Let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic – getting the most value from your cruise vacation, specifically when it comes to drinks. Let’s face it, drinks can be expensive! So, I’ve gathered some insider tips to help you get free drinks on your cruise.
Why Pay Full Price When You Don’t Have To?
Your cruise fare already includes quite a bit, but alcoholic beverages often come with an extra charge that can add up. Whether you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, or Norwegian Cruise Line, these strategies work across the cruise industry.
15 Smart Ways to Enjoy Free Drinks
1. Make the Most of the Captain’s Welcome Party
The Captain’s Welcome Party is your first big opportunity to have free drinks on your cruise vacation! This event usually happens on the first formal night, and here’s a pro tip: arrive about 15 minutes early to snag a good spot. The party typically lasts about an hour, with servers circulating with trays of complimentary drinks, including champagne, wine, and specialty cocktails.
Want to make the most of this event? Position yourself near the entrance, where servers first emerge with fresh drink trays. You’ll also get to meet the ship’s officers and maybe even snap a photo with the captain while enjoying those free drinks!
2. Leverage Those Loyalty Programs
Cruise line loyalty programs are a goldmine for free drinks! Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society members at Diamond level and above get access to nightly happy hours with complimentary drinks. Princess Cruises’ Elite Captain’s Circle members receive a free mini-bar setup and welcome reception invites.
Holland America’s Mariner Society and MSC Cruises also offer unique perks. From exclusive cocktail parties to drink vouchers you can use throughout your cruise, these programs make it worth staying loyal to your favorite cruise line.
3. Book a Suite for Extra Perks
Suite perks vary by cruise line, but they’re often worth the splurge if you enjoy your drinks. Royal Caribbean’s suite lounge offers complimentary cocktails during evening hours, while Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven guests can access a private bar with select complimentary beverages throughout the day.
The best part? Many suite lounges let you bring a friend to enjoy these exclusive spaces. Plus, some lines include a handpicked array of brands in your mini-bar setup – perfect for enjoying a drink on your private balcony!
4. Sip Champagne at Art Auctions
Art auctions are a clever way to enjoy free champagne while soaking in some culture. These events typically run for about 2-3 hours, and the champagne flows freely. Park West Gallery, which operates on many cruise ships, often hosts multiple auctions during a week-long cruise.
Keep an eye on your daily schedule for these events, especially during sea days. The best part? You’re never obligated to buy anything – just enjoy the bubbly and the artwork! Some guests make it a point to attend every auction during their cruise.
5. Try Your Luck with Casino Perks
The ship’s casino can be your ticket to free drinks, even if you’re not a high roller. Sign up for the casino rewards program when you board – many lines offer welcome bonuses. While playing, flag down a server for complimentary drinks.
Want to maximize your casino perks? Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are particularly generous with their drink policies. Some casinos even offer drink vouchers based on your play level that you can use anywhere on the ship!
6. Watch for Booking Promotions
Timing is everything when booking your cruise! Many lines run seasonal promotions that include free beverage packages – a value exceeding $700 per person for a week-long cruise. Work with a travel agent who knows about upcoming deals, or sign up for cruise line newsletters.
The best deals often pop up during “wave season” (January through March) when cruise lines compete for bookings. This is when you’ll find fantastic offers like Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” or Royal Caribbean’s “Deck the Holidays” deals, including drink packages.
Related: How to Save Money on a Cruise: 27 Tips, Tricks & Hacks
7. Learn Something New at Tastings
Wine tastings, mixology classes, and specialty drink seminars are my favorite ways to sample premium beverages! While they might cost $15-30, you’ll typically sample 5-6 different drinks. These events are usually held in specialty restaurants or dedicated bars.
Here’s a money-saving tip: Look for premium wine tastings in specialty restaurants. They often pour generous samples of bottles that would cost $100+ on their own – making these events an incredible value.
8. Visit Duty-Free Shop Events
The duty-free shops aren’t just for buying – they’re for tasting too! These events usually happen on sea days, with premium spirits and wine tastings. Check your daily schedule for times, and arrive early, as space can be limited.
