Can you share a drink on a cruise?

Can You Share a Drink Package on a Cruise? The Reality of Cruise Line Alcohol Policies

Dreaming of cruising? Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool, the sun warming your skin, a cool cocktail in hand. If you’re planning on indulging in alcoholic beverages on your vacation, you’ve likely looked into drink packages. But here’s the burning question: can you share a drink package with your travel companion? Unfortunately, the answer is generally a resounding no.

While sharing seems logical – after all, maybe one of you isn’t a heavy drinker – cruise lines have very strict policies regarding alcohol consumption and the usage of beverage packages. Companies like Carnival, Holland America, and MSC Cruises, among others, often mandate that if one adult sharing a cabin purchases a drink package, then all adults in that cabin must do the same.

Why This Rule Exists:

This policy isn’t designed to be unfair; it’s about managing costs and preventing abuse. Cruise lines profit significantly from drink package sales. If sharing were permitted, it would be incredibly easy for one person to purchase a package and then share drinks with others, significantly impacting the cruise line’s revenue.

Here’s a Breakdown:

• General Prohibition: Sharing a single drink package between adults sharing a cabin is almost universally prohibited. Attempting to do so can lead to the cancellation of the package with no refund, and potentially further repercussions depending on the cruise line’s specific terms and conditions.
• Cabin-Wide Purchase Requirement: As mentioned, many major cruise lines require all adults staying in the same cabin to purchase a drink package if one person chooses to do so. This policy prevents one person from purchasing the package and then sharing drinks with their roommate.
• Monitoring and Enforcement: Cruise lines actively monitor drink orders to prevent sharing. Bartenders are trained to recognize attempts to share drinks purchased with a package and will refuse service. They might also alert security or other crew members.

What Are Your Options?

If you’re concerned about the cost of purchasing a drink package for everyone in your cabin, consider these alternatives:

• Calculate Your Consumption: Honestly assess how much you typically drink on vacation. It might be more economical to simply pay for drinks individually rather than purchasing a package that you won’t fully utilize.
• Look for Cruise Lines with More Flexible Policies: While many major lines enforce the cabin-wide purchase rule, some smaller or niche cruise lines might have more lenient policies. Research your options carefully.
• Take Advantage of Happy Hour Specials: Many cruise lines offer happy hour specials with discounted drink prices. This can be a great way to enjoy a few drinks without breaking the bank.
• Consider a “Soda Package” or “Non-Alcoholic Package”: If you’re primarily concerned about non-alcoholic beverages like soda, juice, and specialty coffee, these packages might be a better fit and avoid the necessity of purchasing a full alcohol package.
• Bring Onboard Approved Beverages: Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited quantity of their own alcohol onboard, typically wine or champagne. Check the specific cruise line’s policy before your trip.

The Bottom Line:

While the idea of sharing a drink package on a cruise might seem appealing, it’s generally not permitted and can lead to penalties. Understanding the cruise line’s alcohol policy before you book your trip is crucial to avoiding disappointment and unnecessary expenses. By planning ahead and exploring your options, you can enjoy your cruise without breaking the bank or running afoul of the rules. So, raise a glass (responsibly, of course!) to a well-planned and enjoyable cruise vacation!