Drink Package Refund Policy & Flexibility

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most popular add-ons guests consider is a drink package. These packages offer convenience, potential savings, and the freedom to enjoy beverages without constantly reaching for your wallet. However, plans change—and that’s where understanding the drink package refund policy & flexibility becomes essential.Whether you're reconsidering your package choice or had a last-minute itinerary change, knowing the fine print on refunds can save you money and frustration. Let’s take a closer look at how this applies, especially in the case of Carnival Cruise Lines drink packages.

Understanding Carnival Cruise Lines Drink Packages

Carnival Cruise Lines offers several beverage package options, including the popular Cheers! package, which covers a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The package is sold per person, per day, and must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise.While the convenience of unlimited drinks is appealing, guests occasionally change their minds after purchase. Whether it's due to a medical reason, changes in drinking habits, or itinerary disruptions, Carnival has established policies for refunds and flexibility.

Refund Policy Details

Carnival's drink package refund policy is relatively straightforward but comes with strict timelines:

• Pre-Cruise Cancellation: Guests who cancel their drink package before the cruise begins (and typically at least 24 hours before sailing) are eligible for a full refund to their original form of payment.
  
  
• Onboard Cancellation: Once onboard, refunds are generally not provided unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as itinerary changes or medical issues that prevent package use.
  
  
• Partial Use: If you've already started using the drink package, even for one day, you typically won’t receive a refund for the remaining days.
  
  

For maximum flexibility, it’s advised to make any decisions about canceling or changing your drink package well in advance of your cruise date.

Flexibility and Adjustments

Carnival has made some efforts to provide flexibility:

• If you upgrade or downgrade your stateroom, drink package adjustments may be allowed.
  
  
• If a cruise is canceled or rescheduled, your drink package purchase is either refunded or transferred, depending on the situation.
  
  
• Package transfers (to another guest or cruise) are not allowed in most cases.
  
  

If you're unsure whether you'll want a drink package, consider waiting until closer to your sail date to make the purchase—but be mindful of pre-cruise deadlines.

Final Thoughts: Don't Violate Package Rules

While understanding the refund policy is important, guests should also be aware of package rules. One key guideline is that drink packages are intended for personal use only. Sharing your package with another guest, even a family member or spouse, is strictly prohibited. Carnival reserves the right to cancel your package without refund if you violate package rules.