Cruise Drink Package Value Calculator: Should You Buy One?

When planning a cruise, one of the biggest questions travelers face is: “Is the drink package worth it?” With daily costs often ranging from $60 to $100 (plus gratuities), the decision can feel overwhelming. Nobody wants to overspend on drinks they won’t actually drink—or regret skipping a package when the bar bill arrives.

That’s why we’ve built the Jetset Journal Cruise Drink Package Value Calculator — a simple tool to help you decide if buying a package will save you money, break even, or cost more in the long run.

How Drink Packages Work

Most cruise lines offer two types of packages:

• Alcoholic Packages – These typically include cocktails, beer, wine, and sometimes premium spirits up to a certain dollar limit per drink.

• Non-Alcoholic Packages – Covering everything from bottled water and sodas to specialty coffee and fresh juice.

The cost of these packages can add up quickly, especially when you multiply the daily rate across a week-long cruise. That’s why knowing your drinking habits is the key to deciding.

Use the Calculator Below

Enter your estimated daily number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, average onboard drink prices, and the cost of the package. Our calculator will do the math instantly and give you a personalized recommendation.

Tips Before You Decide

• Consider your itinerary – Sea days often mean more lounging and sipping; port days usually mean less time on board.

• Factor in hidden perks – Some packages cover specialty coffees, bottled water, and smoothies, which can add up.

• Do the “break-even” test – If you’re not sure, use the calculator above. It shows exactly how many drinks you’d need each day to make the package worthwhile.

• Remember sharing rules – Cruise lines require all adults in the same cabin to buy the package if one person does, so check your travel partner’s habits too.

Final Takeaway

The decision comes down to your drinking style. If you’re a cocktail-by-the-pool kind of cruiser, chances are the package will pay off. If you’re more of a one-glass-of-wine-at-dinner traveler, à la carte might be smarter.

With our calculator, you won’t have to guess—you’ll know exactly whether to splurge on unlimited sips or stick with pay-as-you-go.

👉 Try the calculator above now and find out if the cruise drink package is right for you!