Some cruise lines include in-cabin bar setups for all passengers (luxury) or in the top suites (mainstream). If you're not given a bar setup, you may be able to purchase bottles of wine or liquor through your ship's gift shop to be delivered to your cabin on your arrival.

Buying alcohol on a cruise in 2026 is a seamless, "cashless" experience managed via your stateroom account. Most lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival, use a wearable (like a MagicBand or Princess Medallion) or a key card that you tap at any bar or restaurant. For the best value, travelers often purchase a Daily Drink Package before the cruise, which typically costs between $60 and $100 per day and covers most cocktails, beers, and wines. If you don't have a package, each drink is charged individually to your account, usually with an automatic 18–20% gratuity added. Note that if you buy duty-free bottles in the ship's shop or at a port of call, the crew will typically "hold" them for you and deliver them to your stateroom on the final night to prevent "self-service" in public areas.