Carnival’s Unexpected Price Change for the Cheers! Beverage Program

Carnival Cruise Line recently increased the daily rate for its Cheers! Beverage Program, surprising many travelers. The previous discount for cruises lasting six nights or more is no longer available. Now, regardless of the length of your trip, the package costs $82.54 per day if purchased before your cruise (including an 18% service charge) or $88.45 onboard.

For longer cruises, the removal of the discount effectively raises the cost. On a 7-night trip, for instance, this means paying about $82.60 more per person compared to the previous pricing. Carnival’s rule still applies: if one adult in a stateroom purchases the Cheers! package, every adult 21 and over in the same room must buy it, too.

While the package includes the same offerings as before—alcoholic drinks capped at 15 per day and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages—the lack of advance notice has frustrated many Carnival cruisers. Guests planning upcoming trips missed the chance to lock in the old rates, and for those cruising during the holidays, the timing adds to an already stretched budget.

Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, explained that recent price adjustments help offset rising costs and support investments in onboard offerings. He emphasized that these changes aim to maintain the quality experiences guests have come to expect and enjoy.

On a positive note, the prices of the Bottomless Bubbles soda package and bottled water have remained the same.

With the holiday cruising season underway, it’s worth reviewing your budget to decide if Cheers! still fits your plans.

Read more: Cruise Drink Package Calculator: Find Out if It’s Worth It