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Do P&O Cruises Do Drinks Packages? Our 2026 Guide

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-07-15 · 12 min read

Discover if P&O Cruises offer drinks packages in 2026, what's included, and if they're a good value for your next UK cruise holiday.

Understanding these packages is key to managing your onboard spending and ensuring a relaxing holiday. Let's dive into everything you need to know about P&O's drink offerings, from pricing to what's included, so you can decide if they're right for your next voyage.

What Are P&O Cruises Drinks Packages: Everything You Need to Know

P&O Cruises, a firm favourite among British cruisers, understands that drinks are a significant part of the holiday experience. To help guests manage their budget and enjoy their voyage without constantly thinking about the bill, they offer several drinks packages. These packages allow you to pre-pay for a selection of beverages, from soft drinks and speciality coffees to a wide array of alcoholic options, for the duration of your cruise. It's a system designed for convenience and, for many, peace of mind.

A drinks package makes the 'all-inclusive' feeling more complete, even if it's not strictly all-inclusive in the fare itself.

Key Things to Know About P&O Drinks Packages in 2026

• Variety of Options: P&O offers packages catering to different preferences, from non-alcoholic to premium alcoholic selections. This means you can choose what best fits your consumption habits.
• Pricing Structure: Packages are priced per person, per day, and must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise. This is standard across most cruise lines.
• Cabin Policy: If one adult in a cabin purchases an alcoholic package, all other adults (aged 18 or 21+ depending on itinerary) in the same cabin are typically required to purchase at least the non-alcoholic Refreshment Package. This prevents sharing and ensures fairness.
• Pre-Cruise vs. Onboard Purchase: You can usually purchase packages online before your cruise, often at a slightly discounted rate, or onboard during the first few days of your sailing.
• Price Limits: Alcoholic packages often come with a price limit per drink (e.g., up to £7.50-£10 per drink). Drinks exceeding this limit will incur an additional charge, which is the difference in price.
• Gratuities Included: Unlike some other cruise lines, P&O Cruises' drinks package prices typically include the service charge, so there are no additional gratuities added on top when you order a drink.

P&O Cruises Drinks Packages 2026: What's Available & Pricing

P&O Cruises generally offers a tiered system for their drinks packages, allowing guests to select the option that best suits their drinking habits and budget. It's important to remember that these prices are 'as of June 2026' and are subject to change. They can also vary slightly depending on the specific ship and itinerary, so always confirm for your booking. Here’s a breakdown of the typical packages:

The Refreshment Package (Non-Alcoholic)

This is P&O's entry-level non-alcoholic package, perfect for those who don't drink alcohol or prefer a more budget-friendly option. It's also often the mandatory choice for additional adults in a cabin if one person buys an alcoholic package. It's a great way to stay hydrated and enjoy a variety of soft drinks without the worry of a mounting bill.

• Price: Approximately £11 - £13 per person, per day (as of June 2026).
• Includes: Unlimited draught soft drinks, selected juices, water, and hot drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate).
• Best For: Children, designated drivers, light drinkers, or those who simply prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

The Non-Alcoholic Package (Premium Non-Alcoholic)

A step up from the Refreshment Package, this option offers a broader selection of premium non-alcoholic beverages. It's ideal for those who enjoy mocktails, specialty coffees, and a wider range of soft drinks throughout their day. This package is becoming increasingly popular as cruise lines expand their non-alcoholic offerings.

• Price: Approximately £19 - £25 per person, per day (as of June 2026).
• Includes: All items in the Refreshment Package, plus premium soft drinks, bottled water, mocktails, and a wider selection of specialty coffees and teas from venues like The Glass House or Costa Coffee on ships like Iona and Arvia.
• Best For: Guests who enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic options beyond basic soft drinks, and those who frequent the onboard coffee shops.

The Ultimate Drinks Package (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic)

This is P&O's most comprehensive offering, designed for guests who want to enjoy a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It's the go-to choice for many who want to truly relax and not think about the cost of each drink. This package typically covers most standard drinks available across the ship's bars and restaurants.

