Carnival Sunrise Cruise Guests Receive Partial Refunds Amid Air Conditioning Challenges

Cruising the Caribbean is a dream vacation for many, but what happens when the sweltering heat outside seeps into the ship's interior? Guests aboard the Carnival Sunrise found themselves facing exactly this issue during their recent voyage. Technical difficulties with the air conditioning system on the ship led to uncomfortably high temperatures in certain areas, including guest staterooms. As a gesture of goodwill and to compensate for the inconvenience caused, Carnival Cruise Line is offering partial refunds to affected guests. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the air conditioning issues, the response from Carnival Cruise Line, and how guests can stay cool during their voyage.

**The Air Conditioning Challenge**

Sailing in the Caribbean at the end of July, the Carnival Sunrise encountered repeated problems with its air conditioning system, leading to excessively hot areas onboard. The ship's dedicated technicians worked tirelessly to resolve the issue, but their efforts only resulted in limited success. As a result, certain guest staterooms suffered from temperatures far above the expected levels.

In acknowledgement of the discomfort experienced by affected guests, Carnival Cruise Line decided to provide partial refunds. A letter was given to the impacted guests, expressing apologies for the inconvenience and explaining the compensation process. Refunds are calculated based on the number of days the stateroom temperature remained above the ideal range, and guests will receive a 50% refund of their cruise fare for each day of discomfort. Some on social media say this is not enough. According to one anonymous passenger: 

"I just got off the Sunrise today as well and it was not terrible. Yes the rooms at times were warm but that was mostly during the day when it was hot out. Leave your shade closed, we had a fan that ran when we were in our room and it was fine. I really was only warm the first night. We didn’t see any fights so idk where that occurred at and they compensated for the ac which basically covered all of our spending. There was also AC in parts of the boat as it didn’t affect the entire boat. They are working on it now while it’s in port."

**Carnival's Response and Statement**

Carnival Cruise Line is fully aware of the challenges posed by the extreme heat and record-setting ocean temperatures. They acknowledge that these conditions have put additional stress on their air conditioning systems, affecting both land and sea operations. The technical teams are closely monitoring all ships to ensure guest comfort.

Regarding the specific issues faced by Carnival Sunrise, the cruise line assures that the problems are limited to a select number of staterooms and some public areas. Their shipboard and shoreside teams worked diligently to address the higher temperatures, and in most affected areas, the situation has been resolved.

Carnival Cruise Line's brand ambassador, John Heald, empathized with guests and assured them that engineering teams and shoreside staff are doing their utmost to rectify the situation and prevent such occurrences in the future.

Planning to go on a cruise in the future? Check out our favorite cruise essentials that will make your cruising life easier! 

**Refunds and Considerations**

Refunds are being issued in the form of onboard credits to guests' Sail & Sign accounts. It's essential to note that these refunds are based solely on the base cruise fare and do not include port taxes, fees, or any onboard purchases, such as drink packages, Wi-Fi, or specialty dining.

The calculation of refunds takes into account the number of days during which the stateroom temperature exceeded the desired level. Since temperatures may have varied in different staterooms, the refunds may differ for each guest.

This water bottle tote is one of our favorite cruise items! It has an antitheft pocket for protecting your essentials on shore!

**Coping with the Heat Onboard**

While the air conditioning issues on the Carnival Sunrise were indeed challenging, there are several strategies that cruise guests can adopt to stay cool and comfortable during their voyage. Some of these include:

1. **Using Fans:** Consider bringing a small fan onboard to promote better air circulation in your stateroom. Alternatively, check with your stateroom attendants if fans are available for request.

2. **Balcony Doors and Curtains:** If your stateroom has a balcony, you can open the door to let in a cooling breeze. However, when the sun is beating down, closing curtains can help shield your room from the sun's rays and prevent overheating.

3. **Stay Hydrated:** Dealing with the heat requires staying hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

4. **Enjoy Ship Amenities:** Take advantage of the ship's pools and public areas with strong air conditioning. This allows you to cool off and relax in more comfortable surroundings.

**Carnival Sunrise's History**

While the recent air conditioning challenges aboard the Carnival Sunrise are unfortunate, it's important to recognize the ship's history. Previously known as Carnival Triumph, the vessel gained notoriety in 2013 when an engine room fire resulted in power and propulsion loss, leaving passengers stranded at sea for several days. Additionally, the ship experienced power loss issues in 2010, 2014, and 2017.

