What is the Princess Plus Drink Package?
The Princess Plus drink package is a comprehensive beverage inclusion offered by Princess Cruises, designed to simplify your onboard expenses and enhance your enjoyment. It bundles a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with other perks, into a single upfront cost. This package aims to provide a more predictable budget for your cruise, allowing you to relax and savor your favorite beverages without constant consideration of individual prices.
- Includes alcoholic beverages up to $15 per drink.
- Covers specialty coffees, teas, and sodas.
- Adds Wi-Fi access and daily gratuities.
- Offers a fixed cost for predictable budgeting.
- Enhances the overall cruise experience with convenience.
Understanding what this package entails is crucial for making an informed decision about whether it aligns with your cruising style and consumption habits. It’s more than just a drink deal; it’s an integrated amenity that can significantly shape your experience from the moment you board.
Decoding the Princess Plus Inclusions
At its core, the Princess Plus package is built around providing value through a wide array of beverage options. For those who enjoy a cocktail, wine, or beer with their meals or throughout the day, this package can offer substantial savings compared to purchasing drinks individually. The limit of $15 per drink ensures that most standard and many premium beverages are covered, from craft beers and house wines to classic cocktails and spirits.
Beyond alcoholic options, the package extends its generosity to non-alcoholic beverages, a critical aspect for many cruisers. This includes unlimited fountain sodas, juices, and specialty coffees and teas. Imagine starting your day with a perfectly crafted latte from the onboard café or winding down with a soothing herbal tea, all without an extra charge. This thoughtful inclusion caters to a broad range of preferences, ensuring that both the discerning coffee aficionado and the casual soda drinker feel well-catered for.
The convenience factor cannot be overstated. Instead of fumbling for your cruise card and calculating costs for each drink, you can simply order and enjoy. This seamless experience allows passengers to immerse themselves more fully in the vacation atmosphere, focusing on relaxation and exploration rather than managing micro-transactions.
Beyond Beverages: Added Value
What truly sets the Princess Plus package apart is its inclusion of elements beyond just drinks. Two significant benefits that come bundled are onboard Wi-Fi access and daily gratuities. These are often separate, significant expenses for cruisers, and their inclusion in the Plus package can represent a substantial saving and further simplify your onboard financial planning.
The Wi-Fi access, typically for one device per person, means you can stay connected with family and friends back home, share your vacation moments on social media, or even catch up on emails. This is a valuable amenity, as onboard internet can be notoriously expensive when purchased à la carte. Similarly, including the daily crew appreciation (gratuities) means this common cruise cost is covered upfront, removing another layer of financial complexity from your trip.
The combination of unlimited beverages, Wi-Fi, and covered gratuities positions the Princess Plus package as a holistic upgrade to the standard cruise fare, offering a more all-inclusive feel for passengers who plan to utilize these amenities regularly.
What Drinks Are Included in Princess Plus?
The selection of drinks covered by the Princess Plus package is extensive, aiming to satisfy a wide range of tastes and preferences throughout your voyage. The primary benefit is the inclusion of alcoholic beverages, with a specific limit per drink, ensuring that most standard and a good selection of premium options are available to you.
Alcoholic Beverages: Selection and Limits
Princess Cruises specifies that the Plus package covers alcoholic drinks up to $15 each. This generally includes a broad spectrum of popular choices: draft beers, bottled beers, house wines by the glass, standard spirits, and cocktails. For guests who enjoy a daily glass of wine with dinner, a beer during a shore excursion recap, or a cocktail by the pool, this limit typically accommodates their preferences without issue.
Should you wish to indulge in a top-shelf liquor, a vintage wine, or a premium spirit that exceeds the $15 threshold, you would simply pay the difference. The package still offers a discount on these higher-priced items, but the full price of the drink is not covered. It’s wise to check the current onboard beverage menus to understand which drinks fall within the $15 limit and which might incur an upcharge. This ensures you can make your selections with confidence, maximizing the value of your package.
Crucially, this coverage extends to bars, lounges, restaurants, and even room service, providing flexibility in where and when you choose to enjoy your beverages. The ease of ordering without constant price checks contributes significantly to a relaxed vacation mood.
Non-Alcoholic Options: A Refreshing Variety
The Princess Plus package doesn't skimp on non-alcoholic offerings, making it appealing for everyone in a traveling party, not just those who drink alcohol. This includes:
- Fountain Sodas: Unlimited access to popular soft drinks like Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, and more, available at various outlets across the ship.
- Specialty Coffees and Teas: Enjoy premium coffee beverages such as lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos, as well as a selection of fine teas, often from onboard cafes. This is a significant value, as these specialty drinks can be quite costly if purchased individually.