During these events, you might sample everything from single malt scotch to premium vodkas. Plus, if you find something you love, you can buy it at duty-free prices and enjoy it back home.
9. Build Relationships with the Bar Staff
Find your favorite bar early in the cruise and become a regular. Chat with the bartenders during quieter times, learn their names, and tip well on your first few drinks. They’ll often remember your preferred drink and might pour with a heavier hand.
Pro tip: Try less crowded bars away from the pool deck or main dining rooms. These quieter spots give you a better chance to chat with the staff and often have a more relaxed atmosphere.
10. Shop and Sip
Luxury boutiques and jewelry stores on cruise ships love to treat their guests! These shops typically host special events with complimentary champagne during sea days or evenings, especially during formal nights.
Keep an eye on your daily schedule for events marked as “special showcases” or “trunk shows.” Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, you can still enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere and complimentary bubbly.
11. Reach Elite Status
Elite status perks are like having a VIP pass to the best drink deals on the ship! Top-tier members often get invited to exclusive parties featuring premium spirits and wines. MSC Cruises’ Black Card members and Princess Cruises’ Elite guests enjoy dedicated lounges with complimentary drinks during set hours.
The real magic happens when you hit those higher tiers – some cruise lines treat their elite guests to daily happy hours or drink vouchers valid anywhere on the ship. Plus, you’ll often get invited to special events not advertised to other guests.
12. Choose Shore Excursions Wisely
When picking shore excursions, think beyond the usual sightseeing tours! Look for experiences that include tastings – Caribbean cruises often feature rum distillery tours, while Mediterranean itineraries might include wine tastings at local vineyards.
My favorite pick? The Bacardi factory tour in Puerto Rico is a crowd-pleaser. These excursions usually include multiple samples and sometimes even a full-sized drink. You’re not just getting free drinks – you’re learning about local culture while sipping!
13. Time Your Bar Visits Right
Smart timing can lead to great deals through buy-one-get-one offers and happy hours! Check your daily schedule for these specials – they’re often during off-peak hours or while in port. Some ships offer a “drink of the day” at a discount, and if you find a two-for-one deal, split with a friend.
Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are especially good with their happy hour specials. Keep an eye out for bars that might be trying to drum up business during slower periods – that’s when you’ll find the best deals!
14. Use Your Onboard Credit Strategically
Got onboard credit as a booking perk? Think carefully about how to use it! For a 7-day cruise, a drinks package might cost around $400-600 per person. If you have enough credit to cover a significant portion, it could be worth it for unlimited drinks.
Consider doing some quick math: if you typically enjoy 5-6 drinks per day, a package covered by your onboard credit could save you hundreds compared to paying per drink. Just remember to factor in those sea days when you might drink more!
15. Join the Fun at Ship Events
Ship events aren’t just entertainment – they’re your ticket to free drinks! The Newlywed Game often gives champagne to participants, trivia winners might receive drink vouchers, and some game shows include drinking games with complimentary beverages.
Don’t be shy about participating in these events. Even if you don’t win, they’re a blast! Check your daily schedule for events marked with prizes, and remember – sometimes, just being an enthusiastic audience member can score you a free drink.
Bonus Tips for Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Love your morning coffee or afternoon smoothie? Cruise ships offer plenty of free non-alcoholic options too! Most ships provide unlimited fountain soda packages at a good value, and the main dining room always has free juice, tea, and coffee.
Want something special? Room service often includes complimentary hot chocolate and premium coffees. And here’s a simple tip that many forget – you can always get free tap water or ask for a jug of iced water anywhere onboard. Perfect for staying hydrated in the Caribbean sun!
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Final Thoughts on Free Drinks on a Cruise
Getting free drinks on your cruise isn’t about being cheap – it’s about being cruise-savvy! Mix and match these strategies based on your cruise line, itinerary, and personal style. Some might work better on certain ships or routes than others.
Remember that state laws and international waters regulations might affect when specific promotions are available. And while these tips can help you save on your bar bill, always drink responsibly to ensure you’re making the most of your cruise experience. Now you’re ready to set sail with all the insider knowledge you need to keep your glass full without emptying your wallet.
