Carnival Cruise Line’s New Value Packages: Are They Worth It for Your Next Sailing?

Carnival Cruise Line is shaking up cruise planning with two brand-new bundled offerings designed to simplify onboard spending and help travelers lock in savings before they ever step foot on the ship. For select 2026 sailings, Carnival is offering the Essentials Value Package and the Ultimate Value Package—two all-in-one options that combine drinks, Wi-Fi, and pre-cruise credits into one easy daily price.

If you’re sailing Carnival in 2026, here’s exactly what’s included, who each package is best for, and how to purchase them step-by-step using Carnival’s Cruise Manager.

What Are Carnival’s New Value Packages?

Carnival’s new packages bundle popular add-ons that guests often purchase separately. Instead of buying drinks, internet, excursions, and dining à la carte, these packages allow travelers to prepay and plan ahead—often at a lower overall cost.

Essentials Value Package: Best for Families & Non-Drinkers

Price: $50 per person, per day

The Essentials Value Package is designed for guests who want connectivity, refreshing beverages, and a little extra onboard flexibility without alcohol.

What’s Included:

• Carnival’s non-alcoholic beverage package

• Value Wi-Fi plan (ideal for email, messaging, and light browsing)

• $50 shore excursion credit (one-time, pre-cruise use)

• $25 specialty dining credit (pre-cruise use)

Who Should Choose It:

• Families traveling with kids

• Guests who don’t drink alcohol

• Travelers who want predictable onboard costs

• Cruisers who only need basic internet access

Ultimate Value Package: Best for Adults Who Want It All

Price: $90 per person, per day

The Ultimate Value Package is Carnival’s most comprehensive bundle, perfect for adults who plan to indulge onboard.

What’s Included:

• Carnival’s CHEERS! alcoholic beverage package

• Premium Wi-Fi plan (streaming, social media, and faster speeds)

• $50 shore excursion credit (one-time, pre-cruise use)

• $25 specialty dining credit

• 50% off select spa treatments and photo packages booked pre-cruise

Who Should Choose It:

• Adults 21 and over

• Guests who enjoy cocktails, wine, and specialty drinks

• Remote workers or heavy internet users

• Travelers planning spa treatments or professional photos

Important Things to Know Before You Buy

• All eligible guests in the same stateroom must purchase the same package

• The Ultimate Value Package is 21+ only

• Packages must be purchased before sailing

• Pre-cruise credits and discounts must be used online prior to embarkation

• Packages are refundable if canceled before the cruise

• Availability may be limited by sailing and itinerary

How to Buy Carnival’s Value Packages in Cruise Manager

Purchasing your package is simple and can be done in just a few minutes online.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough:

1. Visit Carnival’s Website

   
   

   Go to Carnival’s official site and click “Manage My Booking”.

   
   

2. Log Into Cruise Manager

   
   

   Enter your booking number, last name, and sailing date to access your reservation.

   
   

3. Select “Drink Packages & Internet”

   
   

   Once inside Cruise Manager, scroll to the add-ons section and choose Drink Packages, Internet, or Special Offers.

   
   

4. Choose Your Value Package

   
   

   If your sailing is eligible, you’ll see the Essentials Value Package and/or Ultimate Value Package listed as options.

   
   

5. Review Package Details

   
   

   Confirm pricing, eligibility for all guests in your stateroom, and what’s included.

   
   

6. Add to Cart & Checkout

   
   

   Complete your purchase using your preferred payment method.

   
   

7. Redeem Pre-Cruise Credits

   
   

   After purchase, return to Cruise Manager to book shore excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments, or photo packages using your included credits and discounts.

Are Carnival’s New Value Packages Worth It?

For many travelers, these new bundles offer both convenience and savings—especially for those who already planned on purchasing drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions. The real value comes from knowing your onboard costs upfront and avoiding surprise charges once you’re at sea.

If you’re a casual cruiser, the Essentials package may be all you need. If you love cocktails, premium Wi-Fi, and onboard indulgences, the Ultimate package can quickly pay for itself.

Final Takeaway

Carnival’s new Value Packages make cruise planning easier, more predictable, and potentially more affordable. If your sailing qualifies, they’re absolutely worth a closer look—especially when booked early through Cruise Manager.