Is the Cruise Drink Package Worth It in 2026? Real Math & Prices

Is the cruise drink package worth it in 2026? With prices hitting $80–$120+ per day (before gratuities) on Royal Caribbean, Carnival CHEERS!, Norwegian, Celebrity, and more, it's a huge decision that can save or cost you hundreds! In this video, I break down the latest 2026 drink package prices across major lines, including: Royal Caribbean Deluxe (now $56–$120+/day dynamic pricing) Carnival CHEERS! (~$70–$90 pre-cruise) New rules like NCL's private island changes Real break-even math: How many drinks per day to actually save money (usually 6–8 cocktails/beers!) Pros, cons, sneaky gotchas (daily limits, cabin requirements) Who it's worth it for (heavy drinkers, coffee lovers) vs. when to skip and pay a la carte Whether you're on Icon of the Seas, a Carnival fun ship, or planning a 7-night getaway, this guide helps you decide if the unlimited cocktails, beers, wines, sodas, and specialty coffees are a smart buy – or if you'll save big by skipping it for excursions and onboard fun. TIME STAMPS 0:00 - 1:35 - INTRO 1:36 - 3:02 - PRICING 3:03 - 5:18 - HOW MANY DRINKS PER DAY 5:19 - 5:54 - BREAKING DOWN THE MATH 5:55 - 6:14 - PORT DAYS 6:15 - 7:01 - PROS 7:02 - 8:13 - CONS 8:14 - 9:03 - VERDICT 9:04 - 9:28 - OUTRO What do you think – package or pay per drink? Drop your cruise line, sailing date, and daily drink estimate in the comments – I'll reply with personalized advice! If this saves you money, smash LIKE, SUBSCRIBE for more 2026 cruise tips, and hit the bell 🔔 #CruiseTips #DrinkPackage #Cruise2026 #RoyalCaribbean #CarnivalCruise #CruiseHacks