Back to Blog

Is it worth buying a drink package on Viking Cruises?

One of the biggest decisions many travelers make before boarding a Viking cruise is whether to purchase the optional beverage package. Unlike some cruise lines where buying a drink package is almost essential, Viking includes several beverages in the cruise fare, making the decision less straightforward.

So, is the Viking Cruises drink package worth it? The answer depends on your drinking habits, travel style, and budget. For some guests, the package offers convenience and good value, while others may spend less by relying on the complimentary drinks already included with their cruise.

What Is the Viking Drink Package?

The optional Viking drink package—often known as the Silver Spirits package on eligible sailings—expands the range of beverages available beyond the complimentary selections included with your cruise fare.

Rather than paying for premium drinks individually, guests with the package can enjoy a wider variety of eligible beverages throughout the voyage, subject to the package's terms and Viking's responsible alcohol service policies.

What Drinks Are Already Included?

Before deciding whether to buy a cruise beverage package, it's important to know what you already receive without paying extra.

Most Viking cruises include:

  • Filtered water
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • House wine during lunch and dinner
  • Beer during lunch and dinner
  • Selected soft drinks served with meals

These complimentary beverages are enough for many travelers, especially those who only enjoy an occasional alcoholic drink.

What Does the Beverage Package Add?

Purchasing the premium package generally provides access to a broader range of cruise drinks, including:

  • Premium wines
  • Sparkling wine and Champagne by the glass
  • Cocktails
  • Premium spirits
  • Craft and imported beers
  • Specialty coffees
  • Premium teas
  • Additional soft drinks
  • Mineral water served throughout the day

Available beverages can vary slightly depending on the ship and itinerary.

Is the Viking Cruises Drink Package Worth It?

If you're asking, is the Viking Cruises drink package worth it, the answer depends on how you'll use it.

It May Be Worth Buying If You:

  • Enjoy multiple cocktails each day.
  • Prefer premium wines instead of house selections.
  • Frequently order specialty coffees.
  • Like relaxing in onboard bars and lounges.
  • Want predictable onboard expenses.
  • Prefer not to think about individual drink prices during your vacation.

Guests who regularly order premium beverages often receive better overall value from the package.

You May Not Need the Package If You:

  • Rarely drink alcohol.
  • Mostly drink water, coffee, or tea.
  • Are satisfied with the complimentary wine and beer served during meals.
  • Spend most days exploring ashore.
  • Only plan to purchase one or two premium drinks occasionally.

For these travelers, paying individually may cost less than purchasing the package.

Can the Package Help You Save Money?

Many travelers wonder whether they can save money with the Viking drink package.

The answer depends on your daily beverage consumption.

You may save money if you regularly purchase:

  • Premium wine by the glass
  • Cocktails before dinner
  • After-dinner drinks
  • Specialty coffee drinks
  • Premium spirits
  • Additional beverages outside meal times

If your daily drink purchases would otherwise exceed the package cost, the package could provide good value.

When Buying Individual Drinks Makes More Sense

Buying beverages individually may be the smarter option if you:

  • Drink only occasionally.
  • Primarily enjoy complimentary beverages.
  • Spend long days off the ship.
  • Prefer flexibility over prepaid packages.

Many Viking guests find that their onboard drink purchases remain relatively modest because several beverages are already included in the cruise fare.

Other Factors to Consider

Price isn't the only factor when deciding.

Also think about:

Convenience

With the beverage package, you don't need to think about the cost of each eligible drink you order.

Travel Style

Guests who spend more time enjoying onboard entertainment often get more value from the package than travelers who are ashore for most of the day.

Beverage Preferences

If you enjoy premium wines, cocktails, or specialty coffees, the package may be more attractive than if you mainly drink water or tea.

Tips Before Purchasing the Package

To make the best decision:

  • Review the list of complimentary beverages.
  • Estimate how many premium drinks you'll realistically order each day.
  • Compare expected drink purchases with the package price.
  • Consider the number of sea days versus port days.
  • Check whether your booking includes any beverage promotions.

Making an informed decision based on your own habits is more effective than choosing based on general recommendations.

Common Misconceptions

Myth: Everyone Should Buy the Beverage Package

Not true. Many Viking guests never purchase it because the included beverages meet their needs.

Myth: Every Drink Costs Extra

Several beverages are already included in your cruise fare, including coffee, tea, water, and selected wine and beer during meals.

Myth: The Package Is Only for Heavy Drinkers

While frequent drinkers often receive the most financial value, guests who enjoy premium coffees and wines throughout the day may also benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Viking Cruises drink package worth it?

It depends on your drinking habits. Guests who frequently enjoy premium alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks often receive the greatest value.

Should I buy the Viking beverage package?

If you expect to order several premium beverages each day, the package may be worthwhile. If you mainly drink complimentary beverages, purchasing drinks individually may be more economical.

What drinks are already included?

Most Viking cruises include coffee, tea, water, house wine during lunch and dinner, beer during meals, and selected soft drinks.

Does the package include cocktails?

Yes. Eligible cocktails are generally included in the premium beverage package, subject to the package terms.

Can I buy drinks individually?

Yes. Guests are free to purchase individual beverages without buying the package.

Is the package available on every Viking cruise?

The premium beverage package is available on many ocean and expedition voyages, though availability may vary depending on the ship and itinerary.

Does the package help control vacation spending?

Many travelers appreciate knowing that eligible beverages are prepaid, making onboard budgeting easier.

Is the beverage package better than paying per drink?

For guests who regularly order premium beverages, it often provides better overall value. For occasional drinkers, individual purchases may cost less.

Conclusion

So, is the Viking Cruises drink package worth it? For travelers who enjoy premium wines, cocktails, specialty coffees, and other upgraded beverages throughout the day, the package can provide convenience, predictable spending, and solid value. However, because Viking already includes several drinks in the cruise fare, not every guest needs to purchase the optional package.

The best choice depends on your personal preferences rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation. By reviewing what's already included, comparing your expected beverage purchases, and considering your time onboard, you can decide whether the Viking drink package fits your travel style. If you're looking to save money with the Viking drink package, estimate your likely consumption before you sail—it's the most reliable way to determine whether the package will pay for itself during your cruise.

this is logo

Your ultimate guide to cruise adventures. Discover amazing destinations, find the perfect cruise, and create unforgettable memories on the high seas.

© 2026 Portjourney.com. All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service