- Fresh Juices: Some fresh juices, often available at breakfast or during specific times, can also be included, offering a healthy and refreshing alternative.
- Bottled Water: While specific types and quantities can vary, some bottled water options might be covered, particularly for use with coffee or tea preparation.
The inclusion of specialty coffees and teas is a particular highlight. Many cruisers start their day with a coffee or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up, and the ability to do so without accumulating extra charges is a major draw. This covers a wide range of tastes, from a robust espresso to a delicate green tea.
The coverage for non-alcoholic drinks is designed to be comprehensive, ensuring that hydration and caffeine needs are met throughout the day and night, complementing the alcoholic selections for a truly complete beverage experience.
Princess Cruises Dress Code and Casual Dining
When considering the Princess Plus drink package, it's helpful to understand how it fits into the broader onboard experience, including dining and dress codes. Princess Cruises offers various dining options, from casual to formal, and the drink package can be used across most of them. Understanding these aspects helps in planning your days and evenings.
How Strict is Princess Cruises Dress Code?
Princess Cruises generally maintains a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, with dress codes varying by the dining venue and the time of day. For most daytime activities and casual dining venues, resort-casual attire is appropriate. This typically includes slacks, capris, shorts, jeans (though some venues may have restrictions on ripped jeans), polo shirts, casual blouses, and t-shirts.
When it comes to formal nights or specialty dining rooms, the expectations are higher. While “formal” on Princess Cruises is usually described as elegant casual, it means guests are encouraged to dress up. Men might opt for dress shirts, slacks, and a blazer or sport coat, while women might choose dresses, skirts, or dressy separates. Ties and jackets are often optional, but never required.
The Princess Plus drink package can be enjoyed in all dining venues, whether you’re dressed for a casual lunch on deck or a more refined evening in the main dining room. The key is that your beverage choices are covered, allowing you to pair your meal with your preferred drink without concern for individual costs, irrespective of your attire.
What Are Casual Dining Meals on Princess Cruises?
Princess Cruises offers a variety of casual dining opportunities that complement the drink package perfectly. These venues provide a relaxed setting for meals and are ideal for enjoying drinks included in your Plus package.
- Horizon Court Buffet: This is the main buffet, offering a wide range of international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s a self-service environment where you can assemble your plate from numerous stations.
- Lawn Grill (on select ships): Located on the deck, this venue often features grilled items and casual fare in an open-air setting.
- Alfredo's Pizzeria/Sabatini's (select offerings): While Sabatini's is a specialty restaurant, some ships may have more casual Italian-inspired offerings or pizzerias that fit a more relaxed dining profile. Alfredo's is known for its artisan pizzas and is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
- Trident Grill: Typically found on the Lido Deck, this is a popular spot for burgers and hot dogs, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
- Room Service: While some items on the room service menu may incur an extra charge, many standard options are available, and you can often pair them with drinks from your package (though ordering alcoholic drinks via room service may have specific protocols and potential additional fees for the service itself).
At these casual dining locations, the Princess Plus drink package allows you to pair your meal with a soda, a specialty coffee, or even a beer or wine if you wish. It makes dining onboard feel more inclusive and less about managing additional expenses for every beverage choice.
How Many Formal Nights on Princess Cruises?
The number of formal nights on Princess Cruises can vary depending on the length and itinerary of your cruise. Typically, for cruises lasting seven days or longer, there will be two formal nights. Shorter cruises might have one formal night, or none at all. These nights are opportunities for guests to dress up and enjoy a more elegant dining experience in the main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.
Even on formal nights, the Princess Plus drink package remains a valuable companion. Whether you’re enjoying a multi-course dinner with wine pairings or celebrating with a cocktail, your beverage costs are managed. The package doesn't dictate your dining choice but rather enhances it by removing the concern over drink prices.
Cost of Drinks on Princess Cruises & Package Value
Understanding the cost of drinks on Princess Cruises is key to evaluating whether the Princess Plus drink package is a worthwhile investment for your particular cruise. Without a package, individual drink prices can add up, especially if you enjoy a few beverages throughout the day.
How Much is a Drinks Package on Princess Cruises?
Princess Cruises offers several beverage packages, with the Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages being the most comprehensive. The exact price for these packages can fluctuate based on promotional offers, the duration of the cruise, and the specific itinerary. It is also important to note that the price often applies per person, per day, for the entire duration of the cruise.
To find the current cost, you should check directly with Princess Cruises or your travel advisor. These packages are typically available for purchase before your cruise through the cruise line's website or onboard during the initial days of your voyage. Purchasing in advance can sometimes offer a slight discount or guarantee availability.