• Price: Roughly £45 - £55 per person, per day (as of June 2026).
• Includes: All drinks from the Non-Alcoholic Package, plus a wide selection of beers, ciders, wines by the glass, spirits, and cocktails up to a certain price limit (typically £7.50 - £10 per drink).
• Best For: Guests who anticipate consuming 5-7 alcoholic drinks per day, plus soft drinks, coffees, and bottled water.

Wine Packages

P&O also offers specific wine packages, which are collections of bottled wines available at a set price, often at a discount compared to buying individual bottles. These are separate from the per-day drinks packages and are usually for dining.

• Price: Varies significantly based on the number and quality of bottles, typically £80 - £200+ per package (as of June 2026).
• Includes: A selection of bottled wines, often with a choice of red, white, and rosé. Some packages may include sparkling wine.
• Best For: Wine connoisseurs, couples, or groups who enjoy wine with their evening meals and prefer specific bottles over house wines by the glass.

P&O Cruises Drinks Package Prices 2026: What to Expect

Understanding the cost of P&O drinks packages in 2026 is crucial for determining if they offer good value for your holiday. Prices are always per person, per day, and must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise. Remember, these are approximate figures as of June 2026 and can change. Pre-booking online often secures a slightly better rate than purchasing onboard.

As you can see from the table, the daily price for the Ultimate Drinks Package is a significant investment. For a 7-night cruise, you're looking at roughly £320 - £390 per person. This is why it's so important to do the maths based on your personal consumption habits.

Is a P&O Cruises Drinks Package Worth It? Independent Verdict

The value of a P&O drinks package in 2026 depends entirely on your individual drinking habits, the length of your cruise, and how much you value budgeting predictability. For some, it's an absolute no-brainer; for others, it's an unnecessary expense.

Deciding whether a package is worth it is all about assessing your personal consumption.

When a P&O Drinks Package IS Worth It

1. You're a Moderate to Heavy Drinker: If you typically enjoy 5-7 (or more) alcoholic drinks per day, plus several soft drinks, bottled water, and speciality coffees, the Ultimate Drinks Package will almost certainly save you money. For example, if a cocktail is around £8.50, a beer £5.50, and a latte £3.50, you'd hit the package value quickly.
2. You Value Budget Predictability: Knowing your drinks bill is covered upfront provides immense peace of mind. You can order freely without worrying about a shocking bill at the end of your cruise. This is a huge benefit for many cruisers.
3. You Enjoy a Variety of Beverages: If you like to switch between cocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks, and specialty coffees throughout the day, the package offers the freedom to do so without individual charges.
4. It's a Longer Cruise: On longer itineraries (7+ nights), the cost per day can feel less impactful, and the cumulative savings become more significant if you're a consistent drinker.
5. You're Cruising with Others Who Also Drink: If everyone in your cabin is a similar type of drinker and will also benefit from the package, the mandatory purchase for all adults becomes less of an issue.

When a P&O Drinks Package Is NOT Worth It

1. You're a Light Drinker: If you only have one or two alcoholic drinks a day, or primarily stick to complimentary water, tea, and coffee, paying à la carte will be much cheaper.
2. You Spend a Lot of Time Ashore: If your itinerary is port-intensive and you plan to enjoy local drinks while exploring, you won't be using the onboard package enough to justify the cost.
3. You Prefer Specific Premium Drinks: If your favourite drinks consistently exceed the package's price limit (e.g., premium spirits or high-end wines), you'll still be paying extra for each one.
4. You're Cruising with Non-Drinkers: If one adult in your cabin wants the Ultimate Drinks Package but others don't drink alcohol, the requirement for them to buy the Refreshment Package might make the overall cost too high for the group.

How to Get the Best Deal on P&O Cruises Drinks Packages

Even if you've decided a drinks package is for you, there are still ways to ensure you're getting the best possible value. It's not just about the price, but about how you use the package effectively.

