NCL Free At Sea Explained - Norwegian Cruise Line - Cruise Deals

Everything You Need To Know About NCL Free At Sea Package


Planning a cruise holiday with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and wondering if you should add the Free at Sea package?ย  From drink packages to speciality dining and much more, there’s something for everyone. Want to know about Norwegian’s Free at Sea and how it can help you save money on your next cruise?ย  Here’s all you need to know and our review.ย  Let’s set sail!



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Find out all about Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea package and if it’s right for you.



What’s Included With The Free At Sea Promotion?

The 5 free perks as part of the Free at Sea package are:

  1. Free Premium Beverage Package – Quench your thirst with a wide selection of complimentary beverages. The Free at Sea promotions often include the open bar drinks package, allowing you to enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on board.
  2. Free Specialty Dining – Indulge in exquisite cuisine at Norwegian Cruise Lines’ specialty restaurants without worrying about the additional cost. With the Free at Sea promotions, you can enjoy meals at selected specialty dining venues free.
  3. Free Shore Excursions – Explore the stunning ports of call and immerse yourself in exciting activities with free port excursion credit. Enjoy $50 per cabin at each port.  Take advantage of guided tours, adventurous activities, and enriching cultural experiences without worrying about additional costs.
  4. Free Wi-Fi Package – Stay connected with loved ones back home or share your cruise holiday on social media with the free Wi-Fi package. Enjoy a certain amount of data usage or unlimited Wi-Fi access during your voyage.
  5. Friends and Family Sail Free – Make unforgettable memories with your loved ones without breaking the bank. With the Friends and Family Sail Free benefit, you can bring along additional guests.  3rd & 4th guests sharing your cabin only pay for government taxes and fees.  However, all of the other benefits such as the open bar drinks package are only for the 1st and 2nd guests in each cabin.

Speciality dining, open bar drinks package and Wi-Fi package are just for the 1st and 2nd guest in each cabin.  If any other guests want a drinks or Wi-Fi package, they would need to pay for it.



Enjoy cocktails as you sail around the Caribbean onboard NCL Breakaway
Enjoy cocktails as you sail around the Caribbean onboard NCL Breakaway


What Drinks Are Included With The Open Bar Package?

With a wide selection of beverages available, including premium spirits, wine, beer, and cocktails, there’s something for everyone’s taste. Take advantage of this perk and savour your favourite drinks as you relax and unwind onboard.

Currently, you can enjoy unlimited free drinks including:

โ€ข Select, premium cocktails & spirits under $15
โ€ข A variety of beer and wine by the glass under $15
โ€ข 20% off all bottles of champagne and wine
โ€ข Unlimited soft drinks and juices

Whether you prefer sipping a refreshing mojito by the pool or toasting with a glass of champagne at dinner, the unlimited open bar package ensures that you can indulge in your favourite drinks without worrying about the cost.

The premium beverage package is included for the 1st two guests in each cabin.  If there’s anyone else in your cabin, they can purchase a drinks package if they want. 

If the second person in the cabin is not old enough to drink alcohol onboard, they’ll receive the soda package instead.



Are The Drinks Really Free?

Yes!ย  You can enjoy unlimited soft drinks and juices whenever you like.ย  At the bars enjoy cocktails, beer, spirits and wine by the glass under $15.ย  If you want to splurge on something more expensive, you save 20% off all bottles of champagne and wine.



Are you new to cruising?

First Time Cruise Help

If it’s your first time cruising, it can all seem overwhelming and confusing. That’s why we offer a First Time Cruise Help Service at Rock the Boat Travel Agency.

The best place to start is by talking with one of our team members. It all starts with you – finding out what you like and just as important, what you don’t like. Coupled with our cruise know-how, we’ll suggest the perfect first time cruise for you. Request a call with one of our team.

All you need to know about NCL free at sea package


Which Drinks Are Not Included?

