We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to sail with us, and even more so that you’ve landed on our little corner of the internet to get the inside scoop on your upcoming adventures. For many of us, our cruise vacation is a much-anticipated escape, a chance to explore new horizons and, of course, enjoy a few well-deserved libations. Today, we’re diving deep into a question we hear all the time when the dazzling lights of the Norwegian Prima come into view: is the Norwegian Prima drink package worth it? As seasoned travelers and your go-to cruise experts, we’ve sampled our fair share of onboard beverages, and we’re ready to share our honest, no-holds-barred review to help you make the best decision for your cruise booking.
Navigating the world of cruise drink packages can feel like deciphering a secret code. There are different tiers, exclusions, and sometimes, it’s just plain confusing. But fear not, because we’re here to break it all down. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser wondering if it’s a splurge you should make or a seasoned pro looking to optimize your experience on the stunning Norwegian Prima, this guide is for you. We’ll explore what the package actually covers, the pros and cons, and ultimately, help you decide if it’s the perfect complement to your fantastic cruise vacation.
Let’s start with the nitty-gritty. What exactly are we talking about when we say the “Norwegian Prima drink package”? Most often, this refers to their Premium Beverage Package. It’s designed to offer a comprehensive solution for your drinking needs throughout your cruise. Think of it as your passport to a world of flavors, without the constant worry of individual purchase prices adding up.
The Core Inclusions: A Sip-by-Sip Breakdown
The heart of the Premium Beverage Package is its broad selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. We’re talking about a pretty extensive list, and for most people, it covers all the bases.
Spirits and Cocktails: From Classics to Custom Creations
This is where many cruisers find significant value. The package typically includes a wide array of spirits, from your standard well brands to premium labels. This means you can enjoy everything from a classic martini or a refreshing mojito to more elaborate cocktails crafted by the talented bar staff. We’ve found that the selection of spirits is generally quite good, encompassing popular brands of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and liqueurs. This allows for a lot of flexibility in your drink choices, catering to various tastes and moods.
Wines by the Glass: A Toast to Every Meal
For wine enthusiasts, the inclusion of wines by the glass is a major draw. The package usually covers a decent selection of red, white, and rosé wines from different regions. While it might not include every single bottle on the entire cruise ship’s wine list, it offers more than enough variety to pair with your meals, enjoy at the bar, or simply sip on deck. We’ve enjoyed trying different varietals during our meals, which is a great way to enhance the dining experience without the added cost of ordering each glass individually.
Draft and Bottled Beers: Cheers to Your Favorites
Beer lovers, rejoice! The Norwegian Prima drink package typically includes a solid selection of draft and bottled beers. This usually encompasses popular domestic and international brands. Whether you’re a lager fan, an IPA enthusiast, or prefer a darker brew, you’ll likely find something to quench your thirst. It’s a convenient way to enjoy a cold beer while lounging by the pool or watching the sunset.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Staying Hydrated in Style
It’s not just about the alcoholic offerings. The Premium Beverage Package also includes a generous array of non-alcoholic options. This is fantastic for those who prefer to limit their alcohol intake or for younger cruisers.
Soft Drinks and Juices: Fizzy and Fruity Delights
You’ll have access to an unlimited supply of soft drinks and juices. This includes everything from cola and diet soda to cranberry, orange, and pineapple juice. Having these readily available means you can stay refreshed throughout the day without having to pay for each soda or juice. We find this particularly useful during port days or when lounging by the pool, where staying hydrated is key.
Specialty Coffee and Teas: A Morning Perk and Evening Comfort
A delightful inclusion for many is the access to specialty coffees and teas. This often means you can enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and a variety of teas from the onboard cafes. This can be a significant saving if you’re a daily coffee drinker, as these specialty drinks can add up quickly on their own.
What’s Typically Not Included?
While the Premium Beverage Package is comprehensive, it’s important to be aware of what’s generally excluded to avoid any surprises.
