Carnival Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Should you buy the Carnival drink package? It’s the question almost every cruiser asks. And the answer isn’t yes or no — it’s math.

In Episode 7, Jerry Robertson breaks down every Carnival drink package available in 2026: the base prices, the rules, the break-even math, and a plain-English answer for four different types of cruisers.

In this episode:

  • Cheers! base price: $69.95/day pre-cruise, $74.95/day onboard — plus Carnival’s 20% service charge
  • What Cheers! actually covers beyond alcohol — the non-alcoholic inclusions that shift the math
  • Cheers! Zero Proof: the premium non-alcoholic package at $29.99/day base
  • Bottomless Bubbles: soda-only package with updated 2026 pricing
  • The cabin rule that catches couples off guard every single sailing
  • The 15-drink daily limit, the 10-minute wait, and the no-doubles policy
  • Why Galveston sailings don’t activate Cheers! alcohol until 6 AM on Day 2 (Texas law)
  • Four types of cruisers and which package — if any — makes sense for each

If you’ve ever stared at the drink package page wondering whether it’s worth it, this episode gives you a clear answer.

Questions about your specific situation? Call Jerry at 210-460-3344 or text 210-810-6537.