Deal or no deal?

Lorraine refers here to cruise line beverage packages. You know, the ones that offer (for $50-$60 per day) “all you can drink” – including (depending on the line) premium/call brands, wines by the glass, soft drinks, bottled water, fresh- squeezed juices. specialty coffees and gratuities.

If you’re one who might enjoy Bloody Marys or Mimosas at breakfast – mid-morning beers in the bar – wine with lunch – mid-afternoon Pinna Coladas by the pool – pre-dinner cocktails (Martinis, anyone?) – a glass or two of wine with dinner – Cappuccino and/or brandy after – heck, that can easily add up to well more than the inclusive costs, so it may be well worth your while to purchase a drink package.

But – there are caveats!   What if you think it’s a great deal – but your traveling companion doesn’t?  Too bad!  Some lines require that ALL persons over 21 in the same cabin MUST purchase the package.  So, you’re stuck with the choice of either paying double for the package or paying by the order.  Why do they do it that way?  The simple answer is that the cruise lines are trying to prevent you and your cruise-mate from sharing.  Makes sense too!  Recently, some really dumb cruisers posted on social media exactly how five of them “stayed schnockered” on one drink package.  No, Lorraine will not divulge their method – you figure it out – LOL!

Anyway, if you’re going to cruise, and if you like to imbibe – check your cruise lines packages. Do the math – consider the caveats – and decide for yourself if that drink package offer is a DEAL OR NO DEAL!