The price is usually displayed as a daily rate, and then this daily rate is multiplied by the number of days on your cruise to get the total package cost per person. For example, if the package is advertised at $75 per person, per day, for a 7-day cruise, the total cost per person would be $525.
What Drinks Are Free on Princess Cruises?
On any Princess Cruise, certain basic beverages are complimentary and available to all passengers, regardless of whether they have purchased a drink package. These typically include:
- Tap Water: Available in dining rooms, bars, and through self-service stations.
- Iced Tea: Usually available in dining rooms and some buffet areas.
- Lemonade: Often found in dining rooms and buffet areas.
- Coffee and Tea: Basic coffee (drip) and a selection of tea bags are usually complimentary in the buffet areas and sometimes in the main dining rooms during meal hours.
However, the Princess Plus package elevates this by including specialty coffees, teas, sodas, and juices, which are typically charged separately and can be quite expensive. The value proposition of the Plus package is therefore centered on the extensive list of included beverages beyond these basic free offerings.
The Princess Plus package provides a fixed cost for a wide array of drinks that would otherwise incur significant individual charges. For guests who consume multiple beverages daily, including specialty coffees, sodas, and alcoholic drinks, the package often represents a substantial saving and a more predictable way to manage onboard spending.
Comparing Package Value: Princess Plus vs. Individual Purchases
To determine if the Princess Plus package is cost-effective for you, it's helpful to estimate your typical daily beverage consumption and compare it against the package price. Consider the following:
- How many specialty coffees or teas do you typically have per day?
- Will you be ordering fountain sodas or juices regularly?
- Do you plan to have one or more alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails) each day?
- Are you interested in the included Wi-Fi and daily gratuities?
For instance, if a specialty latte costs $5, a soda costs $3, and a cocktail costs $10, consuming just one of each per day would already amount to $18. Add in another drink or two, and the costs quickly exceed the daily rate of the Princess Plus package. When you factor in the Wi-Fi and gratuities, the value proposition becomes even stronger for many passengers.
The Princess Plus package is designed for the cruiser who enjoys a variety of beverages throughout the day and wants to avoid the hassle of tracking individual charges. It offers a more relaxed and financially predictable vacation experience for those who will make regular use of its inclusions.
Princess Cruises Mini Suite Benefits and Package Integration
When booking a cruise, guests often consider various cabin types and added amenities, such as the Princess Plus drink package. Understanding how these elements complement each other can help maximize your vacation experience and value. Mini-suites on Princess Cruises offer a step up in comfort and amenities, and their integration with beverage packages is straightforward.
What Are Princess Cruises Mini Suite Benefits?
A mini-suite on Princess Cruises provides a comfortable middle ground between a standard balcony stateroom and a full suite. While specific amenities can vary slightly by ship class, common benefits of booking a mini-suite include:
- More Space: Mini-suites are larger than standard staterooms, often featuring a separate sitting area with a sofa, which can be a significant comfort upgrade.
- Enhanced Bathroom: Some mini-suites may offer a more spacious bathroom, and on certain ships, they might come with a tub and shower combination, which is a luxury not found in standard staterooms.
- Priority Services: Depending on the ship and itinerary, mini-suite guests may receive priority embarkation, disembarkation, or tendering.
- Welcome Amenities: Often, guests in mini-suites receive a small welcome amenity, such as a bottle of wine or sparkling cider.
- Access to Certain Areas: On some ships, mini-suite guests might have access to certain exclusive areas or services, though this is less common than for full suites.
These benefits contribute to a more luxurious and convenient cruise experience. However, it's important to note that a mini-suite does not typically include beverages, Wi-Fi, or gratuities as standard. This is where adding a package like Princess Plus becomes highly relevant.
The Princess Plus package is designed to complement any stateroom category, including mini-suites. It offers a way to bundle popular amenities that are not inherently part of the mini-suite booking, thereby enhancing the overall value and convenience.
How Princess Plus Integrates with Mini-Suites
When you book a mini-suite and add the Princess Plus drink package, you are essentially layering a comprehensive set of perks onto your already enhanced accommodation. The mini-suite provides a larger, more comfortable living space, while the Plus package covers your daily beverage needs, connectivity, and gratuities.
For example, imagine enjoying a morning coffee from the package in your spacious mini-suite sitting area, or ordering a cocktail from the package to enjoy on your private balcony. The package’s Wi-Fi ensures you can share photos of your suite’s comforts or stay in touch from your comfortable vantage point. The inclusion of gratuities means one less thing to worry about, allowing you to fully appreciate the benefits of both your accommodation and the beverage package.
