Are P&O Drinks Packages Worth It in 2025?
When booking a P&O Cruise, one of the most common questions is: are the drinks packages worth it? Let’s break down the options and see how pre-purchasing could save you money.
What Are P&O Drinks Packages?
P&O Cruises offers a selection of drinks packages tailored to suit various preferences. Whether you’re a soft drink enthusiast or love a premium cocktail, there’s a package for you. Here’s a look at the available options:
- Refresh Package
- Pre-Purchase Price: £12.95 per person, per day
- Onboard Price: £14.45 per person, per day
- Includes: Unlimited soft drinks such as Pepsi, Pepsi Max, Diet Pepsi, lemonade, and water.
- Alcohol-Free Package
- Pre-Purchase Price: £24.25 per person, per day
- Onboard Price: £26.95 per person, per day
- Includes: All the benefits of the Refresh Package, plus selected Costa Coffee (small), teapigs teas, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
- Classic Package
- Pre-Purchase Price: £43.95 per person, per day
- Onboard Price: £48.85 per person, per day
- Includes: All benefits of the Alcohol-Free Package, plus selected cocktails, 25ml spirits, beers, ciders, 175ml wines, and Prosecco (125ml). A 20% discount applies to excluded products, and children (17 and under) sharing a cabin receive a complimentary Refresh Package.
- Deluxe Package
- Pre-Purchase Price: £54.45 per person, per day
- Onboard Price: £60.50 per person, per day
- Includes: Everything in the Classic Package, with an extended range of cocktails, 50ml spirits, 250ml wines, craft beers, and premium drinks.
Why Pre-Purchase a Drinks Package?
One of the easiest ways to save money on your P&O drinks package is by booking it in advance. Here’s why:
- Pre-Purchase Discount: Booking your drinks package before your cruise starts secures a 10% discount. For instance, the Classic Drinks Package drops to £43.95 per person, per day when pre-purchased.
- Hassle-Free Experience: Having your drinks package sorted before you board allows you to relax and enjoy your holiday without worrying about your onboard spending.
Are Drinks Packages Worth It?
To decide if a P&O drinks package is worth it, consider your daily drink consumption. Here’s a quick comparison:
- A latte from Costa Coffee: ~£3.50
- A glass of wine: ~£6.50
- A cocktail: ~£8.00
- A pint of beer: ~£4.95
If you typically enjoy multiple alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, or soft drinks daily, a drinks package can quickly pay for itself. For example, the Classic Package becomes cost-effective after just five drinks per day.
Important Considerations
- Cabin Policy: All adults sharing a cabin must purchase the same drinks package. Sharing or transferring packages is not allowed.
- Purchase Window: Drinks packages can only be purchased onboard during the first two days of your cruise if not pre-booked.
- 15 Drink Limit on Alcohol: There is a 15 drink limit for alcohol per 24 hour period, resetting at 6am. There are no limits to the number of soft drinks.
- Duration Minimums: Packages are available for cruises of five nights or longer.
- Exclusions: Certain premium beverages, bottles of wine or champagne, and minibar items are not included.
Should you buy a drinks package?
For cruisers pre-purchasing a P&O drinks package in 2025, it offers excellent value and convenience. The Classic Drinks Package, with its discounted price when pre-purchased, is a popular choice for those who enjoy a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your consumption habits. If you’re planning to indulge in multiple drinks daily, a package can enhance your holiday experience while saving you money.
