Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) just made a drink package change that even Royal Caribbean fans don’t like because they’re worried of the precedent it sets.
Effective March 1, 2026, Norwegian's "More at Sea" drink package will no longer be valid at Great Stirrup Cay. However, complimentary beverages, like iced tea, juices, and water, will still be provided.
Instead, NCL will release a new package specifically for use on its private island — for an additional cost. The cost is unknown at this time, but Norwegian claims they will be available for booking on Jan. 1, 2026.
The move has sparked discussions among cruise enthusiasts. Some noticed that Royal Caribbean is already implementing a similar policy at its new beach club in Nassau.
Read more: Norwegian just made an unpopular drink package change at its private island
"I am wondering if there is a new Bahamian policy or law regarding alcohol sales, because it was recently announced that on Royal Caribbean’s new “private club” in Nassau (the one you could literally throw a baseball to from the end of the cruise ship pier), the same thing is happening," one person shared on Reddit.
And they're right. Royal Caribbean drink packages will not work at the Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island. Rather, there are different day passes that include food and beverages.
The more expensive option includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, while the cheaper pass includes all non-alcoholic beverages — though alcoholic drinks are available à la carte.
Everyone who wants to visit the new beach club must purchase a day pass, even if they have a Royal Caribbean drink package for the ship.
Would Royal Caribbean ever ban drink packages from Perfect Day at CocoCay?
It's unlikely. Perfect Day at CocoCay is essentially an extension of the onboard experience. As such, drink packages and Crown & Anchor drink vouchers are accepted across the island, from the swim-up bars to the overwater cabanas. Wi-Fi even works on the island, too.
This is different from the Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island, which will function more like a shore excursion than a private island. If you don't purchase a day pass, you can't access the exclusive club and can explore other parts of Nassau instead.
There's very little reason for Royal Caribbean to limit its drink package at CocoCay. In fact, doing so would undermine one of its biggest selling points, especially for guests who value the convenience and cost savings of prepaid cruise amenities.
Following Norwegian’s announcement that its "More at Sea" drink package will no longer be valid at Great Stirrup Cay starting March 2026, many cruisers have taken to social media to express frustration, with some even debating whether to cancel future sailings.
It's even more surprising considering that the cruise line is investing $150 million to upgrade the island to better compete with CocoCay's amenities. By the end of 2026, Great Stirrup Cay will have a brand-new water park, pier, heated pool with swim-up bar, family-friendly splash pad, and more.
"Yeah...we are gold status in NCL, but stuff like this has me ready to look elsewhere. Interesting...they are starting this now that a dock will be in place and more ships will actually stop there," wrote one Reddit user.
Another added, "Wow!!! I was already disappointed that the Vibe Beach Club doesn’t extend to GSC. We might be just staying onboard at that stop! No thanks!"
"Wow this feels like a money grab especially with CocoCay across the water still honoring the RCL drink packages," one comment read.
Carnival doesn't accept its drink packages at Half Moon Cay or Celebration Key, either. Last year, Carnival hiked the price of its CHEERS! package to over $80 per day, even if purchased in advance.
Read more: Perfect Day at CocoCay vs. Celebration Key
Still, it can't be used at any of the line's private destinations. This is considered to be one of the biggest criticisms from guests.
Once NCL's new drink package rule goes into effect, Royal Caribbean will be one of the only cruise lines that lets guests use its drink packages ashore, along with MSC Cruises (Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve) and Princess Cruises (Princess Cays).
