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P&O Cruises Drinks Packages 2026: Independent Review
Deciding whether to purchase a drinks package for your cruise can feel like a complex equation, especially when you're looking at P&O Cruises drinks packages 2026. This comprehensive guide will break down P&O's offerings, pricing, and help you determine if a drinks package is truly worth it for your next P&O adventure. For a broader look at whether these packages are generally worth it, check out our guide on Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It in 2026?. Before buying, compare the package with the current planning detail in our P&O cruise drinks menu guide. Azura passengers can use the Azura drinks menu and package-check guide for ship-specific verification steps.
What Are P&O Cruises Drinks Packages? Everything You Need to Know
P&O Cruises, a beloved British cruise line, offers a selection of drinks packages designed to make your onboard experience more convenient and potentially more economical. These packages allow you to pre-pay for a range of beverages, from soft drinks and coffees to a wide array of alcoholic options, eliminating the need to sign for each drink. This can be a huge relief, as it helps manage your holiday budget and avoids any nasty surprises on your final bill.
Paying for drinks one at a time can be a bit of a faff. The introduction of these packages has certainly streamlined things, offering a sense of all-inclusive ease that many cruisers appreciate.
Key Things to Know About P&O Drinks Packages 2026
- Mandatory Purchase for Cabin: If one adult in a cabin purchases an alcoholic drinks package, all adults (18+) in that cabin must purchase the same alcoholic package. This is a common policy across many cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Carnival, to prevent sharing.
- Duration of Cruise: Packages must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise, from embarkation day to disembarkation morning. You cannot buy it for just a few days.
- Per Person Pricing: All prices are quoted per person, per day. This means a 7-night cruise will multiply the daily rate by 7 for each package holder.
- Value Limit per Drink: Alcoholic packages usually have a maximum value per drink (e.g., around £10 for cocktails or wines). If your chosen drink exceeds this, you'll pay the difference.
- Exclusions: Mini-bar items, room service, drinks from specific premium venues, and sometimes certain promotional drinks are typically excluded. Always read the fine print!
- Age Restrictions: Alcoholic packages are only available to guests aged 18 and over, in line with P&O's alcohol policy. Non-alcoholic packages are available for all ages, with specific children's options.
P&O Cruises Drinks Packages 2026: Options and Prices
P&O Cruises typically offers a tiered system for its drinks packages, catering to different preferences and budgets. The core packages for 2026 are expected to remain similar to previous years, focusing on alcoholic, non-alcoholic, and children's options. Prices are always subject to change, but these figures, accurate as of June 2026, will give you a solid benchmark.
It's important to remember that these prices are per person, per day. So, for a couple on a 7-night cruise, the cost can quickly add up.
P&O Drinks Package Options & Estimated Daily Costs (June 2026)
| Package Name | Estimated Daily Price (pp) | What's Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Deluxe Drinks Package | £65 (5–14 nights) / £60 (15+) | Spirits, wines (up to £10), beers, ciders, cocktails (up to £10), soft drinks, bottled water, speciality coffees, hot chocolates. | Heavy drinkers (5+ alcoholic drinks/day), cocktail lovers, those who enjoy variety. |
| The Alcohol-free Drinks Package | £29 | Soft drinks, juices, bottled water, mocktails, speciality coffees, hot chocolates. | Non-drinkers, designated drivers, those who prefer premium soft drinks. |
| The Refresh Drinks Package (Children) | £16 | Unlimited soft drinks, selected juices, hot chocolates. | Children and teenagers aged 17 and under. |
| The Water Package | £7 | 12 x 1-litre bottles of mineral water delivered to your cabin. | Those who only drink water, prefer bottled water over tap, or want to save on individual bottle purchases. |
| The Coffee Package | £7-£9 (depending on size) | Pre-paid vouchers for speciality coffees (e.g., 10 coffees for £70). | Coffee enthusiasts, those who only want premium hot drinks. |
The Deluxe Drinks Package is P&O's most generous offering, designed to cover the vast majority of drinks you'd consume. The estimated £10 limit on alcoholic drinks is fairly generous, covering most standard cocktails, wines by the glass, and premium beers. However, if you're a connoisseur of top-shelf spirits or fine wines, you might find yourself paying a small supplement on occasion.
