Hayley Phillips Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has just announced a significant change to its drink package policy, and it’s one that’s already sparking backlash from loyal cruisers.
The change, set to take effect in March 2026, will directly impact how guests enjoy beverages at the cruise line’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay.
Here’s what’s changing and how it could affect your next cruise!
What’s changing with Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink package?
Earlier this year, Norwegian Cruise Line released a statement announcing a series of new upgrades coming to Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas.
These enhancements include a brand-new pier for easier island access, an expansive pool area with complimentary loungers, a kid-friendly splash pad, and an all-new Great Tides Waterpark, which will feature 19 waterslides and a dynamic river for the whole family to enjoy.
But alongside those exciting developments comes a change that many guests view as a downgrade.
“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,” Norwegian Cruise Line announced.
“Complimentary beverages, including water, iced tea, juices, and more, will continue to be readily available on the island with the use of the guest’s key card.”
To summarize, guests’ NCL drink package will no longer work on NCL’s private island destination, Great Stirrup Cay, even if they’ve already paid for it as part of their upcoming cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line.
A new island-exclusive drink package for Great Stirrup Cay
To make up for this change, Norwegian Cruise Line says it’ll offer a separate beverage package exclusive to Great Stirrup Cay for guests to purchase in addition to their onboard beverage package.
“To provide our guests the flexibility to curate how they experience ‘The Great Life,’ we will offer our guests the ability to purchase a new beverage package crafted exclusively for Great Stirrup Cay,” the Norwegian Cruise Line said.
Details are still relatively limited, but the new Great Stirrup Cay drink package will be available for purchase beginning January 1, 2026.
It’s not yet clear how much this add-on will cost or whether it will offer the same value as the shipboard package, something travelers will want to watch closely for.
Cruiser reactions: “Guess we’ll drink tea or stay on the ship”
Not surprisingly, longtime NCL cruisers are already voicing frustration online. Many are disappointed that a benefit they’ve come to rely on, and in some cases already paid for, is now being restricted.
Here’s what some guests had to say about the beverage package change:
One cruiser shared, “We are going in March 2026 so guess we will drink tea or stay on the ship.” Another chimed in with, “Wow. Looks like more people will be staying on the ship next year and beyond then.”
A third loyal NCL guest added, “Was already thinking of staying on the ship next one in Sept. Might be a quick get off, pool and back on. Longtime NCL cruiser and this is a big change that affects people already booked that wanted the package on GSC.”
Despite the pushback, NCL is hoping the island enhancements, including the upcoming waterpark and other new amenities, will keep guests coming ashore to Great Stirrup Cay.
“We look forward to opening these new experiences on the island for guests to enjoy,” the cruise line said, highlighting the summer 2026 debut of Great Tides Waterpark and more family-friendly attractions.
More Norwegian Cruise Line policy changes coming in 2026
This drink package update is just one of several policy changes NCL has announced for the upcoming year. Others include adjustments to the main dining room entrée policy, updates to how loyalty status is recognized across Norwegian’s brands, and additional enhancements to onboard experiences.
With all these changes on the horizon, NCL cruisers will want to stay informed, especially if they’re already booked for 2026 sailings.
Bottom line: Is NCL’s new drink package policy a dealbreaker?
For many guests, removing drink package access on Great Stirrup Cay feels like a step backward, especially for those used to all-inclusive experiences onboard and during their cruise. While the new island-specific drink package might provide flexibility, it also introduces an extra cost, something many cruisers are increasingly sensitive to.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay will be greatly improved by the addition of some more complimentary activities, and it will be interesting to see all that will be coming to the island in 2026.
As always, the best way to make informed travel decisions is to stay updated.
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