Can You Use Starbucks Gift Cards on NCL? Starbucks Price List for Norwegian Cruise Line
For many cruisers, starting the day with a Starbucks coffee is a must, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has made that easier by adding licensed Starbucks locations on several ships. Whether you want a Caramel Macchiato, Iced Shaken Espresso, or a seasonal favorite, you’ll find a full Starbucks menu at sea. But can you use a Starbucks gift card on Norwegian Cruise Line?
The answer is yes, but with limitations. You can use a Starbucks gift card to pay for your drinks, but you cannot redeem Starbucks Rewards Stars or earn new ones. In this article, we’ll cover which NCL ships have Starbucks, how gift card payments work, and the latest onboard Starbucks pricing.
Which Norwegian Cruise Line Ships Have Starbucks?
Not all Norwegian Cruise Line ships have a full-service Starbucks, but many of the newest and largest vessels do. As of 2025, you can find official Starbucks locations on the following ships:
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Joy
Norwegian Escape
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Breakaway
Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Sky
Norwegian Pearl
Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Aqua
Norwegian Luna (Launching 2026)
If you're sailing on an older or smaller ship, you may still find Starbucks coffee available at select onboard cafés, but not a dedicated Starbucks store with the full menu.
Can You Use a Starbucks Gift Card on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Yes, you can use a Starbucks gift card to pay for drinks at Starbucks locations on Norwegian Cruise Line ships. However, there are some important details to know:
Starbucks gift cards are accepted as payment at onboard Starbucks locations.
You can use both physical and digital gift cards, including the Starbucks app barcode.
Starbucks Rewards Stars cannot be redeemed for free drinks or discounts.
You do not earn new Starbucks Stars for purchases made onboard.
If you plan to use a Starbucks gift card on your cruise, it’s a good idea to load your card with funds before boarding to avoid connectivity issues with the app.
How Much Does Starbucks Cost on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Pricing for Starbucks drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line is similar to airport and resort pricing, meaning it's slightly higher than on land. Below are some sample prices for Grande (16 oz) beverages as of February 2025:
Hot & Cold Favorites:
Freshly Brewed Coffee – $3.85
Caffè Latte – $5.95
Flat White – $6.65
Caffè Mocha – $6.45
Caffè Americano – $4.95
Chai Latte – $5.95
Matcha Latte – $5.95
Iced Shaken Espresso – $5.25
Starbucks Cold Brew – $5.25
Iced Caramel Macchiato – $6.25
Caramel Frappuccino – $5.95
Strawberry Açaí Refresher – $5.95
Pineapple Passionfruit Lemonade Refresher – $6.25
Holiday Favorites (Seasonal):
Peppermint Mocha – $7.25
Chestnut Praline Latte – $7.25
Extras:
Add Espresso Shot – $1.00
Add Syrup Flavor – $0.75 per pump
Nondairy Milk (Coconut, Almond, Oat, Soy) – $0.75
Blended Drinks (Frappuccinos, etc.) – $0.50 extra
Pricing is subject to change, and seasonal drinks like Pumpkin Spice Latte and Peppermint Mocha are only available at certain times of the year.
Is Starbucks Included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Beverage Packages?
Starbucks is not included in Norwegian’s Unlimited Open Bar (formerly called the Beverage Package) or Free at Sea drink perks. However, there is a Starbucks Coffee Package available for purchase, which allows you to enjoy unlimited Starbucks drinks for a set price.
If you don’t have the package, you can pay per drink with your onboard account, Starbucks gift card, or credit card.
Final Thoughts: Should You Use a Starbucks Gift Card on Norwegian Cruise Line?
If you're a Starbucks fan, having a gift card can be a convenient way to pay for your drinks without charging your onboard account. However, if you rely on Starbucks Rewards Stars, keep in mind that you won’t earn or redeem them on NCL.
For those who drink Starbucks daily, the Starbucks Coffee Package might be worth considering to save money on multiple drinks. Otherwise, if you just need your occasional Frappuccino or espresso, using a Starbucks gift card onboard is a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks while cruising.
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