Cruise Ship Bars: Where to Find the Best Drinks at Sea
Embarking on a cruise is not just about the destinations you visit, but also about the unforgettable experiences you can have onboard. One of the highlights of any cruise is the array of vibrant and themed bars that offer a world of flavors and atmospheres. Whether you are a cocktail connoisseur, a beer enthusiast, or someone who loves to unwind with a refreshing drink, cruise ship bars have something for everyone.
Imagine sipping on a RedFrog Rum Punch at the RedFrog Rum Bar on Carnival Cruise Lines, surrounded by the lively ambiance of the Caribbean. This bar, with its colorful décor and stunning ocean views, is the perfect spot to enjoy tropical flavors and island vibes. You can indulge in signature cocktails like the “Rum Runner,” a fruity concoction of rum, banana liqueur, blackberry brandy, and tropical fruit juices, all while enjoying live music performances and dancing the night away.
For those seeking elegance and sophistication, the Wheelhouse Bar on Princess Cruises is a must-visit. This refined bar, with its nautical décor and classic ambiance, offers a timeless setting where you can unwind and enjoy classic cocktails like the “Captain’s Old Fashioned.” The bar’s intimate atmosphere, complete with live piano music, makes it the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Cruise ship bars also offer unique and interactive experiences. The Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise Line is a world of enchantment where skilled bartenders transform fresh ingredients and premium spirits into handcrafted cocktails. Here, you can watch the mixologists at work and even ask for a custom cocktail tailored to your taste preferences. The bar’s lively and interactive atmosphere, complete with cocktail-making competitions and flair bartending shows, makes it a standout destination for any cruise.
From the tropical vibes of the Surfers Bar on MSC Cruises to the magical experience of the Bionic Bar on Royal Caribbean, each bar offers a distinct theme and atmosphere that enhances your cruising experience. Whether you are looking to relax with a refreshing drink, enjoy live music, or participate in interactive mixology sessions, cruise ship bars are the heart of onboard entertainment and socializing.
| Cruise Line | Bar | Signature Cocktail | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnival Cruise Line | RedFrog Rum Bar | Rum Runner | A fruity concoction of rum, banana liqueur, blackberry brandy, and tropical fruit juices. |
| Princess Cruises | Wheelhouse Bar | Captain’s Old Fashioned | A classic cocktail made with bourbon, bitters, sugar, and a twist of citrus. |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Alchemy Bar | Alchemy Elixir | A magical mix of gin, fresh herbs, citrus juices, and a touch of sweetness. |
| Royal Caribbean | R Bar | Cucumber Martini | A refreshing cucumber-infused vodka cocktail. |
Tips for Enjoying Cruise Ship Bars
To maximize your experience, consider visiting the bars during less crowded times and engaging with the bartenders to discover unique and custom cocktails. Also, keep an eye out for special promotions and happy hours that can add extra value to your drink package.
The right bar can turn a good cruise into a great one. With so many themed and unique drinking experiences available, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy your favorite drinks at sea.
Top Cruise Ship Bars for Unique Experiences
Eden Bar, Celebrity Cruises – Instagram-Worthy Cocktails
The Eden Bar on Celebrity Cruises is a multi-use venue that combines a restaurant, deli, bar, and performance space, making it a standout for unique experiences. Known for its quirky and visually spectacular cocktails, the Eden Bar is the place to go for an adventurous drinking experience. From treasure boxes and smoke-filled glasses to drinks served in apple-shaped containers, the presentations are as impressive as the flavors. This bar is perfect for those seeking an immersive and Instagram-worthy experience.
Imagine sipping on a cocktail served in a glass filled with smoke or enjoying a drink from a treasure box. The Eden Bar’s creative mixology and immersive presentations make every drink a memorable event.
Blue Eye, Ponant – Underwater Views and Seaweed Cocktails
The Blue Eye Lounge on Ponant’s Le Laperouse is one of the most unusual and cool bar concepts at sea. Located below the waterline, this lounge features whale-eye-shaped portals that allow you to watch the sea pass by as you sip your drink. The lounge is designed to offer a multisensory experience, with couches that vibrate to undersea acoustics, making it feel like you are inside a whale. It’s a strange yet spectacular experience, perfect for those looking for something out of the ordinary.
