A cruise vacation is even more enjoyable when you can sip your favorite drinks while relaxing by the pool, watching live entertainment, or dining with ocean views. If you're planning a trip with Carnival Cruise Line, understanding the Carnival Drink Package options can help you decide whether purchasing a beverage package is the right choice for your vacation.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Carnival Drink Package, including what's included, how it works, pricing considerations, and tips for getting the best value.
What Is the Carnival Drink Package?
The Carnival Drink Package is a prepaid beverage program that allows guests to enjoy a variety of drinks throughout their cruise for a fixed daily cost. Instead of paying for beverages individually, passengers can purchase a package that covers eligible drinks during their voyage.
The most popular beverage package offered by Carnival Cruise Line is known as the CHEERS!® Beverage Program.
What Is Included in the Carnival CHEERS!® Beverage Program?
The CHEERS!® Beverage Program provides access to a wide range of beverages, including:
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Cocktails and mixed drinks
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Beer selections
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Wine by the glass
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Spirits and liquors
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Specialty coffees
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Energy drinks
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Soft drinks
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Bottled water
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Non-alcoholic frozen cocktails
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Premium coffee beverages
This package is designed for guests who enjoy a variety of drinks throughout the day.
How Does the Carnival Drink Package Work?
Once purchased, eligible beverages are automatically included within the package limits. Guests simply present their Sail & Sign card when ordering drinks onboard.
The package is valid at most bars, lounges, restaurants, and entertainment venues throughout the ship.
Certain premium beverages that exceed package limits may require an additional charge.
What Drinks Are Covered?
Depending on current package terms, guests can typically enjoy:
Alcoholic Beverages
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Cocktails
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Margaritas
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Mojitos
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Whiskey
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Vodka
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Rum
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Gin
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Tequila
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Wine by the glass
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Domestic beer
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Imported beer
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
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Specialty coffees
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Espresso drinks
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Soft drinks
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Sparkling water
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Bottled water
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Energy drinks
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Mocktails
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Fresh juices
This variety makes the package appealing to many different types of travelers.
How Much Does the Carnival Drink Package Cost?
The cost of the Carnival Drink Package varies based on:
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Cruise duration
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Sailing date
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Itinerary
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Promotional offers
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Whether the package is purchased before or during the cruise
Guests often receive better pricing when purchasing the package before embarkation through Carnival's online cruise planner.
Is the Carnival Drink Package Worth It?
The value of the package depends on your beverage consumption habits.
A drink package may be worthwhile if you regularly enjoy:
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Several alcoholic beverages each day
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Specialty coffee every morning
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Bottled water throughout the cruise
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Soft drinks and energy drinks
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Wine with meals
Guests who only consume a few drinks daily may spend less by purchasing beverages individually.
Benefits of Purchasing a Carnival Drink Package
Easier Budgeting
Paying in advance helps reduce surprise expenses during your vacation.
Convenience
Order eligible beverages throughout the ship without worrying about individual charges.
More Beverage Choices
Many guests enjoy trying different cocktails, wines, and specialty drinks without constantly calculating costs.
Enhanced Cruise Experience
The package allows travelers to focus on enjoying their vacation rather than tracking beverage spending.
Can You Purchase the Carnival Drink Package Before Sailing?
Yes. Carnival Cruise Line allows guests to purchase beverage packages before departure.
Benefits of pre-purchasing include:
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Potential discounts
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Simplified vacation planning
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Faster onboard setup
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Better overall budgeting
Many experienced cruisers recommend purchasing beverage packages before embarkation whenever possible.
Important Carnival Drink Package Rules
Before purchasing, guests should understand the program rules:
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The package is for personal use only.
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Sharing drinks is prohibited.
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All adults staying in the same stateroom may be required to purchase the package if one guest buys it.
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Age restrictions apply for alcoholic beverage packages.
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Daily beverage limits may apply according to Carnival's current policies.
Always review the latest terms and conditions before your cruise.
Tips for Maximizing Value
Buy Before Boarding
Advance purchases often provide the best pricing.
Consider Sea Days
Drink packages tend to offer the most value during days spent entirely onboard.
Estimate Daily Consumption
Review your typical beverage habits before deciding whether the package makes financial sense.
Take Advantage of Non-Alcoholic Options
Specialty coffees, bottled water, and energy drinks can add significant value to your package.
Final Thoughts
The Carnival Drink Package is a popular option for travelers looking to enjoy beverages throughout their cruise while maintaining a predictable vacation budget. Whether you prefer tropical cocktails by the pool, wine with dinner, or specialty coffee each morning, the package can add convenience and value to your onboard experience.
Before purchasing, compare your expected beverage consumption with the package cost and look for pre-cruise discounts to maximize savings on your next Carnival cruise.