In 2019, Carnival Sunrise underwent an extensive $200 million refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain. This comprehensive makeover transformed the ship into the second vessel of the Sunshine class, formerly known as Carnival Sunshine.

**Conclusion**

Cruises are meant to be enjoyable and relaxing experiences, but technical challenges can sometimes arise, causing discomfort to guests. The Carnival Sunrise's recent air conditioning issues are a testament to this fact. Nonetheless, Carnival Cruise Line's swift response and gesture of partial refunds demonstrate their commitment to guest satisfaction. As guests continue to embark on memorable voyages, they can remain hopeful that Carnival's technical teams are continuously working to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience for all.

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Value and Service: Princess Cruises Introduces Enhanced Packages for “Unforgettable”Voyages

Princess Cruises, the iconic cruise brand known for delivering dream vacations to millions of guests worldwide, has taken their commitment to unmatched service and value to the next level. In a recent press release, Princess Cruises announced the expansion of their Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages, offering astonishing savings of up to 70% or more compared to purchasing items individually. These enhanced packages are designed to provide guests with an extraordinary experience, combining convenience, luxury, and indulgence at an unbeatable price.

BUT NOT EVERYONE FEELS THESE ARE FAIR UPDATES! These changes have been very controversial! The most common complaints are the up charge for popular pizzerias Alfredo’s and Gigis, and the $5 surcharge for room service without the Princess Premier package. Those passengers that are already booked will have access to the New Amenities provided, like unlimited internet, but will be subject to the new charges too. One social media user said:

“I think it's the way Princess made the changes that really bothers everyone.  No warning, no consideration for people who have already paid for their cruise.  What a slap in the face to your customers.  It looks like an act of desperation, which it may be.”

Planning to go on a cruise in the future? Check out our favorite cruise essentials that will make your cruising life easier! 

Princess Plus Package:

For $60 per person per day, the Princess Plus Package now includes an array of exclusive services and benefits, showcasing savings of up to $668 on a 7-day cruise. Guests opting for this package will enjoy:

1. Plus Beverage Package: Covering drinks up to $15, including specialty coffees, smoothies, bottled water, and a 25% discount on bottles of wine.

2. Unlimited MedallionNet 2.0: Enjoy seamless and high-speed internet connectivity with Fleetwide Starlink and 5G for a single device, ensuring guests stay connected throughout their voyage.

3. Daily Crew Appreciation: Gratuity fees included, allowing guests to appreciate the hard work of the dedicated crew without any additional charges.

4. Two Prix Fixe Meals at Casual Dining Locations: Delight in delectable cuisine with two complimentary prix fixe meals at any casual dining venue during the voyage.

5. Free OceanNow Delivery Service Activation: Experience the convenience of onboard delivery service at no additional cost.

6. Complimentary Room Service: Relish in the comfort of your stateroom with complimentary room service for a truly pampering experience.

7. "Green Lane" Express Boarding: Effortlessly embark on your journey with free Medallion device delivery included, streamlining the boarding process.

8. Boutique Fitness Classes: Two fitness classes per voyage, including options like Pure Barre, YogaSix, and StretchLab.

9. Premium Crafted Desserts: Indulge in two premium crafted desserts daily, satisfying your sweet cravings throughout the cruise.

10. Unlimited Premium Fresh Juices: Stay refreshed with unlimited access to premium fresh juices onboard

This water bottle tote is one of our favorite cruise items! It has an antitheft pocket for protecting your essentials on shore!

Princess Premier Package:

For $80 per person per day, the Princess Premier Package takes inclusions to the next level, providing guests with over 75% in savings compared to purchasing components individually. This package boasts everything from the Princess Plus Package and additional offerings:

1. Premier Beverage Package: Elevate your beverage experience with drinks up to $20, including champagne by the glass, specialty coffees, smoothies, bottled water, and a 25% discount on bottles of wine.

2. Unlimited MedallionNet 2.0: Enjoy high-speed internet access with Fleetwide Starlink and 5G for up to 4 devices, keeping everyone connected throughout the cruise.

