royal caribbean cruise alcohol prices

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Royal Caribbean Drinks Prices, Beverage Menus, Alcohol Policy

Royal Caribbean alcohol prices - learn immediately how much are drinks on Royal Caribbean International. See the list of free drinks, and the RCCL's bringing alcohol policy. Alcohol prices on Royal Caribbean ships are Bar drink menu prices (regularly updated).

This survey provides information on RCI's shipboard pricing for BEERS , COCKTAILS , SCOTCH-WHISKIES , COGNACS , BOURBONS , VODKAS , GINS , LIQUEURS , TEQUILAS , WINES (exemplary, see more at RCI wine list ), COFFEES , NON-ALCOHOLIC beverages . The next link provides extensive information on alcoholic beverages from Royal Caribbean's cruise ship pub menus .

Note: RCI drink prices are not inclusive of the 15% gratuity charge. Our latest update added here the new Royal Caribbean drink packages (their cost, and what is included) - listed at page bottom. For more info, you can also check RCI's menus (food and bar menus).

Royal Caribbean alcohol policy

According to the Royal Caribbean rules on drinking, the drinking age minimum for alcoholic beverages is 21 years of age on all cruises departing from North America. At the RCI's discretion, the drinking age limit can be lowered to 18 on cruises departing from ports in South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand) where the legal drinking age is 18. As on other cruise lines, RCI reserves the right to revoke/restrict the drinking privileges of any passenger (regardless of age). Also, RCI retains the right to raise the minimum drinking age (for alcohol consumption) on any cruise when local laws require such modification.

In June 2018, RCI ship bars started to serve cocktails with optional plastic straws (not by default) - a new policy aiming to reduce sea pollution. "Why no straws?" signs at onboard bars fleetwide now indicate that drink orders will not automatically receive a straw, but only upon request. Since 2022, all straws are recyclable.

To celebrate the company's 50th anniversary, in 2019 RCI installed fleetwide Coca-Cola Freestyle machines (1 per ship) that serve a selection of sodas including RCI's brand "Royal Berry Blast" (Sprite, Sprite Zero).

Bringing alcohol on RCI ships

The RCI policy rules for bringing alcohol on voyages state:

• bringing liquor/beer on Royal Caribbean on embarkation is strictly forbidden - not allowed. Ship security may inspect your luggage and liquid containers (soda and water bottles, mouthwash, etc). If found, the booze will be confiscated, stored and returned at the end of the voyage. Passengers under 21 wouldn't be getting any of their smuggled alcohol back. If a passenger violates the Royal Caribbean alcohol policy, the line's Guest Conduct Policy may be enforced, which also includes forcible disembarkation or not allowing boarding - at your own expense. The list of possible violations, besides any attempts to conceal alcohol at security/luggage checkpoints, also includes over-alcohol-consuming behavior, providing alcohol to minors (21- yo), demonstration of irresponsible behavior on board.
• bringing wine on Royal Caribbean (on embarkation day only). You are allowed to bring max 2 wine/Champagne bottles per cabin (bottle size 750ml or smaller). Remember - bottles must retain the original seal of the manufacturer and not to look tampered with.
• buying alcohol on Royal Caribbean. If you purchase alcohol in port or in the duty-free shop on board, they will hold it until the end (the last day) of the cruise.

Note: All passengers must comply with TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines for liquids' transportation.

NEW "bring your own wine onboard" policy (cruise ship corkage fee)

By the RCI's new wine policy, If you want to drink your own wine and champagne (brought on board the ship) in public spaces (bars and restaurants), a USD 15 corkage fee per bottle will be applied to your bill.

• If a passenger received a bottle of wine/champagne purchased from Gift and Gear selection, a corkage fee will not be applied when that wine/champagne is consumed in public areas.
• Cruise passengers are allowed to bring personal wine/champagne on the ship on embarkation day only. The quantity is limited to two bottles per stateroom (2x 750 ml). These (2 per cabin) bottles can be consumed in the stateroom with no corkage fee applied.
• However, RCI's wine corkage fee rule is rarely enforced/ infrequently charged.
• Note: This policy was officially removed in 2014 Fall (back then, corkage fee was USD 25 per bottle), but reappeared in early June 2017. Unlike the old (pre-2014) onboard wine policy, currently, RCI doesn't apply corkage fees to wine/champagne purchased on the ship.

NEW non-alcoholic beverage policy

Since September 2018, RCI's updated beverage policy allows passengers to bring their own non-alcoholic drinks on the ship.

Non-alcoholic beverages must be in carry-on or hand luggage (not in checked bags). The new policy allows bringing only small quantities and only on embarkation day (at homeports). The max allowed amount is 12x (twelve) 17oz cans/bottles per cabin. Also permitted by the new policy are specialized beverages (distilled water and milk).

Which drinks are free on Royal Caribbean?

(free drinks by the RCI's loyalty program "Crown and Anchor")

Diamond+ members (passengers with 25+ RCI cruises) and guests booked in a Grand Suite or higher category have access to a nightly self-service free bar. This deal is on all RCI ships of the following classes - Radiance, Voyager, Freedom, Oasis and the new Quantum-class ships.

On RCI ships of the Freedom, Oasis, and Quantum-class, Diamond members (with 10-24 RCI cruises) have exclusive access to the Diamond Lounge, where beer, wine (red/white/Champagne), mixed drinks and soda are for free.

Free alcohol and drinks are also available at the onboard art auctions and past-guest gatherings.

How much are drinks on Royal Caribbean?

Note: The next link provides extensive information on alcoholic beverages from RCI's cruise ship pub menus .

Note (limited offerings): Periodically, RCI feature beers unique to itinerary or of special interest. Ask your server for what's currently available on your sailing. The RCI's beer menus in onboard pubs, like "Hoof and Claw", and "Wig and Gavel", have the most expanded beer lists, offering 16- or 20oz specialty beers, such as Murphy's Irish Stout, Newcastle Brown Ale, Boddingtons.

In 2022, the price of domestic beers is US$7.50, for import beers - $8.

In 2021, RCI added 6 new island-themed cocktails ($13) to the fleetwide beverage menu - Papa Jac (Puerto Rico), Rum Punch (Barbados), Planter's Punch (Jamaica), The Painkiller (BVI), Goombay Smash (Bahamas), Dark 'n Stormy (Bermuda).

Note: In the following table all listed drinks (by RCI's cocktail drink menus) are with prices per glass. 18% gratuity is added to the beverage's cost automatically.

Note: Since 2021, most cocktails are priced at $13/fleetwide.

RCI's cruise cabin Mini-Bar drinks prices

• Mini bar items are charged to the SeaPass card of the 1st person registered in the cabin.
• Since 2017, except ordering from the "Continental Breakfast" menu, room-service is at a fee (USD 7,95 per order) - reed more at Cruise Mapper's room service menu article.

Royal Caribbean alcohol prices

Note: All listed below prices are per glass.

SCOTCH and WHISKIES

Note: Wines priced by the glass (examples) - see more at Royal Caribbean wine list (prices by the glass and bottle).

Note: Since 2021, most wines by the glass are priced between $10-14.

COFFEE drinks prices

RCI offers on its largest (Oasis-class) ships Starbucks coffee beverages.

