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What's Included in P&O Drinks Package: What Nobody Tells You

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

A vibrant cocktail being poured on a P&O Cruises ship deck, illustrating what's included in P&O drinks package

Discover exactly what's included in P&O Cruises' drinks packages for 2026, with prices checked against P&O's official pages.

Planning a P&O cruise and wondering about the drinks packages? You're in the right place! It's not always as straightforward as it seems, and making the right choice can significantly impact your holiday budget and enjoyment. Let's dive in and demystify P&O's drink options so you can make an informed decision for your next adventure at sea. If you are sailing on Azura, the Azura drinks menu guide shows how to confirm live menu symbols and package scope.

What Are P&O Cruises Drinks Packages in 2026? Everything You Need to Know

P&O Cruises, a beloved British cruise line, offers a selection of drinks packages designed to enhance your holiday experience and help you manage your onboard spending. For 2026, their main offerings cater to different preferences, whether you're looking for an all-inclusive alcoholic experience or simply want to keep hydrated with non-alcoholic options.

Understanding the specific inclusions and exclusions is crucial to avoid any unexpected charges on your final bill. This guide will break down each package so you know exactly what you're getting.

Key Things to Know About P&O Drinks Packages

Two Main Packages: P&O primarily offers The Ultimate Drinks Package and The Refreshment Package for 2026 sailings.
Cabin Rule: If one adult in a cabin purchases The Ultimate Drinks Package, all other adults (18+) in the same cabin must also purchase either The Ultimate Drinks Package or The Refreshment Package. This is a common policy across many cruise lines to prevent sharing and ensure fairness.
Daily Limit (Alcoholic): The Ultimate Drinks Package typically includes a limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per person, per 24-hour period (midnight to midnight). Non-alcoholic drinks usually have no such limit.
Price Cap Per Drink: There's generally a price limit per individual alcoholic drink (e.g., £10-£12) within The Ultimate Drinks Package. If a drink exceeds this, you pay the difference.
Gratuities Included: Unlike some US-based lines, P&O's package prices for UK guests already include the service charge, so there are no additional gratuities to worry about on top of the package price. This simplifies budgeting significantly.
Exclusions: Premium wines by the bottle, minibar items, room service, and drinks from vending machines are typically not included in any package. Certain high-end spirits or specialty cocktails might also exceed the price cap.

P&O Ultimate Drinks Package 2026: What's Included & Prices

The Ultimate Drinks Package is P&O's most comprehensive offering, designed for guests who enjoy a wide variety of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. This package aims to cover the majority of your drink needs throughout your cruise, providing a sense of all-inclusive luxury without the worry of a mounting bar bill. It's often the package most people consider when asking 'what's included in P&O drinks package?'

As of June 2026, the price for The Ultimate Drinks Package typically ranges from £40 to £45 per person, per day, when purchased in advance. Onboard prices can sometimes be slightly higher, so booking pre-cruise is usually the savvy option. This price includes the estimated 12.5% service charge, so what you see is what you pay. Let's break down exactly what you can expect to enjoy with this package.

Inclusions for The Ultimate Drinks Package

Spirits & Liqueurs: Most standard and premium spirits, including gin, vodka, rum, whisky, and liqueurs, up to the set price limit (e.g., around £10-£12 per drink). This covers a vast array of mixed drinks and cocktails.
Wines by the Glass: A good selection of red, white, and rosé wines by the glass, typically from the house selection and some premium options, up to the price limit. This is great for pairing with meals.
Beers & Ciders: Draught beers (like Stella Artois, San Miguel) and a selection of bottled beers and ciders are included. On ships like Iona and Arvia, this also includes craft beers from the Anderson's & Co. brew house.
Cocktails: A wide range of classic and contemporary cocktails are covered, provided they fall within the per-drink price cap. Think Mojitos, Margaritas, Piña Coladas, and more.
Soft Drinks: Unlimited soft drinks, including Coca-Cola products, lemonade, and other fizzy drinks.
Juices: A variety of fruit juices, such as orange, apple, pineapple, and cranberry.
Specialty Coffees: Unlimited lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and other barista-made coffees from various cafes around the ship.
Teas: A selection of traditional and herbal teas.
Bottled Water: Still and sparkling bottled water, convenient for taking on excursions or keeping in your cabin. Usually, this refers to standard-sized bottles, not large litre bottles.
Hot Chocolates: Indulgent hot chocolate drinks are also typically part of the package.