Sugarcane Mojito Bar, Norwegian Cruise Line – Havana-Themed Mojitos
The Sugarcane Mojito Bar aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Breakaway-Plus Class ships is a must-visit for mojito fans. This Havana-themed venue offers indoor and outdoor seating with live Latin-Cuban music, creating a lively atmosphere as you enjoy your drink. Whether you opt for the Spicy Passion Mojito, Pineapple Coconut Mojito, or the Raspberry Guava Mojito, each drink is an exciting fusion of flavors. The alfresco promenade seating is perfect for watching the sunset while sipping on a refreshing mojito flight.
| Cocktail Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Spicy Passion Mojito | A blend of spicy and sweet flavors with a hint of passion fruit. |
| Pineapple Coconut Mojito | A tropical mix of pineapple, coconut, and mint. |
| Raspberry Guava Mojito | A fruity combination of raspberry and guava with a refreshing twist. |
Atlas Bar, Azamara Cruises – Intimate Prohibition-Era Ambiance
The Atlas Bar on Azamara Cruises offers an intimate Prohibition-Era ambiance that transports you back to the 1920s. This cozy bar is adorned with elegant décor and dim lighting, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy classic cocktails in a setting that feels like a hidden gem from another era. The bar’s intimate ambiance makes it the perfect spot for a quiet evening or a romantic night out.
Why Visit the Atlas Bar?
The Atlas Bar is ideal for those who appreciate a classic, sophisticated drinking experience. With its Prohibition-Era ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails, it offers a unique and memorable experience onboard.
Specialty Cocktails to Order on Your Cruise
Mojitos – Classic and Flavored Variations
Mojitos are a staple in many cruise ship bars, and for good reason. These refreshing cocktails are perfect for hot days at sea. The Sugarcane Mojito Bar on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Breakaway-Plus Class ships is a must-visit for mojito enthusiasts. Here, you can enjoy a variety of flavored mojitos such as the Spicy Passion Mojito, Pineapple Coconut Mojito, and the Raspberry Guava Mojito. Each drink is an exciting fusion of flavors, and the alfresco promenade seating offers a great spot to watch the sunset while sipping on your mojito flight.
Strawberry Daiquiris – A Cruise Classic
The Strawberry Daiquiri is a timeless cruise favorite that never goes out of style. This sweet and tangy cocktail is made with strawberry puree, white rum, and a touch of lime juice. You can find this classic drink at various bars across different cruise lines, but it’s especially popular at poolside bars where it pairs perfectly with the sun and sea. The Cove Bar on Disney Cruise Line, for example, serves cocktails that come with a popsicle, making the Strawberry Daiquiri an even more refreshing treat.
A Strawberry Daiquiri is the perfect accompaniment to a relaxing day by the pool. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy lime juice makes it a refreshing and enjoyable drink.
Caribbean Rum Punch – A Tropical Favorite
Caribbean Rum Punch is a tropical favorite that embodies the spirit of island hopping. This colorful cocktail typically includes a mix of rum, fruit juices, and a variety of fruits such as orange, lemon, and pineapple. It’s a staple at many cruise ship bars, especially those with a Caribbean or tropical theme. The RedFrog Rum Bar on Carnival Cruise Line is a great place to try this drink, where you can enjoy it in a lively atmosphere with live music and fun mocktail options for all ages.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Rum | A blend of light and dark rums for depth of flavor. |
| Fruit Juices | A mix of pineapple, orange, and cranberry juices. |
| Fresh Fruits | Orange, lemon, and pineapple slices for garnish. |
Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiians – Vacation Drink Staples
Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiians are vacation drink staples that evoke the feeling of a tropical getaway. The Mai Tai, made with rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup, is a classic cocktail that is both refreshing and rich. The Blue Hawaiian, with its combination of light rum, blue curaçao, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, offers a sweet and creamy alternative. These drinks are widely available on cruise ships and are particularly popular at bars with a tropical or island theme.
Mai Tai vs Blue Hawaiian
The Mai Tai is known for its complex flavors and rich texture, while the Blue Hawaiian is sweeter and creamier. Choose the Mai Tai for a more traditional cocktail experience or the Blue Hawaiian for a lighter, more fruity drink.
Dirty Monkey and Lava Flow – Creamy and Fruity Delights
The Dirty Monkey and Lava Flow are two creamy and fruity cocktails that are perfect for those looking for a sweet treat. The Dirty Monkey, made with Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, and banana liqueur, is a rich and indulgent drink. The Lava Flow, a blend of strawberries, pineapple, coconut cream, and rum, is a fruity and refreshing option. These drinks are great for poolside bars or any setting where you want to enjoy a creamy, sweet cocktail.
