When you are on land, it may be against the law to have a drink in public outdoor areas. The consumption of alcoholic beverages is generally restricted to establishments licensed to sell them on-site and private residences. However, when you are at sea, the entire cruise ship acts as a large entertainment complex! Let’s explore the various options available to you for savoring a drink whenever the urge strikes.
- Onboard Bars. This is quite straightforward. You’ll find numerous bars onboard, some located indoors while others are out on the open deck. Some bars may have unique themes, such as offering Caribbean-inspired drinks. Additionally, there might be bars conveniently situated near restaurants, perfect for patrons awaiting their table or the doors to open.
- Dining Establishments. This encompasses the main dining room as well as specialty restaurants. Occasionally, these restaurants reflect their specific themes in their beverage offerings. For instance, Japanese or Italian eateries may feature wines and spirits indigenous to those regions.
- The Departure Celebration. Setting sail from port is a significant event on cruise ships, often marked by festivities. The expansive open decks near the pool deck usually host live music and servers ready to take drink orders.
- Lounging by the Pool. One of my favorite activities is enjoying a Long Island Iced Tea while relaxing under the retractable glass roof near the pool. You’ll likely spot a nearby bar with servers circulating to cater to your refreshment needs.
- Unwinding on an Open Deck Lounger. Contrary to the assumption that drinks are only available around the pool, ship staff may discreetly inquire if you’d like anything while basking in the sun on a deck chair.
- Swimming in the Pool. Some cruise ships may feature swim-up bars within their pools. Beverages served in outdoor areas typically come in plastic glasses to lessen the risk of accidents from broken glass. Despite this, the stemware used is elegant yet unbreakable.
- Enjoying a Show in the Theater. Attending an evening Broadway-style performance, you might find small café-style tables or cupholders on theater-style seating for placing drink orders with attentive staff sporting white gloves and silver trays.
- Themed Events like Scotch Tasting. Throughout our travels, we’ve encountered events such as scotch tastings and martini classes tailored to specific interests.
- Wine Pairing Dinners. Your sommelier may inform you about special lunches arranged in specialty restaurants that pair food with wines from a particular cuisine. These experiences often comprise multiple courses and various wines served over an extended period.
- Wine Tastings. These are pre-arranged events that require registration. Some feature stations with appetizers, while others are conducted in a classroom-style setting.
- Cocktail Receptions. The traditional captain’s welcome cocktail party is a fixture on many cruise ships. Additionally, there might be receptions for frequent guests or private parties organized by tour groups, all offering a selection of beverages.
- Cigar Lounge. Some ships are equipped with a cigar bar, an ideal spot to enjoy a brandy or port even if you don’t partake in smoking. Just be prepared for others smoking in the vicinity.
- Dance Clubs. Nighttime venues will feature various music genres to cater to diverse interests, such as ballroom dancing or disco, where servers are available to take drink orders.
- Music-infused Spots. Musical entertainment isn’t confined to dance floors; there are venues where guests can stop and simply enjoy the music.
- The Casino. Bars and circulating servers are typically present in the casino, where drinking and gambling often go hand in hand.
- The Art Gallery. Retail establishments onboard often host events like a “champagne reception” to engage visitors. While these events are complimentary, the beverages served may not always be actual champagne.
- The Piano Bar. A piano bar will be located somewhere onboard, frequented by singing enthusiasts. It’s all part of the fun to discover its whereabouts during your vacation.
- Shore Excursions. Excursions offered vary, with vineyard tours in wine-producing regions and distillery visits in locations like Scotland, showcasing the local specialties.
- Cabin Socials. Fellow travelers may organize gatherings in their cabins, often inviting others through a note delivered to their room or found in the daily itinerary. RSVP etiquette is encouraged for attendance.
- Private Retreat in Your Cabin. If you’ve brought wine on board, you can enjoy it in your cabin or designated dining areas. Cruise lines generally permit wine consumption onboard, although restrictions may apply to beer or spirits.
- Complimentary Wine in Your Cabin. Some cruise lines provide a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, usually kept chilled in an ice bucket or fridge, inviting you to partake on your balcony as the ship departs from port. Be sure to take advantage of this offering.
Given that your cruise ship is essentially a vast floating resort, finding a place to enjoy a beverage won’t be a challenge when the mood strikes.
Discover Cruise Ships and Cruise Lines
Ed. Notes: CruiseCompete and its network of travel advisors present a myriad of tailored cruise and land deals, promotions, and perks across 50+ cruise lines featuring 500+ sailing vessels worldwide.
Shore Excursions – Ports, Day & Weekend Outings
Cover photo: credit © Dennis Cox/WorldViews Viscaya Museum and Gardens in Miami
