Your Unlimited Drink Package Won’t Work Here Anymore — And Travelers Are Fuming

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is making a big change to its popular drink policy that’s left many loyal cruisers talking.

Starting March 1, 2026, guests will no longer be able to use their “More at Sea” drink packages while visiting Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas.

A New Drink Policy for the Private Island

Until now, passengers who purchased the unlimited drink package onboard could enjoy the same privileges onshore. But NCL has confirmed that this perk will soon end as part of its broader plan to “transform the on-island experience.”

In a statement sent to travel agents, NCL explained,

“As we look to transform the on-island experience, we have evaluated our policies and made the decision that shipboard beverage packages will no longer be applicable for drinks on Great Stirrup Cay beginning March 1, 2026.”

Instead, a new beverage package designed exclusively for Great Stirrup Cay will be available for purchase beginning January 1, 2026. While details are still limited, the cruise line says this separate package will allow guests “the flexibility to curate how they experience ‘The Great Life.’”

For travelers not looking to spend extra, complimentary drinks such as water, iced tea, and juices will still be available at no cost to guests who present their key cards.

Guest Reactions: Frustration Over Added Costs

The change has sparked strong reactions from cruisers, many of whom took to social media to vent their disappointment. Frequent cruisers accused NCL of “nickel-and-diming” guests, calling the move a “money grab.”

One commenter wrote, “NCL nickel and diming every chance they get. This is disgusting.” Another added, “Screw you, Norwegian. This is a really shady move. Here we come, Royal.”

The decision follows other recent policy updates from the cruise line, including extra charges for additional main dining room entrées, no-show fees for specialty restaurants, and even the cancellation of 55 cruises planned for 2026 and 2027.

Major Enhancements Coming to Great Stirrup Cay

Despite the backlash, NCL says the change coincides with major upgrades coming to Great Stirrup Cay — part of a $150 million investment aimed at elevating the private island experience.

Among the upcoming additions are:

• A new pier capable of accommodating two ships at once, expected to open by the end of 2025.
• A large pool area with complimentary loungers.
• A splash pad for kids and expanded guest amenities.
• The highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark, set to debut in the summer of 2026, featuring 19 slides, a lazy river, and cliff jumps for thrill-seekers.

NCL emphasized that these upgrades are meant to enhance the guest experience both onboard and onshore:

“Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to providing the best vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and at the destinations we visit.”

A Growing Trend Among Cruise Lines

NCL isn’t the first cruise line to separate ship and island beverage packages. Earlier this year, Carnival Cruise Line implemented a similar policy for its upcoming Celebration Key destination, requiring guests to buy drinks à la carte or with a separate island package.

As cruise lines expand and upgrade their private destinations, many are shifting toward offering customized island experiences—even if that means charging a bit more for them.

Bottom Line

For now, cruisers still have time to enjoy their drink packages both onboard and on Great Stirrup Cay before the new rule kicks in. But come March 2026, those piña coladas on the beach won’t be part of your ship package anymore—you’ll need to purchase them separately.