3. Two Nights of Specialty Dining: Savor two nights of exquisite specialty dining experiences, offering a taste of culinary excellence onboard.

4. Unlimited Prix Fixe Meals at Casual Dining Locations: Revel in unlimited complimentary prix fixe meals at any casual dining venue during the voyage.

5. Reserved Seating in the Princess Theater: Experience top-notch entertainment with reserved seating in the Princess Theater, ensuring the best views of grand performances.

6. Unlimited Boutique Fitness Classes: Enhance your well-being with unlimited boutique fitness classes, featuring Pure Barre, YogaSix, and StretchLab sessions.

7. Unlimited Premium Crafted Desserts: Delight in an array of premium crafted desserts available throughout the cruise.

8. Unlimited Premium Fresh Juices: Stay revitalized with unlimited access to premium fresh juices onboard.

9. Unlimited Digital Photo Package / Princess Prizes: Capture every cherished moment with an unlimited digital photo package or earn Princess Prizes during your journey.

10. Complimentary Medallion Accessory: Receive a complimentary Medallion accessory for added convenience and style.

Of course the Standard rate without any packages like these is still available for a lower fare, but most feel it’s only a matter of time until princess becomes all inclusive for a higher fee or removes the standard option all together. 

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Some feel they have been "grandfathered in" as below:

The counter argument is that "We’ve got a cruise for later this year. We booked the plus fare.

So we now have to pay to “upgrade” our plus package in order to receive basic inclusions that were included at the time of our booking… what we signed up for…. Beyond absurd. We shall be challenging this." So the question is, what are they missing now? Well there are things...

"We now have to “upgrade” or pay for Alfredo’s/other casual dining, room service, ocean-now." 

This is not completely true since each package has included room service and two included casual dining experiences (not unlimited any longer). But what are they gaining in this example? Unlimited internet and at $20 per day value per device (typical charge), this is a big benefit in our opinion.  

Booking and Conclusion:

In our opinion the deciding factor is whether you will be consuming many alcoholic beverages, how many port days on your cruise (because you won’t be using the amenities on those days) or whether you have a cruise with a lot of sea days. 

These enhanced cruise packages are available for booking online, through Cruise Personalizer, via professional travel advisors, or by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237). Princess Cruises continues to set the standard for unforgettable voyages with their commitment to exceptional service, personalization, and simplicity. Whether you choose the Princess Plus or Princess Premier Package, you're guaranteed an extraordinary experience, creating meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the world's most incredible destinations. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey with Princess Cruises!

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A Luxurious Journey Aboard the Viking Ocean Jupiter: Exploring the Penthouse Veranda Cabin

Welcome to Luxury Travel Docs! Join us as we embark on a remarkable journey aboard the magnificent Viking Jupiter cruise ship. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at the lavish Penthouse Veranda cabin, a haven of luxury and comfort, as we sailed from the captivating city of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Section 1: The Penthouse Veranda Cabin

- A Glimpse of Luxury: Overview of the Penthouse Veranda cabin, its location on Deck 4, port side forward, and its reputation as one of the highest-rated staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises.

- Spacious Design: The Penthouse Veranda's remarkable square footage and how it compares to the Deluxe Veranda cabin, offering 25 percent more space for relaxation.

- Exclusivity and Privacy: Highlighting the cabin's sense of privacy, with minimal foot traffic from the hallway and tranquility due to the absence of public spaces above or below the cabin.

For the best first hand look at this cabin, please enjoy our full video review of this category of cabin but clicking below:

Section 2: Elegant Amenities and Design

- Modern Elements: The cabin's contemporary design elements and soft color palettes that create a soothing ambiance for a restful stay.

- Flexible Bed Arrangement: The option to have the beds configured as a king-size bed or two twin beds to suit individual preferences and needs.

- Thoughtful Sitting Area: A comfortable sitting area featuring a standard-size sofa and chair, providing a cozy spot to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

- Extra-long Desk: The practicality of the extended desk, equipped with extra drawers, plugs, and a lighted mirror, creating a perfect space for preparation and relaxation.

Planning to go on a cruise in the future? Check out our favorite cruise essentials that will make your cruising life easier! 

Section 3: The Private Veranda

- Captivating Views: The breathtaking views offered by the private Veranda, a perfect spot for enjoying morning coffee or sipping champagne while watching sunsets and wildlife.

