Every person is different. You need to figure out what is best for you. For some they do not care about the price and will pay it upfront so that they do not have to worry about any surprise charges after the cruise even if they do not get their money's worth. My advice if you get the drink package is do not drink any beer, try different drinks you may have never thought of trying because you can always toss it if you do not like it and get something else.