azura cruise drinks package

Complete P&O Drinks Guide with Menus, Prices and Packages

In this post you’ll find the P&O drinks menus and prices , correct as of 2024.

Is the drinks package worth it? Making a decision about purchasing a drinks package can be difficult, so this post is designed to help you.

P&O drinks prices are in pounds sterling so it’s easy to gauge affordability. In my opinion, the drinks prices are very comparable to UK pub and restaurant prices.

P&O Drinks Guide

On P&O, drinks can be purchased individually or with a drinks package.

P&O drinks packages can be pre-purchased up until three days before your cruise. If you do this, you receive a 10% discount. We would suggest that if you’re going to have a drinks package you do this.

You can purchase packages when you get on board (no discount) and the price is added to your on board account and paid at the end of your cruise.

There are occasionally pre-cruise offers to tempt you to purchase ahead of your cruise so we recommend keeping your eye out.

This P&O drinks guide provides you with the individual prices, sourced from bar menus onboard. Prices are the same across all P&O ships.

P&O Drinks Menu: Draught Beer with Prices

P&o drinks menu: real ale, p&o drinks menu: british beer with prices.

P&O Drinks Menu: Pale Ale

Indian pale ale (ipa) menu with prices, golden/blonde ale menu with prices, world larger menu with prices, strong ale menu with prices, p&o drinks menu: speciality beer.

Interesting beers such as Banana Bread Beer and Mocha Ale are featured in the specialty section of the P&O drinks menu.

Beer Flights

In Brodie’s Pub the drinks menu features beer flights. Each flight includes three 1/3 pints for £4.95. This enables you to try a range of new beers from different regions of Great Britain.

Cider and Specialty Menu with Prices

P&o drinks menu: craft ciders with prices, low and non-alcoholic beer/cider menu with prices, p&o soft drinks menu, p&o wine list.

These wines can be found at almost every bar onboard. For a more extensive selection of wines, check out The Glass House menu , which also offers wine flights and food and wine pairings.

Exclusive Wines to P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises offers a small selection of exclusive wines specially blended by Olly Smith.

Champagne and Sparkling Wine List

P&O Drinks Menu: Spirits

Spirits can be purchased in single (£3.50 to £5.10) and double (£6.00 to £7.60) measurements. Mixers are purchased separately. As an example, rum and coke is £5.10 but the mixer will give you enough for two drinks.

Digestifs Menu

P&o drinks cocktail menu.

There are plenty of cocktails on the P&O drinks menus but I noticed that there were less frozen cocktails to choose from in comparison to other cruise lines such as Princess Cruises.

I did try a frozen Margarita on embarkation day and it just didn’t have as much flavour. My advice would be to avoid the frozen cocktails and order some that you may not have tried before. The Fruit Salad cocktail is one I’d recommend for around the pool on a warm day as it’s very refreshing.

P&O Martini Menu with Prices

I thought that the martinis available were excellent and perfect for pre-dinner drinks.

P&O Mocktails Menu

There are non-alcoholic cocktails available on all P&O drinks menus and in particular, Brodie’s offers a good choice for £3.75 each.

The Pussyfoot mocktail is a classic that has featured on P&O drinks menus for over 30 years. I remember enjoying them onboard Canberra when I was six years old!

Seedlip is a range of the world’s first non-alcoholic spirits. These are a great option for people who don’t want to drink but also want something a bit more sophisticated than a soft drink.

Brodie’s Pub Snacks Menu

Brodie’s menu also features a selection of pub snacks such as pork scratchings, nuts and crisps to accompany your drinks. Are you brave enough to try the ‘Pig of Doom’ pork crackling? Beware, they contain ghost chillis!

Costa Coffee on P&O

You can purchase your favourite Costa drinks onboard P&O Cruises, so if you like to start your day with a strong coffee, you may want to head to the coffee bar.

Tea on P&O

There is a selection of tea on P&O Cruises from your everyday brew to fruit and herbal teas. A cup of tea is £2.30.

Bars on P&O Britannia

There are plenty of bars onboard P&O Britannia to choose from so you’re never too far away from a drink. You will find some, like The Glass House, on other ships in the fleet.

Brodie’s Pub

Brodie’s is P&O Cruises’ onboard pub, a hub for live music, sport and entertainment. This venue is named after P&O’s co-founder, Brodie McGhie Wilcox. You can expect British bottled beers, spirits and wine here. It was nice to spot my local beer, Tribute, was featured on the Best of British menu.

This venue can get quite busy, particularly in the evenings when there are quizzes and games being hosted.

There are some quieter ‘break-out’ spaces with comfy seating and the casino is situated on the opposite side.

There is waiter service or you can order directly from the bar in Brodie’s.

The Glass House

The Glass House can be found near the atrium and is the perfect place for those who appreciate fine wine. The menu was developed by wine connoisseur, Olly Smith and includes a light, tapas-style food menu that incorporates wine pairings.

If you enjoy sipping a cocktail and watching the wake view, the Sunset Bar is a perfect spot. We enjoyed spending some time here in the late afternoon, during sailaways.

Crystal Room Bar

The Crystal Room is a lounge on Deck 7 on Britannia that’s popular with dancers. Most nights there is ballroom dancing here. As they say, dancers aren’t drinkers, so if you’re looking for a quiet bar, this venue is likely to be a good choice.

The Crow’s Nest

For fantastic front-facing views during the day and elegant drinks at night, The Crow’s Nest is a bar that can be found across the P&O fleet. The bar isn’t open all day but in the evening it turns into a sophisticated piano bar for after-dinner drinks. This venue can be quite popular on formal nights.

Live Lounge

On Deck 7 aft on Britannia, the Live Lounge is an entertainment venue that offers live music and doubles as the ship’s nightclub.

On some occasions, this venue was completely empty and we popped in to get a quick drink at the bar. This is where the 80s night is held but don’t worry, fancy dress is not required or encouraged.

The Limelight Club

The Limelight Club has a glamorous interior and hosts evening cabaret entertainment over dinner.

We booked this venue twice during our cruise and really enjoyed the entertainment but the food was not up to the standard of the main dining room. I’d advise to go for the atmosphere, not the weird menus.

The Blue Bar

The main bar situated in the atrium on Britannia is a great place to meet friends and family before dinner. It’s very popular on formal nights as the place to sip your champagne or bellini.

This bar is brilliant for people watching and in the evenings there’s usual musicians in the atrium to provide some ambiance. It gets quieter after dinner as passengers head off to the other venues so for a drinks with friends it’s a nice spot.

P&O Drinks Packages

There are four P&O drinks packages available to cater for different needs.

It’s important to note that if you wish to purchase a drinks package, all passengers sharing a cabin must do so . This is to stop people sharing one package.

It means that you must choose the drinks package that most want to use. For example, you cannot mix and match drinks packages so if one person wants to purchase the Deluxe Drinks Package, all other adults in the same cabin must do too.

