Is Norwegian Cruise Line's Free at Sea Worth It?

Norwegian Cruise Line is well known for its freestyle cruising approach and value-driven promotions, but one of its most talked-about offers is Free at Sea. Many travelers wonder: Is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea worth it? The answer depends on how you cruise and which perks you’ll actually use.

Below, we break down exactly what Free at Sea includes, what it really costs, and who benefits most from choosing this popular promotion.

What Is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea?

Free at Sea allows guests to select a bundle of onboard perks when booking an eligible Norwegian Cruise Line sailing. Rather than one fixed all-inclusive fare, Free at Sea lets travelers choose from several popular add-ons, such as drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits, totaling over $2,000 in value.

It’s important to note that Free at Sea is not a true all-inclusive package. While the perks are heavily discounted, some come with required service charges, and the overall value depends on whether you use them.

What is Norwegian Cruise Line's Free at Sea Plus?

Free at Sea Plus is a paid upgrade to the standard package, with even more benefits to enhance your cruise. From more beverage options, upgrading Wi-Fi access, and increasing specialty dining benefits, designed for travelers who want a more premium, less restrictive onboard experience.

Unlike the standard Free at Sea package, Free at Sea Plus removes many of the limits tied to brand selection, usage caps, and connectivity. Instead of choosing individual add-ons, guests bundle multiple premium inclusions into one upgraded package.

Free at Sea vs. Free at Sea Plus: What’s the Difference?

While Norwegian’s standard Free at Sea promotion covers the basics, Free at Sea Plus builds on the standard promotion by removing many of the caps and restrictions that apply to Free at Sea. Perfect for travelers who want fewer limits and more flexibility on board.

Free at Sea vs. Free at Sea Plus: Pricing Breakdown

Understanding the true cost of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus packages comes down to daily pricing, added charges, and gratuities.

Standard Free at Sea Pricing

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea package is included with most cruise fares, but it still comes with daily service charges:

• Adults (21+): $28.50 per person, per day
• Guests ages 20 and under: $12.50 per person, per day
• Specialty dining cover charge: $20 per person, per meal

These charges cover gratuities on the open bar and dining perks, but do not include Wi-Fi upgrades, specialty premium beverages, or shore excursion credits beyond the basic offer.

Free at Sea Plus Upgrade Pricing

Free at Sea Plus is an optional upgrade on top of the Free at Sea package

• $49.99 per person, per day

While the daily price is higher, Free at Sea Plus bundles in gratuities and premium perks, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs onboard.

Free at Sea Plus includes:

• Premium beverage brands
• Unlimited Wi-Fi
• Shore excursion credits
• All gratuities included

What’s Included with Norwegian’s Free at Sea Promotions?

Unlimited Open Bar

The Unlimited Open Bar perk includes a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, sodas, and juices. While the drinks themselves are free, the cost is actually the associated gratuities.

Guests aged 20 or younger will instead receive the unlimited fountain soda and freshly squeezed juice package at a lower cost compared to the Unlimited Open Bar package.

Free at Sea Open Bar

• Unlimited premium beverage brands such as Grey Goose, Casamigos, Woodford Reserve & more
• Unlimited soft drinks & juices
• Over 100 cocktails to choose from
• 20% off all bottles of champagne & wine
• Guests under 3 are free

Free at Sea Plus Open Bar

• Top-shelf spirits, including Patrón Añejo, The Macallan 12 YO & more
• Premium wines & champagne by the glass with over 50 labels from the signature collection & 40% off all other bottles
• All Starbucks coffee and specialty coffee drinks from Starbucks locations and restaurants
• Energy drinks and fresh juices.
• Unlimited open bar at Great Stirrup Cay
• Bottled water at the bar and premium bottled water (still & sparkling) in restaurants

Specialty Dining

Free Specialty Dining allows guests to enjoy a set number of meals at Norwegian’s specialty restaurants, depending on the ship and length of the cruise. This can include steakhouses, Italian venues, and other popular dining options.

The perk is especially valuable on newer ships with multiple specialty dining venues, where à la carte dining costs can add up quickly.