On RCI ships without dedicated Starbucks kiosks (all excepting the Oasis-class), the line's unlimited drink packages "Royal Replenish" and "Ultimate" (all-inclusive) can be used for paying Starbucks beverages. Those ships serve Starbucks coffee beverages at the "Cafe Promenade" lounge bar (former Latte-tudes).

• Quantum-class ships serve Starbucks coffee drinks at the "La Patisserie" bar.
• Starbucks gift cards and the app can also be used for payment.
• Starbucks coffee cards are available for purchase on select ships, and for use at "Starbucks at Sea" locations only (see above). The Starbucks coffee card includes 15 Starbucks beverages for USD 30 per card. Its value is for the current cruise only. The card is shareable.

NON-ALCOHOLIC drinks prices

New royal caribbean beverage packages.

The following RCI drink package prices are available on itineraries in the Caribbean, Alaska and North America only (15% tips are additional).

Package prices on itineraries in Europe, Asia, Australia New Zealand, and South America vary (15% gratuities are included).

Drink package policy

RCI cruise ship passengers should know about the line's drink package policy the following:

• Royal Caribbean drink packages are not shareable or transferable.
• When ordering a beverage package on the ship, guests must present their SeaPass card when showing the package sticker to waiters.
• Packages do not include in-room drink purchases, or mini-bar drinks, including bottled water, canned soft drinks, bottled juices, beers.

RCI drink packages - prices and inclusions

IMPORTANT: Prices shown below are per person, per day. These package deals are available on RCI cruises with duration 3 nights or longer.

In September 2015 RCI presented the company's new self-serve beer program on Freedom of the Seas . Holders of the RCI Ultimate, Premium and Select drink packages can already serve themselves Stella Artois beer. Ship's self-serve machines are located around the pool deck and in Windjammer buffet. All package-holders can make their purchases via a card that is swiped at the machines. The machines have built-in time limits to ensure no continuous pouring.

For beers different than Stella Artois or outside Windjammer Buffet and pool deck, package-holders have to see a bartender.

At the end of 2015, RCI started testing one-day beverage packages and a 10-drink punch card onboard its cruise ships. RCI vessels have been given the option to test various beverage package offerings. The decision of which program to feature, if any, is made by the ship. For example, a one-day beverage package on Enchantment of the Seas was offered for USD 65 per person and included unlimited cocktails, select glasses of wine, beer, as well as bottled water, specialty coffees, and juices. These offerings are tests and might/might not be rolled out in the near future.

"Sip Tour Brunch" combines a Chef-led Galley tour (ship's kitchen) with unlimited champagne. The 2,5-hours, adults-only activity also includes a Main Dining Room brunch with unlimited sparkling wine. Closed-toe shoes are required.

Bottled alcohol packages

In addition to the unlimited alcohol packages, RCI offers 2 packages available for in-cabin consumption. They can be purchased at the onboard Royal Gifts shop and each combines Coca-Cola products with a bottle of liquor.

• "Bacardi Gold plus Coca-Cola" package costs USD 40 and includes one bottle of Bacardi Gold (Puerto Rico manufactured rum, 375 ml) combined with four Coca-Cola cans.
• "Bombay Sapphire plus Tonic" package costs USD 43 and includes one bottle of Bombay Sapphire (Laverstoke Mill, Hampshire UK manufactured gin, 375 ml) combined with four Tonic water cans.
• The list of RCI ships currently selling these new bottled alcohol packages includes Explorer, Legend, Mariner, Ovation, Quantum, Radiance, Splendour, Vision and Voyager.

Next, are listed CruiseMapper's Royal Caribbean drinks related articles - your RCI "Booze Cruise" options reviewed. At some of the links, you can also compare the "booze cruise" options of RCI's major rival - Carnival Cruise Lines .

• Royal Caribbean food and bar menus
• Royal Caribbean all-you-can-drink package (about the "Classic" and "Premium" booze package inclusions), which you can compare with the Carnival Cheers all-you-can-drink package by CCL's new alcohol inclusive package program.
• Royal Caribbean wine prices (by the glass/bottle)
• Carnival drinks prices
• Carnival wine prices
• Carnival Fun Shop liquor prices
• Carnival Cruise Line's alcohol policy and beverage policy
• Carnival Drink Recipes

Royal Caribbean drink packages: Prices, inclusions and what to know before you buy

Royal Caribbean drink packages allow you to drink what you want and when you want without feeling like you are being nickeled and dimed. Isn't that most cruisers' dream? The all-inclusive, extra-fee beverage plans aren't necessarily for everyone, but they are a nice way to enhance your cruise and take some of the stress out of in-the-moment vacation decisions.

Royal Caribbean ships offer a variety of packages, from a simple Water Package that keeps you and your crew hydrated during your cruise to a comprehensive plan that includes most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Other than the Water Package, which is priced based on the quantity you order, drink packages on Royal Caribbean are priced per person, per day.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The most common questions about Royal Caribbean's drink packages revolve around what each package includes, whether they are worth the price, and when is the best time to buy your package. I've tried all of Royal Caribbean's drink packages, but I've also cruised without any package. Here's what you need to know to decide if a beverage plan is right for you.

What's included in Royal Caribbean's drink packages?

Royal Caribbean offers several different drink packages, and the inclusions vary based on your choice. All options include gratuities, and no Royal Caribbean drink package includes room service or minibar drinks. Also, unlimited alcoholic beverage packages may not be available while the ship sails in some locations, so package details may change based on itinerary.

Related: Cruise ship drinks packages: A line-by-line guide

Water Package

Royal Caribbean's Water Packages are available in 12- and 24-packs of one-liter bottles of Evian water. The bottles will be delivered to your cabin on embarkation day.

If you don't want to pay for a Water Package, you can find drinking water at complimentary drink stations in the buffet area and often in other locations on Royal Caribbean ships. You can bring your own reusable bottle and fill it from these stations or straight from the faucet in your cabin. The water throughout the ships is not only drinkable but also better than what's available in many cities. You can also purchase bottles of water a la carte.

So why might you consider a Water Package? If you drink bottled water at home, you may prefer the taste. The package also allows you to have plenty of water on hand in your cabin or to take on excursions.

The downside is that one-liter bottles are not the ideal size for lugging off the ship with you. You must either bring a reusable bottle or purchase single-serving bottles for port days. You can get these at bars or at the gangway as you disembark in each port.

Classic Soda Package

Royal Caribbean's Soda Package is for the serious soda drinker. On select ships, the package comes with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup with a chip on the bottom to allow the holder to use the Freestyle soda dispensing machines throughout the ship. The "magic" cup gets you all the refills you want 24 hours a day, with your pick of sodas with add-in flavorings. (Orange Coke is my fave.) Freestyle machines are available on 18 ships in the fleet.

You can also order a glass of soda at any restaurant or bar on board. Some venues only serve fountain sodas, but others have cans. One big bonus of the package is that sodas on Royal Caribbean's private island destinations ( Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee ) are included in the Soda Package. The only places you can't get a free soda with this package is room service (because room service other than continental breakfast comes with a $7.95 service fee, no matter what you order) or from your cabin's minibar.

