The packages make better sense for wine drinkers, as the cost of wine by the glass on cruise ships often is high. Wines by the glass on Carnival ships range from around $8 to $14. At the higher end of that spectrum, you'd have to order five glasses a day for the package to start paying off.

On most mainstream cruise lines in 2026, such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, a glass of house wine typically starts between $9.50 and $12.00. If you prefer a "premium" label or a more specific varietal like a Napa Valley Cabernet or a French Sancerre, prices usually range from $14.00 to $25.00 per glass. It is important to remember that these base prices do not include the automatic "service charge" or "gratuity," which is usually an additional 18% to 20% added to every bar bill. Consequently, a "ten dollar" glass of wine actually costs about $12.00 at checkout. For luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas or Silversea, the cost is $0, as alcoholic beverages are included in the all-inclusive fare. For those on mainstream lines who plan to enjoy more than two or three glasses a day, "beverage packages" are often recommended; these typically cost between $60 and $100 per person per day. Some travelers also take advantage of the cruise line's "carry-on" policy, which often allows each adult to bring one 750ml bottle of wine on board at embarkation, though a "corkage fee" (approx. $15–$25) usually applies if you choose to drink it in a dining room.