Are non-alcoholic drinks included on a cruise?

Sip & Sail: Decoding Non-Alcoholic Drink Inclusions on Cruises

Cruises are often touted as all-inclusive vacations, but the specifics of what’s “included” can sometimes be murky. One common question revolves around beverages: are non-alcoholic drinks included on a cruise? The answer, as with most things cruise-related, is: it depends. While the example of Disney cruises paints a picture of free-flowing soda and juice, this isn’t a universal truth across all cruise lines or even all fare types.

Let’s break down the non-alcoholic beverage landscape at sea:

Generally Included:

• Basic Beverages: Almost all cruise lines include basic beverages like tap water, regular coffee, tea (iced and hot), and lemonade with meals in the main dining room and buffet.
• Juice at Breakfast: Often, breakfast service will include a selection of juices, though freshly squeezed options might come at a premium.
• Milk: Milk is typically available at breakfast and sometimes throughout the day, especially for children.

Sometimes Included (depending on the cruise line and/or fare):

• Soda: Some cruise lines include select soda brands in their standard fares, while others offer soda packages for an additional fee. Lines like Disney Cruise Line and some luxury lines include soda as part of the cruise fare.
• Specialty Coffee: Lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso drinks are usually an extra charge, even if regular coffee is included. Some cruise lines offer coffee cards or unlimited beverage packages that cover these.
• Bottled Water: While tap water is always free, bottled water is typically an extra expense unless you’re on a luxury line or have a specific beverage package.
• Mocktails & Specialty Non-Alcoholic Drinks: These crafted beverages are generally not included and are priced similarly to cocktails.
• Juice outside of breakfast: While juice might be included with breakfast, accessing it throughout the day might require a beverage package or individual purchase.

Factors Influencing Inclusion:

• Cruise Line: Luxury lines tend to be more inclusive with beverages than budget-friendly options. Research your specific cruise line’s policy.
• Fare Type: Some lines offer different fare tiers, with higher tiers including more perks like beverage packages.
• Promotions: Keep an eye out for promotions that might include beverage packages or onboard credit that can be used towards drinks.

Tips for Navigating Non-Alcoholic Drinks on a Cruise:

• Read the Fine Print: Before booking, carefully review what’s included in your fare. Look for specific mentions of beverage inclusions.
• Check the Cruise Line Website: Most cruise lines have dedicated pages outlining their beverage policies and package options.
• Ask Your Travel Agent: A travel agent can be a valuable resource for clarifying beverage inclusions and helping you choose the right fare or package.

Ultimately, understanding what non-alcoholic drinks are included on your cruise requires a bit of research. By doing your homework, you can avoid unexpected expenses and enjoy a refreshing and hydrating vacation without breaking the bank.