Drink Package or No Drink Package

This is the new question everyone has about cruising.  Should I buy the drink package and is it worth it? I started cruising in 1999 and you did not have a choice but sticker shock at the end of the cruise.  They quietly slide that bill under your door overnight.  I have cruised with the drink package and without.  The obvious saving is the tips and gratuities.  Your gratuities are paid up front no matter how many drinks you have.  You have to remember that gratuities are paid on all drinks, including water and juices.  If you drag water on the ship you may save on that.  I personally like to travel light and I am not carrying water on board.  After all I am on vacation.  The drink package price varies on cruise lines and it is a personal choice on how much you will drink.  I like the flexibility to drink what I want when I want and not be concerned about the bill.  I have noticed that if you travel with a group you are likely to drink a little more.  If definitely saves on buying bottles at the dinner table especially when people switch up on white or red.  Cruises should be all inclusive travel so in the end I am in favor of the drink package. Happy Cruising!