Cheers! Drink Package: Full Guide, Inclusions, and Break-Even Value - Carnival Cruise Line
The Carnival Cheers! drink package offers a convenient way for guests to enjoy a wide range of beverages—including cocktails, beer, wine, sodas, and specialty coffees—without worrying about individual charges. For a flat daily rate, cruisers can sip drinks throughout the day at nearly every bar, restaurant, and lounge on board. If you're wondering whether this Carnival drink package is worth the cost, this guide breaks down the inclusions, exclusions, pricing, and when it pays for itself.
What’s Included in the Cheers! Beverage Package?
The Cheers! package covers most drinks up to $20 and provides additional discounts on premium beverages. Here's what’s included:
Alcoholic Beverages:
Cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass (up to $20 menu price)
25% discount on drinks over $20 per glass
25% off wine and champagne bottles
Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
Soda, juice, bottled water (500ml), and energy drinks
Zero-proof cocktails and frozen drinks
Specialty coffees and hot teas
Packaged water in dining rooms and specialty restaurants
Other Perks:
25% discount on beverage seminars and cocktail classes
What’s Not Included?
While the package is comprehensive, it doesn’t cover:
Drinks purchased at Carnival’s private islands (Celebration Key, Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays)
Beverages in souvenir glasses or sold by the bottle
Room service, minibar, or gangway drinks
Sharing or transferring drinks to others
Buckets, pitchers, and floaters
Merchandise, cigars, cigarettes, or food items
Cheers! Package Rules and Restrictions
Guests must be 21+ to purchase
All adults in the same stateroom must purchase the package
15 alcoholic drinks per person per day limit (resets at 6 a.m.)
Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
18% service charge is automatically added
Non-refundable after 10:00 p.m. ET the day before sailing
On cruises from Texas, New York, and Norfolk, activation begins on Day 2 due to state laws
Pricing and Pre-Cruise Savings
Typical pricing before tax and gratuity:
$51.95–$59.95 per person, per day (pre-cruise)
Onboard pricing is typically $5–$6 higher per day
18% service charge is applied at checkout
Savings Tip: Book in advance via the Carnival website by 11:59 p.m. the day before your cruise (or 10:00 p.m. ET by phone) to secure the discounted rate.
Do Drinks at Private Islands Count?
No. Drinks purchased at Celebration Key, Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays, or any other Carnival destination are not included in the Cheers! package and will be charged separately.
Breaking Even with the Cheers! Drink Package
Based on average drink prices, here’s what it takes to break even:
Conclusion: You typically break even at 6+ alcoholic drinks or a mix of 8–10 drinks daily.
Is the Cheers! Drink Package Worth It?
Yes, if you:
Regularly drink cocktails, wine, or beer throughout the day
Enjoy specialty coffees, sodas, and zero-proof drinks
Prefer to pre-pay and simplify your onboard budget
Not ideal if you:
Drink fewer than 5 alcoholic beverages per day
Spend most of your day off the ship or at port
Prefer bringing your own drinks or sticking to water
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Package
Start your day with a specialty coffee or juice
Use your 25% discount on premium wines or cocktail classes
Plan more drinks on sea days when you’re on the ship all day
Avoid buying drinks at private islands where the package doesn’t apply
Comparison with Other Cruise Line Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package: No daily limits, higher cost, works at private islands
Norwegian’s More at Sea Package: No daily limit, included with select promos, works on their private island
MSC Easy Plus Package: 15-drink limit, lower drink price cap ($9), includes private island access
Final Thoughts
The Carnival Cruise Line Cheers! beverage package can be a great value if you drink frequently and want the convenience of prepaying. For guests who enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks every day, it often pays for itself. However, light drinkers or those planning to spend time off the ship should carefully weigh the cost against their likely consumption.
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