The free beverage package includes almost every drink you’d like, but the package does not include things such as:  

  • Freshly squeezed juices
  • Energy drinks
  • Bottles of wine (save 20%)
  • Vending machines or wine dispensers
  • Tastings or experiences
  • Super premium brands
  • Bottled water
  • Lavazza or Starbucks coffees
  • Beer buckets
  • Drinks over $15 each
  • Vending machines or wine dispensers
  • Mini bar or room service


Sailing onboard NCL Breakaway
Sailing onboard NCL Breakaway


How Much Are Drinks On Norwegian Cruise Line?

If you don’t have Norwegian’s Free at Sea drinks package or want something that’s not included, here are the prices onboard.  Prices can change depending on which bar you’re in, but prices tend to be around:

  • Soft drink:ย $3
  • Bottle of water:ย $6
  • Bottle of beer: $6 โ€“ $7
  • Most Glasses of wine: $8 โ€“ $10
  • Most Cocktails: $10 โ€“ $13
  • Most Beers: $9
  • Most Liqueurs: $10 โ€“ $15
  • Energy drink: $5
  • Coffee: $3 โ€“ $4


Brilliant cocktails all included on your NCL cruise
ATOL Protected Cruises

Putting You First

As part of Travel Counsellors, we offer peace of mind and are ATOL protected. Established back in 1994, we’re now one of the UK’s largest independent travel companies. Our mission is to bring you exceptional customer service & unbeatable value for money.

Plus, we’re always here to help – our 24 hour duty office means you can always get in touch with us no matter what time of day or night it is. It’s good to know you’re in safe hands when you cruise with us.



How Much Shore Excursion Credit Do I Get?

One of the many fantastic perks of taking advantage of the Free at Sea promotions is the $50 shore excursion credit.  Each cabin gets $50 per port.   Just to clarify, the $50 is per cabin and NOT per person.  So if you’re visiting 5 ports during your cruise, you’ll get 5x $50 per cabin.  However, credit doesn’t rollover.  If you don’t use the credit in one port, you’ll lose it.

This credit allows you to save even more money and enhance your cruise experience by exploring and enjoying exciting activities at various ports of call.

It is important to note that the shore excursion credit applies only to the first person on the reservation. This means that if you are traveling with a group or with your family, only the first person listed will receive the credit. However, this does not mean that others in your party will miss out on the fun!

One interesting aspect of this credit is that you can combine it with the latitudes program discount. The latitudes program is Norwegian Cruise Line’s loyalty program, which rewards frequent cruisers with exclusive benefits and discounts. By combining the shore excursion credit with the latitudes program discount, you have the opportunity to maximize your savings and enjoy incredible shore excursions at a fraction of the price.

Imagine exploring ancient ruins, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or immersing yourself in the local culture during your shore excursions, all while saving money. 

When planning your cruise itinerary, consider the various shore excursion options available at each port of call. Whether you prefer adventurous excursions such as zip-lining or jet skiing, or you prefer more relaxed options such as sightseeing tours or beach visits, there’s something for everyone.

Make the most of your cruise experience by taking advantage of the $50 shore excursion credit offered through the Free at Sea promotions. Combine it with the latitudes program discount to maximize your savings and create lasting memories during your holiday.



Explore Barcelona with your free shore excursion credit NCL
Explore Barcelona with your free shore excursion credit NCL


How Do I Use My Shore Excursion Credit?

To take advantage of this fantastic perk, simply book your port excursions through Norwegian Cruise Line’s official website or with the assistance of their knowledgeable staff. Be sure to mention your eligibility for the shore excursion credit during the booking process, and don’t forget to check for any additional promotions or discounts that may be available.

Our Cruise Gurus can also help you book your shore adventures too.

Whether you’re interested in taking a guided tour, embarking on a thrilling adventure, or simply relaxing on a picturesque beach, the $50 credit can make a significant difference in your overall vacation budget. It allows you to prioritise the activities that truly interest you and make lasting memories.



Enjoy surf and turf at Cagneys as one of your speciality restaurants
Enjoy surf and turf at Cagneys as one of your speciality restaurants


What Is Speciality Dining?

