The average cost of a glass of wine on a cruise ship generally ranges from $8 to $25, depending on the type of wine, with an additional automatic service fee applied.
When cruising, guests can expect alcoholic beverages, including wine, to incur an extra charge beyond the base fare. The pricing structure is often comparable to what you would find in restaurants or upscale bars on land.
Wine Pricing Breakdown
The cost of a glass of wine varies significantly based on whether you choose a standard house wine or a more premium selection.
- House Wines: Typically, a glass of house wine will cost around $8 to $10. These are generally the most accessible and common wine options available.
- Nicer Wines: For more premium or specialty wines, the price per glass can range from $14 to $25. These options often include a wider selection of varietals, regions, or vintages.
Additional Service Fees
It's crucial to factor in the service charge that most cruise lines automatically add to alcoholic beverage purchases. This fee is typically:
- 15% to 20% of the drink's price.
For example, a $10 glass of house wine with a 20% service fee would cost $12. Similarly, a $20 glass of nicer wine would be $24 after the service fee. This automatic gratuity covers the service provided by the bar staff.
Factors Influencing Wine Prices
Several elements can influence the price of wine on a cruise ship:
- Cruise Line: Different cruise lines have varying pricing policies, reflecting their overall brand positioning and target demographic. Luxury lines, for instance, might have higher starting prices for all beverages.
- Ship Venue: Prices can sometimes differ slightly between various bars, lounges, or specialty restaurants on the same ship.
- Drink Packages: Many cruise lines offer beverage packages that allow guests to pay a flat daily rate for unlimited (or a set number of) drinks, which can be cost-effective for frequent drinkers. However, these packages often have a per-drink limit, with premium wines exceeding that limit requiring an additional charge.
- Wine Type: As noted, the distinction between house wine and more premium selections is the primary driver of price variation per glass.
Understanding these costs can help cruisers budget effectively for their onboard expenses and enjoy their voyage without unexpected surprises.