Premium Liquor Brands: The Top Shelf Stays Separate
The highest end of spirits and liquors are usually not included in the standard package. If you have a particular affinity for very rare or ultra-premium brands, you may need to purchase those separately. However, for the vast majority of cruisers, the included spirits and wines offer ample choice.
Bottles of Wine and Premium Wine Selections: When You Want More
While wines by the glass are included, entire bottles of wine, especially those from the premium or reserve lists, are typically an additional charge. If you plan on celebrating a special occasion with a specific bottle of wine, factor that into your budget.
Energy Drinks and Freshly Squeezed Juices: A Niche Exclusion
While many non-alcoholic drinks are covered, specific items like energy drinks (Red Bull, etc.) and some freshly squeezed juices (beyond standard options) might be an extra cost. Always check the most current package details for precise exclusions.
Souvenir Cups and Certain Novelty Drinks: The Extras
Occasionally, drinks served in souvenir cups or certain specialty, often very elaborate, “bar gimmick” drinks might not be part of the package. It’s a minor detail, but worth noting.
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The Pros: Why the Norwegian Prima Drink Package Might Be Your Best Friend
So, why do so many cruisers opt for a drink package? The benefits are numerous, and for the right person, they can significantly enhance their cruise vacation experience.
Hassle-Free Enjoyment: The Ultimate Convenience
This is arguably the biggest draw. Once you have the package, you can simply order your drink and enjoy it. No fumbling for your room key, no calculating costs after each order, no stress. You can order a drink at one bar, then another at a different venue, and the charges are handled. This seamless experience allows you to truly relax and be present in the moment.
Spontaneity Without the Sticker Shock: Say Yes to That Extra Drink!
When you’re on vacation, you want to be able to say “yes” to that spontaneous cocktail by the pool or that extra glass of wine with dinner. With a drink package, the mental barrier of the individual cost is removed. This encourages you to try new drinks and indulge a little more freely, knowing it’s all covered. We find ourselves being more adventurous with our beverage choices when we’re not constantly looking at the price tag.
Budgeting Made Simple: Know Your Onboard Spend
One of the most attractive aspects of a drink package is its ability to help you budget your cruise vacation. By paying for it upfront, either at the time of your cruise booking or closer to your departure, you effectively lock in your beverage costs. This makes it much easier to manage your onboard expenses and avoid any budget blowouts. For many, the predictability is a huge relief.
Value for Money: When It Pays for Itself
This is where the math comes in. For moderate to heavy drinkers, the Premium Beverage Package can offer substantial savings.
The Daily Threshold: Calculating Your Break-Even Point
The key to determining if the package is worth it lies in understanding its daily cost and how many drinks you realistically consume. Cruise lines typically publish the cost of the package per person, per day. You then need to estimate how many alcoholic beverages (and specialty coffees) you’d typically enjoy in a day. If the cost of those individual drinks would regularly exceed the package price, then you’re likely getting good value. We often do a quick mental calculation on the first day to gauge our consumption.
Maximizing Your Investment: Beyond the Cocktails
Remember those specialty coffees and sodas? They add up too! If you’re someone who enjoys a latte each morning, a soda with lunch, and a cocktail or two in the evening, the value of the package increases significantly. It’s not just about the adult beverages; it’s about the overall beverage experience.
Exploring New Flavors: A Cruise Ship Playground for Your Palate
The extensive selection within the package encourages exploration. You can try different types of wines, experiment with various spirits, and order cocktails you might not have considered otherwise. It’s a fantastic way to discover new favorites.
Wine Discovery: Sipping Your Way Through the Menu
The included wine-by-the-glass options are a great opportunity to expand your wine knowledge. We’ve found ourselves trying wines from different regions and varietals that we wouldn’t normally order. It’s a low-risk way to taste and learn.
Cocktail Adventures: From Classic to Contemporary
The diverse spirit selection means the bartenders can craft an endless variety of cocktails. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or try something new from the menu. It’s all part of the fun of your cruise vacation!