1. Look for Promotional Offers: Occasionally, P&O will include a drinks package as part of a promotional offer when you book your cruise. Keep an eye out for these 'added value' deals, especially during sales periods like Black Friday or January sales. This is often the absolute best way to get a package.
2. Consider Your Itinerary: If you have many sea days, a package is more likely to be worth it as you'll be onboard and using the facilities more. Port-intensive itineraries mean less time on the ship to utilise the package.
3. Do the Maths: Use a cruise drink package calculator to estimate your daily consumption. Be honest with yourself! Compare that estimated cost to the package price. This is the most reliable way to determine value.
4. Maximise Your Package: If you do buy a package, make the most of it! Enjoy specialty coffees in the morning, soft drinks by the pool, and cocktails in the evening. Don't forget about bottled water for excursions.
5. Factor in the 'All-Inclusive' Feeling: Sometimes, the psychological benefit of not worrying about the bill is worth a slight premium. If it genuinely enhances your relaxation, that's a valid consideration.
6. Check the Price Limit: Be aware of the per-drink price limit on the Ultimate Drinks Package. If your favourite tipple is consistently above this, you'll still pay the difference, which can add up.

P&O Drinks Packages vs. Other Cruise Lines: A Comparison

P&O's approach to drinks packages is fairly standard within the industry, but it's always useful to see how they stack up against other popular cruise lines, especially if you're considering different options for your next holiday. Many lines have similar offerings, but the pricing, inclusions, and mandatory cabin policies can vary.

As you can see, P&O's Ultimate Drinks Package sits in the mid-range for pricing compared to other major lines. Its key differentiator is often that gratuities are included in the upfront price, which isn't always the case with other lines like Royal Caribbean or Carnival, where an additional 18-20% service charge is added to the package price. This makes P&O's pricing feel more transparent.

Understanding P&O's Drink Policy Without a Package

Even if you decide against a drinks package, it's important to understand P&O's general drink policy. You're not left without options, and for many, paying à la carte is still the most economical choice. Knowing what's complimentary and what you can bring onboard can significantly impact your budget.

Complimentary Drinks

Like most cruise lines, P&O offers a selection of complimentary beverages available throughout your cruise, primarily in the buffet and main dining rooms. These include:

• Water: Tap water is safe to drink and available in all venues. Filtered water is usually available from dispensers in the buffet.
• Tea & Coffee: Standard tea and coffee are available in the buffet, main dining rooms, and often from self-service stations.
• Juice: Orange, apple, and sometimes grapefruit juice are available at breakfast in the buffet and main dining rooms.
• Milk: Available in the buffet and main dining rooms.

Bringing Your Own Alcohol Onboard

P&O Cruises has a specific policy regarding bringing your own alcohol onboard. This is a common question, and it's important to adhere to their rules to avoid confiscation.

• Wine/Champagne: Guests are typically permitted to bring one bottle (up to 1 litre) of wine or champagne per adult (aged 18+) onboard at embarkation. This bottle can be consumed in your cabin without a corkage fee. If you wish to consume it in a public dining venue, a corkage fee (usually around £20-£25) will apply.
• Spirits/Beer: Bringing spirits or beer onboard at embarkation is generally not permitted and will be confiscated. Any alcohol purchased in port will be held by the ship until the end of your cruise.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: You can usually bring a reasonable amount of non-alcoholic beverages (e.g., bottled water, soft drinks) onboard at embarkation for personal consumption in your cabin.

Making the Most of Your P&O Cruise Experience in 2026

Whether you opt for a drinks package or decide to pay as you go, the goal is always to have the best possible cruise holiday. P&O Cruises offers a fantastic experience, particularly for the UK market, and understanding their drinks options is just one piece of the puzzle. Remember to factor in other costs like cruise gratuities explained and how much spending money for a 7-night cruise.

Beyond Drinks: Other Onboard Spending

It's easy to focus solely on drinks, but remember there are other potential onboard expenses. These might include speciality dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, shopping, and casino spending. Having a clear budget for these items, alongside your drinks, will help you avoid any surprises.

