When you think about cruising with Carnival, incredible destinations and fun-filled days often come to mind but ask any seasoned cruiser, and they’ll tell you the delicious drinks are also an essential part of the Carnival experience. Whether you’re sipping on a fruity cocktail poolside or cozying up with a spiked milkshake, Carnival’s extensive drink menu has something for all tastes.
Carnival Cruise Drink Menus and Bars Overview
Carnival takes its drink offerings seriously, with an impressive lineup of themed bars and menus tailored to your tastes. Here’s a peek at what you can expect onboard:
Main Bars and Specialty Bars
- Alchemy Bar
Known for its handcrafted cocktails with a dramatic twist, this bar elevates mixology to an art form. The “Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini” and “The Remedy” are crowd favorites.
- RedFrog Rum Bar
Perfect for poolside relaxation, this bar features classics like the “Red Frog Rum Jumper” and “Caribbean Iced Tea.”
- BlueIguana Tequila Bar
This tequila-lover’s haven offers refreshing margaritas and tequila creations like the “Iguana Margarita.”
- Havana Bar
Transport yourself to Cuba with authentic mojitos and the sweet yet tangy “Cuban Breeze,” all served with a side of upbeat live music.
- JavaBlue Café
Fancy a caffeine kick? Enjoy spiked coffees and irresistible milkshakes like the “Frozen Irish Coffee” or “Rum-Laced Chocolate.”
Drink Prices Aboard Carnival Cruises
Understanding drink prices can help you budget better during your trip. Here’s a snapshot of the most popular drink categories and their prices (pre-gratuity):
- Standard Cocktails: $12.50
- Specialty Cocktails: $13.00 – $14.00
- Spiked Milkshakes and Floats: $11.25
- Beer: Domestic $7.75 | Import/Craft $8.25 – $9.75 (Craft beer sampler and buckets available at discounts)
- Wine by Glass: $10.75 – $14.25
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Fresh juices, sodas, and mocktails start at $3.25
Note that Carnival adds an automatic 18% gratuity to each drink purchase, so keep that in mind when budgeting!
Spotlight on Carnival’s Must-Try Drinks
Wondering what to order first? These drinks are guaranteed to elevate your Carnival experience:
Alchemy Bar Favorites
- The Remedy: Vodka, elderflower liqueur, cucumber, and citrus create a refreshing, zesty cocktail.
- Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini: A bold blend of spice and sweetness, ideal for adventurous palates.
RedFrog Rum Bar Highlights
- Caribbean Iced Tea: A tropical and potent twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea.
- Red Frog Rum Jumper: A fruity, rum-forward favorite.
BlueIguana Tequila Bar Must-Haves
- Iguana Margarita: Tangy, smooth, and deliciously blue.
- Custom Tequila Blends: Explore unique twists on traditional tequila flavors.
Specialty Milkshakes and Floats
For a sweeter option:
- Chocolate Extravaganza: A creamy delight with a touch of liqueur.
- Root Beer Float with a Kick: A nostalgic treat made for adults.
Tips for Maximizing Your Beverage Experience
Make the most of your onboard drink choices with these insider tips:
- Consider Carnival’s Beverage Packages
- Cheers! Package: Includes alcoholic drinks (up to $20 each), sodas, specialty coffees, and more. Daily limit of 15 alcoholic drinks.
- Bottomless Bubbles: Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages like sodas and juices, perfect for families.
Both packages must be purchased for the entire trip but can be great value if you plan to indulge!
- Look Out for Happy Hours and Specials
Some bars and events offer promotional drinks or discounts. Check your ship’s daily itinerary to see what’s on offer.
- Ask for Recommendations
Carnival’s bartenders are highly skilled and love creating custom drinks! Just tell them your flavor preferences, and they’ll whip up something personalized.
- Stay Hydrated
Between cocktails, hydrate with water or refreshing non-alcoholic options. Carnival ships stock plenty of bottled water, sparkling water, and juices.
Nutritional Insights for Health-Conscious Drinkers
If you’re keeping an eye on calories or managing specific dietary restrictions, here’s some essential information about select Carnival drinks:
- Calories: Specialty cocktails range from 200-400 calories per serving.
- Sugar Content: Many cocktails are sweetened with syrups or juices, averaging 15-20 grams of sugar per drink.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): Cocktails typically fall between 10-20% ABV, depending on the recipe.
- Allergens: Some milkshakes and cocktails may contain allergens like dairy or nuts. Always ask your server for details.
- Carbohydrates: Drinks with mixers like soda or juice can contain 20-40 grams of carbs per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there non-alcoholic versions of the specialty cocktails available?
Yes! Carnival’s mixologists often provide mocktail versions of their specialty drinks. Just ask your bartender.
Can I bring my own alcohol aboard?
Carnival allows guests to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per adult. Hard liquor is not permitted.
What are the operating hours for bars onboard?
Most bars open around 10 AM and stay open until late at night. Exact hours are listed in your ship’s itinerary.
Are there discounts on drinks during certain hours or events?
Yes! Keep an eye out for happy hours, themed parties, or day-specific promotions that often feature discounted beverages.
How can I best utilize the Cheers! beverage package?
To maximize value, focus on ordering drinks close to the $20 cap, explore specialty cocktails, and enjoy non-alcoholic drinks like lattes or smoothies throughout the day.
Sip, Savor, and Sail with Carnival’s Incredible Drink Menus
From refreshing tropical cocktails to expertly crafted artisanal drinks, Carnival’s beverage lineup is second to none. Whether you’re a mojito enthusiast or a sucker for spiked milkshakes, there’s a drink on the menu with your name on it.