- Tranquility and Comfort: Peaceful moments on the Veranda due to the cabin's strategic location, providing unobstructed views above and below.

- Personal Connection: The possibility of opening dividers between adjacent cabins for a seamless connection when traveling as a group.

Section 4: The Luxurious Bathroom

- A Haven of Comfort: The elegance and comfort of the bathroom, complete with heated floors, an anti-fog well-lit vanity mirror, and plenty of storage.

- Refreshing Shower Experience: A description of the shower, including the availability of a handheld showerhead and a footrest for added convenience.

- Ample Storage: The availability of hooks, shelves, and drawers in the bathroom to keep belongings organized during the journey.

Section 5: In-Room Entertainment and Connectivity

- On-Demand Entertainment: The array of on-demand programs available on the 42-inch flat-screen TV, offering enriching lectures, guest speakers, and more.

- Staying Connected: The availability of Wi-Fi on the ship, providing connectivity throughout the journey, though occasionally with varying speeds.

This water bottle tote is one of our favorite cruise items! It has an antitheft pocket for protecting your essentials on shore!

 

Section 6: Additional Comforts and Services

- Luxurious Bedding: The comfort and coziness of the beds, complemented by reading lamps, light switches, and night lights for creating a relaxing ambiance.

- Storage Solutions: The ease of storing luggage under the bed, offering 13 inches of clearance for ample storage space.

- Laundry and Pressing Services: The availability of self-service launderettes on most decks, complete with complementary detergent, and the option for complimentary shoe shine and pressing services in the Penthouse Veranda category.

More Perks of Booking a Penthouse Veranda Cabin

• Priority Restaurant Reservations: One of the standout benefits of booking a Penthouse Veranda cabin is the priority given to guests for restaurant reservations. As a passenger in this exclusive category, you'll have the advantage of securing preferred dining times at the ship's exquisite restaurants, ensuring a seamless and delightful dining experience throughout your voyage.
• Shore Excursion Reservations: When it comes to exploring the ports of call, guests in the Penthouse Veranda cabin enjoy the privilege of priority shore excursion reservations. This means you get to secure your spot on the most sought-after tours and activities, guaranteeing an immersive and unforgettable adventure at each destination.
• Welcome Bottle of Champagne: Upon stepping into your Penthouse Veranda cabin, you'll be greeted with a thoughtful and indulgent touch—a welcome bottle of champagne. This gesture sets the tone for a luxurious and celebratory voyage, inviting you to raise a toast to your exciting journey ahead.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our exploration of the Penthouse Veranda cabin, it's evident that this luxurious haven offers an unparalleled experience for travelers aboard the Viking Jupiter. The attention to detail, comfort, and privacy create an unforgettable journey, ensuring that every moment is filled with relaxation and enjoyment.

We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at the Penthouse Veranda cabin. Stay tuned for more reviews of the various accommodations and suites available onboard. Remember, your support makes a difference, so please consider subscribing to our YouTube channel or giving us a thumbs up. Until next time, travel well and travel meaningfully!

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How to Stay Connected on a Cruise Ship, On Shore and Avoid Roaming Charges

Picture this: you're on a dreamy cruise, sailing to exotic destinations, but then you receive a dreaded text message from your cell phone carrier warning you of astronomical roaming charges. Don't let surprise charges dampen your cruise experience! In this blog post, we'll explore how to avoid roaming charges on a cruise ship and onshore internationally. We'll also discuss common apps to use, cell phone carriers' Wi-Fi calling, and how to use your cell phone onshore with an international calling plan or a new SIM card.

1. Avoiding Roaming Charges on a Cruise Ship:

a. Switch off Roaming: Before setting sail, turn off cellular data and roaming on your phone. This ensures you won't accidentally connect to foreign networks and incur hefty charges.

b. Connect to the Ship's Wi-Fi: Most modern cruise ships offer onboard Wi-Fi services. While some may have a fee, it's often cheaper than roaming charges. Use Wi-Fi for internet access and communication through apps.

c. Use Airplane Mode with Wi-Fi: If the cruise ship offers Wi-Fi packages, consider using airplane mode with Wi-Fi enabled. This prevents your phone from constantly searching for cellular networks, saving battery life.

