Cruise Drink Package Calculator: Is It Worth It?

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Updated November 2, 2026

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Quick answer: Divide the package's daily price (including any service charge) by the price of a typical drink (including the same charge). That's how many drinks a day you need to break even. Remember most lines require everyone in the cabin who is of drinking age to buy the package.

Prices change often and differ by line, ship and sailing, so this calculator uses the numbers you enter from your cruise line's website. We don't pre-fill prices because we can't keep every line current.

Calculator

Package price per person per day ($)

Gratuity or service charge (%)

Typical drink price on board ($)

Drinks you expect per day

Things to check before you buy

Whether every adult in the cabin must buy the package (many lines require this).
Daily drink caps and which drinks are included.
Service charge or gratuity added to the price.
Whether port days or the private-island day matter for your plans.
Presale discounts before you sail.

When a package rarely pays off

If you drink mostly water, coffee from the buffet or one cocktail at dinner, paying per drink is usually cheaper. Check the included-beverage list on your line's site.

Frequently asked questions

Is the drink package worth it?

Only if your expected drinks per day exceed the break-even number from the calculator.

Do kids need the package?

Lines typically have separate soda or non-alcoholic packages for minors. Check your line's rules.