Related: 8 best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package (and 3 to avoid)

You can bring up to 12 cans of soda (or bottles up to 17 ounces) per person on board with you in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. So why would you want a Soda Package?

It's a question of convenience. I've been known to take a couple of 16-ounce bottles of soda on board with me, but carrying on much more than that is a big hassle. With a Soda Package, you can easily access your beverage of choice anywhere you are on board — including ordering sodas from roaming bar servers at the pool, in the casino or at events and shows — or on Royal Caribbean's private islands . You don't have to return to your room to grab a soda. It's also great for older kids and teens who might be roaming the ship with friends.

Refreshment Package

This is my favorite Royal Caribbean drink package. It includes still and sparkling water, sodas (with the included Freestyle magic cup), mocktails, premium coffees and teas (but not those from Starbucks stand-alone stores or kiosks) and freshly squeezed juices.

With this package, you can order almost anything non-alcoholic at bars and most restaurants on board. The Refreshment Package does not include shakes at Johnny Rockets, which are only included with the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Even the smoothies and protein shakes at Vitality Café are included in this package, as is the sweet tea at Portside BBQ on Oasis of the Seas. Want a strawberry slushy? Order a virgin strawberry daiquiri. Want hot cocoa? Covered. How about a virgin mudslide? A bartender will happily blend up vanilla ice cream, coffee, hazelnut syrup and chocolate syrup blended into a perfect mocha shake.

As with the Soda Package, you can order your non-alcoholic beverages, from sparkling water to fancy mocktails, from your pool lounger or blackjack table.

Plus, with the Refreshment Package, you've solved the problem of needing water to take off the ship with you for excursions and what to drink while on the private islands. It's all included in this package.

Deluxe Beverage Package

This package takes all that's available in the Refreshment Package (sodas, water, mocktails, premium coffee and tea, fresh-squeezed juice) and adds cocktails, spirits and liquors, as well as beer by the bottle or can and wine by the glass.

There are some limits on brands available with the package, but the list includes imported, domestic and craft beer, an extensive wine list and commonly ordered spirit brands on drinks up to $14. Any bar server can tell you what's available on your cruise.

You also get a hefty 40% discount on bottles of wine up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles over $100. It's handy for sharing a bottle with your travel partner at dinner.

As with the soda and Refreshment Packages, the Deluxe Beverage Package can be used anywhere onboard (except stand-alone Starbucks locations). Use it in restaurants, bars and at any venue where a bar server is present, as well as at either of Royal Caribbean's private island destinations. The Deluxe Beverage Package also throws in one more bonus — milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

This package comes with a few caveats. If one person in a stateroom buys this package, everyone of legal drinking age in the stateroom must buy the same package, according to cruise line policy. If someone in your room does not drink alcohol, don't worry. I've encountered many people who have called customer service and downgraded one or more non-drinking adults to a Refreshment Package.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

The package also does not include drinks that come with souvenir glasses. (Don't worry, you can always order the same drink in a regular glass.)

If your vacation plans include alcoholic beverages, buying this package is a nice way to pay your cruise bar tab in advance rather than deal with the shock of a high bill at the end of the cruise.

What do Royal Caribbean drink packages cost?

The cruise line uses dynamic pricing on beverage packages the same way it does on cruise fares. That means you won't know the prices for each package before you book a cruise. Demand, destination and promotions play a big part in the pricing, especially for the Deluxe Beverage Package, causing them to fluctuate slightly.

Here's what you can expect a Royal Caribbean drink package to cost:

• Water Package: 12 bottles for $39; 24 bottles for $69
• Soda Package: $12.99 per person per day
• Refreshment Package: $29 per person per day
• Deluxe Beverage Package: $56 to $105 per person per day (depending on your ship and trip)

The prices listed above do not include an automatic 18% gratuity. You'll want to factor that amount into your travel budget if you decide to purchase a package.

You will notice that the Deluxe Beverage Package price range listed above is a bit wider than what is posted on Royal Caribbean's site. Posted price ranges include the disclaimer that prices on individual sailings may vary. We used a realistic range of prices from Royal Caribbean guests who have booked cruises and paid for drink packages in the past 12 months.

The best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages

You can purchase a beverage package as soon as you book your cruise. But should you? A lot depends on how soon your ship will depart. If you're sailing within a few months, go ahead and get any packages you plan to buy — unless Black Friday happens before you sail. Black Friday deals on drink packages are generally the lowest you'll find all year.

The package that varies most in price is the Deluxe Beverage Package. Its price is higher during peak travel times and on cruises with stops at private islands. Buying this package ahead of time is always cheaper than on board.

Royal Caribbean does advertise price drops and deals for pre-cruise purchases. If you're waiting and hoping for a deal, frequent cruisers report that you should look at the actual price per person per day, not at the percentage off or BOGO deals to determine if the package price is where you want it.

Related: How to get free or cheap drinks on a cruise

Is a Royal Caribbean drink package worth it?

Now that you know your choices and why you might want each package, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of whether these packages are worth purchasing for you or not.

The one-liter bottles in the Water Package cost roughly the same as a 12-ounce bottle from a bar. That makes this package a deal, but only if you prefer bottled water over taps or dispensers. It's also convenient to have the water delivered to your cabin, eliminating the need to bring a case of bottles on board or search for a bottle when you want water on the ship.

Soda Package

When ordering an individual soda on the ship, your charge will be what you'd expect to pay at a land-based restaurant, plus an 18% gratuity added automatically. When you ask a bar server for a soda on the ship, you'll be charged just over $4 per soda with the tip, regardless of whether it comes in a can or from a fountain.

As the starting point for the Soda Package is just over $15 per person per day with the gratuity, you'll need to count on drinking a minimum of four sodas a day for it to be a good value.

If you prefer nonalcoholic beverages, you can expect to pay around $7 for mocktails and protein shakes, $5 for lattes at non-Starbucks locations and close to $9 for smoothies. These prices are before the automatic 18% gratuity.

Here's what your daily consumption might look like on the Refreshment Package: You could start with a morning latte ($6 after you add gratuity), grab water for your excursion ($3.84), a soda at lunch ($4), a couple mocktails during the afternoon ($8.25 each), another soda with dinner ($4), and another mocktail for the show or in the casino ($8.25).

That puts you over $40 for the day, making the Refreshment Package a deal at $34 (with tip) per person, per day. Drink much less than that, and this Royal Caribbean drink package won't be worth it. The Refreshment Package price varies only slightly between sailings.

For alcoholic drinks, prices vary a lot based on your order. Beer and hard cider average $7-$9. Wine by the glass is $9-$25. Cocktails are $10-$14, except for the drink of the day, which is $8. These prices do not include the 18% gratuity.

When deciding if Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it, be sure to factor in non-alcoholic drinks you are likely to have, not just those with alcohol. How many premium coffees do you drink each day, including one with your dessert at dinner? How many waters and sodas?

The value of those often adds up to $25 or more per day. That leaves you with somewhere between $30 and $80 per day to spend on alcoholic drinks to break even.

If you're lucky and can purchase your package at the lowest possible price, almost anyone who drinks a combination of non-alcoholic drinks and a couple of cocktails daily would break even. But if your purchase price is somewhere in the middle of the price range (where most people land), you would need to consume a minimum of $55 per day beyond the average non-alcoholic beverages to break even. That equals six beers or four or five glasses of wine or cocktails.

