Norwegian Cruise Line has just announced major changes to its well-known and iconic Free at Sea program. The cruise line’s latest update, called Free at Sea Plus, introduces an expanded lineup of added benefits designed to give guests more value and added convenience throughout their cruise vacation.
According to Norwegian Cruise Line, the new Free at Sea Plus package gives guests “the ability to savor premium amenities valued at over $3,000 for just an additional $49.99 per person, per day” for the duration of their cruise.
What is included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Plus package
Guests who opt for the new Free at Sea Plus package can expect several notable upgrades to their vacation experience, including an enhanced beverage package, improved specialty dining benefits, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, and prepaid service charges.
Together, these additions aim to create a more all-inclusive feel for travelers who prefer to handle most of their cruise expenses upfront.
Upgraded beverage package includes top-shelf spirits and Starbucks
The upgraded beverage package builds on what is already included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s standard Free at Sea beverage offering. With Free at Sea Plus, guests now gain access to top-shelf spirits, premium wines and champagne, as well as Starbucks beverages, energy drinks, juices, bottled water, and more onboard.
The package also includes an unlimited open bar at Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island destination, a benefit many guests will appreciate following recent changes to onboard and ashore beverage policies that had previously removed any beverage packages from the island.
How Free at Sea Plus expands specialty dining options
Dining benefits also receive a meaningful upgrade for guests. In addition to the specialty dining nights already included in the standard Free at Sea program, guests who select Free at Sea Plus will enjoy 50% off cover charges on any additional specialty dining experiences booked during their cruise.
This update offers more flexibility for passengers to sample Norwegian Cruise Line’s specialty restaurants. This can be especially helpful, as many of NCL’s ships have 6+ specialty dining locations onboard.
Improved internet access at sea for Free at Sea Plus guests
Connectivity at sea is another area of improvement. Guests who purchase the Free at Sea Plus package will receive unlimited streaming high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink, allowing for faster and more reliable internet access throughout the ship.
This enhancement is especially appealing for travelers who work remotely, stream content, or simply want to stay connected while sailing during their cruise.
One less onboard expense with included service charges
One of the most practical additions to the Free at Sea Plus package is the inclusion of prepaid service charges, commonly referred to as gratuities. With gratuities covered upfront, guests can relax knowing their cruise expenses are largely settled before embarkation, eliminating surprise charges and creating a more seamless onboard experience.
The new Free at Sea Plus package will be available for purchase starting December 18, 2025. At launch tomorrow, it will be offered to guests who already have the Free at Sea or More at Sea beverage and dining packages.
The upgrade can only be added once a cruise reservation has been booked and a deposit has been placed, and it will currently apply only to sailings departing on or after February 1, 2026 with Norwegian Cruise Line.
The introduction of Free at Sea Plus comes amid several recent changes for Norwegian Cruise Line. After some guest backlash surrounding the beverage package no longer applying ashore at Great Stirrup Cay, it is encouraging to see a new option that restores this popular benefit for travelers who prefer a more inclusive cruise experience.
As always, stay tuned to Candid Cruise Travel for the latest updates on everything cruise and travel-related. We look forward to sharing the newest developments with our readers and hope these insights help you plan your next cruise adventure with confidence!
