9 Ways to Get Free Drinks on a Cruise

Drinking on a cruise is not cheap. Drinks packages carry a significant per-day cost, and individual cocktails can be comparable to what you'd pay in a major city. We’ve documented some of the crazy schemes cruisers hatch to sneak alcohol on board, but you don’t have to resort to smuggling just because you want a few free drinks. Following are nine (perfectly legal) ways to drink for free on your cruise:

1. Free Beverage Perks

Keep an eye out for special offers that include a free drink package. - Photo by Carnival Cruise Line

When you book your cruise, look for special offers like a free beverage package or onboard credit. For example, Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” deal offers a choice between five perks and a free open bar is at the top of the list. Holland America Line's Have It All upgrade package is inclusive of a signature beverages, which allows guests to choose from a variety of beers, wines, spirits, and cocktails. 

2. Loyalty Pays

Cruise lines reward repeat customers with special parties. - Photo by Princess Cruises

If you sail multiple times on the same cruise line, you'll earn "status" in the line's loyalty program. Once you reach a certain tier on some lines, you'll receive a set number of included cocktails or drinks discounts. For example, Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society members get discounts starting at its Gold level, where guests receive 10% off individual drinks and 2 coupons per sailing for 50% off drinks. Members at their top Pinnacle level receive drinks discounts along with up to 6 complimentary daily drinks. 

3. Book the Right Excursions

Some cruise excursions include visits to breweries or distilleries that offer free samples as part of the tour. In many Caribbean ports, you can find “booze cruise” excursions that offer an open bar during your excursion, and some all-inclusive resorts booked through Resort for a Day have open bars or generous food and beverage credits.

4. Casinos

Blackjack table on Norwegian Breakaway - Photo by Norwegian Cruise Line

Booze doesn't flow as freely in a cruise ship casino as it does in Las Vegas, but if you're a frequent player or a high-roller, you may earn free drinks while you're playing on your current or a future cruise. If you are a member of the cruise line's individual casino loyalty program, you may also receive free beverages. Members of Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Players Club include drinks on the house while playing in the casino. 

5. Art Auctions

You don't have to buy anything at an art auction. - Photo by Carnival Cruise Line

Art auctions on cruise ships almost always offer at least one free glass of champagne to all comers. The auctioneers hope this will entice you to bid on works of art, but there's no requirement you buy - you just have to show up! 

6. Duty-Free Tastings

Duty-free store on Norweigan Joy - Photo by Norwegian Cruise Line

Liquor sample tastings are often hosted at the on-ship duty-free liquor stores. You will likely only get a small sample of the beverage, but they are complimentary and open to all guests. If you are thinking of bringing back a duty-free bottle of liquor from your trip, this is a great way to sample before you buy. 

7. Captain's Party 

Select cruise lines may host a welcome event on the first night of the sailing, where the Captain is present to welcome everyone onboard and to give a few brief words on the voyage. Many times you will find crew members offering complimentary champagne at these events. They are a great way to toast to your trip ahead, as well as enjoy a free glass of bubbly at the same time! 

8. Boutique Events 

Many onboard boutiques, jewelry stores, or other retail shops may offer a special event to entice guests to come in to browse and learn about the merchandise. At these events, its very common that they will offer a glass of complimentary champagne (or maybe a special cocktail) for attending the event. You may have to browse the boutique's selection or sit through a small presentation, however you will do it with a drink in hand by attending. Check your cruise's daily planner to find out when these events are hosted. 

9. Choose a Luxury Cruise Line

Toast to the high life on a luxury cruise - Photo by Seabourn 

Most luxury cruise lines and select river cruise lines offer beverages as a standard inclusion in your cruise fare. You will pay an overall higher sticker price as a whole, however you can drink as much as you like during your time onboard. Oceania Cruises' simply MORE offering includes all wine, champagne, and other beverage offerings. Ultra-luxury operator Seabourn's All-Inclusive model automatically includes all premium spirits and fine wines. Similarly, Regent Seven Seas' All-Included model encompasses free unlimited beverages, so guests can choose any cocktails or wines during the voyage. Premium ocean and river cruise line Viking's cruise fares include all beers and wines served at lunch or dinner. 

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