Related: Are cruise line drinks packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

Whichever package you choose, your value may also depend on your itinerary and activities. On a Caribbean cruise that includes a sea day or two and a stop at CocoCay, you'll likely drink more – simply because you're relaxing more than touring, and the hot temperatures will make you thirsty.

But what about a port-intensive cruise in Europe where you are off the ship for long hours and likely to be sampling local beverages? In those cases, the ship's beverage package might not come through for you.

Additional factors

Before you decide if a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it, there are two more things to consider: Your Crown and Anchor loyalty status and your Casino Royale player status .

If you are a Diamond C&A member, your SeaPass card will be loaded with four free drinks per day. Diamond Plus members get five drinks, and Pinnacle members get six. Those can be water, specialty coffee or tea other than at Starbucks, sodas from bar servers, beer, wine or cocktails up to $14 (except at Bionic Bar).

As for casino perks, if your status is Prime or higher, you can drink free from the casino bar anytime it is open.

Those free perks could make the difference in which package you choose, if any. For example, a Diamond member might use her free drink allotment on cocktails and wine and save money with a Refreshment or Soda Package for her other daily drinks. Or, perhaps, the free drinks are enough that it's cheaper to buy a few nonalcoholic beverages a la carte.

Diamond Plus members also have a discount of 30% on Deluxe Beverage Packages when purchased on board. That's rarely a good deal unless you simply forget to buy in advance, as pre-purchase in the cruise planner or app is almost always at least 30% lower than the onboard price.

Bottom line: Is a drink package on Royal Caribbean right for you?

Now that you have all the facts, there are several ways to look at Royal Caribbean's drink packages to determine if you should get one.

First, consider every kind of drink you will likely pay for on board. Are you happy with beverages that are included in the cruise fare? Those include tap water, drip coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and juice from a dispenser at breakfast. Or will your vacation only be complete with morning lattes, smoothies, fruity drinks by the pool and wine with dinner?

For some people, it's easy. If you're likely to drink four or five cocktails most days, plus specialty coffee, waters for excursions, soda and a glass of wine at dinner, your total, if purchased individually would easily exceed $80 per day. Unless your sailing has a higher-than-average price for the package, go for it.

But if you typically only drink a couple of glasses of wine at dinner, you aren't likely to break even — at least not on the Deluxe Beverage Package. In that case, skip the package that includes alcohol and do the math on the Refreshment Package.

If you drink soda, the difference in price between the Soda Package and the Refreshment Package is $16. Almost any combination of two other drinks — lattes, mocktails, smoothies or bottled water — makes the Refreshment Package a deal for you. If you can live without the extras, stick with the soda-only package.

If none of those looks like a bargain, pay as you go. Some people set a daily drink budget and check themselves (or their kids) against their folio in the Royal Caribbean app or on the interactive television in their stateroom. I've even met people who bring cash along to pay their drink balance daily at guest services to stay on track.

The other side of the equation is to factor the price of the drink package into the total vacation cost to make the cruise more of an all-inclusive vacation experience. Think about it like you would an all-inclusive land-based resort. When you vacation at one of those, you not only wouldn't know the price of the drinks you consume, but you also would not care.

If you're more interested in a stress-free vacation where you don't have to agonize about the cost of every drink you consume than paying the least amount of money possible for your vacation, a Royal Caribbean drink package is totally worth it.

The bottom line is that drink packages on Royal Caribbean expand your choices. You can use packages to make your cruise as all-inclusive as you'd like (and maybe save some money in the process), or you can opt to cruise and drink in pay-as-you-go mode. Either way, you'll find plenty of fun cocktails and mocktails, as well as your favorite wine and beer, to enhance your vacation at sea.

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Home » Our Guide to Royal Caribbean Beverage Packages

Our Guide to Royal Caribbean Beverage Packages

Last updated on February 9th, 2024 at 05:53 pm

If you’re planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean , one decision you should make before departure is whether or not to purchase one of the Royal Caribbean beverage packages. Cruises might wonder if drink packages are a good idea , and the information in this article will help you to decide for yourself.

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of beverage packages to choose from, each with its own set of included drinks and perks. In this post, we’ll go over the different options and help you decide which one is right for you.

All of Royal Caribbean’s beverage packages include unlimited sodas, teas, and coffees, as well as a 15% discount on bottled water, energy drinks, and specialty cocktails.

In addition, all packages include a discount on wine bottles and tastings at the Vintages wine bar.

Be sure to check ahead of sailing with Royal Caribbean, as they will sometimes offer special “sale” pricing for purchasing your beverage packages before sailing.

Table of Contents

The Fine Print In Beverage Packages

There are a couple of stipulations for RC’s beverage packages that you will find in most all other cruise lines, too.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase a beverage package that includes alcohol.

Beverage packages of any type are not transferable and cannot be shared. Guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom are required to purchase the same alcoholic beverage package and there is little wiggle room with this stipulation.

Gratuity and taxes may be extra, and packages do not include room service, mini bar items or souvenir glassware.

The SeaPass that you receive when you board Royal Caribbean will have a sticker or a printed verification of the package that you purchased, so keep this pass handy.

Coca-Cola Freestyle Machines Are Lots of Fun!

Royal Caribbean serves Coke products onboard, and in a fun way. You will find Coca-Cola Freestyle machines on its ships, but in order to you them, you have to have a drink package.

Upon boarding, you’ll get a special souvenir cup that “unlocks” the machine when you go to use it. These stand-alone drink dispensers will mix almost any Coca-Cola drink for you.

There are over 100 different soda/flavor combinations that you can mix. You can get a Diet Coke with lemon, or have your Sprite mixed with cherry or even grape Fanta.

Remember that any prices listed in this post are current as of this writing, January 2023. The cost will also vary by ship and sailing. 

Now, let’s take a look at the different package options:

Deluxe Beverage Package

This package includes everything in the Classic Soda Package, plus a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

RCL states that you must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this beverage package. The selection includes cocktails, spirits, beers, and wines by the glass, as well as smoothies, frozen drinks, and premium coffees.

There is no daily limit for drinks with the Deluxe Beverage Package, however, you are able to order just one drink at a time. Ordering multiples, even if they are non-alcoholic, is not permitted.

This beverage package includes several popular liquor like Grey Goose, Tito’s Vodka, Patron, Johnny Walker Black Label and Dewar’s 12 Scotch.

You will also receive a 40% discount on bottled wines priced up to $100 and 20% discount on wine prices above $100.

The Deluxe Beverage Package gives you beverages with a value of up to $13 for select ships and sail dates. Deluxe Beverage Packages are $109 per person per day. When you add the 18% gratuity, you are at $128.62 per day.

There are some items that are not included in the Deluxe Beverage Package. The exceptions are:

• Drinks from Starbucks stores on ship
• Room service beverages
• Mini-bar items
• Specialty beers
• Beverages more than $13 per glass
• Duty-free shop bottles of liquor

Refreshment Package

This package option includes unlimited sodas, teas, and coffees, as well as a 15% discount on bottled water, energy drinks, and specialty non-alcoholic cocktails.

