Alaska Cruise Drink Packages — Are They Worth It in Alaska?

An all-inclusive beverage package on a sun-drenched Caribbean cruise often feels like a no-brainer. But when you swap tropical heat for glacial landscapes, the value proposition gets a bit more complicated. An Alaska cruise is a fundamentally different type of vacation, and what makes a drink package “worth it” in one destination might make it a waste of money in another.

The core reason is simple: on an Alaska cruise, you’re off the ship a lot. Itineraries are packed with active shore excursions like whale watching, hiking, and exploring historic port towns. This leaves significantly fewer hours for lounging on the pool deck with a piña colada. Before you commit to a pricey package, it’s crucial to do the math and consider your specific travel style.

The Break-Even Calculation: By the Numbers

The fundamental question is whether you’ll drink enough to justify the daily cost. Let’s break down the typical expenses. Most major cruise lines price their all-inclusive alcoholic drink packages between $80 and $110 per person, per day, once you factor in the mandatory 18-20% gratuity.

Here’s a look at typical à la carte drink prices on board:

• Cocktails: $13.00 - $15.00
• Beer: $7.50 - $9.00
• Wine by the Glass: $10.00 - $14.00

Based on these prices, to break even on a $90 per day package, you would need to consume roughly 6-7 cocktails or 8-10 beers every single day of your cruise. For many, especially on days spent exploring ashore from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., that’s a tall order.

When an Alaska Drink Package Makes Sense

Despite the drawbacks for the average cruiser, there are scenarios where a beverage package can be a great value:

• Itineraries with Scenic Cruising: If your cruise includes a full day at sea or scenic cruising days through places like Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord, you’ll be on the ship all day. These are prime opportunities to relax with a drink in hand while watching the stunning scenery unfold.
• You Prefer Cocktails and Wine: The break-even point is reached much faster if your preference is for higher-priced drinks like cocktails or wine over less expensive options like beer.
• Convenience is Key: For some travelers, the main benefit is the peace of mind. A package allows you to order whatever you want without worrying about the bill at the end of your trip. You’re paying for freedom from financial decisions on your vacation.
• You Snagged a “Free” Package Promo: Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) “Free At Sea” promotion often includes the Unlimited Open Bar package as a perk. While not truly free—you still have to pay the 20% gratuity on the package’s retail value, which is about $28.50 per day—this is a fantastic deal. At that price, you only need to have two or three drinks per day to come out ahead.

Smart Alternatives to a Full Drink Package

If the math isn’t adding up for you, don’t worry. There are several excellent ways to enjoy yourself without committing to an expensive package:

• Pay As You Go: The simplest alternative is to buy drinks individually. This is often the most cost-effective method for light to moderate drinkers.
• Explore Local Breweries in Port: This is one of the best parts of an Alaska cruise! Ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan have incredible local craft beer scenes, with prices that are a fraction of what you’ll pay on the ship. In Juneau, check out the famous Alaskan Brewing Company or the popular downtown Devil’s Club Brewing Company. In Skagway, the Skagway Brewing Company is a must-visit for its historic roots and local brews like the Prospector Pale. Ketchikan offers a variety of authentic local bars like the Arctic Bar and Sourdough Bar.
• Look for Tiered or Limited Packages: Some lines offer more affordable options. For example, Holland America Line has a “Signature Beverage Package” that covers drinks up to $11, which can be a good middle ground. Princess Cruises also offers a “Plus Beverage Package” with a $15 per-drink limit.
• Utilize Free Options: Don’t forget that many beverages are already included in your cruise fare. You can always get complimentary water (not bottled), lemonade, iced tea, and basic coffee in the buffet and dining rooms.
• Non-Alcoholic Packages: If you enjoy specialty coffees, sodas, and mocktails, a non-alcoholic package can be a great value. Holland America’s “Quench” package and Royal Caribbean’s “Refreshment Package” are popular options.

Ultimately, the decision rests on a clear-eyed assessment of your own habits. Be realistic about how much you’ll actually drink on a port-heavy Alaska itinerary. For many travelers, skipping the all-inclusive package and spending the savings on unique local beers and once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions is the smartest way to cruise the Last Frontier.