When it comes to cruising, few things enhance your experience quite like a refreshing cocktail at sunset or a crisp glass of wine with dinner. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) understands this perfectly, offering guests a range of drink options through its NCL drinks package, also known as the Norwegian free beverage package or Norwegian free drink package.
If you’re planning a voyage with NCL, understanding these packages can help you enjoy your cruise without worrying about bar tabs or hidden costs. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know — from what’s included, to how it works, to whether it’s worth it for your next adventure.
What Is the NCL Drinks Package?
The NCL drinks package is Norwegian Cruise Line’s way of offering guests unlimited beverages throughout their sailing. It’s designed to make cruising simpler and more enjoyable by letting you indulge in your favorite cocktails, wines, beers, soft drinks, and even specialty coffees without paying for each one individually.
There are several different beverage packages available on Norwegian Cruise Line ships, but the most popular one is the Norwegian Free Beverage Package, often included as part of the “Free at Sea” promotion.
This package gives you access to a wide range of drinks across the ship — from pool bars and lounges to dining rooms and specialty restaurants — so you can relax and enjoy yourself without constantly pulling out your cruise card.
The Norwegian Free Beverage Package Explained
The Norwegian free beverage package is typically offered as one of the perks in NCL’s “Free at Sea” deal. When you book your cruise, you can often choose this package as a complimentary bonus, depending on your stateroom category and promotion terms.
This package usually covers:
- Unlimited spirits and cocktails (up to a certain dollar amount, often $15 per drink)
- Beer and wine by the glass (also up to the same dollar limit)
- Soft drinks and sodas
- Bottled and still water (in bars and dining areas)
- Fresh juices and non-alcoholic mocktails
It’s a flexible way to enjoy beverages on board, and it works in virtually every bar, lounge, and restaurant on the ship.
However, it’s important to note that a service charge (typically around 20%) is applied to the package cost, even if it’s part of the free promotion. So while the package itself is “free,” you’ll still pay the gratuity upfront.
How the Norwegian Free Drink Package Works
Once you’ve selected the Norwegian free drink package as part of your booking or purchased the NCL drinks package separately, it’s automatically linked to your keycard.
Here’s how it works in practice:
- Order your drink anywhere on the ship – whether it’s a mojito at the pool bar, a cappuccino in the café, or a glass of merlot at dinner.
- Show your cruise card – the bartender will swipe it, confirming that your package covers the drink.
- No extra charge (unless over the limit) – as long as your drink is within the allowed price limit, there’s no cost. If it exceeds the limit (for example, ordering a $20 cocktail), you’ll just pay the difference.
It’s that easy — no receipts, no confusion, just smooth sailing and good drinks.
What’s Included in the NCL Drinks Package
The NCL drinks package includes an impressive range of beverages. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Alcoholic Beverages
- Spirits such as vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and liqueurs
- A variety of cocktails, both classic and creative
- Beer (both draft and bottled options)
- Wine by the glass (red, white, rosé, and sparkling)
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Soda and soft drinks (Coca-Cola products on most ships)
- Freshly squeezed juices
- Non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails)
- Bottled water in restaurants and bars
- Espresso, cappuccino, and specialty coffees
What’s Not Included in the Norwegian Free Beverage Package
While the Norwegian free beverage package covers a wide range of drinks, there are some exclusions to keep in mind:
- Premium wines by the bottle (not by the glass)
- Energy drinks and some specialty waters
- Mini-bar beverages in your stateroom
- Room service drinks
- Drinks served in ports of call (only valid onboard)
Also, if you want top-shelf liquors or premium cocktails above the package’s dollar limit, you’ll need to pay the difference — usually just a few dollars.
The Premium Plus Beverage Package: An Upgrade Option
For those who want access to everything, NCL also offers the Premium Plus Beverage Package.
This upgraded option includes:
- All top-shelf spirits and premium liquors
- All bottled and draft beers
- All wines by the glass (with no dollar limit)
- Bottled water (including in your stateroom)
- Energy drinks, specialty coffees, and premium bottled wines
If you’re a connoisseur or plan to indulge in high-end drinks throughout your cruise, upgrading from the Norwegian free drink package to Premium Plus might be worth it.