This includes the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. The Refreshment Package also includes still and sparkling water and fresh-squeezed juices.

This package is $39 a person per day with an 18% gratuity, making it $46.02.

Classic Soda Package

This package gives you fountain soda and refills at any venue. You will also get a Coca-Cola souvenir cup and you can use it at the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine.

It also includes a discount on wine bottles and tastings at the Vintages wine bar. The Classic Soda package is $15 per day per person with a 18% gratuity, making it $17.70.

How To buy A Beverage Package On Royal Caribbean

If you have decided to purchase a package, there are three ways to do so.

• Call the cruise line and have it added to your trip before you sail
• Go to the Royal Caribbean website and access your online account to buy the package before you board.
• Wait until you board and visit one of the tables that sign passengers up for packages.

While you can purchase a package once you arrive on board,  you’ll pay full price, but they are available to purchase throughout the sailing with at least 4 days remaining (which means you can’t just splurge on the last day).

You can purchase a beverage package up to 72 hours before you sail. If you change your mind, you can cancel your order through Cruise Planne r up to 2 days before you sail to get a 100% refund.

Check online, or with RC before your cruise, as RC will sometimes offer a discount on packages purchased before boarding.

Should You Purchase A Drink Package On Royal Caribbean?

So, which package, if any, is right for you? It really depends on your drinking habits and preferences.

If you’re a light drinker or just want unlimited sodas and coffees, the Classic Soda Package may be sufficient. If you prefer a wider selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, the Deluxe Beverage Package may be a better fit.

Try to consider the amount that you will drink (day after day) while on the cruise. It’s calculated that in order to “break even” you would need to drink approximately 15 drinks a day.

It sounds like a lot, but if you consider fresh juices, espresso-based coffees, etc. that you might drink for breakfast, in addition to other sodas or cocktails throughout the day, you can see how 15 is doable.

If you are on a cruise that has several ports and you plan on a few excursions, that might not make as much sense to purchase a package if you have a lot of time off the ship. Shorter cruises might be a better option when considering a beverage package.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a beverage package with Royal Caribbean is up to you. Consider your drinking habits, the cost of the package, and the length of your cruise to determine which option is the best fit for you.

Can I bring additional bottles of wine on board?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring two additional 750ml bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom. To learn more about beverages that you can bring onboard, read this!

Is my beverage package able to be used at the Starbucks onboard?

Unfortunately, no. Starbucks coffee is not included.

Can I use my beverage package at Coco Beach Club at Coco Cay ?

Yes, beverage packages purchased on board can be used throughout Coco Cay.

Check out this helpful beverage package video from Royal Caribbean Blog:

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

Joy is the Co-Founder & Content Manager/Expert for CruisePortAdvisor.com and one of the founders of the site. She loves to travel, sing & bake.

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Royal Caribbean Drink Package Guide: With Calculator

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Are you planning a cruise vacation but unsure if the Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it?

Royal Caribbean’s beverage packages offer unlimited drinks throughout your cruise at a fixed daily price. The cruise line offers alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

We’ll take an in-depth look at the drink packages Royal Caribbean offers using our firsthand experience and drink package calculator.

Jump to the drink package calculator.

By the end of this article, you’ll know if the drink package is right for you.

Table of Contents

Royal Caribbean Drink Packages

Royal Caribbean offers three all-inclusive drink packages, a premium coffee package, and a water package. The drink package works anywhere on the cruise ship, including the onboard bars, lounges, and restaurants. You can also use the drink package at Royal Caribbean’s private island CocoCay .

Royal Caribbean’s drink packages include:

Deluxe Beverage Package

• Refreshment Package (No alcohol)

Classic Soda Package

Coffee card.

• Water Package

Royal Caribbean offers a Deluxe Beverage Package as their primary drink package. The Deluxe drink package includes a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, commonly called the “unlimited drinks package.”

The price of the Deluxe Package ranges from $63 to $89 per person daily.

Unlike other cruise lines, the prices for Royal Caribbeans drink packages vary by ship, sail date, and itinerary. You’ll find higher prices during newer vessels and itineraries during the busier times of the year (ex., summer, march break, and Christmas.)

The Deluxe Beverage Package includes nearly every drink onboard. The list consists of

• Cocktails, spirits, and liqueurs
• Wine by the glass
• Beers, including specialty beers
• Non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails)
• Soda, including fountain soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle options
• Still and sparkling water
• Fresh-squeezed juices
• Premium coffees and teas
• Bottled and sparkling water

You’ll even get a Coca-Cola souvenir cup when you purchase the package.

You can use the drink package at the ship’s bars, restaurants, and lounges. But it doesn’t cover beverages ordered through room service or minibar items.

Additionally, the Deluxe Beverage Package only includes drinks up to $13 per drink before gratuity . If you want to splurge for a more expensive beverage, you’ll need to pay the difference between the cost of the drink and the $13 per glass allowance.

The $13 per drink allotment is a shock for many cruisers. But it covers most of the 16oz beers and cocktails along with a wide selection of wines by the glass.

The drink package also includes most liquor and premium spirits. Higher-end brands such as Grey Goose, Patron, Johnny Walker Black Label, Tito’s Vodka, and Dewar’s 12 scotch are all included.

As a bonus, the Deluxe Beverage Package provides a 40% discount on bottled wines priced up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles of wine priced above $100 .

Depending on your choice of beverage, you will need to drink between 6 and 10 beverages per day to break even. The exact number depends on your preferences for soft drinks, specialty coffees, and alcoholic beverages.

Refreshment Package

If you want only non-alcoholic drinks or don’t mind paying extra for alcoholic beverages, the Refreshment Package might be for you.

Royal Caribbean’s Refreshment Package offers everything in the Deluxe Beverage Package minus the alcoholic drinks.

The refreshment package provides the following:

• Soda, including fountain soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle machines

The onboard package prices for the Refreshment Package range between $29 to $38 per person per day.

The Refreshment Drink Package allows you to enjoy nearly every non-alcoholic beverage for up to $13 per drink. The package has a few exclusions, including Starbucks, room service, and mini bar purchases.

This package provides great value because you only need to drink six to eight beverages per day to break even on your purchase.

As you might have guessed, Royal Caribbean’s Classic Soda package offers unlimited soda during your cruise.

However, drinks such as bottled water, juices, premium coffees, and alcoholic beverages aren’t included in the drink plan.

The onboard pricing for the Classic Soda Package is $12 to $15 per person per day.

It’s important to remember that the Classic Soda Package doesn’t include cans of soda or drinks ordered through room service or minibar items.

With the package, you’ll also receive a complimentary Coca-Cola souvenir cup. You can use the cup with the onboard Coke Freestyle machines that dispense over 100 flavor combinations.

So, feel free to mix it up and create your crazy soda concoctions.

With soda prices around $3.25, you only need to purchase 4-5 drinks daily to break even.

Royal Caribbean’s Coffee Card is a must for coffee lovers. The Coffee Card lets you redeem up to 15 specialty coffees throughout your cruise.

We rarely purchase the “all-inclusive” drink packages, but the Coffee Package is an exception. Marcello and I are big coffee drinkers, and the onboard cappuccinos and lattes are exceptional.