Exclusions for The Ultimate Drinks Package

Drinks above price limit: Any drink exceeding the estimated £10-£12 price cap will incur an additional charge for the difference.
Bottles of Wine/Champagne: Full bottles of wine, sparkling wine, or champagne are not included, only by the glass.
Minibar Items: Drinks from your cabin minibar are always charged separately.
Room Service: Beverages ordered via room service are generally excluded.
Vending Machines: Drinks from onboard vending machines are not covered.
Medical Centre: Any beverages dispensed from the ship's medical centre.
Selected Premium Brands: While many premium spirits are included, some ultra-premium or rare brands might be excluded or incur a surcharge.

P&O Refreshment Package 2026: What's Included & Prices

For guests who prefer to stick to non-alcoholic beverages, or for those who simply don't drink alcohol, P&O offers The Refreshment Package. This package is a fantastic option for families, designated drivers, or anyone looking to enjoy unlimited soft drinks, specialty coffees, and more without the added cost of alcohol. It's also a popular choice for younger cruisers who are not yet 18.

As of June 2026, The Refreshment Package typically costs between £20 and £25 per person, per day, when purchased in advance. Similar to the Ultimate package, this price includes the service charge. This package offers excellent value if you're a regular consumer of specialty coffees, soft drinks, or bottled water throughout your day on board.

Inclusions for The Refreshment Package

Soft Drinks: Unlimited Coca-Cola products, lemonade, tonic water, and other fizzy drinks.
Juices: A variety of fruit juices, including fresh orange juice where available.
Specialty Coffees: Unlimited lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, Americanos, and other barista-made coffees.
Teas: A selection of traditional, fruit, and herbal teas.
Hot Chocolates: Indulgent hot chocolate beverages.
Bottled Water: Still and sparkling bottled water (standard sizes).
Selected Non-Alcoholic Cocktails: Some mocktails might be included, but it's best to check the specific bar menu.

Exclusions for The Refreshment Package

All Alcoholic Beverages: No alcoholic drinks are included in this package.
Minibar Items: Drinks from your cabin minibar are charged separately.
Room Service: Beverages ordered via room service are generally excluded.
Vending Machines: Drinks from onboard vending machines are not covered.
Large Bottled Water: While standard bottled water is included, larger bottles (e.g., 1-litre) might be excluded or incur a small charge.

P&O Drinks Package Prices 2026: What to Expect

Understanding the pricing structure for P&O drinks packages in 2026 is key to determining their value. Prices can vary slightly based on the specific ship, itinerary length, and whether you purchase in advance or onboard.

It's important to remember that these are per person, per day prices, and they apply for the entire duration of your cruise. You cannot purchase a package for just a few days. The prices listed below are approximate as of June 2026 and include the service charge, making them the final cost you'll pay.

Package Name	Approx. Daily Price (Pre-cruise)	Approx. Daily Price (Onboard)	Key Inclusions
The Ultimate Drinks Package	£40-£45 pp	£45-£50 pp	Alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks up to £10-£12 cap, 15 alcoholic drinks/day limit
The Refreshment Package	£20-£25 pp	£25-£30 pp	Unlimited soft drinks, specialty coffees, teas, bottled water

As you can see, there's a slight advantage to booking your package in advance. Not only does it secure the best price, but it also means you can step on board and immediately start enjoying your drinks without any fuss. This also helps with budgeting, as it's one less thing to worry about once you're on holiday.

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

This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? It entirely depends on your personal drinking habits and how you plan to spend your time on board. For some, it's an absolute no-brainer; for others, it's an unnecessary expense.

To truly assess the value, you need to do a little maths. Think about how many drinks you typically consume in a day, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and compare that to the package price. Don't forget to factor in the price cap per drink and the 15-drink daily limit for the Ultimate package.

