# **How to Pay for Drinks on a Norwegian Cruise?**

When you step aboard a **Norwegian Cruise Line ship**, one of the first things you notice is the wide variety of food and drink options available. From cocktails by the pool to specialty coffees in the café, there is something for everyone. However, many first-time cruisers often wonder how to pay for drinks on a Norwegian Cruise. **Understanding how the payment system works can help you manage your onboard spending easily and enjoy your trip without stress.**

### **How the Payment System Works on Norwegian Cruise**

Unlike traditional hotels or resorts, Norwegian Cruise Line uses a cashless system. This means you do not need to carry cash or credit cards around the ship. When you check in for your cruise, you receive a key card known as your stateroom key or Norwegian Cruise Line key card. **This card serves multiple purposes—it acts as your room key, identification, and onboard charge card.**

Every time you purchase something onboard, whether it is a drink, a meal at a specialty restaurant, or a souvenir from the gift shop, you simply swipe your card. **The amount is then added to your onboard account, which you will settle at the end of your cruise using a credit card, debit card, or cash.**

### **Paying for Drinks Onboard**

When it comes to drinks, **Norwegian Cruise Line offers several ways to pay, depending on your preferences**. You can either purchase drinks individually or opt for one of the beverage packages available.

If you choose to buy drinks individually, you simply order your drink at any bar or lounge and swipe your key card. The cost of the drink will automatically be charged to your onboard account. **Each drink’s price includes a service charge, so you do not have to worry about tipping every time.**

For those who prefer more convenience and unlimited access, Norwegian Cruise Line offers drink packages that allow you to enjoy a variety of beverages without paying separately each time.

### **Beverage Packages on Norwegian Cruise**

Norwegian Cruise Line offers multiple beverage packages designed for different types of passengers. Here are the main ones:

1. **Soda Package**
This package gives you unlimited fountain sodas throughout your cruise. It is perfect for families with kids or guests who prefer nonalcoholic drinks.

2. **Corks and Caps Package**
This package includes beer and wine by the glass. It suits guests who enjoy a casual drink or a glass of wine with dinner but do not necessarily need cocktails or spirits.

3. **Premium Beverage Package**
This is the most popular package among adult guests. It covers cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits up to a certain price per serving. Nonalcoholic drinks like soda, juice, and coffee are also included.

4. **Premium Plus Beverage Package**
This package includes everything in the Premium package plus top-shelf brands, bottled water, energy drinks, and specialty coffee. It is ideal for those who prefer a wide selection of beverages.

Each package is charged at a daily rate per person and is automatically added to your onboard account if you choose to purchase it.

### **How to Buy a Beverage Package**

You can purchase your beverage package before your cruise or once you are onboard. **The easiest way is to buy it in advance through Norwegian Cruise Line’s website under the My NCL section**. Buying early can sometimes save you money since onboard prices may be slightly higher.

**If you decide to buy the package onboard, you can do so at any bar, guest service desk, or through your stateroom TV**. Once you buy the package, it is activated immediately, and you can start using it right away.

It is important to note that all adults staying in the same cabin must purchase the same beverage package to prevent sharing. **The price will be charged daily to your onboard account along with a service charge.**

### **Free at Sea Promotion**

Norwegian Cruise Line often includes beverage packages as part of its Free at Sea promotion. This offer allows guests to enjoy a complimentary beverage package when booking select cabins or itineraries. **While the package itself may be free, a gratuity fee is still applied**. This is one of the best ways to enjoy unlimited drinks without paying full price for the package.

If your booking includes this promotion, you will automatically see it on your reservation. **Once onboard, your drink package is ready to use without any additional setup**.

### **Paying with a Credit or Debit Card**

When you check in for your cruise, you will link your Norwegian key card to your chosen payment method. Most guests use a credit card or debit card. Each time you make a purchase onboard, the amount is added to your account. Norwegian Cruise Line will place a temporary hold on your card to cover anticipated expenses. At the end of your cruise, the final balance is charged to your card automatically.

If you prefer not to link a card, you can choose to put down a cash deposit at check-in. **In this case, you will receive a running balance of your account, and you can top up your deposit if needed during the cruise.**

### **Tips for Managing Your Drink Spending**

1. **Track Your Balance**
You can easily check your onboard account balance using your stateroom TV or by visiting guest services. Monitoring your spending helps you stay within budget.

2. **Use a Beverage Package if You Drink Regularly**
If you plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily, a beverage package can save you money and make your experience smoother.

3. **Avoid Sharing Packages**
Sharing drinks between guests is not allowed. Each passenger who wants unlimited drinks must have their own package.

4. **Understand the Service Charges**
Norwegian Cruise Line automatically includes a service charge in drink prices, so you do not need to tip separately unless you wish to.

### **Settling Your Bill at the End of the Cruise**

On the final night of your cruise, Norwegian Cruise Line will send a summary of your onboard account to your cabin or email. Review the charges to ensure everything looks correct. The final payment will be processed using the card or method you provided at check-in. **If you paid with cash, you can visit guest services to settle your bill before disembarkation.**

### **Final Thoughts**

Paying for drinks on a Norwegian Cruise is simple and hassle free. **With the key card system, all purchases are automatically charged to your account, so you never need to carry cash**. You can choose to pay per drink or enjoy unlimited access with one of Norwegian’s beverage packages.

If you are a regular drinker or plan to relax with cocktails, wine, or coffee each day, a beverage package is often the best choice. However, **if you prefer just a few drinks during your trip, paying individually may be more cost-effective**.

Either way, understanding how payments work onboard will help you manage your spending and enjoy your cruise without any surprises. Norwegian Cruise Line makes it easy to sip, relax, and make the most of your vacation on the open sea.