While the mini-suite itself offers a premium living experience, the Princess Plus package provides premium consumption experience that can be enjoyed anywhere onboard, including the privacy of your suite. This combination can lead to a highly enjoyable and seamless cruise.
What to Compare When Choosing Your Cruise Package
When deciding whether to add the Princess Plus package (or the even more inclusive Princess Premier package) to your cruise booking, especially if you are considering a mini-suite, consider these comparison points:
- Your typical beverage consumption: Be realistic about how many alcoholic and non-alcoholic specialty drinks you might consume daily.
- Wi-Fi usage: If you need reliable internet access for work or staying connected, the included Wi-Fi is a significant benefit.
- Gratuities: If you prefer to have all your onboard service charges covered upfront, this is a major advantage.
- The cost of individual items: Research or estimate the à la carte prices for specialty coffees, sodas, and alcoholic beverages to compare against the package price.
- The duration of your cruise: For longer cruises, the savings from a package can become more substantial.
By comparing these factors, you can determine if the Princess Plus package aligns with your lifestyle and budget, whether you are in a standard stateroom or a more spacious mini-suite. It’s about tailoring the cruise experience to your personal preferences and maximizing the value you receive.
Princess Cruises How Long for Booking to Show in Account
When you make a booking for a cruise, purchase a package like the Princess Plus drink package, or book any shore excursions, you’ll naturally want to see these reflected in your cruise personalizer or onboard account. Understanding the timeline for these updates is important for peace of mind and for managing your cruise preparations.
When Do Bookings Appear Online?
Generally, once a booking is confirmed by Princess Cruises, it should appear in your online account or cruise personalizer within a short period. This can range from a few hours to 24-48 hours after the transaction is processed. If you have purchased a package like the Princess Plus drink package, or made other onboard purchases, these should also appear within a similar timeframe.
You can check the status of your booking and any added amenities by logging into your Princess Cruises account on their official website. Look for a section dedicated to your upcoming cruise, often labeled 'My Princess' or 'Cruise Personalizer'. Here, you should see a summary of your booking, including your stateroom, dining arrangements, and any pre-purchased packages.
If you made your booking through a travel agent, they should also be able to confirm the details for you. Sometimes, system delays can occur, especially during peak booking periods or immediately after a new promotion has launched.
Troubleshooting Missing Purchases
If you have waited a reasonable amount of time (e.g., 48 hours) and your Princess Plus drink package, or any other purchase, is not showing in your account, here are the steps you should take:
- Double-check your confirmation email: Ensure the purchase was successfully completed and check for any specific details or reference numbers.
- Contact Princess Cruises Customer Service: This is the most direct way to resolve the issue. Provide them with your booking reference number, the details of the purchase (what you bought, when, and how), and your name. They can verify the transaction in their system and manually update your account if necessary.
- Consult your travel agent: If you booked through an agent, they can liane with Princess Cruises on your behalf to track down the missing item.
It’s generally advisable to ensure all your pre-cruise purchases are visible in your account at least a week or two before your departure date. This allows ample time for any discrepancies to be resolved before you board the ship, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your vacation.
Once you are onboard, any pre-purchased packages like the Princess Plus drink package will be activated, and you will typically receive a confirmation card or note in your stateroom detailing its inclusions and how to use it. Your onboard account will reflect that the package has been applied, so any eligible drinks or services will be charged accordingly (i.e., not charged at all, or showing as $0.00).
Princess Cruises Drink Package vs. Princess Premier
Princess Cruises offers more than one way to enhance your beverage experience and streamline onboard spending. Beyond the Princess Plus package, there is the Princess Premier package, which provides an even more extensive suite of inclusions. Understanding the differences is key to selecting the option that best fits your cruise style.
Princess Plus vs. Premier: What's Different?
The Princess Plus package is a robust offering that includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (up to $15 per drink), Wi-Fi access for one device, and daily gratuities. It is designed for passengers who enjoy a variety of drinks and want to simplify their onboard expenses while staying connected.
The Princess Premier package takes this a step further by offering a more comprehensive set of benefits. While it also includes unlimited beverages (with the same $15 per drink limit), Wi-Fi for all devices in the cabin, and daily gratuities, it adds several other premium inclusions:
- Specialty Dining: Premier includes one or two specialty restaurant meals per person, depending on the cruise length. This is a significant value if you planned to dine at one of Princess's popular specialty venues like Crown Grill or Bistro Sur La Mer.
- Unlimited Juices and Smoothies: While Plus includes some juices, Premier often offers unlimited access to all juices and smoothies, including those from specialty locations.
- Photos: The Premier package typically includes a certain number of digital photos or one print photo package.
