10 ways to get free (or cheaper) drinks on cruises
When you’re on a cruise the price of drinks can quickly spiral out of proportion if you’re not careful. Here are 10 ways to get free (or cheaper) drinks.
1. Stay loyal to a line
Cruise lines operate frequent flyer-style programs that reward frequent cruisers. This can mean a discount off drinks, free drink tokens or invites to private parties – with free drinks.
2. Join the party
On many cruises you’ll find a welcome party or the captain’s party on the first couple of nights. They are generally open to all guests and will include drinks of some kind. Be aware that they are usually formal, so you’ll need to dress up.
3. Hit the sales
Art auctions or special jewellery sales are held a number of times during a cruise and you’ll get a glass of champagne (or two) while browsing. Look for them in the daily planner or for flyers in the shopping areas.
4. Have a taste
All ships sailing international routes have duty free alcohol for sale and will host tastings to encourage people to buy. You can sample a few wines or whiskies for free, and you might even find a new favourite you want to buy.
5. Get happy at happy hour
All bars across the ship will offer some sort of happy hour during the day. You might get a set discount off drinks, buckets of beers or two for one cocktails. These times are often staggered across the bars, so you can move between them to get the best deal.
6. Have a flutter
Ask for a loyalty or players card at the casino and then use it every time you play the pokies or a round of blackjack. You’ll build up points that you can use at the bar. Also, there are often cheap drinks on offer while you’re gambling.
7. Buy in bulk
Wine by the glass is always more expensive than by the bottle. If you’re drinking it in the dining room, your waiter can put your name on the bottle and put the remainder away for you to drink another night. You can also look at bulk packages of six or 12 bottles for even bigger savings.
8. Get the package
If you know you like a drink, then a drink package could be the way to go. They start from around $60 per day and, while that may sound like a lot, if you add up all the alcoholic drinks plus soft drink and bottled water, it can be very economical.
9. Choose the drink of the day
Each day bars around the ship will offer a special ‘drink of the day’ (usually a brightly coloured cocktail) for a much cheaper price than usual drinks. They also often come in a fun glass you can keep.
10. Take advantage of bottle service
Many lines will deliver bottles of spirits directly to your room, along with ice, mixers and glasses, for you to drink during the cruise. They cost more than you would pay in a bottle shop but are a lot cheaper than buying individual drinks at the bar. Then you can start (or finish) your evening with a couple of quiet drinks on your private balcony.
Related links:
5 things you MUST do to avoid seasickness on a cruise
10 things you must never do in a cruise cabin
P&O’s first cruise around New Zealand