2. Staying Connected Onshore Internationally:

a. Wi-Fi Hotspots: Seek out Wi-Fi hotspots at cafes, hotels, or tourist attractions. Many destinations offer free Wi-Fi, which you can use to check emails, browse the web, and use apps.

b. Local SIM Cards: If you have an unlocked phone, buying a local SIM card is an economical option. This allows you to enjoy local rates for data and calls, avoiding international roaming fees.

c. International Data Plans: Check with your cell phone carrier for international data plans. They often offer temporary packages that allow you to use your existing plan's data, texts, and calls abroad for a fixed fee.

Planning to go on a cruise in the future? Check out our favorite cruise essentials that will make your cruising life easier! 

3. Common Apps to Use on Cruise Ships and Onshore:

a. Messaging Apps: Utilize messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Telegram to stay in touch with family and friends through Wi-Fi.

b. VoIP Services: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps such as Skype, Google Voice, or FaceTime (iPhone users) enable voice and video calls over the internet, reducing the need for traditional cellular calls.

c. Maps and Navigation Apps: Download offline maps on Google Maps or Maps.me to navigate onshore without using data.

4. Cell Phone Carrier's Wi-Fi Calling:

Many cell phone carriers offer Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make calls and send texts over Wi-Fi networks. Before your trip, ensure your phone is compatible, and set up Wi-Fi calling to use when you have access to Wi-Fi networks.

Making Wi-Fi calls can be a great way to stay connected without incurring roaming charges or using your cellular minutes. Here's how to make Wi-Fi calls with common mobile carriers:

1. Verizon:

Verizon offers Wi-Fi Calling for both Android and iOS devices. To enable Wi-Fi Calling on your Verizon phone:

• Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

• iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

Once enabled, your phone will automatically use Wi-Fi for calls whenever a Wi-Fi network is available, even if you have a weak cellular signal.

2. AT&T:

Wi-Fi Calling is also available for AT&T customers with compatible devices. To set up Wi-Fi Calling:

• Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced Calling" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

• iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Phone" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

3. T-Mobile:

T-Mobile supports Wi-Fi Calling for most devices. To enable it:

• Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

• iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

T-Mobile also offers an app called "T-Mobile Wi-Fi Calling" that allows Wi-Fi calling on devices without built-in Wi-Fi calling capability.

4. Sprint:

Sprint, now part of T-Mobile, also supports Wi-Fi Calling. The steps to enable Wi-Fi Calling on Sprint devices are similar:

• Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced Calling" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

• iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

For some devices, you may need to download the "Sprint Wi-Fi Calling" app from the app store.

5. Google Fi:

Google Fi, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), natively supports Wi-Fi Calling on compatible devices. To enable Wi-Fi Calling:

• Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced Calling" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

• iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.

Google Fi also seamlessly switches between Wi-Fi, T-Mobile, Sprint, and US Cellular networks for calls and data to provide the best coverage.

Remember that Wi-Fi Calling is dependent on having a stable and reliable Wi-Fi connection. It allows you to make and receive calls using your phone number over the internet, making it a cost-effective and convenient option for staying connected on a cruise or while traveling abroad.

 

This water bottle tote is one of our favorite cruise items! It has an antitheft pocket for protecting your essentials on shore!

 

5. Using Your Cell Phone Onshore with an International Calling Plan or New SIM Card:

a. International Calling Plans: If your carrier provides international calling plans, inquire about the rates for calls, texts, and data in your destination country. Make sure to activate the plan before leaving.

b. Using a New SIM Card: If you opt for a local SIM card, power off your phone, insert the new SIM card, and restart your device. Your phone will now use the local carrier's network.

Conclusion:

By following these tips, you can navigate your cruise without the fear of exorbitant roaming charges. Embrace the adventure and explore new destinations, all while staying connected with loved ones back home using Wi-Fi and affordable communication apps. Whether you're sailing the high seas or venturing onshore internationally, these strategies will keep you connected without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!

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Cruising and Sipping: A Thirst-Quenching Guide to Cruise Drink Packages

Ahoy, cruise enthusiasts! If you're planning your next dream cruise, one aspect to consider is whether to opt for a cruise drinks package. These packages can be a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite beverages without worrying about individual costs. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of cruise drinks packages, explore the benefits, and help you decide if it's the right choice for you. Additionally, we've included things to consider based on your drinking preferences.