- Boutique Discount: A discount on select onboard boutiques is often part of the Premier package.
- Cruise Essentials: Sometimes, a small bundle of essentials like a hat or tote bag is included.
Essentially, the Princess Plus package focuses on beverages, connectivity, and gratuities, making it a great choice for moderate drinkers and those who value convenience. The Princess Premier package is for guests who want a more all-inclusive experience, including dining, photography, and retail perks, in addition to all the benefits of the Plus package.
Who Should Choose Princess Plus?
The Princess Plus package is an excellent choice for:
- Cruisers who enjoy a few alcoholic beverages (like wine, beer, or cocktails) daily, along with specialty coffees and sodas.
- Passengers who value having their gratuities covered upfront, simplifying budgeting.
- Those who require Wi-Fi access for one device to stay connected or check in periodically.
- Cruisers who want to avoid the hassle of tracking individual drink costs and prefer a predictable daily expense.
- Guests who do not plan to dine at specialty restaurants frequently or are not particularly interested in onboard photography packages.
If your primary goal is to have your drinks, internet, and tips taken care of, the Princess Plus package offers a substantial upgrade to your cruise experience without the higher cost associated with the Premier package.
Who Should Choose Princess Premier?
The Princess Premier package is ideal for:
- Frequent cruisers who plan to indulge in multiple specialty coffees, sodas, and alcoholic beverages each day.
- Guests who intend to dine at one or more specialty restaurants during their cruise, as the included dining experience can often exceed the package's added cost.
- Travelers who want comprehensive Wi-Fi access for multiple devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptops).
- Those who want to capture their vacation memories with included photo packages.
- Cruisers looking for the most comprehensive, all-inclusive feel possible on a Princess cruise.
By understanding what each package offers, you can make an informed decision that best suits your personal preferences, cruising habits, and budget, ensuring you get the most value and enjoyment out of your Princess Cruise.
Maximizing Your Princess Plus Drink Package
Once you’ve decided that the Princess Plus drink package is right for you and you’ve purchased it, the next step is to ensure you’re getting the most out of it. This package offers significant value, but like any bundled service, it requires a bit of awareness to maximize its benefits.
The key to maximizing the Princess Plus package is to actively use its included features throughout your cruise. This means not holding back on ordering specialty coffees, enjoying a cocktail by the pool, or staying connected with the included Wi-Fi. The more you utilize these benefits, the greater the value you’ll perceive.
Utilize Specialty Coffees and Teas
Don't hesitate to visit the onboard cafes for your morning latte, afternoon cappuccino, or a soothing herbal tea. These specialty beverages can often cost $5-$7 each if purchased individually. If you enjoy two such drinks a day, you can quickly recoup a significant portion of the package’s daily cost from this inclusion alone. Make it a habit to try different coffee creations or explore the tea selection available.
Enjoy Daily Alcoholic Beverages
Whether it's a glass of wine with lunch, a beer before dinner, or a cocktail during a show, take advantage of the included alcoholic drinks up to $15 each. This limit covers a wide range of popular options. Consider trying different bars or lounges on the ship, each offering a unique ambiance, and pair your drinks with the ship’s entertainment or scenery. Don't forget that many drinks can be enjoyed on your balcony or delivered to your stateroom.
The true value of the Princess Plus package is realized when its inclusions are used regularly.
Leverage the Wi-Fi and Gratuities
While the beverage aspect is primary, remember the included Wi-Fi and gratuities. If you need to check emails, post updates, or connect with loved ones, use the provided Wi-Fi. It's a substantial saving compared to purchasing internet access separately. Similarly, knowing your daily gratuities are covered allows for a more carefree experience, as this common cruise expense is already handled.
You can also use the package to enhance your dining experiences. For example, if you’re dining in a casual venue or the buffet, you can still order a specialty coffee or a glass of wine to accompany your meal without extra charge, making even the most relaxed meals feel a bit more special.
Stay Aware of Package Limits and Exclusions
While the Princess Plus package is generous, it’s important to be aware of its limitations to avoid unexpected charges. The $15 limit on alcoholic beverages is the most common one to watch. If you order a drink that exceeds this price point, you will pay the difference. Bottles of wine are generally not included unless ordered by the glass within the price limit. Also, the package typically does not cover mini-bar items or beverages sold in souvenir glasses, which may have an additional charge.
Finally, remember that the package is per person. If you are traveling with a companion who does not drink alcohol or does not consume enough beverages to make the package worthwhile, they might be better off with a different plan or paying individually. However, if both individuals in a stateroom opt for the Plus package, the per-person value is often significantly enhanced.