Considering a Carnival cruise? Is the "Cheers!" drink package a worthy investment, or a potential budget-buster? For many, the Cheers! package is a key ingredient to a more relaxing and enjoyable cruise experience, offering the convenience of pre-paid drinks and potentially significant savings.
Navigating the world of cruise add-ons can feel like charting unknown waters. Among the most popular of these is Carnival's "Cheers!" drink package, a prepaid bar service that promises to streamline your onboard spending and elevate your vacation. But does it live up to the hype? Let's dive deep and assess the value, the caveats, and the clever strategies to make the most of this popular offering.
The allure of the Cheers! package is undeniable. Imagine strolling up to any bar on your Carnival cruise ship, ordering your favorite cocktail, and not having to reach for your wallet. It's a simple concept: pay a flat daily fee and enjoy a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise. But, as with any financial decision, the devil is in the details. Understanding the terms, the pricing, and the ways to maximize your savings is crucial to determining whether Cheers! is right for you.
One of the key benefits of the Cheers! package is the potential for savings. While the daily price of the package, at $88.44 per person per day, can seem daunting, those who enjoy several drinks per day, including cocktails, wine, and specialty coffees, often find that they can come out ahead. However, it's important to do your math. Calculate how many drinks you typically consume on a daily basis, factor in the individual prices of those drinks, and compare the total cost to the daily price of the Cheers! package. This personal analysis is the bedrock of an informed decision.
Beyond the cost savings, the Cheers! package provides a sense of freedom and convenience. No more scrutinizing the menu for the cheapest options or wincing at the bill at the end of each day. With Cheers!, you can indulge in your preferred beverages without a second thought, enhancing the overall relaxation of your cruise. This can be especially valuable for those who enjoy trying new drinks or who want to treat themselves without the constant awareness of spending.
However, the Cheers! package also comes with limitations. There are restrictions on the types of beverages included, and Carnival reserves the right to refuse service. Knowing the specifics of the inclusions and exclusions is vital. Additionally, the package is subject to capacity control, meaning that it might not always be available. Planning ahead and purchasing the package in advance is, therefore, highly recommended.
Let's explore some savvy strategies for securing the best deal on the Cheers! package. One effective method is to purchase the package before your cruise begins, either via Carnival's website or by calling their call center. Doing so often unlocks a 10% discount on the daily price. This seemingly small saving can add up significantly over the course of your vacation. For example, rather than paying $88.44 per day, you may pay $82.54, which is a good deal.
Another avenue for potential savings involves the use of AARP gift cards. If you're an AARP member, you can purchase Carnival gift cards at a 10% discount. This means that a $500 Carnival gift card could be purchased for $450. You can then use this gift card to pay for your Cheers! package prior to sailing, effectively combining the discount from the gift card with the 10% discount offered for pre-cruise purchases. This strategy takes a bit more planning, but it could result in substantial savings. Keep in mind that Carnival reserves the right to refuse service, so always adhere to responsible drinking practices.
While the search for Carnival Cheers promo codes for drink package discounts or free drink package deals can be tempting, such offers are not widely available. Carnival might occasionally extend targeted offers to specific members of its VIFP Club loyalty program and casino guests based on their travel and spending history. However, these are generally not accessible to the public and are subject to the cruise line's discretion.
The "Bottomless Bubbles" program is also a factor to consider. This separate program caters to those who enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, offering unlimited soda and other select drinks for a daily fee. If you primarily consume non-alcoholic drinks, the Bottomless Bubbles program might be a more cost-effective choice. While guests with the Cheers! package receive all the benefits of the Bottomless Bubbles, the Cheers! package does not replace the Bottomless Bubbles soda program. The Bottomless Bubbles package starts at $8.20 per child, per day or $11.21 per adult, per day.
When evaluating the Cheers! package, consider the duration of your cruise and your drinking habits. The longer your cruise, the more potential savings you'll see with the package. If you only plan to have a couple of drinks each day, the package may not be the most economical option. However, if you appreciate a wide selection of beverages and are likely to consume several drinks per day, then the Cheers! package could be a worthwhile investment.
A smart step is to always check for ongoing promotions and coupon codes. Websites specializing in travel deals, such as carnival.com, often feature active coupons and promo codes that can provide additional discounts. Although deals on the Cheers! package itself are rare, you might find offers that apply to other cruise expenses, such as shore excursions or onboard spending.
It's important to understand that cruise rates are typically in US dollars, per person, and based on double occupancy. Cruise fare does not include taxes, fees, and port expenses. These additional costs can add to the overall price of your vacation, so factor them into your budget accordingly.
Remember, the most important consideration is your personal preference and budget. Weigh the potential cost savings against the freedom and convenience that the Cheers! package offers. If you are a frequent drinker, the Cheers! package can save you money and enhance your vacation. The best strategy is to purchase in advance to get the 10% off. By doing your research, planning ahead, and exploring all available options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your travel style and financial goals, ensuring a fantastic Carnival cruise experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Drink Package | Carnival Cheers! Package |
| Key Benefit | Prepaid bar service with potential for savings |
| Included | Wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages |
| Daily Price (Onboard) | $88.44 per person |
| Advance Purchase Discount | 10% off daily price |
| Bottomless Bubbles | Separate program for non-alcoholic beverages |
| AARP Gift Cards | Available for purchase at a 10% discount |
| Limitations | Restrictions on beverage types; capacity control; Carnival reserves the right to refuse service |
| Promo Codes | Not widely available |
| Best Strategy | Purchase in advance for discounts; consider AARP gift cards for extra savings. |
| Additional Costs | Cruise rates are in US dollars, per person and based on double occupancy. Cruise fare does not include taxes, fees and port expenses. |
| Link | Carnival Cruise Line Official Website |
Best suggestion is to order beforehand, which will save 10% over onboard pricing. The second is to pay using AARP gift cards through their member program. This will save 10% over on board pricing.
If you're taking a cruise aboard a Carnival ship, then chances are that you've seen mention of the Cheers! and you're likely wondering if it's worth the money.
Consider purchasing the cheers package before your cruise to save 10%.
When planning your carnival cruise, its a good idea to purchase the cheers drink package in advance. Doing so will net you a $5 per day discount compared to purchasing it onboard.
Salud, kampai, lchaim, mabuhayhowever you toast, we make sure you get to do more of it with cheers!, our prepaid bar package. Bartenders bring you your drinks but never the bill.
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If you want to save, order beforehand. That will save 10% over on board pricing. The second is to pay using aarp gift cards through their member program.