The Cons: When the Drink Package Might Not Be the Right Fit
While the benefits are clear for many, there are certainly scenarios where the Norwegian Prima drink package might not be the most cost-effective choice for your cruise booking.
The Cost: It’s Not Insignificant
Let’s be honest, the drink package represents a significant upfront investment. If you’re on a tight budget or not a big drinker, this cost can feel like a burden rather than a benefit.
The Daily Price Tag: Can Add Up Quickly
When you multiply the per-person, per-day cost by the number of days on your cruise, the total can be substantial. If you’re looking at a seven-day cruise, this can easily add hundreds of dollars per person.
The “What If I Don’t Drink Enough?” Factor: The Risk of Underutilization
The biggest risk is paying for the package and then not drinking enough to make it worthwhile. This can lead to feelings of regret and the sense that you’ve overspent. It’s crucial to be realistic about your consumption habits.
Limited to Specific Venues and Drinks: Not Truly “Everything”
As we touched on earlier, while the package is broad, it’s not everything. If your heart is set on a very specific, high-end bottle of wine or a premium spirit not on the standard list, you’ll still incur extra charges.
The Fine Print: Understanding the Exclusions
It’s always wise to read the fine print of the beverage package details. Knowing precisely what’s included and what’s not can prevent disappointment. For instance, some ultra-premium brands or limited-edition pours might fall outside the package.
Souvenir Glasses and Special Presentations: The Gimmicks
While fun, certain specialty drinks that come with novelty cups or elaborate presentations might be excluded from the package. This is usually a minor point, but worth being aware of if you enjoy those types of offerings.
It Can Encourage Overconsumption: The Downside of Unlimited
For some individuals, having an unlimited supply of beverages can lead to drinking more than they normally would, which can impact their health and enjoyment of the cruise vacation. It’s important to drink responsibly, regardless of whether you have a package.
Impact on Health and Well-being: Pacing Yourself is Key
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, hangovers, and generally feeling unwell, which can detract from your ability to enjoy your time in port or on the cruise ship.
The Morning After: Hangovers and Lost Port Days
Nobody wants to miss out on exploring a new cruise port because they’re feeling rough. Overindulgence can certainly lead to that.
Not Always Included in Promotions: Missing Out on Potential Savings
While Norwegian often bundles drink packages into their promotions (like “Free at Sea”), sometimes these are not part of every single cruise booking deal. If you’re comparing different cruise deals, this is something to consider.
How to Decide: Our Expert Advice for Your Cruise Booking
So, after all this talk, how do we recommend you make the decision? It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s our process:
1. Be Honest About Your Drinking Habits
This is the most crucial step.
Your Typical Daily Intake: Count Your Drinks
Before you even look at the package price, take a moment to consider how many alcoholic beverages you realistically consume on a typical day. Think about:
- How many alcoholic drinks do you have with lunch and dinner?
- Do you enjoy pre-dinner cocktails?
- Do you have a nightcap?
- Do you enjoy specialty coffees on vacation?
- Do you tend to drink water or soda between alcoholic beverages?
Your Vacation Pace: Relaxed vs. Energetic
Are you the type to spend your sea days lounging by the pool with a cocktail in hand, or are you more focused on exploring every port of call with minimal onboard time? Your cruise vacation style will heavily influence your beverage consumption.
2. Calculate the Break-Even Point
Once you have a rough idea of your daily consumption, do the math.
Research the Package Price: Know the Cost
Find out the exact per-person, per-day cost of the Premium Beverage Package for your specific sailing. Factor in any potential gratuities that might be automatically added.
Estimate Individual Drink Costs: What Would You Pay?
Make a list of the types of drinks you’d likely order and estimate their individual prices. You can often find sample menus online or ask on cruise forums. Don’t forget to include specialty coffees in your calculation if you’re a coffee drinker.
The Comparison: Package Cost vs. Individual Costs
Formula: (Average number of alcoholic drinks per day + any specialty coffees/sodas) * Average cost per drink = Your estimated daily beverage spend.
