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When to buy the drink package – The short version: If you’re planning to have more than about 2 drinks outside of mealtimes each day while onboard, or if you enjoy higher-end wines or spirits or plan to do the premium tastings, the Silver Spirits package is a good bet. If you’re only drinking cheaper beers, it will take more to get your money’s worth.
When comparing cruise lines and costs, when it comes to the ‘Silver Spirits’ unlimited drink package it can be hard to make sense of the math. This is a quick guide to the numbers to help you answer the question, ‘Should I buy the Viking drink package’?
Cost: $27/day, per person, which is $189 for a 7-night or $378 for a 14-night cruise, plus a 15% ‘service charge’.
What you get: Unlimited cocktails, select wines or house champagne by the glass, or other drinks priced up to $18 per drink, any time, anywhere on the ship. Plus complimentary access to standard tasting events on ocean/expedition cruises, and a 30% discount on premium drinks and 50% off premium tasting events (details vary slightly by itinerary).
Rules & Requirements: BOTH guests in a stateroom must buy the drink package. No buying for one person and sharing.
What’s included WITHOUT the drink package? Wine, beer, and soda with onboard lunch and dinner is already included, plus bottled water, specialty coffees, and hot tea available 24/7 is included as well.
INSIDER TIPS: Don’t forget that you’ll be off the ship in ports much of the days, especially on river cruises (with no sea days). So you may not have as much time to drink as you might think, and you may crash early after long days walking and exploring new cities. Also, BOTH passengers in a cabin need to get the drink package if one person wants it, so look at your average estimated drink count per day to help determine if it’s worth it for you.