Drinks packages are a straight up mathematical calculation. You must know what the cruise line charges for ala carte purchases and what you will use. We mostly cruise now with Princess and their packages include crew appreciation (gratuities), wifi, some specialty and/or casual dining, specialty coffee and tea, bottled water, and a few other perks in addition to alcoholic beverages. Over on Cruise Critic, one Princess sailor even has a spreadsheet you can use to do the math for you.

Even with the recent price increase, the Plus package still makes sense for us. But it’s very much a personal choice that varies from cruiser to cruiser. Some need wifi, some put their phones in the safe as soon as they board. Some drink adult beverages, some do not, some even hit the daily 15 drink Plus package limit. Some enjoy specialty dining, some stick to the MDR and buffet. Some need an element only available in a package (guaranteed show seating), some never attend the shows. There is not a one size fits all answer. There is a correct answer for each of us depending on a lot of variables. And if it’s a toss-up, many opt for a package so they never have to think about a choice based on fear of the final folio.

One thing I particularly like, and it’s outside my personal calculation, is the ability to order a cocktail not knowing if I will like it. Two sips, and I’m back at the bar ordering a replacement? No problem.