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Topics: Travel, Cruise Ship, Food And Drink
Emma Rosemurgey
Norwegian Cruise Line has left some of its passengers less than satisfied after announcing changes to its all-inclusive drinks packages.
The cruise line has revealed the popular drinks package will no longer apply to guests when visiting its private island from March 2026.
The controversial move comes as NCL announced it would be introducing a separate drinks package for Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line's 268-acre private island in the Bahamas.
According to a statement from the cruise line, the new package was being 'crafted specially for the island', meaning the existing all-inclusive package will no longer be used on the island.
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"Please note that beginning March 1, 2026, promotional beverage package benefits, such as Free at Sea or More at Sea beverage packages, will no longer apply to purchases made while ashore at Great Stirrup Cay," the statement, shared by Travel Weekly, read.
NCL did confirm that complimentary drinks, including water, juices and iced tea, will still be 'readily available on the island'.
"Your beverage package perks will be fully active again once you’re back onboard. And for any beverage purchases made ashore, simply have your key card handy - it’s all you’ll need while on the island," the statement continued.
However, since the announcement was made, many NCL passengers have made their frustrations known, with some even vowing to cancel the trips they already have booked with the cruise line.
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"As of March 1st 2026 your drink package with NCL will no longer get you alcoholic drinks on Great Stirrup Caye. You will only get water coffee, tea and pop," one passenger wrote on X.
"Cutbacks hurt. I will be canceling my future cruises booked with them."
Meanwhile, another added: "So now I have to pay for drinks on Harvest Cay. Guess I'll just remove the service charges (otherwise known as payroll) to compensate myself.
"What a terrible move. NCL sucks."
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Others pointed out that passengers are able to get on and off the cruise as they please, meaning they could, in theory, go back onto the ship throughout the day to enjoy their drinks package.
The all-inclusive drinks cutback comes after the cruise line announced a major overhaul of the stunning Caribbean island, including the addition of a six-acre waterpark featuring 19 waterslides and an 800-foot lazy river.
The waterpark, and additional features like a multi-ship pier and adults only beach club, should be complete by summer 2026.