• Speciality Dining: P&O has excellent speciality restaurants like The Glass House and Sindhu. These usually incur an additional cover charge.
• Spa & Salon: Treatments like massages, facials, and hair services are not included in your fare.
• Shore Excursions: While you can book independent excursions, P&O's organised tours are an additional cost. See our guide on cruise excursions: ship vs independent.
• Shopping: Duty-free shops, boutiques, and gift shops are available onboard for souvenirs and necessities.
• Casino & Bingo: If you enjoy gambling, these activities will add to your onboard spend.

Final Thoughts on P&O Drinks Packages

Ultimately, P&O Cruises offers a good range of drinks packages in 2026, providing flexibility for different types of cruisers. For many, the Ultimate Drinks Package offers excellent value and convenience, especially on longer cruises or for those who enjoy a variety of beverages throughout the day. For others, particularly light drinkers or those on short, port-heavy itineraries, paying à la carte might be the more sensible choice. The most important thing is to assess your own habits and preferences. Don't feel pressured to buy a package if it doesn't align with your cruising style.

Don't just assume a package is always better, or always worse. Use the tools available, like a drink package calculator, and consider your itinerary, your companions, and your typical daily consumption. A well-chosen drinks strategy can significantly enhance your P&O cruise holiday in 2026, ensuring you have a fantastic and stress-free time at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions About P&O Cruises Drinks Packages

Do P&O Cruises offer drinks packages in 2026?

Yes, P&O Cruises does offer a variety of drinks packages in 2026 designed to cater to different preferences, from non-alcoholic options to extensive alcoholic selections. These packages are available for purchase both pre-cruise and onboard, though pre-booking often comes with a slight discount. They aim to provide a more predictable budget for your onboard spending, covering a range of beverages throughout your sailing.

What types of drinks packages are available on P&O Cruises in 2026?

In 2026, P&O Cruises typically offers several packages, including a Refreshment Package (soft drinks, coffees), a Non-Alcoholic Package (premium soft drinks, mocktails, speciality coffees), and various Alcoholic Packages such as the Ultimate Drinks Package. The Ultimate package usually covers a wide selection of beers, wines, spirits, cocktails, and all non-alcoholic options, up to a certain price limit per drink. Specific offerings can vary slightly by ship and itinerary.

How much do P&O Cruises drinks packages cost in 2026?

As of June 2026, P&O Cruises drinks packages typically range from approximately £10-£20 per person per day for non-alcoholic options, up to £45-£60 per person per day for the comprehensive Ultimate Drinks Package. These prices can fluctuate based on the specific cruise, duration, and any promotional offers. It's always best to check the exact pricing for your chosen sailing directly on the P&O website or through your travel agent.

Is it worth buying a P&O Cruises drinks package for a short cruise?

Whether a drinks package is worth it for a short cruise (e.g., 3-4 nights) depends heavily on your individual drinking habits. For those who enjoy several alcoholic beverages, speciality coffees, and soft drinks daily, even on a short trip, a package like the Ultimate Drinks Package could offer good value. However, if you're a light drinker or plan to spend most of your time ashore, paying per drink might be more economical.

Can I share a P&O Cruises drinks package with another person?

No, P&O Cruises' policy, like most cruise lines, strictly prohibits sharing drinks packages. Each package is assigned to an individual passenger and is non-transferable. If one adult in a cabin purchases an alcoholic package, all other adults in the same cabin (aged 18 or 21+, depending on itinerary) are often required to purchase at least the non-alcoholic refreshment package. This policy is in place to prevent misuse and ensure fair pricing for all guests.

What are the alternatives to buying a P&O Cruises drinks package?

If a drinks package doesn't suit your needs, alternatives include paying for drinks à la carte, bringing your permitted allowance of wine or champagne onboard (usually one bottle per adult for embarkation), or taking advantage of happy hour specials. You can also enjoy complimentary drinks like water, tea, coffee, and juice available in the buffet and main dining rooms.

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