The non-alcoholic options are excellent for those who don't drink alcohol but still want the convenience and variety of unlimited beverages.
Is a P&O Cruises Drinks Package Worth It in 2026? Independent Verdict
This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? The 'worth' of a P&O drinks package in 2026 is entirely dependent on your individual drinking habits, the length of your cruise, and your budget.
Mark, however, loves his craft beers and speciality coffees, so for him, the Deluxe package might have been a better fit. It really comes down to honest self-assessment.
When a P&O Drinks Package IS Worth It (Deluxe Package from £60/day)
- You drink 7+ alcoholic beverages per day: At an average cost of £7-£9 per alcoholic drink (cocktails £8.50–£9.50, a pint from £5.95, house wine £6.50 a glass on P&O's deck-bar menu (P&O Cruises bar menu, menu dated 05/2025, checked 1 Nov 2026)), 7-8 drinks would put you at or above the £55 daily Classic package price on a 5–14 night cruise. This is your primary break-even point.
- You enjoy speciality coffees and bottled water: If you typically buy 2-3 lattes or cappuccinos (£3.55–£3.80 each) and several bottles of water (£2.35 for 330ml) daily, these add significant value to the package. These non-alcoholic options quickly add up if paid for individually.
- You want to budget and avoid bill shock: The peace of mind of knowing your drinks are covered can be invaluable. You can order freely without constantly thinking about the cost, which enhances the holiday experience.
- You're on a longer cruise: On a 10+ night cruise, the daily cost might feel more justified as you settle into a routine and might consume more over time. The cumulative savings can be substantial.
- You're celebrating a special occasion: If it's a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon, you might be more inclined to indulge, making the package a worthwhile splurge for the celebratory atmosphere.
When a P&O Drinks Package Is NOT Worth It
- You're a light drinker: If you only have 1-2 alcoholic drinks per day, or only drink alcohol with dinner, paying as you go will almost certainly be cheaper. For example, 2 pints and a glass of house wine would be about £18.40 at deck-bar prices, far less than the £55 Classic package.
- You prefer water, juice, or standard tea/coffee: These are often included in your basic cruise fare. If you're happy with these, a package offers little additional value.
- You plan to spend a lot of time ashore: Port-intensive itineraries mean you'll be off the ship for a significant portion of the day, reducing your onboard drinking time. You'd be paying for a package you're not fully utilising.
- You're travelling with children (and only one adult drinks): Remember the 'all adults in cabin' rule. If one adult wants the Deluxe package, and the other doesn't drink much, the second adult is forced to buy it, making it poor value for them.
- You're happy to bring your own: P&O allows a limited amount of alcohol onboard (typically 1 litre of spirits or wine per adult), which can help supplement your drinks and reduce costs.
How to Get the Best Deal on P&O Cruises Drinks Packages 2026
While P&O Cruises doesn't typically offer massive discounts on their drinks packages, there are smart strategies you can employ to ensure you're getting the best value or even a better overall deal on your cruise.
- Book a Select Fare: P&O often includes perks with their 'Select Fares,' which are typically more expensive than 'Early Saver' or 'Saver' fares. These perks can sometimes include onboard spending money, which you can then use to offset the cost of a drinks package. Always calculate if the higher fare plus the perks is cheaper than a lower fare plus buying the package separately.
- Utilise Onboard Spending Money: If your cruise comes with onboard credit (OBC) as a booking incentive, this is effectively free money that can be put towards a drinks package. This is often the best 'deal' you'll get.
- Pre-Book Online: While not always a discount, pre-booking your package via the 'My P&O Cruises' portal before your cruise ensures you lock in the price and avoid any potential price increases onboard. It also saves you time on embarkation day.
- Consider the Water or Coffee Package: If the Deluxe Package is too much, but you still want some convenience, the Water or Coffee packages can be a cost-effective way to manage specific drink types without committing to a full package.
- Bring Your Own Allowances: Remember P&O's policy on bringing your own alcohol. Each adult can typically bring 1 litre of spirits or wine onboard. This can be a great way to enjoy a pre-dinner drink in your cabin and reduce your overall onboard spend, making a package less necessary.