P&O Deluxe Drinks Package £54.95 pppd

The most extensive P&O drinks package offers up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day
Non-alcoholic drinks are unlimited
A 20% discount is offered on canned drinks and bottles of wine
Bottled water (500ml) are available with this package
Primo Costa and Teapigs drinks are included with this drinks package
Only one drink can be ordered at a time and a 15 minute wait is required between drinks orders
For beer drinkers, you need to drink more than 8 pints a day to make it worthwhile
For cocktail lovers, you need to drink at least 6 cocktails each day to reach the drinks package daily cost
If you enjoy spirits with a mixer, you need to drink at least 8 each day to cover the package cost
Doubles or large glasses of wine count as two drinks
The Deluxe Drinks Package is only available on cruises of five nights or more
You must purchase the Deluxe Drinks Package by day two of your cruise
It is only available to adults 18 and over (21 or over in US/UAE waters)

P&O Alcohol-free Drinks Package £24.95 pppd

This P&O drinks package offers unlimited draught soft drinks, juices, bottled water (500ml), non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails
A 20% discount is offered on larger bottled water, canned drinks and bottled premium soft drinks
Selected Primo Costa and Teapigs drinks are included with this drinks package
You need to drink at least 7 mocktails to make it worth purchasing the package
For soft drink lovers, the package is worth purchasing if you plan to drink 10 or more each day
The Non-Alcoholic Drinks Package is only available on cruises of five nights or more
You must purchase the drinks package by day two of your cruise

P&O Refresh Drinks Package £10.95 pppd

This P&O drinks package offers unlimited soft drinks on tap
Unlimited juice and squash is included
Only one drink can be ordered at a time
You must purchase the package by day two of your cruise
A complimentary Refresh Drinks Package is given to any guests aged 17 or younger if adults in the same cabin have the Classic or Deluxe Drinks Packages

P&O Wine Packages

P&O Cruises has two wine packages to choose from:

Captain’s Collection offers six bottles for £129 or 12 bottles for £245
Commodore’s Collection offers six bottles for £175 or 12 bottles for £329

Is the P&O Drinks Package worth it?

Personally, we were ready to purchase the Ultimate Drinks Package when we got onboard but quickly realised that for us, it wouldn’t be worth it.

If you plan to drink plenty on your cruise it will be worth purchasing but it will take some doing e.g. 8 pints or 6 cocktails a day just to cover the cost. The best value P&O drinks package is the Refresh drinks package at just £9.85 per person, per day but it does mean that everyone in the cabin will need at least the non-alcoholic drinks package.

The P&O drinks prices are very reasonable and what you’re likely to find in most UK high street bars and restaurants. By paying for individual drinks we didn’t feel pressurised to get our money’s worth.

There are opportunities to bag some free drinks on your P&O cruise if you keep your eye out. If you’re looking to keep your costs down, there is always tea, coffee, cordial and milk available at no additional charge throughout the day and juices are served at breakfast.

You may wish to consider buying a P&O drinks package if you have plenty of sea days or plan to spend more time on the cruise ship. I would advise you to do some simple calculations first before feeling like you need to have one.

A complete guide to P&O drinks menus and prices. Is the drinks package worth it? Take a look at the options to help you budget for your cruise

Laura is a UK cruise blogger based in Cornwall, UK. She founded Cruise Lifestyle in 2016 to share useful advice about cruising, destinations and food. Last port visited: Bridgetown, Barbados Next port of call: unknown, but she can’t wait for cruising to resume safely!

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Bananas about cruising

New P&O Drinks Package explained!

In this post we will explain the new P&O Cruises Drinks Package that has launched, giving you a reason to say ‘cheers’ to your holiday!

This post may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through affiliate links wont cost you any more but it may mean we receive a small commission.

Page Contents

For a fixed price per person, per day, the P&O’s Drink Packages offer something to suit every taste. From Pepsi to refresh you by the pool to toasting another mouth-watering meal with a glass of red in the Med, P&O have got you covered. Simply choose your favourite package, sit back and relax whilst you sip the days away.

P&O’s drinks packages are available on cruises of five nights or more. Log in to My P&O Cruises up to three days before your holiday to get the best P&O drinks package for you. Or if you’d like to wait until you’re on board, you can get your drinks package within the first two nights of your holiday. However, please note that sharing of packages isn’t permitted, so each adult sharing a cabin must buy the same drinks package individually.

The Packages

Refresh drinks package

With classic fizzy drinks like R.Whites Lemonade and Pepsi to your choice of orange, pineapple and apple juice, this package is perfect for your daily refreshment from poolside to the bar.

Price before your holiday: £9.85 | On-board price: £10.95 (Per person, per day)

Alcohol-free drinks package

The P&O Alcohol-free package includes everything from the Refresh package, plus lattes, cappuccinos or teapigs™ from Costa Coffee, 0% Heineken, Tanqueray, Torres and wine, still or sparkling water (330ml) and some non-alcoholic cocktails.

Price before your holiday: £22.45 | On-board price: £24.95 (Per person, per day)

Classic drinks package

The P&O Classic drinks package includes everything from the Refresh and Alcohol-free drinks packages, plus even more. From Piña Coladas and Mai Tais to your pick of Smirnoff Vodka, Bell’s Whisky, P&O’s exclusive Marabelle Gin and Golden Tide Rum, and a choice of Heineken, Birra Moretti or John Smith’s for the beer-lovers, you’re spoilt for choice.

Price before your holiday: £40.45 | On-board price: £44.95 (Per person, per day)

Deluxe drinks package

The P&O Deluxe drinks package includes the same selection as all other packages and then some more! Delight in P&O’s most popular brands like Grey Goose and Salcombe Gin, as well as an extended selection of cocktails, including a fresh Aperol Spritz or Sunset Cooler.

Price before your holiday: £49.45 | On-board price: £54.95 (Per person, per day)

What’s included

Purchase and Availability

Drinks Packages are available on cruises of 5 nights or longer.
Drinks Packages can be purchased in advance of your cruise via My P&O Cruises or on board during the first 2 days of your cruise.
If you purchase a Drinks Package on board, you will only pay for the day of purchase and the remaining days of your cruise.
Drinks Packages must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise. They cannot be purchased on a per-day basis.
Classic and Deluxe Drinks Packages may only be purchased by adult guests. Adult guests are guests over the age of 18, or over the age of 21 if your cruise visits USA or UAE waters.
Any guests aged 17 years must purchase either a Refresh or Alcohol-Free Drinks Package when any adults in the same cabin purchase a Classic or Deluxe Drinks Package.

Limits and Use

The same Drinks Package must be purchased by guests aged over 18 years sharing a cabin.
A complimentary Refresh Drinks Package will be provided to guests aged 16 or under where all adults travelling in the same cabin have purchased a Classic or Deluxe Drinks Package.
All Drinks Packages are limited to 15 drinks per guest in any 24-hour period, starting each day at 6am.
P&O Cruises reserves the right to refuse the service of alcohol at any time in accordance with P&O’s policy for the Responsible Service of Alcohol. This requires bar staff not to serve guests they believe to be intoxicated.
Only one drink may be ordered at a time. All drink orders must be at least 15 minutes apart.
Guests can only use their own Drinks Package to order drinks. Sharing or transferring Drinks Packages is not permitted.
Some drinks are excluded from Drinks Packages. See the Exclusions section for details.
Peninsular Club loyalty discounts apply to purchases of all Drinks Packages both via My P&O Cruises and on board.
Classic and Deluxe Drinks Packages entitle guests to a 20% discount on drinks not included in their package or ordered above the 15-drink limit. Drinks that qualify for the 20% discount are shown in the 20% Discount Offer table. Discount is applied against the full menu price.

