When you're planning your cruise, figuring out the best way to enjoy a few drinks is a key part of budgeting for your vacation. The question of buying a full bottle of liquor on board is a smart one, but the answer is a bit more nuanced than you might expect.
Your best opportunity to buy a bottle of liquor at a great price is through the ship's duty-free shop. You'll often find excellent deals on a wide selection of spirits. However, you need to be aware of the most important rule: these purchases are for you to take home as a souvenir. The ship's crew will hold onto any bottles you buy and deliver them to your stateroom on the final night of your voyage. So, while it's a fantastic way to save on liquor for your home bar, it doesn't solve the desire for a private cocktail on your balcony.
For in-room consumption, your options are more limited and specific to the cruise line. Some cruise lines, like Carnival, allow you to purchase a select menu of liquor bottles to be delivered directly to your stateroom through their "Bon Voyage" or gift department. This is certainly the most convenient way to enjoy drinks in your room, but the prices will reflect that convenience and be higher than land-based stores. You are paying a premium for the service, though it can still be more cost-effective than buying many individual cocktails from the bar if you plan to drink primarily in your room.
Ultimately, cruise lines design their alcohol policies to encourage guests to visit their many bars and lounges. If your goal is convenience and cost-certainty, the most persuasive option to consider is a beverage package. For a flat daily rate, you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks across the ship without worrying about the cost of each one. For most travelers who enjoy several beverages a day, this is the most seamless and valuable way to go.
