Passenger sends out warning after Cunard increases drinks prices across its fleet

• Luxury line Cunard has increased its drinks prices across its fleet.
• Cunard says they are ‘enhancing’ their beverage packages.
• A number of cruise lines have increased their drink prices over the last 24 months.

There were few cheers from Cunard cruisers after the luxury line raised the price of drinks at its bars across the fleet recently.

A cruiser aboard Queen Victoria noticed that bar prices had increased. For example, a cocktail that used to be US$13.50 has risen to US$15. The cruiser contacted guest services about the matter to ask what was happening and received the following notice:

“We hope you are enjoying your voyage on board the elegant Queen Victoria. Please note that I checked with the managers, and they confirmed that the bar menu has changed and that the prices have increased. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or confusion this may have caused. Please accept our apologies for any disappointment caused, and do not hesitate to contact us if you require any further clarification or assistance.”

As often happens with price rises, many cruisers didn’t take too kindly to finding out that their drinks would now be costing extra. One cruiser said, “It’s like saying your $75 steak is now $80 before you pay the check.”

Cunard said in a statement: “We regularly review our onboard drinks offering to ensure guests continue to enjoy a great range of choice and value throughout their voyage. As part of this, we are enhancing and simplifying the range of beverages available across our bars to provide guests with more choice and a more consistent experience throughout the ship.

“This includes 32 wines and Champagnes available by the glass across all bars, more than 90 signature cocktails, our wine programme featuring more than 150 wines from around the world, and a range of drinks packages.

“As part of this review, we have also made some changes to bar menus and prices across the fleet.”

Cunard operates a traditional cruise model where a base fare covers your accommodation, meals in standard dining venues and onboard activities.

The fare includes

• Dining: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, and late-night snacks.
• Entertainment: Gala balls, theatre performances, guest lectures, and dance classes.
• Facilities: Swimming pools, gym access, and library access.

Passengers can purchase alcohol and specialty coffees, specialty dining, Wi-Fi , spa treatments and gratuities.

The line also offers bundled Signature Packages that can be added to booking fares to cover drinks, Wi-Fi, and alternative dining credits, which generally save up to 30% compared to buying them separately on board.