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the free specialty dining package onboard all of Norwegian’s cruise ships. This package allows you to dine at specialty restaurants on board for a set price. From gourmet steak and seafood to international cuisine and mouth-watering desserts, the specialty restaurants offer a wide range of culinary delights. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience, the specialty dining package is perfect for you.

Remember, only the 1st and 2nd guests in each cabin will have this included.  Other guests will need to pay if they want to join you.

The number of speciality dining meals will depend on which cabin type you’re in and the length of your cruise.  Speak with one of our cruise gurus who can help you find out how many are included.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner at a steakhouse or craving some fresh seafood, the specialty dining options onboard Norwegian Cruise Lines will surely satisfy your culinary desires. Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience and savour every bite as you dine in style.



How Does The Free Wi-FI Work?

Stay connected with your loved ones and share your amazing cruise experiences on social media with the complimentary Wi-Fi included in the Free at Sea promotion. The number of minutes may vary based on the length of your cruise, ensuring that you can access the internet and stay connected throughout your voyage. Whether you need to check your emails, browse the web, or stay connected through social media, the complimentary Wi-Fi keeps you connected while you’re at sea.

 In today’s connected world, staying in touch with loved ones or sharing your cruise experience on social media is important to many travellers. With this fantastic perk, you can do just that without worrying about racking up additional charges.

However, it’s important to note that the free WiFi package is only available to the first two people on the reservation. If you’re traveling with a larger group, you may need to make alternate arrangements to stay connected.

It’s important to note that the Wi-Fi is based on minutes rather than bandwidth. While the exact duration of free Wi-Fi may vary depending on the length of your cruise, it provides you with ample time to check emails, browse the internet, and stay connected. However, if you have more than two people in your cabin who need Wi-Fi access, you may need to purchase additional Wi-Fi packages.



Get Ready To Rock The Boat!

So if you are looking for the perfect cruise and need some expert advice, look no further than Rock the Boat! We’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for to make sure your cruise holiday dreams become reality. Get ready to Rock The Boat!



What Are The Other Free At Sea Perks?

If you’re traveling with your family, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea offers a fantastic perk โ€“ kids sail free. With this option, the third and fourth guests in the stateroom can sail for free, making it more affordable for families to enjoy a memorable cruise vacation together. Whether your children want to splash in the onboard pools, participate in age-appropriate activities at the kids’ club, or enjoy delicious meals at the various dining venues, the kids sail free perk ensures that the whole family can have a wonderful time without breaking the bank.

Speciality dining, open bar drinks package and Wi-Fi package are just for the 1st and 2nd guest in each cabin.  If any other guests want a drinks or Wi-Fi package, they would need to pay for it.



Syd Norman's Pour House
Syd Norman’s Pour House


How Much Is The Free At Sea Offer?

Prices depend on the length of your cruise and any promotions.ย  Speak with your Cruise Guru and they’ll help you with all the latest prices.ย  You can upgrade to Free at Sea when you book or later.



Is It Worth Getting Free At Sea?

Even if you’re only going to drink soft drinks throughout your cruise, we think it’s still worth getting.  Plus, you’ll get a free meal at one of the speciality restaurants too.

If there’s 4 people sailing, it can work out better value to take 2 cabins instead of 1.  As the open drinks bar package, speciality dining and Wi-Fi are only for the first 2 guests, it can be better to book 2 cabins ensuring 4 people instead of just 2 can benefit from all that’s on offer.



Thrilling Slides at the Aqua Park
Thrilling Slides at the Aqua Park


How Do I Find A NCL Cruise?

Want a hassle-free NCL cruise?ย  The easiest way is to let one of our Cruise Gurus do all the hard work for you.ย  They’ll find the best cruise deals tailor-made for you.ย  Plus, you won’t pay any more compared to booking directly with NCL.ย  In fact, they pay us to look after you and make sure you have the best cruise holiday ever.



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Sailing with NCL around the Caribbean enjoying a cocktail
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