Terms of Use

Pre-Cruise purchases of Drinks Packages must be made at least 3 days before the departure date of your cruise.
Drinks Packages purchased pre-cruise can be cancelled no later than 3 days before departure. In this event, a full refund will be applied to the credit/debit card used to make the purchase.
Drinks Packages purchased on board may not be cancelled once purchased.
P&O Cruises reserves the right to refuse service of alcoholic drinks to guests who appear under the age of 18 or 21.
Drink selections and service hours are limited to each on board venue’s menu and operating hours.
All bottles and cans will be served opened.
For cruises starting outside the UK, Drinks Packages sold on board may be subject to a local tax. These charges will be applied to the price of a Drinks Package at the point of purchase.
Individual drinks included in a Drinks Package are subject to availability. P&O Cruises may substitute any drink(s) included in a Drinks Package for an alternative product of comparable or greater value. No refunds will be given in the event a substitution is made.
P&O Cruises reserves the right to make additional exclusions or further reasonable limitations to Drinks Packages at any time.
In exceptional circumstances, P&O Cruises may withdraw Drinks Packages from a cruise entirely. In this event, a full or pro-rata refund will be offered to guests and P&O Cruises will not be liable for any other costs or expenses incurred.
The price of Drinks Packages purchased on board may differ from the price payable pre-cruise. P&O Cruises is not obligated to reduce the on board price to match any price available in advance of your cruise. If the on board price is lower, partial refunds for Drinks Packages purchased in advance will not be given.
P&O Cruises reserves the right to change the price of the drinks or the Drinks Packages at any time. If a Drinks Package has been booked and paid for, the price paid will not change.

All Drinks Packages exclude the following:

All Signature whiskies, cognac and rums
Bottles of wine, Champagne or spirits
Selected glasses of fine wine
Large bottled water
Freakshakes
Seven Wonders cocktails / Seven Treasures cocktails in Amber and Emerald Bar
Exclusive Cocktails in Anderson’s Bar
Drinks sold in shops on board
Wine, beer and spirit flights or buckets of beer
Drinks provided via self-service or vending machines
Room service orders
In-cabin water orders
Mini-bar items
The Retreat menu items
For guests under the age of 18, non-alcoholic beers, wines, spirits and Red Bull are not available
Use at special events such as P&O Cruises cocktail parties, wedding receptions or similar pre-booked private events.
Other than Peninsular Club loyalty discounts, Drinks Packages may not be combined with any other programmes, promotions, or on-board specials offers, or applied toward speciality dining cover charges. They may not be used with any ‘Buy One Get One Free’ or multi-buy offers or used as part of any guest experiences (such as Wine Tastings, Cocktail Masterclasses or Spirit Masterclasses). The Classic Drinks Package also excludes spirits served in 50ml measures, wine served in 250ml measures and medium size Costa Coffee products. If your cruise ends in the UK, customs restrictions require that only non-alcoholic drinks are available once the ship has entered UK waters prior to disembarkation.

Go live dates:

How to purchase a new drinks package:.

You can purchase the drinks packages on My P&O Cruises immediately after booking your cruise and up to three days prior to departure, where they will receive 10% discount. Or you can purchase the packages on board during the first two days of your holiday. However, please note this will be at full price, with no discounts for on-board purchases.

Will children still receive a complimentary package when an adult in the same cabin purchases a drinks package?

Yes, all guests aged 16 years old or under will receive a complimentary Refresh Drinks Package when a qualifying adult in the same cabin has purchased a Classic or Deluxe Drinks Package. Any guests aged 17 years old must purchase an Alcohol-Free or Refresh Package when any adult guests purchase an alcoholic package.

Can adults purchase the Refresh Drinks package?

Yes, the new P&O Refresh Package that has an incredible selection of soft drinks can be purchased and enjoyed by everyone.

Why is the pre-cruise price different to the onboard price?

P&O Cruises are offering guests the opportunity to purchase drinks packages before they go on holiday via My P&O Cruises, at a 10% discount on the full retail price. SO it is cheaper to buy the drinks package before you go!

Can you still purchase products outside of the package?

Yes, guests who have a Classic or Deluxe Package can purchase drinks outside of the package with a 20% discount on the full price of the product.

Are the wine packages still available to purchase?

Yes, they are.

What happens if you have purchased pre-cruise an Ultimate/NonAlcoholic or Children’s package prior to the new go live dates?

Guests who had previously purchased a drinks package via My P&O Cruises will automatically receive an improved new package at no extra cost. This will have been communicated to guests via an email:

Children`s Drinks Package – Refresh Drinks Package Non-Alcoholic Drinks Package – Alcohol Free Drinks Package Ultimate Drinks Package – Deluxe Drinks Package

The original packages will continue to show under ‘My Orders’ in My P&O Cruises; this will be taken care of on board.

If you purchase a package via My P&O Cruises, will I have to visit a bar to receive a sticker?

If pre purchased your package via My P&O Cruises, you will no longer need to visit a designated bar venue to receive a sticker on your cruise card and sign P&O’s terms and conditions. Instead, this will be processed, charged and the sticker applied to your cruise card before it is left outside the cabin. You will also receive a copy of the terms and conditions and the list of included products.

We hope you have found this useful, legacy information is still available on our website:

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P&O Cruises Bar Prices and New Drinks Packages - All you need to know for 2024

Hot off the press, this is the new drinks packages released by p&o, we cruised with p&o on the 15th of may 2024 and have updated all the individual drinks prices so you can decide which, if any is the correct package for you. all packages are discounted by 10% if you book at the same time as your book your cruise..

For those of you that know us we do like a drink and often choose the drinks package or all inclusive option. A lot of cruise lines have gone all inclusive but P&O as yet have not.

To help you budget and plan what you are going to spend, in this post we cover what drinks actually cost on board and what is included in the four different drinks packages.

It is also important to know that with P&O you can take alcohol on board, only on embarkation. Each passenger can take a 1 litre bottle maximum of wine or bubbly (Spirits are no longer allowed!) Soft drinks can also be taken on board with which there is no limit. We also have drinks prices and packages posts for Virgin Voyages , Royal Caribbean , Azamara , Cunard and Marella which may be of interest to you too.

Here we break down the drinks prices and you will find whats included in the new Drinks Packages upgraded in May 2023 towards the end of this post. Please note there are no service charges on any of the drinks on P&O.

We also have a full review of our time on P&O Iona here too .

Beer, Real Ale, Lager, Cider and Stout prices.

Draft beers and lagers.

