Princess Cruises is set to implement stricter operational guidelines for its onboard beverage packages, with all ships across the fleet expected to enforce the changes for voyages departing on or after May 9, 2025. The move comes as part of a fleetwide initiative to reinforce the terms of its popular Princess Plus and Premier bundles.

According to an internal announcement circulated to shipboard staff, Princess Cruises is reinforcing key policies around beverage service to ensure compliance and reduce misuse of the bundled packages

Key Changes to Beverage Package Enforcement

Under the updated rules:

• 
  • Guests may only order one drink per transaction, regardless of whether they are enrolled in the Princess Plus or Premier beverage package.
• 
  • Sharing of beverage packages is strictly prohibited. Guests cannot use their package allowance to purchase drinks for others. If a guest insists on buying a round for others, each additional drink must be charged at full price.
• 
  • Double pours of spirits will no longer be allowed. However, double pours of wine by the glass are still permitted under the new guidelines.

The announcement instructs Food and Beverage (F&B) leadership onboard to ensure crew are properly trained and fully aware of the rules by the May 9 rollout date. The goal, according to Princess Cruises, is to maintain consistency in guest service while preserving the value and integrity of the beverage packages.
Preventing Abuse While Preserving Guest Experience

The Princess Plus and Premier packages have proven popular among guests for their inclusive approach, bundling drinks with other amenities. However, the cruise line, like others in the industry, has occasionally faced challenges with guests attempting to circumvent package limits or share benefits with other travelers.

Implementation Begins May 9

The new rules go into effect for all voyages departing on or after May 9, 2025. Guests currently booked on these sailings will still enjoy access to all items covered by their beverage package — as long as they follow the updated rules.