What are the options for beverage packages for large groups?

  • Thomas van Loon
  • 🕐 6 min leestijd

For beverage packages for large groups, you have several options: standard consumption (fixed amount per person), premium packages (high-quality drinks), all-inclusive packages (unlimited drinks), and custom solutions. Costs range from €15-50 per person, depending on the type of package, group size, and duration. The difference between an open bar and a consumption package lies in the limitation: open bar means unlimited drinks, consumption has a fixed budget per person.

What types of beverage packages can you choose for large groups?

You have four main types of beverage packages for large groups: standard consumption, premium packages, all-inclusive packages, and custom solutions. Each package has its own advantages and suits different budgets and group preferences.

Standard consumption packages work with a fixed amount per person, usually between €15-25. This package includes basic drinks like beer, wine, soft drinks, and coffee. It’s ideal for groups of 20-100 people who want a reliable foundation without surprises in costs.

Premium packages cost €30-45 per person and include high-quality wines, specialty beers, premium spirits, and cocktails. This option works well for business events where you want to make an impression or for special occasions like anniversaries.

All-inclusive packages offer unlimited drinks for a fixed amount per person (€35-50). This works especially well for longer events of more than 3 hours, where guests have plenty of time to socialize.

Custom solutions combine elements from different packages. You can, for example, start with a welcome drink, move to consumption during dinner, and end with a special reception. This gives you the flexibility to perfectly tailor the package to your program.

How much does a drink package cost per person for group outings?

Drink packages for group outings cost an average of €20-45 per person, depending on the type of package, group size, and duration of the event. Larger groups usually get better rates through economies of scale.

For groups up to 50 people, you often pay standard rates. For groups of 50-100 people, you usually get 10-15% discount. Groups over 100 people can expect 15-25% discount on base prices.

Factors that influence the price:

  • Duration of the event (less than 2 hours = lower costs)
  • Time of day (lunch packages are cheaper than evening packages)
  • Season (winter and weekdays are often more affordable)
  • Type of drinks (local wines versus international brands)
  • Service level (self-service versus table service)

A basic package with beer, wine, and soft drinks costs €15-20 per person. Premium packages with cocktails and special wines cost €35-45 per person. Don’t forget that with different boat types, different facilities are also available that can influence the price.

What is the difference between an open bar and a consumption package?

An open bar means unlimited drinks for a fixed amount per person, while a consumption package works with a predetermined budget per person that gets used up. An open bar usually costs €40-60 per person, consumption packages €20-35 per person.

With an open bar, guests can order unlimited drinks from the available selection all evening. This works well for festive occasions where people stay long and socialize a lot. The advantage is that you know exactly what you’ll pay in advance, regardless of how much is consumed.

Consumption packages give you more control over costs. Each guest gets, for example, €25 in consumption credits that can be spent on drinks of choice. When the budget is used up, guests can pay extra themselves or stop drinking.

Open bar advantages:

  • Fixed costs, no surprises
  • Guests don’t have to think about money
  • Encourages social interaction

Consumption package advantages:

  • Better cost control
  • Prevents excessive alcohol consumption
  • Flexibility in spending per guest

For business group activities in Amsterdam, many organizers choose consumption packages because this appears more professional and keeps costs more manageable.

How do you arrange beverage packages for groups with different preferences?

Plan a varied selection with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, consider cultural and religious preferences, and communicate about special requests in advance. A good drink selection contains at least 40% non-alcoholic options and different price ranges.

Start by inventorying preferences during registration. Ask about allergies, religious restrictions, and strong preferences. This helps you put together the right selection without excluding people.

Basic selection for diverse groups:

  • Non-alcoholic: water, soft drinks, juices, mocktails, coffee, tea
  • Light alcoholic: beer, white wine, rosé, cava
  • Stronger alcoholic: red wine, spirits, cocktails
  • Special options: gluten-free beer, organic wines, halal options

Distribute your budget wisely: spend 40% on non-alcoholic drinks, 45% on light alcoholic drinks, and 15% on premium options. This ensures everyone finds something to their taste without exceeding the budget.

Communicate clearly about what’s available. Create a drink menu or list that you share in advance, so people know what to expect. This prevents disappointments and ensures everyone feels welcome.

How Rederij de Nederlanden helps with beverage packages for large groups

We provide complete beverage packages for groups of 10 to 1000 people during boat trips through Amsterdam and surrounding areas. Our experienced team handles everything from A to Z, so you can focus on your guests and the event itself.

Our drink services include:

  • Personal advice on the best package for your group and budget
  • Flexible packages, from standard consumption to premium all-inclusive
  • Professional bar service with experienced bartenders on board
  • Extensive selection for all preferences and dietary requirements
  • Transparent prices without hidden costs
  • Possibility for customization and adjustments during the event

The advantage of a drink service on the water is the unique atmosphere that develops. People relax more quickly, natural conversations arise, and the combination of sailing and socializing creates an unforgettable experience for your group.

Want to know more about our possibilities for beverage packages during your group outing? Discover more about our experience with group activities in Amsterdam or contact us directly for personal advice about the perfect drink package for your group.

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