Birra Moretti – pint £5.65

Fosters – Pint £5.30

John Smith’s Extra Smooth – Pint £5.30

Stella Artois – Pint £5.50

BrewDog Punk IPA £5.30

Bottle/Canned Beers, Lagers and Ales

Corona – 355ml £5.10

Peroni Nastro Azzurro – 330ml £4.75

Budweiser – 330ml £5.10

Carling – 500ml £5.30

Lagunitas IPA – 355ml £4.75

Fullerws London Pride – 500ml – £5.30

Sharps Brewery Doom Bar – 500ml £5.30

Old Speckled Hen – 500ml £5.30

Estrella Damm – 330ml £5.10

Aspall Cider – 500ml £5.55

Thatchers Gold – 500ml £5.55

Westons Britpop Cider – 500mls £5.30

Rekorderlig Strawberry & Lime – 500mls £5.55

Strongbow – 440ml £5.10

Crabbie’s Original Alcoholic Ginger beer – 500mls £5.30

Guinness Draught Can – 440ml £5.30

Gluten Free

Old Speckled Hen – 500ml £5.05

Estrella Damm Daura – 330ml £4.75

Pinot Grigio, Italy – 250ml £9.40 / 175ml £7.20

Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand – 250ml £9.95 / 175ml £7.50

Chardonnay, Australia – 250ml £7.90 / 175ml £6.25

Sauvignon Blanc, France- 250ml £7.90 / 175ml £6.25

Unwooded Chardonnay, Australia – 250ml £8.05 / 175ml £6.25

Saint Roch-Les-Vinges Provence, France – 250ml £8.50 / 175ml £6.70

Cotes de Provence, France – 250ml £9.40 / 175ml £7.20

Zinfandel Rose, USA – 250ml £8.45 / 175ml 6.55

Merlot, USA – 250ml £13.40 / 175ml £9.95

Merlot, Chile – 250mls £7.90 / 175mls £6.25

Shiraz, Australia – 250ml £8.45 / 175ml £6.55

Cabernet Sauvignon, Australia – 250ml £8.45 / 175ml £6.55

Malbec, Argentina – 250ml £9.50 / 175ml £7.15

Rioja, Spain – 250ml £8.45 / 175ml £6.55

Shiraz/Cabernet Australia – 250ml £8.45 175ml £6.55

Sparkling Wine/Champagne

Taittinger Brut Reserve NV – 125ml £9.40 / Bottle £48.00

Taittinger Brut Prestige Rose, France – 125ml £9.70 / Bottle £50.00

Prosecco, Canti DOC, Italy – 125ml £6.75 / Bottle £25.00

Balfour Brut ‘Leslie’s Reserve’ – 125ml £7.90 / Bottle £31.00

Olly Smith at the Glass House

Wine Flights, each flight contains 3 x 100ml glasses of wine

Fantastic Fizz – Prosecco Sylvos / Nyetimber Special Cuvee / Taittinger Prelude £23.00

Party Time – Presecco Le Colture / Peller Ice Rose / Innocent Bystander Moscato £13.15

World of Whites – New Hall Bacchus / The Money Spider / The Lane Pinot Gris £9.70

Rocking Reds – Outer Limits Cinsault / Fontodi Chianti Classico / Trinity Hill Gimblett Gravels Syrah £11.00

Mediterranean Madness – Badassiere Picpoul / Manolesakis Estate Exis / Miravel Rose £11.00

Fantastic Fizz

Prosecco Sylvos – 125ml £6.50 / Bottle £25.00

Nyetimber Special Cuvee – 125ml £8.95 / Bottle £49.95

Taittinger Prelude – 125ml £9.75 / Bottle £59.00

Peller Ice Cuvee – 125ml £7.90 / Bottle £37.00

Peller Ice Cuvee Rose – 125ml £8.35 / Bottle £40.00

Wowser Whites

Zesty and fresh.

Badassiere Picpoul De Pint – 175ml £6.55 / 250ml £8.65 / Bottle £25.00

Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc – 175ml £7.90 / 250ml £10.75 / Bottle £32.00

Sanziana Pinot Grigio – 175ml £6.25 / 250ml £7.90 / Bottle £23.00

Manolesakis Estate Exis White – 175ml £6.255 / 250ml £8.45 / Bottle £25.00

Rich and Plump

Fiano Masseria Bianca – 175ml £6.25 / 250ml £7.90 / Bottle £23.00

Aigle Les Maurailles Chasselas Chablais – 175ml £7.50 / 250ml £9.95 / Bottle £29.00

Plaimont Le Faite Blanc Saint Mont – 175ml £7.50 / 259ml £9.95 / Bottle £29.00

Fragrant and Scented

New Hill Bacchus – 175ml £5.50 / 250ml £6.75 / Bottle £19.95

The Lane Pinot Gris 175ml £6.95 / 250ml £9.50 / Bottle £28.00

Corney and Barrow White Burgundy – 175ml £7.50 / 250ml £10.25 Bottle £30.00

The Money Spider Roussanne – 175ml £6.75 / 250ml £8.50 / Bottle £26.00

Pazo La Maza Albarino – 175ml £6.95 / 250ml £9.50 / Bottle £28.00

Rousing Rose

Miraval Rose – 175ml £7.90 / 250ml £10.75 / Bottle £32.00

Sunset Point Zinfandel Blush – 175ml £6.25 / 250ml £7.90 / Bottle £23.00

Romping Reds

Fruity and mellow.

Fontodi Chianti – 175ml £7.90 / 250ml £10.75 / Bottle £32.00

Cabernet Sauvignon Perez Cruz – 175ml £6.25 / 250ml £7.90 / Bottle £23.00

Valley Selection Merlot – 175ml £6.75 / 250ml £8.50 / Bottle £26.00

Rioja Crianz Rioja – 175ml £6.55 / 250ml £8.45 / Bottle £25.00

The Jam Shed Shiraz – 175ml £6.25 / 250ml £7.90 / Bottle £23.00

Light and Elegant

Outer Limits Old Roots Cinsault – 175ml £7.90 / 250ml £10.75 / Bottle £32.00

Chateau Du Moulin A Vent – 175ml £9.45 / 259ml £12.85 / Bottle £38.00

Spicy and Savoury

The Black Shiraz – 175ml £7.20 / 250ml £9.40 / Bottle £27.00

Intipalka Malbec – 175ml £6.55 / 250ml £8.45 / Bottle £25.00

Colome Estate Malbec – 175ml £7.50 / 250ml £10.25 / Bottle

SC Pannell Tempranillo/Touriga – 175ml £7.50 / 250ml £9.95 / Bottle £29.00

Boom Boom Syrah – 175ml £7.20 / 250ml £9.40 / Bottle £27.00

Trinity Hill Gimblett – 175ml £7.50 / 250ml £9.95 / Bottle £29.00

Blandsy’s 10 Year Old Malmsey Madeira – 75ml £5.95 / Bottle £34.00

Offley Rose Port – 75ml £4.85 / Bottle £28.00

Aperol Spritz £7.95, Sunset Cooler £7.95, Strawberry and Elderflower Spritz £7.95, Honeyard IPA and Stormzy £7.95, Lemon Drizzle Spritz £8.50, Raspberry and Hazelnut Brulee £7.95

Favourites £7.50

Margarita, Mai Tai, Original Mojito, Pink Gin Spritz, Pimm’s No1, Strawberry Daiquiri, Pina Colada, Passion Fruit Martini, Negroni, Cosmopolitan

Mocktails costing £3.95

No Lada, Paradise Punch, Raspberry & Almond Bakewell, Apple & Elderflower Nojito.

