Passengers on Carnival Cruise Line vessels are expressing frustration over the company’s strict beverage package policies, particularly the requirement that all adults sharing a cabin must purchase the package if one person does. The cruise operator recently implemented a price increase for its Cheers unlimited beverage program without advance notice, sparking additional controversy among customers.
Unlike its competitor Royal Caribbean, which offers flexibility by allowing cabin mates to opt for a non-alcoholic refreshment package instead of the full beverage package, Carnival maintains a firm stance on its all-or-nothing policy. The company’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, addressed the issue head-on, explaining that previous attempts to offer more flexible options were unsuccessful due to widespread abuse of the system.
One particularly vocal passenger, Kristin Montoya, took to Heald’s Facebook page to voice her concerns about the pricing structure. She argued that the package now sometimes costs as much as or more than the cruise fare itself, and criticized the lack of warning about the price increase. Montoya, who has multiple cruises booked through 2026 with her family, emphasized the need for policy changes, especially for non-drinking passengers sharing cabins.
In response to these complaints, Heald acknowledged the concerns but stood firm on the company’s position. He pointed out that even with the increased prices, the package still offers value for money. When broken down, the cost per alcoholic drink comes to approximately $6, assuming passengers consume the maximum 15 drinks allowed per day. This represents significant savings compared to the standard $14 price for most mixed drinks and wines aboard the ship.
The cruise line’s beverage policies are part of a broader framework of rules designed to balance passenger satisfaction with practical operations. While some regulations focus on safety concerns, such as prohibiting flammable items and certain electronic devices, others, like the beverage package rules, serve both operational and revenue purposes. Carnival maintains that monitoring alcohol consumption is crucial for both passenger safety and business operations.
Despite mounting pressure from customers, Carnival has indicated no plans to modify its current beverage package policy. This stance reflects the company’s experience with previous attempts at more flexible options, which reportedly led to misuse. The cruise line appears to be prioritizing consistent policy enforcement over individual accommodation, even as passengers call for more
personalized options.
The debate highlights the ongoing challenge cruise lines face in balancing customer preferences with operational necessities. While Royal Caribbean has found a middle ground with its alternative refreshment package option, Carnival maintains that its current policy is the most effective way to manage beverage service across its fleet.
The timing and implementation of the price increase have added another layer of complexity to the situation, with many passengers expressing disappointment about the lack of advance notice. However, Heald’s defense of the pricing structure emphasizes the package’s continued value proposition, even at the higher price point. Despite passenger pushback, Carnival remains committed to its current beverage package framework, citing past experiences and operational considerations as key factors in maintaining the status quo.