Free at Sea vs. Free at Sea Plus

• Free at Sea: Limited number of specialty dining meals, based on the sailing length
• Free at Sea Plus: Includes Free at Sea's dining meals, plus 50% off any additional specialty dining nights

Free Wi-Fi

Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus both include Wi-Fi, but with some differences. Guests who opt for the standard Free At Sea package can upgrade their Wi-Fi while onboard, if desired.

Free at Sea Wi-Fi

• All guests receive 150 minutes of high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink, regardless of sail length
• Provides 1 login per guest that can be used on 1 device at a time
• Applicable for all guests in the stateroom

Free at Sea Plus Wi-Fi

• Unlimited streaming high-speed Wi-Fi
• Provides 1 login per guest that can be used on 1 device at a time
• Applicable to all guests in the stateroom

Shore Excursion Credit

This perk offers a per-port credit that can be applied toward Norwegian-sponsored shore excursions. The credit helps offset the cost of guided tours and activities, but must be used during the cruise and does not carry a cash value. 

It’s most beneficial on itineraries with ports where organized excursions are appealing.

Free at Sea vs. Free at Sea Plus

Both Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus have the same shore excursion credit offering.

Pre-Paid Gratuities

All daily gratuities are included with the Free at Sea Plus package.

Can You Customize or Decline Free at Sea Perks?

Guests can choose which Free at Sea perks to accept at booking. Declining a perk does not reduce the cruise fare, but it can help avoid unnecessary service charges. Upgrades and changes may be available prior to sailing or onboard, subject to availability.

How Much Does Free at Sea Actually Cost?

Although called “Free,” the promotion isn’t entirely without cost. Some perks, most notably the beverage package, require mandatory service charges, which are calculated based on the retail value of the package and the length of the cruise.

The total cost impact varies depending on which perks you select and how long you sail. For many guests, the combined value of drinks, dining, Wi-Fi, and excursions still outweighs the added fees, but it’s important to understand the charges before booking.

In summary, the cost of the products is free, but you're paying gratuities for the services, which can save you hundreds!

Free at Sea vs. Norwegian’s Base Cruise Fare

Without Free at Sea, Norwegian’s base cruise fare includes accommodations, main dining venues, entertainment, and select complimentary beverages. Free at Sea adds flexibility and value by bundling popular extras that many guests would otherwise purchase separately.

For travelers who plan to enjoy drinks, specialty dining, or shore excursions, the promotion often represents a better overall value than sticking with the base fare alone.

Norwegian Free at Sea Cost Breakdown Example*

On a typical seven-night cruise, the combined retail value of a drink package, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits can be substantial.

When factoring in required service charges, many guests still come out ahead, particularly those who use multiple perks consistently throughout the cruise.

Individual Drinks vs. Standard Free at Sea Drink Package

When buying drinks a la carte, you should expect to pay $3 - $15 per glass, with specialty cocktails and spirits at the higher end of the scale.

On average, the Free at Sea beverage package costs around $30 per person per day, so with the cost of 2 higher-end beverages and one soft drink, you would already exceed the value.

A la Carte Dining vs. Standard Free at Sea Specialty Dining Package

If you purchase specialty dining meals onboard, you will pay a cover charge plus taxes and fees. Cover charges range from $40 - $60 per person, with a standard 20% gratuities added to your bill. If you opt for the Free at Sea Specialty Dining package, your cost will be $20 per person, per meal.

You'll be saving at least $20 per person, so, at the bare minimum, two people could dine for the price of one if purchasing the package vs. buying meals individually.

*Pricing is accurate at the time of publishing, but may be subject to change. Please consult with your cruise expert at the time of booking for the most updated costs.

Free at Sea Plus Cost Comparison: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

Free at Sea Plus is not complimentary and is priced as an upgrade on top of the standard cruise fare. The cost varies by sailing, but it generally adds a daily per-person premium compared to standard Free at Sea.