Sex on the Beach and Bay Breeze – Fruity Poolside Cocktails
Sex on the Beach and Bay Breeze are two fruity cocktails that are perfect for poolside enjoyment. The Sex on the Beach, made with vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry juice, is a sweet and tangy drink. The Bay Breeze, a combination of cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and vodka, offers a lighter and more refreshing alternative. These cocktails are easy to find at most cruise ship bars and are great for sipping while soaking up the sun.
Both the Sex on the Beach and Bay Breeze are easy to drink and perfect for hot days by the pool. They offer a refreshing and fruity escape from the sun.
Themed Bars and Unique Drinking Experiences
Half Moon Bar, Holland America – Historical and Scientific Cocktails
The Half Moon Bar, exclusively found on Holland America’s Rotterdam, is a unique blend of history and science. This bar offers a menu that is as much about the stories behind the drinks as it is about the flavors. With seven exclusive mixed drinks, each cocktail has a backstory tied to the cruise line’s rich history. A standout is the Rotterdam VII, featuring smoked gin and maraschino, making it both photogenic and delicious. The bar, though small, is a popular spot, often requiring a wait for a seat due to its crowd-pleasing concept.
Scenic Bar, Scenic Luxury Cruises – Extensive Whisky Collection
The Scenic Bar, located in the main lounge of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours’ Scenic Eclipse, is a whisky lover’s paradise. With over 110 bottles of whisky on display, the bar boasts an impressive collection from around the world, including single malts like a 25-year-old Glendullan and a 30-year-old Jura The Loch. The dramatic floor-to-ceiling whisky showcase is backlit for maximum effect, making the bar a visually stunning spot to enjoy a fine whisky. Drinks are included in the cruise fares, adding to the luxury experience.
| Whisky | Description |
|---|---|
| 25-year-old Glendullan | A single malt from Scotland, known for its smooth and complex flavors. |
| 30-year-old Jura The Loch | A rich and full-bodied single malt from the Isle of Jura. |
| 16-year-old Lagavulin | A peaty and intense single malt from Islay, Scotland. |
Alchemy Bar, Carnival Cruise Line – Mixology and Wellness Cocktails
The Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise Line is a unique and interactive experience that combines mixology with wellness. Designed to look like a pharmacy, the bar features apothecary jars and bartenders dressed in lab coats, ready to “prescribe” the perfect cocktail. You can order from a fun menu categorized into sections like Energizing Elixirs and Passion Portions, or simply check off your favorite flavors and let the bartenders create something special. A popular choice is the Cucumber Sunrise, a refreshing and invigorating cocktail that is sure to hit the spot.
How to Order at Alchemy Bar
Ordering at Alchemy Bar is a fun experience. Use the prescription pads provided to select your preferred flavors, or choose from the creative menu options. The bartenders will then mix up a custom cocktail tailored to your tastes.
Ooh La La and Pink, Royal Caribbean – French and Pink-Themed Bars
Royal Caribbean’s Ooh La La and Pink bars offer a French and pink-themed drinking experience that is both elegant and playful. Ooh La La, with its French boudoir-inspired décor, serves up classic cocktails with a French twist, while Pink, known for its vibrant and feminine ambiance, offers a range of pink-themed drinks. These bars are perfect for those looking for a sophisticated yet fun and lively atmosphere to enjoy their favorite cocktails.
Whether you prefer the sophisticated elegance of Ooh La La or the playful charm of Pink, these bars provide unique and memorable drinking experiences that are sure to delight.
Tips for Maximizing Your Cruise Drink Package
Choosing the Right Drinks for Value
To get the most out of your cruise drink package, it’s crucial to choose drinks that offer the best value. Opt for cocktails and drinks that are priced at or near the package’s daily limit. For example, if your package covers drinks up to $17, look for signature cocktails or premium spirits that fall within this range. Avoid ordering multiple cheap drinks, as this can quickly add up without maximizing the value of your package.
Exploring Unique and Signature Cocktails
One of the best ways to enhance your cruise experience is by trying unique and signature cocktails available onboard. Bars like the Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise Line and the Eden Bar on Celebrity Cruises offer creative and visually stunning drinks. At Alchemy Bar, you can order from a fun menu with sections like Energizing Elixirs and Passion Portions, or let the bartenders create a custom cocktail based on your favorite flavors.