We always use up our 15 drinks by the end of a seven-night cruise. And unlike other packages on the list, you don’t need to purchase them for everyone in the cabin .

Because the Coffee Card uses a punch card system, it’s the only drink package you can share with family and friends.

The card costs around $31 to $40 , and you only need to enjoy eight to ten premium coffees to break even on your purchase . The card can be used for espresso, cappuccino, lattes, and more.

It’s important to note that regular brew coffee is complimentary on the ship. So if you’re not into specialty coffee, you can enjoy drip coffee for free.

Before purchasing the card, there are a few things to consider:

• You can’t use the Cafe Select Coffee Card at Starbucks Cafes
• Both the Deluxe Beverage Package and the Refreshment Package include specialty coffee. So, if you plan on enjoying specialty coffee, you only need to purchase one beverage package, not both.

Royal Caribbean Water Package

The tap water on Royal Caribbean cruise ships is always free and perfectly safe. But if you prefer bottled water, you might want to purchase Royal Caribbean’s water package.

The Water Package allows you to order 6, 12, or 24 packs of water.

This package is excellent for long days in port to bring the water with you off the boat. It’s always important to stay hydrated while exploring the ports of call. And if you didn’t pack a reusable water bottle, the Water Package is a great option.

What Isn’t Included With a Beverage Plan?

Royal Caribbeans drink packages have different features, inclusions, and exclusions. The specifics of the drink package should be checked before purchasing, as they can change at any time.

Generally, each of the beverage packages offered by Royal Caribbean excludes the following:

• Drinks from Starbucks cafes
• Room service beverages
• Minibar items
• Beverages more than $13 per glass
• Duty-free shop bottles of liquor
• Drinks in souvenir glasses
• Specialty beers

Royal Caribbean Drink Prices

When deciding whether the drink package is worth it, you’ll need to do some math to determine if you’d save money purchasing the package or buying individual drinks.

Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are higher relative to other mainstream cruise lines.

Here are the average prices for drinks on a Royal Caribbean cruise :

* Please note these are average prices. Actual prices may vary.

Is a Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?

Deciding if the Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it for you ultimately depends on your preferences and drinking habits. If you’ll spend more money purchasing individual drinks than the package costs, the drink package is worth it.

For most people, the drink package is not worth it. That’s because the drink package cost is more than most people would spend if they purchased the drinks individually.

Before purchasing a drink package from Royal Caribbean, we suggest doing the math to ensure you’re not wasting money.

Consider how many drinks you’ll consume daily using the prices above. Once you add up the prices, you’ll know if the drink package will save you money or cost you more than purchasing individual drinks.

Be sure to consider that you might spend some days in port. You won’t be able to use the drink package when you’re on land.

During port days, you must pay for any drinks you purchase on land. And because you’re not on the ship, you won’t consume as many beverages using your plan, which may make the drink package a not-so-ideal choice.

The packages also have a fine print that states, “ Any guest wishing to purchase an alcoholic beverage package must do so for all guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom. “

When calculating the package cost, make sure you factor in the drinking habits of everyone sharing your cabin.

We’ve compiled an entire article to help you determine if buying a drink package is right for you .

How to Get a Discount on the Drink Package

Getting a discount on your Royal Caribbean drink package can be a great way to save money on your cruise vacation. Follow these tips, and you’ll be sipping on your favorite beverages without breaking the bank.

Book in advance: One of the easiest ways to snag a deal is by purchasing your drink package before your cruise. Royal Caribbean often offers discounts on its drink packages when pre-purchased via the Cruise Planner site. The same discount may vary, but it’s common to see a 20% discount off the daily rate.

You can also take advantage of price protection by purchasing the drink package in advance. If the price of the drink package drops, you can cancel the drink plan and buy it at a lower price.

When you purchase the beverage package in advance and take advantage of price protection, you’ll always pay the lowest price and get the best deal on the drink plan.

Take advantage of your Crown and Anchor Society membership: If you’re a Crown and Anchor Society member, you may be eligible for an onboard discount on your drink package. Discounts typically range from 20% off for Diamond members, 30% off for Diamond Plus members, and 40% off for Pinnacle members.

Stay alert for promotions: Royal Caribbean occasionally holds special sales on drink packages. To maximize your chances of spotting a deal, subscribe to their email newsletter and follow their social media accounts. This way, you’ll be notified when a promotion becomes available.

Talk to your travel agent: Travel agents often receive deals and promotions unavailable to the public. When planning your cruise, it’s a good idea to ask your travel agent if they know of any special discounts on Royal Caribbean’s drink packages.

Can I Find Free Drinks Onboard?

As a Royal Caribbean guest, you might wonder if there are any opportunities to enjoy free drinks during your cruise. While the cruise line does not typically offer its drink packages for free, there are some situations where you can enjoy complimentary beverages.

You’re in luck if you are a Diamond, Diamond Plus, or Pinnacle member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society ! These Crown & Anchor level members receive free drink vouchers during the cruise, which can be redeemed for beverages at the ship’s bars and lounges.

You’ll receive a complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package when you book a Star Class suite on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis or Quantum Class ships . With this package, you’ll be able to enjoy unlimited drinks throughout your cruise for a fixed daily price without any additional cost.

There are several other opportunities to find free drinks on Royal Caribbean .

Keep an eye out for the following:

• Star-class suite guests receive a complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package.
• Diamond, Diamond Plus, or Pinnacle members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society receive free drink vouchers nightly.
• An art auction , where they serve complimentary Champagne.
• Attend a liquor tasting at the duty-free shop.
• On Royal Caribbean’s first formal night , you can attend the Captain’s Toast and receive a complimentary glass of Champagne.
• Platinum and higher Crown & Anchor Society Members get free drinks during Happy Hour between 5 pm and 8:30 pm .
• Guests booked in a Grand Suite or higher can enjoy complimentary evening drinks in the Concierge Lounge.
• A buy one get one free drink voucher might be pre-loaded onto your Seapass card.

Do Crown & Anchor Members Get Free Drinks?

Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society offers passengers points for each night they spend on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members receive complimentary drinks every evening between 5 pm and 8 pm at the Exclusive Nightly Diamond Event. Passengers who attend the event can receive three free drinks from a list that includes beers, wines, spirits, and sodas.

To reach Diamond Status, you will need to accumulate 80 points.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships also host a Welcome Back Party with free Champagne for Platinum and higher members (30 points or more).

Can Just One Person Buy the Package?

Royal Caribbean requires that if one adult purchases the beverage package, all the adults in the room must purchase the same package.

The cruise line’s rule is likely to prevent people from sharing the drink package with family and friends. The rule makes it more costly to purchase the drink package, especially if not everyone uses it to the fullest.

What if one person doesn’t drink or doesn’t drink enough to make the drink package worthwhile?

In most cases, you must choose between buying a drink package for everyone or forgoing the purchase.

You could always call the cruise line if you don’t want to buy two drink packages or if there is a circumstance where one person can’t drink, such as a pregnancy or addiction.

If you have a strong reason why one guest won’t be using the package, such as a health condition, addiction, or pregnancy, there is a chance Royal Caribbean will be lenient if you contact them before purchasing.

