Is Carnival's Cheers! drink package a worthwhile investment for your cruise vacation? Deciding whether or not to purchase the Cheers! package on a Carnival cruise can significantly impact your onboard spending, offering either substantial savings or, conversely, adding unnecessary costs.
For many cruisers, the allure of a Carnival getaway is intertwined with the prospect of relaxation, fun, and, of course, enjoying a range of beverages without constantly reaching for their wallets. Carnival's Cheers! package is designed to cater precisely to this desire, promising an all-inclusive approach to your drink expenses. However, the economics of this package, especially when weighed against alternative options, often spark debate among seasoned cruisers and newcomers alike.
The most current pricing structure for the Cheers! package, as of the latest updates, is a crucial factor in this assessment. For those who opt to buy the package once onboard the ship, the cost is set at $88.44 per person, per day. It is important to note this price already includes the 18% gratuity that is applied to all drink package purchases. Conversely, theres a potential for saving money if the package is purchased ahead of your cruise. Pre-paying online or by phone before your cruise departs can secure a rate of $82.54 per day, offering a small but noticeable discount.
It is important to understand the inclusion of the Bottomless Bubbles program. While purchasing the Cheers! package covers the benefits of Bottomless Bubbles, the Bottomless Bubbles program does not include alcoholic beverages. Bottomless Bubbles remains available as a separate package, at a cost of $6.95 per person per day for children and $9.50 per person per day for adults.
Let's delve into a detailed comparison of the Carnival Cheers! and Bottomless Bubbles drink packages, exploring their features, and benefits to help determine which option best aligns with your individual cruise needs. A thoughtful consideration of your drinking habits and spending patterns is key to making an informed decision.
The financial aspects of the Cheers! package can be particularly intriguing. The price is currently consistent across all cruise lengths, providing predictability for budgeting purposes. In December 2024, Carnival adjusted its pricing, ensuring that the cost remains the same regardless of the cruise duration. This consistency is a welcome change for those planning multiple cruises or seeking straightforward expense management.
Beyond the immediate cost, there are strategies for maximizing the value of the Cheers! package. Saving 10% off the daily price can be achieved by purchasing the package in advance either via Carnival's website or by calling the call center. This proactive approach can result in tangible savings, translating into extra funds that can be allocated to other onboard experiences, such as excursions or specialty dining.
For those who are looking for more savings, Carnival gift cards are available through various sources, including AARP. Buying Carnival gift cards through AARP could enable users to save 10%, potentially offering more savings overall for the cruise. You can purchase $100 or $500 gift cards, then use your gift card to pay for the drink package before sailing to get 10% off by buying early.
The Cheers! package is inclusive of VAT (Value Added Tax), if applicable, on European cruises, a crucial aspect for guests sailing in this region. Furthermore, an 18% service charge is added to every drink package purchase, something that needs to be factored into the overall cost calculation. While this service charge can seem significant, it is essential to consider it as part of the package's total price.
The Bottomless Bubbles drink package is designed for guests who want to have unlimited access to soft drinks and juices. This package costs $6.95 per day for children and $9.50 per day for adults. This is a cost-effective solution for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.
Several methods can be employed to reduce expenses, which includes purchasing beverages in advance or exploring alternative options. Bringing your own wine, ordering beer or liquor to your room before the cruise, or limiting drinking to ports of call are strategies for managing expenses. Additionally, taking advantage of complimentary drinks in the steakhouse or potentially earning free drinks through casino play are ways to cut back on beverage costs.
It's vital to remember that the availability of offers and promo codes can be specific to each guest. This may impact the use of promo codes, and the benefits might not be transferrable if one isn't the primary traveler on the cruise booking. While promo codes and discounts are subject to individual circumstances.
The core benefits of the Cheers! package include unlimited alcoholic beverages, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. The Cheers! package covers a wide range of choices, from cocktails, beers, and wines to specialty coffees, sodas, and juices. This breadth is a major selling point for those wishing to try different drinks.
The package's daily rate, whether $88.44 or $82.54, will likely have a huge influence on whether the Cheers! package offers good value. It is crucial to consider the cost in relation to the usual drinking patterns. The aim is to ascertain if the sum of your drink expenses exceeds the daily cost of the package. This may be challenging to estimate, particularly for passengers cruising for the first time or those who have varying levels of alcohol consumption.
A point to note is that the offers and promo codes are often geared towards particular clients. It is not always possible to use a promotional code received by one individual for a separate cabin unless they will be on the same cruise. This nuance makes it necessary to take individual circumstances into account when making travel arrangements.
The Carnival Cheers! package is frequently the most sought-after addition to Carnival cruises. Before making a purchase, it's wise to conduct a detailed analysis of the potential savings and compare those savings to your typical consumption. This method will help determine if the Cheers! package is a financially prudent decision.
In short, making an informed decision on whether to purchase the Carnival Cheers! package depends on a thorough understanding of the advantages, prices, and individual drinking habits. By evaluating your typical spending and taking advantage of early purchase discounts, you may maximize the value of your cruise experience.
| Feature | Cheers! Package | Bottomless Bubbles Package |
|---|---|---|
| Drinks Included | Alcoholic beverages (cocktails, beer, wine), specialty coffees, sodas, juice, and more | Unlimited sodas and juices |
| Cost (Onboard) | $88.44 per person, per day (includes 18% gratuity) | N/A (separate program) |
| Cost (Pre-Cruise) | $82.54 per person, per day (online or phone) | N/A (separate program) |
| Children | Included, but must be of drinking age (21+) | $6.95 per day |
| Adults | Yes | $9.50 per day |
| Additional Charges | 18% service charge added | No |
Disclaimer: Prices and features are based on the information available and subject to change. Always verify the most current details on the Carnival Cruise Line website.
