Norwegian Cruise Line Reintroduces Free at Sea Plus With Major Upgrades

Norwegian Cruise Line has officially brought back its popular Free at Sea Plus package. This enhanced upgrade option was originally introduced in 2022 as a way for guests to turn their Free at Sea perks into a more inclusive, premium experience. After being discontinued during a pricing model change, it has now returned—this time featuring stronger benefits and added value.

What’s New With Free at Sea Plus?

Daily Gratuities Included

One of the biggest improvements is that the package now covers daily service charges. These gratuities typically cost between $20 and $25 per person per day, depending on the type of stateroom booked. That single change greatly increases the financial value of the upgrade, since it eliminates a large onboard expense cruisers normally pay separately.

Expanded Beverage Benefits

The beverage portion of Free at Sea Plus goes well beyond the standard drink package. Guests receive access to:

• Starbucks specialty drinks

• Bottled water, including premium brands

• Top-shelf spirits

• Premium wines and champagne by the glass

• Discounts on full bottles

• Energy drinks and fresh juices

This enhancement makes the package especially attractive for cruisers who enjoy specialty beverages or who plan to spend time at Norwegian’s private destinations, where drink options are expanding.

Unlimited Streaming Wi-Fi

The regular Free at Sea package includes a limited number of Wi-Fi minutes. Free at Sea Plus upgrades include unlimited streaming Wi-Fi on one device, allowing guests to stream content, work online, and stay fully connected throughout the cruise.

Specialty Dining Discount

The new structure provides 50% off cover charges for additional specialty dining reservations beyond what Free at Sea already includes. Instead of offering extra meals like the older version of the package did, the new approach gives guests flexibility to choose where and when they want to dine at a lower price.

Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Package Comparison

Beverage Types & Benefits	Free at Sea – Open Bar	Free at Sea Plus – Open Bar Upgrade	Soda Package	Unlimited Starbucks Plan
Beer	✔️	✔️
Wine by the Glass	✔️	✔️ (more options)
Cocktails	✔️	✔️ (premium choices available)
Standard Liquor / Mixed Drinks	✔️	✔️
Top-Shelf Spirits	Limited availability	✔️ Included
Wine Bottles Discount	About 20% off	About 40% off
Bottled Water	Not included	✔️ Included
Specialty Coffees (non-Starbucks)	Not included	✔️ Included
Starbucks Drinks				✔️ Included
Energy Drinks	✔️	✔️
Sodas	✔️	✔️	✔️ Included
Standard Juices	✔️	✔️
Fresh-Pressed Juices		✔️ Included
Drinks at Great Stirrup Cay	Not valid beginning March 2026	✔️ Works on island
Daily Cost (approx.)	Included with Free at Sea promo	About $50 per person per day upgrade	About $15 per person per day	About $20 per person per day

Cost & Guest Eligibility

The Free at Sea Plus upgrade is priced at $49.99 per person, per day for guests already booked with the standard Free at Sea package.

Reduced rates apply for younger travelers:

• Guests under 21 pay $40 per day

• Ages 3–12 receive prepaid service charges and streaming Wi-Fi

• Ages 13–21 receive those perks plus the specialty dining discount

The package is available for future cruises beginning in early 2026.

Is It Worth the Upgrade?

For many travelers, yes. Once the daily gratuities are factored in, the effective cost of Free at Sea Plus drops significantly. When combined with the included Wi-Fi upgrade, beverage enhancements, and dining savings, the package can easily provide more value than purchasing each item separately.

Guests who frequently buy specialty coffees, bottled water, or top-shelf drinks are likely to see the biggest benefit. Travelers who rely on Wi-Fi or enjoy specialty dining options may also find substantial savings.

Final Thoughts

With daily service charges now included and several popular onboard perks upgraded, Free at Sea Plus has returned as a strong value option for Norwegian cruisers. The package gives guests a more inclusive experience without the stress of added onboard costs—and offers flexibility to customize their vacation the way they travel