Check out our other cruise line drinks and drinks packages posts too –

Marabelle Gin – 25ml £4.60 / 50ml £7.10

Bombay Sapphire/Bramble – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Tanqueray London Dry – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Gordon’s – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Gin Mare – 25ml £4.60 / 50ml £7.10

Salcombe Gin – 25ml £4.60/50ml £7.10

Whitley Neill – 25ml £4.45/50ml £6.95

Monkey 47 – 25ml £4.50/50ml £7.00

Chase Rhubarb Pink Gin – 25ml £4.30 / 50ml £6.80

Gordons Pink Gin – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Whitley Neill Rhubard & Ginger Gin – 25ml £4.45 / 50ml £6.95

Grey Goose – 25ml £4.45 / 50ml £6.85

Smirnoff Red Label – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Reyka Icelandic – 25ml £4.00 / 50ml £6.50

Patron Silver – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Barcardi Carta Blanco – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Captain Morgan Dark – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Captain Morgan Spiced – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Dead Man’s Fingers – 25ml £4.00 / 50ml £6.50

Rockstar Spirits Pineapple Grenade Overproof Rum – 25ml £5.00 / 50ml £7.50

Sailor Jerry Spiced – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Mount Gay Eclipse – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Johnnie Walker Black Label – 25ml £4.45 / 50ml £6.95

Jameson Irish – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Bell’s – 25ml £4.25 / 50ml £6.70

Glenfiddich – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Glenmorangie – 25ml £4.45 / 50ml £6.95

Laphroaig Four Oak, Islay – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Cotswolds Single Malt – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Dublin Liberties Copper Alley – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Wild Turkey Rye – 25ml £4.15 / 50ml £6.60

Jack Daniel’s – 25ml £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Woodford Reserve – 25ml £4.50 / 50ml £7.00

Makers Mark – 25ml £4.45 / 50ml £6.95

Remy Martin Reserve 28 – 25 ml £8.50 / 50ml £11.00

Martell V.S.O.P – £4.35 / 50ml £6.85

Brandy/Liqueurs

Malibu – 25ml £4.05 – 50ml £6.55

Courvoisier VSOP – 25ml £4.45 – 50ml £6.95

Tia Maria – 25ml £4.05 – 50 ml £6.95

Baileys Original Irish Cream – 25ml £4.05 / 50ml 6.55

Disaronno Amaretto – 25ml £4.05 / 50 ml £6.55

Frangelico Hazelnut – 25ml £3.95 / 50ml £6.45

Soft Drinks/Mixers, Tea and Coffee

Draft Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Pepsi Max and RWhites Lemonade on tap – Regular £2.60 Large 3.35

Coca Cola/Diet Coke Bottle – 330ml £3.40

J2O Fruit Blend – 275ml £3.00

Still or sparkling water – 330mls £2.00

Red Bull – 250ml £3.60

San Peligrino Limonata – 330mls £2.55

7 Up/Tango No Added Sugar – 330ml £2.55

Appletiser – 275mls £2.80

Frobisher’s Jubilant Juices – 250mls £2.90

Fentimans Ginger Beer or Wild English Elderflower – 275mls £2.95

Fever Tree Tonic all flavours – 200ml £2.65

Britvic all flavours – 150ml £2.15

Teas & Coffees

Speciality coffees (All Medium and Doubles are Deluxe package or pay as you go)

Espresso – Single £2.15 / Double £2.35

Cappuccino – Small £3.05 / Medium £3.35 – Iced Cappuccino – Small £2.95/ Medium £3.25

Cafe Latte -Small £3.05 / Medium £3.35 – Iced Latte – Small £2.95 / Medium £3.25

Flat White – Small £3.05

Hot Chocolate – Small £3.10 / Medium £3.40

Americano – Small £2.60 / Medium £2.90

Mocha -Small £3.20 / Medium £3.50

Coffee Frostino – Small £3.25 / Medium £3.50

Caramel Latte Frostino – Small £3.35 / Medium £3.65

Frappes (Deluxe package or pay as you go only)

Coffee – Small £3.35 / Medium £3.65

Salted Caramel – Small £3.45 / Medium £3.75

Blended Fruit Coolers (Deluxe package or pay as you go only)

Red Summer Berries – Small £3.35 / Medium £3.65

Mango and Passion Fruit – Small £3.35 / Medium £3.65

Add an extra Coffee shot, Syrup shot, Marshmallows, Chocolate flake or whipped cream 55 pence each (Included on Deluxe package)

Milk alternatives, Skimmed, Soya or Coconut available on request.

Speciality Teas – Teapigs – £2.30 Choose from Everyday brew, Lemon and Ginger, Mao Fang Green, Darjeeling, Earl Grey Strong, Cleanse and Peppermint Leaves.

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Drinks Packages

P&o announced their new drinks packages on may 18th 2023 – here are the updated packages –.

Drinks Packages are available on cruises of 5 nights or longer and cannot be purchased on a ‘per day’ basis. Packages may be purchased in advance of a cruise or during the first two days onboard. Packages purchased on board are non-refundable. All adults in the same cabin must purchase the same Package. All Packages are limited to 15 drinks in any 24-hour period.

The Refresh Package

£9.85 pppd pre-bought or £10.95 pppd if bought onboard.

Packed with fizz, punch and zing, fantastic all-day refreshment is at your fingertips, whenever you fancy. Includes R.Whites Lemonade, Pepsi and juices. If you’re travelling with children 16 years and under and you choose either a Classic or Deluxe drinks package, the Refresh drinks package is included at no extra cost which is good to see.

The Alcohol Free Package

£22.45 pppd pre-bought or £24.95 pppd onboard.

Our Alcohol-free package includes everything from the Refresh package, plus selected Costa Coffee, teapigs™ and a wide range of superb soft drinks. Includes big bottles of water 330mls too.

The Classic Drinks Package

£40.45 pppd pre-bought or £44.95 pppd onboard.

The Classic drinks package includes everything from the Refresh and Alcohol free drinks packages, plus an array of refreshing spirits, wines and classic cocktails, exclusive Marabelle Gin and Golden Tide Rum with your mixer of choice. Includes large bottles of water 33omls, selected Costa Coffee & Teabags, Prosecco 125mls, and selected wines 175mls and 25mls spirits.

If you’re travelling with children 16 years and under and you choose either a Classic or Deluxe drinks package, the Refresh drinks package is included at no extra cost.

The Deluxe Drinks Package

£49.45 pppd pre-booked or £54.95 pppd onboard.

The Deluxe drinks package includes the same selection as all our other packages and the following – Full range of Costa Coffee and Tea Pigs, extended range of cocktails, craft beers, range of 250ml wines and some 50ml spirits.

As mentioned above we look forward to finding out exactly what cocktails and limitations there are with the Deluxe Drinks Package and will include this information as it becomes clear on the sailings this starts on soon.

On the previous drinks packages cocktails costing under £6.95 were included but this is no longer the case,(P&O no longer list any cocktails costing less than £6.95) bar menu’s will be marked with a (C) for the classic package and (D) for the deluxe package, as we gather more information we will update this post accordingly.