When a P&O Drinks Package Is Worth It

You enjoy multiple alcoholic drinks daily: If you typically have 4-5 beers/wines or 5-6 cocktails a day, plus some soft drinks or coffees, The Ultimate Drinks Package will likely save you money. Individual cocktails can typically be £7-£9, a glass of wine £6-£8, and a beer £5-£6. Hitting 5-6 drinks quickly adds up to £30-£50+.
You love specialty coffees: If you're a fan of lattes, cappuccinos, or espressos and have 3-4 of these a day (each costing somewhere around £3-£4), plus soft drinks, The Refreshment Package quickly becomes economical.
You value convenience and budgeting: Knowing your drinks are covered upfront means no surprises on your bill and no need to constantly think about the cost of each drink. This can significantly enhance the relaxation aspect of your holiday.
You're on a longer cruise: On a 14-night cruise, the daily savings, even if small, can accumulate into a substantial amount. The longer the cruise, the more likely the package is to offer value.
You frequently drink bottled water: If you prefer bottled water over tap water, especially for excursions, the unlimited supply in both packages can be a significant benefit, as individual bottles can cost in the region of £2-£3 each.

When a P&O Drinks Package Is NOT Worth It

You're a light drinker: If you only have one or two alcoholic drinks a day, or only drink occasionally, paying for the full Ultimate Drinks Package will almost certainly be more expensive than buying drinks à la carte.
You prefer specific premium brands: If your favourite tipple is a specific high-end whisky or an expensive wine that consistently exceeds the estimated £10-£12 price cap, you'll be paying extra for every drink, diminishing the package's value.
You spend a lot of time ashore: On port-intensive itineraries, you might not be on the ship long enough during the day to consume enough drinks to make the package worthwhile.
You're happy with complimentary options: P&O always offers complimentary water, tea, and coffee in the buffet and main dining rooms. If these suffice for your non-alcoholic needs, The Refreshment Package might not be necessary.

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

Securing a good deal on your P&O drinks package can save you a decent amount of money, which you can then put towards excursions or onboard treats.

It's not always about finding a massive discount, but often about smart timing and understanding P&O's booking policies.

Book in Advance: As mentioned, pre-purchasing your drinks package through your My P&O Cruises account before you sail almost always guarantees a slightly lower price than buying onboard. Keep an eye on your booking portal once you've paid your balance.
Look for Promotional Offers: P&O occasionally runs promotions where drinks packages are offered at a reduced rate or as part of a wider 'all-inclusive' type deal (though these are less common for P&O than other lines). Sign up for P&O's newsletters and follow reputable cruise agents for these alerts.
Consider Your Itinerary: If you're on a port-heavy itinerary, you might spend less time on the ship drinking, making the package less worthwhile. Conversely, sea-day-heavy cruises (like transatlantic crossings) often mean more time for onboard drinks.
Factor in the 'All Adults' Rule: If you're travelling with others in your cabin, remember all adults must purchase a package. Discuss this with your travel companions beforehand to see if it makes financial sense for everyone.
Utilise Complimentary Options: Don't forget that P&O provides complimentary tea, coffee, and water in the buffet and main dining rooms. If you're a light drinker, these might be enough, especially for breakfast.
Bring Your Own: P&O allows guests to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard at embarkation – typically one litre of spirits or wine per adult. This can help supplement your drinks if you're not buying a package, or for pre-dinner drinks in your cabin. Always check P&O's current policy for specifics.
Use a Cruise Drink Package Calculator: Before committing, use a tool like our Cruise Drink Package Calculator to accurately estimate your daily consumption and compare it against the package price. This is the most reliable way to determine personal value.

P&O Drinks Package Comparison: How It Stacks Up Against Other Lines

While P&O's drinks packages are tailored for the British market, it's useful to see how they compare to other popular cruise lines. This can help you decide if P&O's offering aligns with your expectations, especially if you're used to cruising with different companies.

The key factors for comparison often include price, inclusion limits, and the 'all-in-cabin' rule. Remember that direct price comparisons can be tricky due to varying inclusions and service charge policies, but this table provides a general overview as of June 2026.

