree, and a whole lot more fun.
So, the next time you're dreaming of turquoise waters, sunny decks, and the gentle sway of the ship, remember the magic of the Carnival drink packages. It’s a simple way to add a touch more joy and a whole lot less stress to your adventure. Dive in, explore your options, and get ready to sip your way to an unforgettable vacation!