Several passengers have told us that when they called and explained that the second passenger doesn’t drink alcohol, they were offered the Refreshment Package instead of the Deluxe Drinks Package for the second passenger. You’ll still need to purchase two drink packages, but it is a cheaper option.

It might not get you off the hook, but it can help you save money.

Finally, Royal Caribbean does not require purchasing any drink packages for children under 18. So if you buy a drink package, you don’t need one for your kids.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Calculator

Enter the quantity of drinks you expect to consume to help you decide if the drink package is right for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you share a drink package.

You are NOT allowed to share the Royal Caribbean drink package. Passengers caught using their drink package to purchase beverages on behalf of other passengers risk having their drink package canceled without a refund.

Do I Need to Buy the Drink Package for Children?

Royal Caribbean does not require guests under the legal drinking age to buy any drink package. So, you can buy the drink package for adults without the requirement to purchase any package for your children.

Should You Cheat the Royal Caribbean Drink Package?

If you’re caught sharing the Royal Caribbean drink package by giving drinks to other passengers, you risk having your whole package canceled without a refund. Don’t try and cheat the Royal Caribbean beverage package. It’s not worth the risk!

Are Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Really Unlimited?

There is no hard limit to the number of drinks you can purchase on Royal Caribbean. The unlimited drink package really is unlimited. However, if you appear too intoxicated, the staff won’t serve you more drinks.

How Many Drinks Can I Order at Once?

You can only order one drink at a time with your Royal Caribbean drink package. After you finish your drink, you can always go back for more.

Are Gratuities Included in the Package Prices?

When you purchase any of the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages, an 18% gratuity is added at checkout. You are always welcome to add extra gratuities on the ship to recognize the outstanding service of the crew, but there is no requirement as it’s included with your purchase.

Does the Drink Package Work at CocoCay?

Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay private island is one of the most popular destinations for the cruise line.

One of the many great perks is that you can use the drink package on the island. You can use the drink package at CocoCay just as you would on the cruise ship.

This perk really helps you get your money’s worth, as you won’t be able to use your drink package at most ports. The package also works at Labadee, Haiti, another private Royal Caribbean port.

Can I Buy the Beverage Package for Individual Days?

You cannot buy the Royal Caribbean beverage package for individual days. You can only purchase the drink package for the duration of your cruise.

So, if you want to purchase the drink package on a 7-day cruise, you will have to buy the package for all seven days.

How Can I Save Money on my Royal Caribbean Drink Plan?

The best way to save money on your Royal Caribbean drink package is to buy it well before your sailing date. After you book your cruise, you can log into your Royal Caribbean account to purchase the beverage package of your choice.

From your account page, Cruise Planner, you can check the current price of the beverage package. If the price drops below your purchase price, you can cancel and re-buy it at the lower price. Or call Royal Caribbean and ask for them to honor the lower price.

Do Royal Caribbean Ships Offer Drinking Straws?

In 2019, Royal Caribbean began an initiative to cut down on single-use plastics on its cruise ships. The bars and restaurants will provide paper straws. However, they do not hold up well.

I would definitely recommend bringing a  collapsible metal straw (Amazon) that easily clips to your bag or belt.

What is the Drinking Age on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

For cruises that depart in North America, the minimum drinking age is 21. For all other cruises, the drinking age is 18. If you celebrate a birthday on a Royal Caribbean cruise and turn the drinking age, you can ask Guest Services to modify your record so that you can drink on your birthday.

There’s no better way to celebrate a birthday milestone than at sea!

Marcello De Lio

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Great information, thank you. Are the prices here in US dollars? Thank you.

The prices are in US dollars, but they may vary by ship and itinerary.

Thanks for building this great content without questions is very informative

I’m glad I could help!

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Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost, Inclusions & Tips

If you plan on taking a cruise with Royal Caribbean, you’ve probably heard that they have drink packages.

But what drink package makes the most sense? Well, it depends on what you enjoy on your vacation. For some, water is all they need, while some drink tons of soft drinks, coffee, or tea. For others, specialty cocktails or ice-cold beer are key to a great cruise .

Is the Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?

Because the price of the drink package varies, it depends.

• If you want to drink without thinking about the bill, get the drink package.
• If you find a good deal on the drink package, get it.
• If the drink package on your cruise is one of the more expensive ones, consider how much you want to be drinking. You need to drink a lot to make the $80+/day packages worth it.

Royal Caribbean has four drink packages to choose from (water, classic soda, refreshments, and deluxe). Each of these packages includes different beverages and has a different price. In this article, we will tell you about each Royal Caribbean drink package cost in more detail, including what you get for your money.

How much is a drinking package on Royal Caribbean?

The drink packages on Royal Caribbean range in price from 12.99 per day for the classic soda package to as much as $105 for the deluxe beverage package. We will go into the specifics of each package below.

How many drinks per day can you order with the Royal Caribbean drink package?

There is no limit on the number of drinks you can order with the Royal Caribbean drinking packages.

Available Royal Caribbean Drink Packages

If you’ve never been on a cruise before, it’s important to know that they are different than going to an all-inclusive resort. When you go to an all-inclusive resort, nearly everything, including alcoholic drinks, is included in the price. However, with a majority of cruises, you may be able to get most or all meals, basic refreshments, and activities included in the price, but you still have to pay separately for alcohol.

For example, we recently did a Virgin Voyages alcohol package and drink prices review, and we found that they are pretty close to being an all-inclusive cruise. Everything is included, even the high-end dining restaurants. However, passengers still need to pay separately for alcoholic drinks or purchase a $300 bar tab.

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean isn’t all-inclusive , and you will need to purchase one of their four drink packages. You will also need to purchase a food package in order to go to certain restaurants on the ship.

Let’s take a look at each Royal Caribbean drink package cost to help you decide which one makes the most sense for you.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost: Water Package

The basic and least expensive Royal Caribbean drink package is the water package. This package will give you 6, 12, or 24 one-liter bottles of Evian water in your cabin. The water package is a one-time cost and ranges from $39 for 12 bottles to $60 for 24 bottles.

The only downfall of this package is that you are buying a limited number of bottles of water during your trip.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost: Classic Soda Package

If you would like to have something other than water, the classic soda package is a good choice. With this package, you get unlimited refills on all fountain drinks as well as a Coca-Cola cup to take home with you.

The classic soda package costs $12.99 per guest per day. (Keep in mind, this doesn’t include gratuity.) Once you purchase this package, you will get a soda package icon on your SeaPass card. This will tell the employees that you are allowed to get unlimited refreshment drinks and can use the Coca-Cola Freestyle Machines.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost: Refreshment Package

For $29 per guest per day for the refreshment package, passengers can get a wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks. These include coffee, tea, bottled water, fresh squeezed orange juice, virgin cocktails, and fountain soda.

This package will also give you a Coca-Cola souvenir cup. If you don’t plan on drinking alcohol but want a wide variety of refreshments to choose from, this is the best package.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost: Deluxe Beverage Package

Last but not least, the deluxe beverage package is the best bang for your buck if you want to enjoy plenty of alcoholic drinks without worrying about costs. For $63-$70 per guest per day, you will get an unlimited amount of beer, wine, and select spirits. In addition, you get coffee, tea, and all other non-alcoholic beverages.