If your estimated daily beverage spend is consistently higher than the package price, the package is likely worth it. If it’s lower, you might be better off paying individually.
3. Consider Your Cruise Itinerary and Length
The duration of your cruise and the number of port days play a significant role.
Sea Days vs. Port Days: Where Will You Be?
On sea days, you’re more likely to be onboard and potentially take advantage of the drink package. If your cruise is heavily port-intensive, you might spend less time on the cruise ship and therefore consume fewer drinks.
Length of the Cruise: A Long Sailing Amplifies Value
For longer cruises (7 days or more), the value of a drink package often increases, as the daily cost is spread over more days. For very short sailings (2-3 days), the risk of not breaking even is higher unless you are a very heavy drinker.
4. Look for Promotions and Bundles
Cruise lines often offer attractive deals.
“Free at Sea” and Other Offers: The Power of the Bundle
Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” promotion is a prime example. Often, a drink package is one of the included perks you can choose when booking. In these instances, it’s almost always worth selecting it, as the additional cost is minimal or even zero beyond the initial gratuities. Keep an eye out for these kinds of deals when planning your cruise booking.
Timing of Your Cruise Booking: Early Bird vs. Last Minute
Sometimes, booking further in advance can unlock better pricing on drink packages, or they might be included in early bird specials.
5. Think About Your Travel Companions
Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with a larger group?
Group Dynamics: Everyone Needs to Be on Board
If you’re traveling with others, have a conversation about their drinking habits. If one person plans to drink heavily and another barely touches alcohol, the package might not be practical for everyone in the group. However, packages are typically purchased individually.
Solo Travelers: Your Own Rules Apply
As a solo traveler, the decision is entirely yours, based solely on your consumption.
If you’re considering the Norwegian Prima Drink Package, you might also find it helpful to explore other cruise experiences, such as the MSC Euribia. This article provides insights into what to expect on Europe’s most eco-friendly cruise ship, which could help you compare different options for your next vacation. For a deeper understanding of the amenities and offerings available, check out the full review here.
Our Final Verdict: When to Say “Yes” to the Norwegian Prima Drink Package
After years of sailing and countless drinks enjoyed, here’s our distilled advice:
You Should Strongly Consider the Norwegian Prima Drink Package If:
- You are a moderate to heavy drinker. This is the most obvious indicator. If you enjoy 3-4 alcoholic beverages per day, plus perhaps a specialty coffee or two, you’re very likely to see significant savings.
- Your cruise has a good number of sea days. More time on the cruise ship means more opportunities to enjoy your beverages.
- You enjoy trying different cocktails and wines. The package is a great way to explore the beverage menu without individual costs adding up.
- You value convenience and want a hassle-free experience. Not having to worry about individual charges allows for true relaxation.
- You are looking to budget your cruise vacation expenses upfront. The package provides predictability.
- It’s included in a “Free at Sea” or similar promotion. In these cases, it’s almost always a no-brainer.
You Might Want to Skip the Norwegian Prima Drink Package If:
- You are a light drinker or prefer not to drink alcohol on vacation. If you only have one or two drinks per day, or none at all, paying for the package will likely cost you more.
- Your cruise is heavily port-intensive. If you’ll be off the ship exploring ports for most of the day, your onboard consumption will be minimal.
- You have very specific, high-end beverage preferences that are outside the package. If you only drink top-shelf liquor or rare wines, you might be better off paying a la carte.
- You are on a very tight budget and every dollar counts. The upfront cost of the package can be substantial.
- You are concerned about overconsumption and prefer to be more mindful of your intake.
Ultimately, the Norwegian Prima drink package can be a fantastic addition to your cruise vacation, transforming your onboard beverage experience into something more enjoyable and budget-friendly. We always recommend doing your own personalized calculation based on your habits and the specifics of your cruise booking. We’re confident that by following these steps, you’ll make the decision that’s best for your next amazing cruise. Happy sailing, and cheers!