With the information we currently have it seems that all double measures of spirits (50ml) and all large glasses of wine (250ml) will only be available on the Deluxe package or on a pay as you go basis.

Everyone is different, and only you will know if the drinks package is good value for you or not. Now you have the individual prices and costs of the packages you will be able to make an informed choice.

We hope we have found this post useful, and now know whether a drinks package would be for you.

Useful Links –

P&O Iona Cruise Ship review

P&O Laundry Services – What does it cost?

P&O WiFi Packages – How much do they cost?

P&O Iona Cruise Ship Accessible Cabin Review

P&O Iona Cruise Ship Standard Balcony Cabin Review

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P&O Cruises serves up new drinks packages

Guests taking a holiday of five nights or more with P&O Cruises will soon be able to take advantage of new drinks packages. A range of four different options has been designed to suit varied tastes and will be rolled out across all ships starting on Azura in March 2019. The packages may be used in all restaurants, bars and cafes on board.

The ‘Ultimate Drinks Package’ includes a large choice of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs and wines by the glass. Bottled water; draught soft drinks; long life juices; Costa Coffee; teas; hot chocolates and non-alcoholic cocktails are also part of the offer. Items exceeding £6.95, such as bottles of wine are excluded but benefit from a 20% discount. Guests will pay £39.95 per person per day for the ‘Ultimate Drinks Package.’

A non-alcoholic drinks package, priced at £19.95 per person per day, is also being introduced across the P&O Cruises fleet. An unlimited array of non-alcoholic drinks is included with a choice of bottled water; draught soft drinks; long life juices; Costa coffees; teas; hot chocolates and non-alcoholic cocktails.

Hot drinks packages are available for £10.95 a day which entitles guests to unlimited Costa coffees, hot chocolate and teapigs tea.

A children’s drinks package includes draught soft drinks (Pepsi, lemonade, tonic and soda); selected long life juices; hot chocolate and fruit squash/cordial by the glass. The children’s package costs £7.95 per day and is available to any child aged 16 and under. The package is complimentary for children who are travelling in the same cabin as adults purchasing the ‘Ultimate Drinks Package.’

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “We have introduced these drinks packages following direct feedback from our guests. They add even more value for guests on our cruises and can help with the all important holiday budgeting too. With a vast range of drinks included, our guests will be spoilt for choice and can try new wines, artisan gins or cocktails, for example, which they would not normally have at home.”

Drinks packages should be purchased during the first two days of the cruise. Loyalty discounts will be applied when purchasing a drinks package. Full terms and conditions of the offers will be available on board and online. Guests who purchase the ‘Ultimate Drinks Package’ are also entitled to a 20% discount on a variety of other soft drinks, mixers, bottles of wine or other drinks which are not included in the package.

Roll-out dates are as follows:

Azura: 26 March 2019

Britannia: 7 April 2019

Aurora: 8 April 2019

Oceana: 18 April 2019

Ventura: 23 April 2019

Arcadia: 5 May 2019

24 comments

hi if you dont spend the money in one day is it carried over please

Hi Christine,

I’m afraid I don’t know the answer to that. You are best talking to P&O directly.

No, it’s a daily charge. It’s like you asking for money back for you cabin because you didn’t use it for half the day.

Ive just spoken to P&O and they do not know anything about this!!!!!!

Hello Steve,

This was taken from an official P&O press release. They have also announced it on their social media channels. Sometimes news takes a while to filter down to their call centre.

Why draught soft drinks only as a non drinker I expect to have a proper can or bottle of soft drink not some crap out of a tap. Not impressed

You are right not to be impressed, we have just disembarked from Britannia we tested the drinks package with another couple. One on the deal and the other not. We saved £140 + over the week by not being on the deal. The group of people we were with had been celebrating three birthdays throughout the week so heavy drinking each day. The mixers are draft so not good.

As far as children are concerned the PO package SHOULD meet the criteria as published by the government’s action for healthy and sugar reduced soft drinks.

Sugar free is bad for children. What is good for children is limiting fizzy drinks completely.

Over £1000 for two people for a two week cruise, if you weren’t an alchy when you board you will be when you get off. It’s all about personal choice, not something for us but sure it will suit some. Just hope it doesn’t backfire on P &O.

Totally uncompetitive with other cruise lines, P and O so expensive…. puts me off!

That’s very expensive. We recently paid 110 pds each for a week on Celebrity cruise

I have just booked a all inclusive cruise on Ventura in may next year . Dose this mean I have to pay for my drinks . As it say need to buy drinks package now total confused as this will be my first cruise

You are best contacting the cruise line directly to find out what your package includes. Hopefully they will be able to clarify things for you.

You may only have 1 or 2 full days at sea to make use of full package. Most days you are spending money on drinks ashore. £40 daily is too excessive in my opinion, works out as £280 per person weekly. Best option is paying for drinks against your on board account, also if you drink wine opting for wine package within first 2 days of boarding.

How much are the wine packages on Azura?

Hi Della. I believe the packages are the same price on each ship. Prices are outlined in the post.

Can you just purchase a drinks package for the children?

Hi Natasha.

I believe there is a non-alcoholic drinks package which is available to purchase.

How much is a nice bottle of red wine in the Restaurant ? Arcadia

Hello Mr Leach,

I’m afraid I am unable to answer that as it depends on your budget and the drinks menu does change from time to time.

Hi can you tell me how much it is for the spa deck on the Azura

Hi Lorraine,

I’m not sure what the current price for The Retreat is and spa prices vary. You are best checking these out when you go on board, as they do vary depending on the length of the cruise.

The captains Selection is now (June 19) £120 for 6 bottles. Some on the list are priced below £20 in the wine List. Presecco Canti is £20.95 a bottle

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P&O Cruises ( UK )

Drinking water and drinks on Azura

By Londongirl8 , April 6, 2015 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

Londongirl8

We are going on our first cruise on Azura in July. Do you have to pay for all your drinking water onboard the ship. I understand I think that juices are free at breakfast but not any other time, and soft drinks are always chargeable. Am I correct that Tea and Coffee are free everywhere except the costa coffee lounge.

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You are right.

You can buy bottled water for the cabin if you wish. Tea and coffee making facilities are in the cabin. (We always take our favourite coffee with us.)

You can get water at any time in the self service restaurant.

Tea, coffee and water is available in the buffet 24/7, free of charge. The water from cabin taps is potable, but as it is desalinised seawater it doesn't taste like home tapwater.

Cost of a litre bottle of sparkling water £1.95.

Possibly the best value purchase on board.

With the soft drinks is the Cola proper Coke or Pepsi or some cheaper alternative.

I think it is Pepsi on P&O, they changed from coke a couple of years ago. They do have coke for some special cocktail recipes.

Vampire Parrot

The ship's water can taste slightly strange if you aren't used to it - what I do is decant it into a plastic bottle (or three) each day from the tap in the bathroom, and leave them in the cabin fridge with the lid off. After a few hours the taste disappears and the water is then nice and cool....

The ship's water is very pure and has to be passed by the chief engineer.