- Track Your Consumption: For the first day or two, pay for drinks individually and keep a tally. This will give you a very accurate picture of your actual daily spend and help you decide if purchasing a package onboard (if still available) makes sense for the remainder of your cruise.
- Look for Promotional Offers: Occasionally, P&O or travel agents might run promotions that include a drinks package as part of the booking. Keep an eye out for these 'all-inclusive' type deals, especially during sales periods.
P&O Cruises Drinks Packages vs. Other Cruise Lines: A 2026 Comparison
It's helpful to see how P&O's offerings stack up against other popular cruise lines, especially if you're deciding which line to sail with next. While P&O caters primarily to the British market, many cruisers consider other lines for their holidays. For a deeper dive into other cruise line packages, see our articles like Royal Caribbean Drink Package Complete Guide 2026 or MSC Virtuosa Drink Package Review 2026.
| Cruise Line | Typical Alcoholic Package Offering | Estimated Daily Price (pp) | Key Differences | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P&O Cruises | Deluxe Drinks Package | £65 (5–14 nights) / £60 (15+) | Good value limit (£10), all adults in cabin must buy. | 4.0/5 - Solid for British tastes, but strict sharing rules. |
| Royal Caribbean | Deluxe Beverage Package | £65-£85 | Higher price, includes premium coffees, fresh juices, higher drink value limits (up to $13-15). | 4.5/5 - More premium, wider selection, but significantly pricier. |
| Carnival Cruise Line | CHEERS! Package | £50-£60 | Limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per day, includes sodas, speciality coffees. | 4.0/5 - Good value for high volume drinkers, but daily alcohol limit. |
| Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) | Premium Plus Beverage Package (often included with Free at Sea) | £80-£100 (if purchased separately) | Very comprehensive, includes top-shelf spirits, bottled water, speciality coffees, often bundled. | 4.5/5 - Excellent value if included in 'Free at Sea', otherwise very expensive. |
| MSC Cruises | Easy Package / Premium Extra Package | £35-£70 | Tiered options, Easy is more basic, Premium Extra is comprehensive. Strict rules on venue use. | 3.5/5 - Easy can be restrictive, Premium Extra is good but pricier. |
| Celebrity Cruises | Classic / Premium Drink Package (often included with 'All Included' fare) | £55-£75 | Classic is good for basics, Premium has wider selection. Often bundled. | 4.0/5 - Good value if bundled, otherwise similar to Royal Caribbean pricing. |
As you can see, P&O publishes its package prices openly (Deluxe from £60 per day), whereas Royal Caribbean and Celebrity show their package prices only once you have booked. However, the 'all adults in cabin' rule is a significant factor unique to P&O that needs careful consideration.
For those who appreciate the convenience and don't mind the strict cabin rule, P&O offers a solid, well-rounded package that aligns with the tastes of its British clientele. It's less about the 'luxury' of top-shelf brands and more about consistent, enjoyable access to a wide range of popular drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions About P&O Cruises Drinks Packages 2026
Hopefully, these detailed answers will clear up any lingering doubts you might have.
Can I upgrade my drinks package onboard?
Generally, P&O Cruises does not allow upgrades from a non-alcoholic package to an alcoholic one once the cruise has commenced. If you purchase the Alcohol-free Drinks Package and decide you want the Deluxe Drinks Package, you would typically have to cancel the non-alcoholic package (if within the first 24 hours) and then purchase the Deluxe package for the full duration of the cruise. This is why it's crucial to make the right decision upfront, as changing your mind later can be costly or impossible. Always confirm the exact policy with Guest Services on embarkation day.
Are tips included in P&O drinks packages?
Yes, for P&O Cruises, the service charge (gratuity) is typically included in the price of the drinks package. This means you won't be charged an estimated additional 15-20% service charge on top of your package price for each drink you order. This is a significant difference from some American cruise lines where an automatic gratuity is added to the package cost and then again on each drink ordered. It simplifies the process and means the price you pay upfront is truly all-inclusive for your drinks. For more on gratuities, see our guide on Cruise Gratuities Explained.
What if I only want wine with dinner?