Benefits of Cruise Drinks Packages:

1. Convenience: Cruise drinks packages offer convenience, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of beverages throughout your voyage without the hassle of carrying cash or signing individual receipts.
2. Cost Savings: If you plan to indulge in multiple alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks daily, a drinks package can often lead to significant cost savings compared to purchasing drinks individually.
3. Predictable Budgeting: By prepaying for your drinks, you can budget more effectively for your cruise vacation and avoid any surprises in your final bill.
4. Access to Premium Options: Some cruise lines offer packages that include premium and top-shelf brands, allowing you to savor high-quality beverages during your trip.
5. Enjoyment Without Overindulgence: With a drinks package, you can enjoy your favorite drinks responsibly, as most packages have daily limits to prevent overconsumption.

Things to Consider:

• Drinking Habits: Before opting for a cruise drinks package, consider your drinking habits and preferences. If you're a light drinker, it might be more cost-effective to pay per drink.
• Port Days vs. Sea Days: On days when the ship is docked in a port, you might spend most of your time exploring ashore, making the drinks package less valuable on those days.
• Beverage Variety: Evaluate the types of beverages included in the package to ensure it covers your preferred choices – alcoholic, non-alcoholic, specialty coffees, etc.
• Package Sharing: Most cruise lines don't allow sharing drinks packages between passengers, so keep this in mind if you're considering it with your travel companions.

Planning to go on a cruise in the future? Check out our favorite cruise essentials that will make your cruising life easier! 

Making your own calculations to determine whether a cruise drinks package is worth it involves a few simple steps. Follow these guidelines to assess whether purchasing a drinks package will be cost-effective for your cruise:

1. **Know the Package Cost:** Obtain the current price of the drinks package you are considering. Cruise lines usually offer different tiers of packages, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your preferences (e.g., alcoholic, non-alcoholic, premium, etc.). Be aware that some cruise lines will charge you extra for tips and service fees base on a drink limit per day. For Example, NCL charges service fee up front for several drinks per day even if you don't drink that many. 

2. **Research Individual Drink Prices:** Look up the prices of individual drinks onboard the cruise. You can often find sample drink menus or price lists on the cruise line's website or through online forums related to cruising.

3. **Estimate Your Daily Drink Consumption:** Consider how many drinks you and your companions are likely to consume each day. Be realistic about your drinking habits and remember that on port days, you may be spending more time ashore, reducing your onboard drinking.

4. **Account for Included Drinks:** If your cruise already includes some beverages like water, iced tea, or certain juices, subtract their cost from your daily drink consumption estimate. This way, you can focus on the additional drinks you might purchase.

5. **Factor in Non-Alcoholic Drinks:** If you're not interested in alcoholic beverages, check if the cruise line offers non-alcoholic drink packages. These can include items like sodas, specialty coffees, and smoothies.

6. **Consider Specialty Coffees and Bottled Water:** If you enjoy specialty coffees or prefer bottled water to tap water, factor in their individual costs as they might not be included in standard drink packages.

7. **Account for Port Days:** On days when the ship is docked and you'll be exploring onshore, you may not consume many (if any) drinks onboard. Adjust your daily drink consumption estimate accordingly.

8. **Compare the Total Costs:** Multiply your daily drink consumption estimate by the number of cruise days to find your total estimated drink expenses without a package. Then, compare this total with the cost of the drinks package.

9. **Evaluate Additional Benefits:** Consider any additional benefits the drinks package might offer, such as access to premium beverages or discounts on drinks beyond the package limit.

10. **Personal Preferences:** Take into account the convenience and peace of mind that a drinks package can provide, as well as any intangible value you place on having unlimited drinks available.

By following these steps, you can determine whether a drinks package is likely to save you money or offer added convenience during your cruise. Remember that the value of a drinks package will vary depending on individual preferences and drinking habits, so it's essential to customize the calculations based on your unique situation.

Conclusion:

Choosing a cruise drinks package can enhance your cruising experience and offer you great value, especially if you're a fan of indulging in various beverages throughout your voyage. However, it's essential to assess your drinking habits, the itinerary of your cruise, and the package's inclusiveness to make an informed decision.

Bon voyage!

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