Are you dreaming of a Carnival cruise filled with refreshing cocktails, fine wines, and celebratory toasts? Discovering the secrets to maximizing your cruise experience and saving on those onboard indulgences is key to making your vacation unforgettable and affordable.
The Carnival Cheers! drink package has become a quintessential element of the Carnival cruise experience, promising guests a hassle-free way to enjoy a wide array of beverages throughout their voyage. This piece delves into the intricacies of the Cheers! package, exploring its costs, benefits, and strategies for securing the best possible deals.
Navigating the various offers and promotions surrounding the Cheers! package can feel like charting unfamiliar waters. The price of the package can fluctuate, depending on when and how you purchase it, along with the specific promotions being offered at the time. It's essential to understand these nuances to avoid overspending and ensure you're getting the most value for your money. We'll also look at some of the popular queries that cruise enthusiasts often have.
Before proceeding, let's clarify some core facts.
Heres a breakdown of the essential information you need to plan accordingly:
AARP Gift Card Savings: Savvy cruisers have discovered a way to capitalize on discounts through AARP gift cards. You can purchase $100 or $500 Carnival gift cards through AARP, and they're typically offered with a 10% discount. Purchasing a $500 gift card for $450 is a smart move. By using the gift card to pay for your Cheers! drink package before your cruise, you can secure that 10% discount on the package itself.
Early Bird Discounts: The best deals are frequently available to those who plan ahead. Booking your Cheers! package before you set sail often results in a cost savings compared to purchasing it onboard.
Onboard vs. Pre-Cruise Pricing: While the onboard price is $88.44 per day for the Cheers! package, the price drops to $82.54 per day if purchased in advance. So, early purchasing is the way forward. Note, the cost shown on the website now automatically includes the 18% gratuity as well.
Loyalty Programs and Targeted Offers: Carnival sometimes extends exclusive offers to members of its VIFP Club loyalty program or casino guests based on their travel and spending history. It pays to be a loyal customer.
Promo Codes: Promo codes for the Cheers! package are relatively rare. The last time a widespread discount was available was back in November 2019, with some Black Friday offers on excursions. But it's always worth checking and keeping an eye out for current deals.
Package Details: The Cheers! package encompasses a wide selection of beverages, from cocktails and spirits to wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options. Discounts include a 25 percent discount on bottles of wine and champagne or on any wine or spirit by the glass that costs more than $20.
Bottomless Bubbles Package: It is important to know that the Cheers! Program does not replace the Bottomless Bubbles soda program, which continues to be available to children and adults at a cost of $6.95 usd per person, per day and $9.50 usd per person, per day, respectively.
Current Deals: There are numerous opportunities to save on your Carnival cruise, with various coupons and promotional offers available throughout the year. Staying informed about these deals can significantly reduce your overall vacation expenses.
Let's get into the details, including the package cost and how to secure the best deals available to you.
The Carnival Cheers! package pricing has seen some changes. As of December 2024, the cost is the same regardless of the length of your cruise. The price is displayed online and now includes the 18% gratuity.
Cost Considerations:
- Onboard Price: The onboard price for the Cheers! package is typically around $88.44 per person, per day.
- Pre-Cruise Price: When purchased before your cruise, the package is priced at $82.54 per person, per day, offering a savings opportunity.
It's crucial to purchase the package before the cruise to capitalize on the 10% savings over the onboard rate.
Unlocking Savings with AARP Gift Cards:
AARP members have access to a valuable perk: the ability to purchase Carnival gift cards at a 10% discount. By purchasing these cards and using them to pay for the Cheers! package, you can effectively obtain a further discount on your beverage spending. This provides a double benefit the pre-cruise discount and the discount on gift cards.
Finding and Using Promo Codes:
While widely distributed promo codes for the Cheers! package are rare, keep an eye out for any promotions Carnival releases. Carnival sometimes send out targeted offers to certain members of its VIFP Club loyalty program and casino guests based on their travel and spending history with the cruise line.
Where to Look for Deals:
- Carnival's Website: The official Carnival website is the primary source of information.
- Third-Party Deal Sites: Several websites specialize in finding and verifying cruise deals.
- Newsletter Subscriptions: Subscribe to Carnival's email newsletter for exclusive offers.
Additional Strategies:
- Purchase in Advance: This saves you the 10% compared to buying it on board, plus you can plan ahead.
- Consider the Value: Determine if your drinking habits justify the cost of the package.
Understanding the nuances of the Cheers! package and employing the right strategies, such as pre-cruise purchases, AARP gift cards, and leveraging any available promotions, can significantly enhance your Carnival cruise experience.
Important Considerations:
- Capacity Controlled Offers: Offers like the "/ bottomless bubbles (ru3)" and "/ bottomless bubbles (ru4)" are often capacity controlled and cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.
- Double Occupancy: Cruise rates are generally based on double occupancy and are quoted in US dollars.
- Taxes and Fees: Cruise fares do not include taxes, fees, and port expenses.
- Terms and Conditions: Carnival reserves the right to refuse service for any reason. Be sure to review the specific terms and conditions of any promotion before booking.
In conclusion, the Carnival Cheers! package is a fantastic option for those who enjoy a variety of beverages on their cruise. By adopting a strategic approach, cruisers can maximize their savings and unlock the full potential of their vacation experience.
Remember to explore all available avenues for discounts and promotions before booking to get the best value for your money. Cheers to a fantastic Carnival cruise!