Cruise Line	Package Name (Typical)	Approx. Daily Price (2026)	Key Differences	Our Verdict
P&O Cruises	Ultimate Drinks Package	£40-£45	15 alcoholic drinks/day limit, £10-£12 cap, all adults in cabin rule, gratuities included.	Good value for moderate drinkers, transparent pricing.
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage Package	£55-£70 (excl. gratuities)	No daily alcoholic drink limit, higher price cap (£12-£15), 20% gratuity added, all adults in cabin rule.	More premium, higher cost, but no drink limit.
Carnival Cruise Line	CHEERS! Package	£50-£60 (excl. gratuities)	15 alcoholic drinks/day limit, £15 cap, 18% gratuity added, all adults in cabin rule.	Similar limits to P&O, but higher base price and added gratuity.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)	Premium Plus Beverage Pkg	Often 'Free at Sea' perk	Broader inclusions (premium spirits, bottled water, specialty coffees, sometimes even minibar), often part of a 'Free at Sea' promotion.	Excellent value if included as a perk, otherwise very expensive.
MSC Cruises	Easy Plus/Premium Extra	£35-£60	Multiple tiers, varying price caps and inclusions, often good value for money, sometimes included in 'Fantastica' or 'Aura' fares.	Flexible options, but can be confusing to choose the right one.
Celebrity Cruises	Premium Drinks Package	£60-£75	Often included in 'All Included' fares, higher price cap, extensive selection of premium drinks, gratuities included if part of 'All Included'.	High-end, great if included, otherwise a significant expense.

As you can see, P&O's Ultimate Drinks Package sits somewhere in the middle in terms of price and inclusions. It's generally more affordable than Royal Caribbean or Celebrity's premium offerings, especially when you factor in the included gratuities. However, it does come with the 15-drink daily limit and the 'all adults in cabin' rule, which are important considerations. For a UK-centric cruise experience, P&O offers a solid and predictable option.

Frequently Asked Questions About P&O Drinks Packages

What are the main P&O drinks packages available in 2026?

In 2026, P&O Cruises primarily offers two main drinks packages: The Ultimate Drinks Package and The Refreshment Package. The Ultimate Drinks Package covers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including premium spirits, wines by the glass, beers, and specialty coffees, up to a certain price limit per drink. The Refreshment Package focuses on unlimited non-alcoholic options like soft drinks, juices, and hot beverages, making it ideal for those who don't consume alcohol or prefer not to. Both packages offer convenience and potential savings depending on your consumption habits.

Is there a daily limit on the number of drinks I can order with a P&O package?

Yes, P&O Cruises' drinks packages, particularly The Ultimate Drinks Package, typically have a daily limit on the number of alcoholic drinks you can order. As of June 2026, this limit is usually 15 alcoholic drinks per person per 24-hour period (midnight to midnight). There is generally no limit on non-alcoholic beverages within the package. This policy is in place to promote responsible drinking and ensure a pleasant environment for all guests on board. It's rare for most guests to hit this limit, even on a lively sea day.

Can I share my P&O drinks package with another guest?

No, P&O Cruises' drinks packages are strictly personal and cannot be shared with other guests. Each package is assigned to an individual guest and is linked to their cruise card. If you are caught sharing your package, P&O reserves the right to revoke the package without a refund. This policy is standard across most cruise lines to prevent misuse and ensure fair pricing. If one person in a cabin purchases an alcoholic package, all adults in the same cabin will also need to purchase an alcoholic package, or the Refreshment Package if they prefer, to avoid sharing issues.

What is the price limit per drink on P&O's Ultimate Drinks Package in 2026?

As of June 2026, P&O's Ultimate Drinks Package typically covers individual drinks up to a value of around £10-£12. This means most standard cocktails, glasses of wine, beers, and spirits will be included. If you order a drink that exceeds this price limit, you will be charged the difference. For example, if a premium cocktail costs around £14 and the limit is about £10, you would pay £4. This limit is quite generous and covers the vast majority of drinks on the standard bar menu, but it's always worth checking the menu for specific prices if you have a particular preference for high-end spirits.

Are specialty coffees and bottled water included in P&O drinks packages?

Yes, specialty coffees (such as lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos) are generally included in both The Ultimate Drinks Package and The Refreshment Package. This is a fantastic perk, especially for coffee lovers. Bottled water is also typically included, which is very convenient for taking ashore on excursions or keeping in your cabin. However, it's worth noting that large bottles of water might have a limit or be subject to a small charge, so always clarify with the bar staff if you're unsure.

Can I purchase a P&O drinks package once on board, or should I buy it in advance?

You can usually purchase P&O drinks packages both in advance through your My P&O Cruises account and once you are on board the ship. However, we highly recommend purchasing your package in advance, as you can often secure a slightly better price or take advantage of promotional offers. Buying in advance also means you can start enjoying your package from the moment you step on board, without having to queue at guest services.