Well I'm certainly not drinking it if its passed through the chief engineer :eek:

But hats off to him, passing that much water every day can't be easy!

I had Coke on Adonia in December and on Britannia. If I am having Coke I ask for either bottled or canned because I have found that if I don't they frequently bring the "fountain" stuff that doesn't taste anything like the real stuff, by asking for bottled or canned they pour it at the table.

silver service

Fresh water is also taken aboard in southampton, if not elsewhere.

you can bring your own drinks on board and have them in the cabin which for those alcoholics is great, especially if you have your own balcony to sit on.

Well I'm certainly not drinking it if its passed through the chief engineer :eek: But hats off to him, passing that much water every day can't be easy!

I was thinking he same thing Big Stevie.

Thank you for the lunchtime laugh... I needed that!!!:)

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Unlock the Best Time to Buy Drink Packages for Your Cruise Adventures

Have you ever wondered when the best time to purchase a drink package for your upcoming cruise is? Picture this: you’re eagerly anticipating your voyage, but the question of when to buy the ideal drink package lingers in your mind. Fear not, as we’re here to guide you through this decision-making process.

In this article, we’ll explore the optimal timing for securing a drink package for your cruise. By understanding the nuances of when to make this purchase, you can maximize your savings and enhance your onboard experience. Stay tuned to uncover valuable insights that will help you make the most of your upcoming cruise adventure.

Key Takeaways

Understanding what’s included in a cruise drink package is essential to maximize your onboard experience.
Consider the pros and cons of purchasing a drink package based on your drinking habits and preferences.
The best times to buy a drink package for a cruise are during early-bird discounts, onboard promotions, and seasonal sales.
Monitor prices before your cruise, sign up for cruise line newsletters, and explore group or family packages for the best deals.
Alternatives to drink packages include pay-as-you-go options and bringing your own beverages, each with its cost-effectiveness and limitations.

Understanding Cruise Drink Packages

What’s included in a drink package.

When considering a cruise drink package, it’s essential to understand what typically comes with it. Drink packages often include a variety of beverages such as cocktails, beer, wine, sodas, and specialty coffees. These packages can also encompass a range of brands, from standard options to premium selections. Some cruise lines may even extend the package to include bottled water and fresh juices. By opting for a drink package, you can enjoy a wide assortment of drinks throughout your cruise without worrying about individual prices.

Pros and Cons of Purchasing a Drink Package

Purchasing a drink package for your cruise has its advantages and drawbacks. One of the main benefits is the potential for significant cost savings, especially if you plan to indulge in multiple drinks per day. It offers convenience and peace of mind, knowing that your beverages are already covered. Additionally, having a drink package can enhance your overall cruise experience, allowing you to enjoy a variety of drinks without constantly monitoring your expenses.

On the flip side, if you’re not a frequent drinker or prefer specific non-alcoholic beverages, a drink package might not be the most cost-effective choice. It’s crucial to assess your drinking habits and preferences to determine whether the package aligns with your needs. Some packages may also come with restrictions on drink types, serving sizes, or venues where they can be redeemed. Before purchasing a drink package, it’s key to weigh these factors against the package’s benefits to ensure it’s a worthwhile investment for your cruise adventure.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Drink Package?

Early-bird discounts and pre-booking advantages.

To get the best deals on drink packages for your cruise, consider taking advantage of early-bird discounts and pre-booking benefits. By planning ahead and purchasing your drink package before you embark on your cruise, you can often secure lower prices and exclusive offers. Cruise lines frequently incentivize early bookings by offering discounted rates on drink packages as part of their pre-cruise packages. This strategy not only saves you money but also allows you to budget more effectively for your overall cruise expenses.

Onboard Promotions and First-Day Deals

Another opportune time to buy a drink package is during onboard promotions and first-day deals. Once you’re on the ship, cruise lines may offer special promotions and discounts on drink packages to encourage guests to enhance their cruising experience. Keep an eye out for announcements and flyers detailing any onboard promotions, particularly on the first day of your cruise. Taking advantage of these offers can often lead to significant savings on your beverage expenses throughout the voyage.

Seasonal Sales and Special Offers

Be on the lookout for seasonal sales and special offers when considering the best time to purchase a drink package for your cruise. Cruise lines periodically run promotions, especially during holiday seasons and peak travel times, where they may discount drink packages or bundle them with other amenities. By monitoring these sales and offers, you can snag a great deal on a drink package that complements your cruising preferences. Researching and comparing different promotion periods can help you secure the most value for your money when investing in a drink package for your upcoming cruise.

Tips for Getting the Best Deal on a Drink Package

Monitoring prices before your cruise.

To ensure you secure the best deal on a drink package for your upcoming cruise, it’s essential to start monitoring prices well in advance. By keeping an eye on the prices offered by the cruise line or third-party vendors, you can identify fluctuations and take advantage of any discounts that may arise. Regularly checking for price changes allows you to make an informed decision on when to purchase the drink package at the most cost-effective rate, maximizing your savings.

Signing Up for Cruise Line Newsletters

Another effective strategy to obtain the best deal on a drink package is to subscribe to the newsletters of cruise lines. By signing up for their newsletters, you’ll stay informed about exclusive offers, promotions, and discounts on drink packages. Cruise lines often send out special deals to their subscribers, providing you with the opportunity to secure a better rate than the regular price. Keeping an eye on your inbox for these promotional offers can help you make significant savings on your onboard beverage expenses.

Combining Deals with Group or Family Packages

If you’re traveling with a group or as a family, consider combining your drink package purchase with others in your travel party. Many cruise lines offer discounts on drink packages when purchased in bulk or as part of a group or family package. By pooling your resources and opting for a combined deal, you can often access better rates and reduced prices per person. This approach allows you to enjoy the convenience of a drink package while benefiting from additional savings through group discounts or package deals.

Alternatives to Drink Packages on Cruises

Pay-as-you-go: is it cost-effective.

If you’re considering alternatives to purchasing a drink package on your cruise, opting for a pay-as-you-go approach could be a cost-effective choice. By paying for each drink individually throughout your trip, you have more control over your expenses. While this method may suit light drinkers or those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, it’s essential to keep track of your spending to ensure you stay within budget. Remember, prices for individual drinks on cruise ships can vary, so familiarize yourself with the onboard pricing to make informed decisions.

Bringing Your Own Beverages: Rules and Restrictions

Another alternative to buying a drink package is to bring your own beverages onboard. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the rules and restrictions imposed by cruise lines regarding bringing alcohol or other drinks. Most cruise companies have specific policies limiting the amount and type of alcohol passengers can bring with them. Typically, you may be allowed to bring a limited quantity of wine or champagne but not other spirits or beer. Ensure you review your cruise line’s guidelines beforehand to avoid any confiscations or additional charges. This option is suitable for travelers looking to enjoy specific beverages without incurring onboard costs.

You’ve explored a range of considerations for purchasing a drink package on your cruise, from benefits to drawbacks based on your preferences. By following the tips provided, you can secure the best deal on a drink package that suits your needs. Additionally, you’ve discovered alternative options like a pay-as-you-go approach or bringing your own beverages onboard, giving you more control over your expenses. These alternatives cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring you have cost-effective choices for enjoying beverages while cruising.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should i buy a drink package on a cruise.