If your primary interest is enjoying wine with your evening meal, a full drinks package like the Deluxe Drinks Package might not be the most economical choice. Consider P&O's wine packages, which allow you to purchase a set number of bottles of wine (e.g., 5 or 7 bottles) at a discounted rate compared to buying them individually. You can also simply purchase wine by the glass or bottle as you go. This flexibility is often better for those with specific, limited drinking habits, rather than paying for unlimited drinks you won't fully utilise.
Can I use my drinks package on private islands or tenders?
P&O Cruises drinks packages are generally only valid onboard the ship. This means that if you visit a private island (which P&O doesn't typically operate in the same way some other lines do, like Half Moon Cay for Carnival), or if you're on a tender boat to shore, your package will not cover drinks purchased there. Any drinks consumed ashore or on a third-party operated private beach will need to be paid for separately. Always assume your package benefits are limited to the ship itself.
What about room service drinks?
Drinks ordered via room service are typically not included in P&O's standard drinks packages. This is a common exclusion across most cruise lines. While the package covers drinks at bars, lounges, and restaurants, room service usually operates as a separate entity with its own pricing structure. If you frequently enjoy drinks delivered to your cabin, you'll need to factor these additional costs into your budget. Always double-check the specific terms and conditions of your package once onboard.
Yes, P&O Cruises, like most lines, usually has a sensible limit on the number of drinks you can order at one time with a package. This is typically two drinks per person per order. This policy is in place to prevent excessive consumption, reduce waste, and deter sharing. You can always go back for more shortly after, but you won't be able to order a round of five cocktails for your group on one card. It's a fair system that ensures responsible serving.
Are P&O Cruises drinks packages worth it in 2026?
Whether P&O Cruises drinks packages are worth it in 2026 largely depends on your drinking habits. If you enjoy 7 or more alcoholic drinks per day, plus coffees and soft drinks, the Deluxe Drinks Package (£65 per person per day on 5–14 night cruises, £60 on 15+) or the Classic package (£55 / £50) can offer good value (P&O Cruises, checked 1 Nov 2026). For those who drink less, or prefer non-alcoholic options, the Alcohol-free Drinks Package (£29 per person per day) might be more suitable, or simply paying as you go could be cheaper. Consider the length of your cruise and your typical daily consumption.
What is included in the P&O Deluxe Drinks Package in 2026?
The P&O Deluxe Drinks Package in 2026 includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This typically covers spirits, wines by the glass (up to £10 value), beers, ciders, cocktails (up to £10 value), all soft drinks, bottled water, and speciality coffees. It's designed to be comprehensive, allowing you to enjoy most drinks on board without worrying about the bill. Premium spirits or wines above the £10 threshold may incur an additional charge.
Can I share a P&O drinks package with another person?
No, P&O Cruises drinks packages are strictly personal and cannot be shared. Each adult (18 years and older) in the same cabin must purchase the same drinks package, if one person opts for an alcoholic package. This policy is standard across most cruise lines to prevent misuse and ensure fair pricing. Children in the same cabin will need to purchase the 'Refresh Drinks Package' or pay for drinks individually.
What are the restrictions on P&O drinks packages in 2026?
In 2026, P&O Cruises drinks packages come with a few restrictions. There's usually a limit on the number of alcoholic drinks you can order at one time (typically two), and a maximum value per drink (e.g., £10 for cocktails or wines). The package must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise, and it cannot be cancelled or refunded once the cruise has started. It also excludes drinks from mini-bars, room service, and some premium venues or promotions.
Are there non-alcoholic drinks packages available on P&O Cruises?
Yes, P&O Cruises offers non-alcoholic drinks packages in 2026. The Alcohol-free Drinks Package covers a variety of soft drinks, juices, bottled water, and speciality coffees and teas. For younger cruisers, the 'Refresh Drinks Package' is available, offering unlimited juices, fizzy drinks, and hot chocolates. These packages are a great option for those who don't consume alcohol or for families looking to manage their beverage costs effectively.
When should I buy my P&O Cruises drinks package for 2026?
It's generally best to purchase your P&O Cruises drinks package in advance, either during the booking process or through the 'My P&O Cruises' portal before your sailing date in 2026. Often, cruise lines offer slight discounts for pre-booking, and it allows you to budget effectively before you even step onboard. While you can purchase packages onboard, the price is usually the same or sometimes slightly higher, and you'll want to avoid the queues on embarkation day.
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