When evaluating the cost difference, consider:

• Whether you would otherwise upgrade to a premium drink package
• How much Wi-Fi do you realistically plan to use
• Whether expanded specialty dining matters to you
• How many sea days vs. port days does your itinerary includes

For travelers who plan to drink premium cocktails, stay connected throughout the cruise, and dine frequently in specialty restaurants, Free at Sea Plus can offer better overall value than upgrading individual perks separately. For others, the standard Free at Sea promotion may already cover everything they need.

When Norwegian’s Free at Sea Is Worth It

Free at Sea may be worth considering if:

• You enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer: Guests who enjoy a few drinks each day often find that the beverage package alone can justify the required service charges. The value increases quickly for moderate drinkers.
• You want to try specialty dining: Specialty dining can be a highlight on Norwegian ships, and having meals included encourages guests to explore restaurants they might otherwise skip due to cost.
• You plan to book shore excursions: If you’re interested in guided tours or organized experiences, the shore excursion credit can help reduce overall cruise expenses, especially on port-intensive itineraries.

When Upgrading to Free at Sea Plus Makes the Most Sense

Upgrading to Free at Sea Plus may be worth considering if:

• You prefer top-shelf spirits, premium wines, or craft cocktails
• You need reliable, unlimited Wi-Fi for work or frequent communication
• You’re sailing a longer itinerary with multiple sea days

Travelers who primarily use complimentary dining venues, drink moderately, or disconnect onboard often find standard Free at Sea sufficient.

When Norwegian’s Free at Sea May Not Be Worth It

Norwegian's Free at Sea or Free at Sea Plus may not be worth it if:

• You don’t drink alcohol: Guests who don’t drink may still be required to pay service charges if they select the beverage perk, which can reduce overall value.
• You’re happy with complimentary dining & minimal Wi-Fi: Travelers who prefer included dining venues and plan to stay offline may not fully benefit from the added perks.
• You’re sailing a short cruise: On shorter sailings, there may not be enough time to take full advantage of all the Free at Sea benefits.

Expert Verdict: Is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Worth It?

For many travelers, yes, if you use the perks. Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus offer strong value for guests who enjoy drinks, specialty dining, and shore excursions. However, it’s less compelling for non-drinkers, short cruises, or travelers who prefer a more unplugged experience.

Understanding what’s included, what costs extra, and how you plan to cruise is the key to deciding whether Free at Sea is truly worth it for you.

Booking Tips to Maximize Value

• Choose perks you know you’ll use consistently
• Understand required service charges before booking
• Compare total cruise cost, not just advertised fares
• Using a cruise expert from The Cruise Web

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea can be an excellent value, but only when it aligns with how you actually cruise. Ready to book your dream Norwegian cruise? Visit cruiseweb.com or give us a call at 1-800-377-9383 to get started with a cruise expert today!

Free at Sea Frequently Asked Questions

Is Norwegian Cruise Line's Free at Sea really free?

Free at Sea includes promotional perks, but some come with required service charges.

Do I have to choose all Free at Sea perks?

No. Guests can select which perks they want, though declining perks does not reduce the base fare

Does Free at Sea include specialty dining on every ship?

Most ships offer specialty dining as part of Free at Sea, but the number of meals varies by sailing.

Can Free at Sea be removed after booking?

Changes may be possible before sailing, depending on fare rules and availability. If you choose to modify your package, let your cruise expert know as soon as possible.

Free at Sea Plus Frequently Asked Questions

Is Free at Sea Plus required?

No. Free at Sea Plus is completely optional and offered as an upgrade on select sailings.

Can I upgrade from Free at Sea to Free at Sea Plus after booking?

In many cases, yes, upgrades may be available before sailing or onboard, subject to availability and pricing.

Does Free at Sea Plus eliminate all service charges?

Some service charges may still apply depending on the perk and sailing, though Free at Sea Plus can reduce or bundle certain fees.

Is Free at Sea Plus considered fully all-inclusive?

Not entirely. While it adds premium inclusions, items such as shore excursions, spa services, and specialty experiences may still cost extra.

Is Free at Sea Plus worth it for short cruises?

Generally, the value improves on longer sailings, where guests have more time to fully use the upgraded benefits.