Is the NCL Drinks Package Worth It?
The short answer: yes — for most guests, it’s absolutely worth it.
If you enjoy more than two or three drinks per day, the NCL drinks package often pays for itself quickly. Here’s why:
- A typical cocktail costs between $12 and $15.
- Beer and wine range from $8 to $13.
- Specialty coffees cost about $5 each.
So, if you have a cocktail at the pool, a glass of wine at dinner, and an after-dinner drink, you’ve already matched the value of the daily cost.
Even if your package is included as a “free” perk, it enhances the cruise experience by letting you enjoy drinks freely without watching your tab climb.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Norwegian Free Beverage Package
- Know your limits – The package covers drinks up to a certain value (usually $15). Order within that range to avoid extra charges.
- Ask for upgrades smartly – If you want a premium brand, you can always pay the small difference.
- Use it everywhere – The NCL drinks package is valid in most restaurants, bars, and lounges onboard. Don’t forget the specialty dining venues!
- Don’t share the package – NCL’s policy requires that every adult in the same stateroom purchase the package (if it’s not part of the free promotion). Sharing is not allowed.
- Check your receipt – Sometimes gratuities or upcharges can sneak in, so it’s wise to review your onboard account periodically.
- Stay hydrated – Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water, especially on hot sea days.
How to Get the Norwegian Free Beverage Package
The best way to get the Norwegian free beverage package is to book during NCL’s Free at Sea promotion.
When this deal is active, you can choose from several free perks, such as:
- Free beverage package
- Free specialty dining
- Free shore excursion credit
- Free Wi-Fi minutes
- Reduced fares for third and fourth guests
Most travelers pick the Norwegian free drink package as one of their top choices because of its high value and convenience.
Even if you’re not eligible for the free version, you can always purchase it before your cruise or once you’re onboard.
Comparing NCL’s Drink Packages
To help you choose the right option, here’s a quick comparison:
| Package Name | Includes Alcohol | Drink Limit | Bottled Water | Specialty Coffee | Price Range (per day) |
| Soda Package | No | N/A | No | No | ~$9 |
| Premium Beverage Package (Free at Sea) | Yes | Up to $15 per drink | Limited | Yes | ~$109 + gratuity |
| Premium Plus Beverage Package | Yes | Unlimited | Yes | Yes | ~$138 + gratuity |
This table shows how the Norwegian free beverage package (often the Premium Beverage level) covers nearly everything most guests need.
Who Should Get the NCL Drinks Package?
The NCL drinks package is ideal for:
- Guests who enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer daily
- Those who want an all-inclusive cruise experience
- Travelers who prefer not to worry about individual drink costs
- Couples or groups celebrating a special occasion at sea
However, if you rarely drink alcohol or prefer bottled water and soda, a smaller beverage plan or the soda package might be a better fit.
The Experience: How the Norwegian Free Drink Package Enhances Your Cruise
Imagine waking up to a cappuccino on your balcony, enjoying a margarita by the pool, sipping champagne at sunset, and finishing the night with a whiskey in the piano bar — all without ever signing a check.
That’s the magic of the Norwegian free drink package. It turns your cruise into an effortless, carefree experience where you can focus on relaxation, conversation, and fun.
With more than a dozen bars and lounges on most NCL ships — including themed venues like the Sugarcane Mojito Bar, the Maltings Whiskey Bar, and the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar — there’s always something new to try.
Final Thoughts: Is the Norwegian Free Beverage Package Right for You?
The NCL drinks package, Norwegian free beverage package, and Norwegian free drink package all refer to the same concept — a seamless, all-inclusive way to enjoy beverages onboard Norwegian Cruise Line.
For most cruisers, this package is a game-changer. It offers unbeatable convenience, excellent value, and the freedom to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Whether you’re sipping champagne as you sail away or toasting under the stars, the right drink package ensures every moment feels just a little more special.
So, next time you’re booking your NCL cruise, take advantage of the Norwegian free beverage package — and let every pour, every sip, and every toast remind you why life is better at sea.