Don’t be afraid to try something new and unique. Signature cocktails often come with a story and a presentation that makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Pairing Drinks with Dining and Activities
Pairing your drinks with dining and activities can significantly enhance your cruise experience. For instance, enjoying a Caribbean Rum Punch during a tropical-themed dinner or sipping on a Strawberry Daiquiri by the pool can elevate the ambiance and make the experience more memorable. Additionally, consider matching your drinks with the activities you participate in, such as a refreshing Cucumber Martini during a spa day or a Banana Colada while lounging on the beach at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
| Drink | Activity/Dining | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean Rum Punch | Tropical-themed dinner | A classic rum punch pairs perfectly with tropical flavors and themes. |
| Strawberry Daiquiri | Poolside relaxation | A sweet and tangy daiquiri complements the poolside atmosphere. |
| Cucumber Martini | Spa day | A refreshing and light martini is ideal for a relaxing spa day. |
| Banana Colada | Beach day at Perfect Day at CocoCay | A creamy and tropical colada is perfect for a beach day. |
Maximizing Your Drink Package
By choosing the right drinks, exploring unique cocktails, and pairing them with your activities and dining experiences, you can make the most out of your cruise drink package and enjoy a more enriched and memorable cruise experience.
Best Practices for Enjoying Cruise Ship Bars
Timing Your Visits for Less Crowds
To make the most of your cruise ship bar experience, timing your visits can be crucial. Avoid peak hours, such as right after dinner or during popular events, when bars tend to be crowded. Instead, consider visiting during less busy times, like late afternoon or early evening, when you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and better service. This strategy also gives you a chance to engage more closely with the bartenders and enjoy your drinks without the hustle and bustle.
Engaging with Bartenders for Custom Cocktails
Engaging with the bartenders onboard can elevate your drinking experience significantly. Many cruise ship bars, such as the Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise Line, offer custom cocktails tailored to your preferences. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartenders about their favorite drinks or request a custom mix based on your taste. This interactive experience not only ensures you get a drink you’ll love but also adds a personal touch to your evening.
The bartenders at these bars are often skilled mixologists who can create unique and delicious cocktails based on your preferences. Engaging with them can lead to some of the best drinks of your cruise.
Taking Advantage of Happy Hour and Special Promotions
Happy hours and special promotions are great ways to maximize your enjoyment of cruise ship bars. Many cruise lines offer discounts or special deals during happy hour, which can include buy-one-get-one-free drinks, discounted cocktails, or even free appetizers. Keep an eye on the ship’s daily program or app to stay informed about these promotions. Buying your drink package before the cruise can also sometimes come with discounts, making your overall experience more cost-effective.
| Promotion | Description |
|---|---|
| Happy Hour | Discounted drinks, often buy-one-get-one-free or reduced prices on select cocktails. |
| Drink Package Discounts | Purchasing your drink package before the cruise can result in significant savings compared to buying onboard. |
| Free Appetizers | Some happy hour promotions include free appetizers or snacks to accompany your drinks. |
Maximizing Happy Hour Benefits
Make sure to check the daily program or the cruise line’s app for happy hour times and any special promotions. Planning your bar visits around these times can help you get the most value out of your drink package and enhance your overall cruise experience.
A Final Toast to Cruise Ship Bars
As you sail through the vast expanse of the ocean, the bars onboard your cruise ship become more than just places to grab a drink; they are hubs of socialization, relaxation, and memorable experiences. From the elegant ambiance of the Atlas Bar on Azamara Cruises to the vibrant and interactive atmosphere of the Alchemy Bar on Carnival Cruise Line, each bar offers a unique and enriching experience.
Cruise ship bars are not just about the drinks; they are about the people you meet, the stories you share, and the memories you create along the way.
Whether you’re sipping on a Caribbean Rum Punch at a tropical-themed bar or enjoying a Cucumber Martini in a sophisticated setting, the variety of drinks and atmospheres ensures there’s something for everyone. The Skyy Vodka Ice Bar on Norwegian Cruise Line, with its icy decor and chilled drinks, is a standout for those seeking a unique experience, while the Martini Bar & Crush on Celebrity Cruises offers a high-energy atmosphere with bartenders who put on quite a show.
| Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Timing Your Visits | Avoid peak hours for a more relaxed experience. |
| Engaging with Bartenders | Ask for custom cocktails to enhance your experience. |
| Happy Hours and Promotions | Take advantage of special deals to get the most value from your drink package. |
As you disembark and reflect on your cruise experience, the memories of the drinks you enjoyed and the people you met at the bars will undoubtedly be among the highlights. So, the next time you’re planning a cruise, make sure to explore the diverse array of bars onboard and indulge in the unique drinking experiences they offer.
A Final Thought
Cruise ship bars are more than just places to enjoy a drink; they are gateways to new experiences, connections, and memories that will last long after your cruise ends.
So here’s to the bars at sea – may they always be filled with laughter, good company, and the perfect cocktail to toast your adventures.