It depends on your drinking habits. If you consume multiple drinks per day, a drink package might save you money. However, if you drink minimally, paying as you go could be more cost-effective.

How can I get the best deal on a drink package?

Watch for price drops, subscribe to cruise newsletters for promotions, and consider group discounts for better pricing on drink packages.

Are there alternatives to purchasing a drink package?

Yes, you can opt for a pay-as-you-go approach if you drink infrequently or bring your own beverages following cruise line restrictions for a more budget-friendly option.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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P&O Cruises ( UK )

Taking drinks on board Azura

By amurray88 , December 29, 2023 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

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The "offical" limit I believe is one litre of alchol per pasenger - there is no limit on soft drinks. How strict is another question with how stict it is - theoretically any excess is handed in until the end of the cruise but this is mostly an "honesty" thing and is sometimes enforced and sometimes it isn't

we were on in October and found an indoor market stall in Sardinia selling plastic 1.5 litre bottles of wine "en vrac" (like mini petrol pumps!). The guy gave us some tasters and it was really good so we bought a bottle to take back on (4.5 euros!), no problem taking it onboard.

5 hours ago, elmsliebev said: we were on in October and found an indoor market stall in Sardinia selling plastic 1.5 litre bottles of wine "en vrac" (like mini petrol pumps!). The guy gave us some tasters and it was really good so we bought a bottle to take back on (4.5 euros!), no problem taking it onboard.

Thank you! And...only for consumption in your room or were they happy for you to walk into bars/main dining room with a wine glass?

Thank you again!

Winifred 22

You can’t consume your own wine or soft drinks in bars or restaurants.

Here is the alcohol policy on the website. As others have said it is 1 litre per passenger, which can only be consumed in your cabin.

https://www.pocruises.com/essential-information/code-of-conduct#alcohol-policy

53 minutes ago, CarlaMarie said: which can only be consumed in your cabin.

But if you walk into a bar/restaurant with a glass of wine who will know from whence it came - just as long as you use "proper" wine glasses and not as I have seen being done, using the ones out of the bathroom.

People walk around with drinks all the time.

I only noticed this practice on my recent cruises. I am sure it has been happening a while but once you see a smartly dressed gent leaving their cabin with glass in hand you tend to notice more. I can never get over the penny pinching some people do.

17 hours ago, amurray88 said: Thank you! And...only for consumption in your room or were they happy for you to walk into bars/main dining room with a wine glass? Thank you again!

We only drank it in our cabin. You can of course walk around anywhere with a glass but only if you've bought it on the ship.

Exactly and given many lines don’t allow you to bring alcohol onboard full stop, let’s hope a few don’t end up spoiling if for the many who just enjoy a balcony / cabin drink. I would be annoyed if this was taken away because of the loss of bar revenue because of abuse.

23 minutes ago, elmsliebev said: but only if you've bought it on the ship.

How will anyone know whether you have bought it on the ship or not?

In no way am I condoning this practice but it does happen and has been happening ever since I have been cruising - I have even heard passengers bragging about it.

Sorry I don't go on holiday to smuggle drinks onboard and then sneak them out of the cabin and walk around the ship pretending I have bought them from a bar. Personally I would rather not go on a cruise if I had to resort to that practice.

We have been on all inclusive holidays and have still brought alcohol from supermarkets to drink in our room/ balcony. I certainly would not feel guilty for bringing anything on board for the same reason. We are more than happy to buy spirits to be delivered to the cabin which in the past have been reasonable priced but not willing to pay room service to bring us a beer. Believe me we certainly contribute to Carnivals profits when we are out of the cabin lol

36 minutes ago, majortom10 said: Sorry I don't go on holiday to smuggle drinks onboard and then sneak them out of the cabin and walk around the ship pretending I have bought them from a bar. Personally I would rather not go on a cruise if I had to resort to that practice.

I wouldn't smuggle them on, P&O allow it 😊 . I just wasn't sure what was the done thing so just wanted clarity.

I also tried to buy the drinks package several times and had a huge amount of hassle... If it wasn't for that, I wouldn't even be asking.

8 minutes ago, amurray88 said: I wouldn't smuggle them on, P&O allow it 😊 . I just wasn't sure what was the done thing so just wanted clarity. I also tried to buy the drinks package several times and had a huge amount of hassle... If it wasn't for that, I wouldn't even be asking.

@amurray88 You can still purchase the drinks package onboard and I am sure reception will know not to charge your baby for one. They will understand the glitches with the computer system.

amurray88 the done thing is what ever you feel comfortable with. If you choose to buy a bottle of the local wine etc, to drink in your cabin go for it. I hope you have a great cruise

46 minutes ago, amurray88 said: I wouldn't smuggle them on, P&O allow it 😊 . I just wasn't sure what was the done thing so just wanted clarity. I also tried to buy the drinks package several times and had a huge amount of hassle... If it wasn't for that, I wouldn't even be asking.

They don't allow they clearly state that you allowed to take 1 litre aboard if you take more they are not allowing it you are smuggling it onboard. If you then take drinks from your cabin and then take them to board then it says more about you.

majortom10 I am sure we are on the same side but the rules don’t really make sense if someone spends &1000 on their account but brings onboard a bottle of wine to drink sitting on their balcony in the sun yet someone brings on their 1 litre of gin on board and spends £50 and follows the rules is ok. Taking drinks out of the cabin is shameful I agree

If you’re flying with TUI they have some good inflight offers on spirits, not sure about other operators.

Hope you have a great cruise and all the pre-cruise problems are sorted for you 🥂

Often on Azura canaries cruises the security is carried out by the port authority so they won’t stop you taking alcohol on board. Enjoy the sun!

7 hours ago, Dobbers said: If you’re flying with TUI they have some good inflight offers on spirits, not sure about other operators. Hope you have a great cruise and all the pre-cruise problems are sorted for you 🥂

Either way, it won't be the end of the world. It'll put us off booking again but we'll still go and enjoy it 😊 thank you! Not long now!

15 hours ago, Wonky said: Often on Azura canaries cruises the security is carried out by the port authority so they won’t stop you taking alcohol on board. Enjoy the sun!

And they will have a staff member sat at a desk just past where you scan you card as you get onboard to declare and hand over any alcohol - but the staff member will be sat there twiddling their thumbs as nobody has handed over anything at all all day.

Even when they have the security xray conducted on the ship and the crew can see bottles in bags nothing is handed over.

1 minute ago, 9265359 said: And they will have a staff member sat at a desk just past where you scan you card as you get onboard to declare and hand over any alcohol - but the staff member will be sat there twiddling their thumbs as nobody has handed over anything at all all day.

Can’t say I’ve ever noticed them 🤣

6 minutes ago, Wonky said: Can’t say I’ve ever noticed them 🤣

They did when I was onboard just before Christmas.

Son of Anarchy

We were on Ventura just before Christmas. At Gibraltar, security scanning was done on the ship. We'd bought our full spirit allowance there. The scanning staff didn't say anything about our haul. We would have quite happily handed our stuff over to save storing it in the cabin. All drinks made it home safely home un-opened.