Carnival Cruise Line: 15 Drinks and No More, Despite Passenger Pushback

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Carnival Cruise Line has made clear that its drink policy will remain the same.

Despite persistent requests from passengers for an increase in the number of alcoholic drinks allowed per day in the Cheers! drink package, the cap will not be going up any time soon.

The cruise line's Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has repeatedly addressed the issue, clarifying more recently that the 15-drink daily limit will remain unchanged.

This decision comes after countless inquiries and even some criticism from passengers who believe the cap is too restrictive.

Photo byOleksandr Lysenko / Dreamstime | Cruise Fever

“The 15 drinks a day maximum on your drink package is for amateurs,” one passenger commented on Heald's Facebook page. While this particular comment was likely made in jest, it reflects a sentiment shared by many who have expressed frustration with the package's limitations.

Heald, however, remains steadfast in his position.

“We are not changing anything despite the barrage of requests I have every week,” he stated. "We will stay at 15 drinks in a 24 hour period (unlimited non-alcoholic drinks) and despite requests like this I wanted to save you the trouble of writing to me and say again we will not be changing anything."

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While some passengers have argued that the limit is too low, particularly for those who prefer beer or wine, others have countered that reaching the 15-drink maximum can be challenging, especially for those who opt for stronger beverages.

“I’ve TRIED to hit my 15, closest I got was 12, and I was pretty well done,” one passenger shared. Another added, “There is a very large difference between bourbon and beer as far as the amount of alcohol is concerned.”

It's important to note that the Cheers! package includes a wide variety of beverages beyond alcoholic options. Soft drinks, juices (excluding freshly squeezed), milkshakes, energy drinks, and bottled water are all unlimited and not counted towards the 15-drink limit.

The Cheers! package covers spirits and cocktails, beer, and wine and champagne by the glass, all priced at $20 or less. Guests can also enjoy a 25% discount on beverages priced above $20.

The cost of the Cheers! package varies based on the length of the cruise and whether it is purchased before or after boarding.

For cruises of six nights or longer, the pre-cruise price is $70.74 per person, per day, while the onboard price is $76.64. For shorter sailings, the costs are $82.54 and $88.45, respectively.

While the debate over the drink package limit continues, Carnival Cruise Line appears determined to maintain the current policy, leaving passengers to weigh the benefits of the package against their individual drinking habits and preferences.