If you want to enjoy a bottle of wine during a nice dinner, the deluxe package includes a 40% discount on bottles of wine under $100 and 20% on bottles of wine above $100.

The deluxe drink package has a threshold of $12 per drink. If you do want to get a drink above that price, you will pay the difference. Like the other packages, gratuity is not included in the price and will need to be paid during the final checkout.

Can You Cheat Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost?

It may seem to many travelers that the Royal Caribbean drink package cost is on the pricier side. Due to this, there are many who look for ways to avoid paying it, by bringing their own drinks aboard. While there are ways to save money, cheating the Royal Caribbean drink package could ruin your vacation before it even gets started.

If you are caught cheating on the Royal Caribbean drink package, you will get your drink package canceled, could be denied boarding, and could face fines. To us, it doesn’t sound like it’s worth the risk since it takes months of planning to go on a cruise.

How to Get the Best Value Out of a Royal Caribbean Drink Package

Nonetheless, there are ways to make the most of the drink packages.

Pack a Bottle of Wine

The first way is to bring your own bottle of wine on the ship. Royal Caribbean allows you to bring a bottle of wine, but if you want to drink it in public spaces, you will have to pay a $15 corkage fee. However, if you drink the wine in your room, you won’t be charged.

Order Top-Shelf Liquor

If you purchase the Royal Caribbean deluxe drink package, then we recommend ordering top-shelf liquor. In general, cruises want to save money, so if you don’t specify which liquor you want, you will get the cheapest, or well, brand.

Ordering top-shelf liquor for your drinks ensures that you are getting your money’s worth. You just need to stay under the $12 per drink threshold so you don’t pay more out of pocket.

Sneak Your Own Alcohol

You can also try to sneak your own alcohol onto the cruise to save yourself money. As mentioned earlier, we don’t recommend this because if you are caught, you will face the consequences from the cruise line. If you go this route, then buying the classic soda or refreshments packages is the way to go. From there, you can add your own liquor to make cocktails.

Do Both People Have to Buy A Drink Package on Royal Caribbean?

Yes. If one person purchases a deluxe drink package with Royal Caribbean, then everyone in the same cabin who is of drinking age will also be charged for one. This can be frustrating for some because maybe you like to drink cocktails, but your spouse doesn’t drink. In this case, you will be paying extra for something that won’t be used.

The reason Royal Caribbean does this is to avoid people cheating on the drink package system. It would be easy for one person to buy a deluxe drink package, order extra drinks from the bar, and share them with their spouse to save money.

If your spouse has a medical condition that prevents them from drinking alcohol, then you can try calling Royal Caribbean to avoid being charged for two deluxe drink packages. You may need to provide proof, but it’s worth a shot and can save you money.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost: Is It Worth It?

If you’re going on a honeymoon or romantic getaway and you both enjoy alcoholic drinks, then the deluxe drink package can be worth it. However, if only one of you drinks alcohol, neither of you drinks alcohol, or you only drink a little, it may be better to stick to the water, classic soda, or refreshments package.

Ultimately, it comes down to weighing the pros and cons and deciding what is best for you and your loved ones. You can always add a drink package later if you change your mind–up to a certain point. Royal Caribbean allows drink packages to be added 72 hours before departure or on the first day of the cruise.

Can two people share a drink package Royal Caribbean?

No, you can not share a drink package with another guest.

Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package before the cruise?

Yes, the price is usually discounted before the cruise. You can also cancel your current package and repurchase it if the price goes down before your trip.

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Home » Cruise » Royal Caribbean » Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Guide (2023)

Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Guide (2023)

Our Guide to Royal Caribbean Drink Packages (2023) includes all the plans, drink prices, and FAQs to help you decide if you should buy one.

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Are you wondering if you should purchase one of the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages? You are not alone. This is a question we get quite often from fellow cruisers.

In fact, over the past several years, we’ve had the chance to test out the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages on many different Royal Caribbean cruise ships . While there are quite a few benefits of buying a beverage package on a cruise, there are also some reasons why cruise ship drink packages can be a waste of money .

Whether or not you should purchase one for your next vacation is an individual decision that depends on several factors. 

For us, the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages have always been a good deal, making our cruise more hassle free and (usually) saving us some money in the process.

Ultimately, you will need to weigh the pros and cons to determine if one of the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages is right for you.

Exclusive Savings: Get Deals on Royal Caribbean Cruises NOW!

GUIDE TO ROYAL CARIBBEAN DRINK PACKAGES!

Ultimate Guide to Royal Caribbean Drink Packages (2023)

Royal caribbean drink package basics.

There are a few basic things you need to know about the Royal Caribbean drink packages before we dive into the details of each option.

• First, each drink package is priced per day, per person and must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise.
• Additionally, there will be an 18% service charge added to the total price at the time of purchase.
• Beverage packages are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• Beverage packages are available on most 2+ day sailings regardless of itinerary except for 2 or 3-day sailings from Southampton, England.
• The packages cover beverages purchased at onboard restaurants, bars, and lounges.
• Happily, they also work on the cruise line’s two private islands, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti.

What are the free drinks on Royal Caribbean?

Complimentary beverages on Royal Caribbean include select drinks like iced tea, lemonade, filtered water, some juices, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea.

These free drinks are available in the Windjammer buffet and while dining in the main dining rooms.

While these items are complimentary, soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, and alcoholic beverages will cost extra money.

How do you purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package?

You can purchase the Royal Caribbean drink package pre-cruise using the online Cruise Planner. Or, you can purchase once onboard during the first day (or two) of your cruise. However, you will usually save money by purchasing pre-cruise.

You can purchase a drink package up until 72 hours prior to your sail date. You might also be able to score some savings by bundling a drink package with a WiFi package.

Of note, if you purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package and subsequently find a cheaper rate, you can always cancel and re-book prior to your sailing.

Is it mandatory to buy a drink package on Royal Caribbean?

Of course, it is never mandatory to buy a drink package. The Royal Caribbean drink packages are add-ons to your cruise vacation. However, there is no sharing of the package or using your package to order drinks for other cruisers.

So, if one guest in the stateroom wishes to purchase the Royal Caribbean drink package, then all guests of legal drinking age in the stateroom do have to purchase the alcoholic drink package as well.

What are the Royal Caribbean drink packages?

Royal Caribbean offers three drink packages. There is the alcoholic drink package, also known as the Deluxe Beverage Package. There are also two non-alcoholic drink packages, the Royal Refreshment Drink Package and the Classic Soda Package.

For all the coffee lovers, there is also the Café Select coffee card .

How many drinks can you get a day with a Royal Caribbean drink package?

The Royal Caribbean Drink packages are “unlimited” for the duration of the cruise, unlike Carnival Cruise Line which limits guests to 15 drinks.

However, you need to consume responsibly as the company has the right to deny service if you are intoxicated.

Further, you can only order one drink at a time, whether it is alcoholic or non-alcoholic. In addition, you must show your SeaPass card every time you order a beverage. There will be a notation on your SeaPass card indicating that you have purchased the package.

Related Post: Everything Included on Royal Caribbean

How much does a Royal Caribbean drink package cost?

Royal Caribbean drink packages have dynamic pricing. This means that the price will vary based on ship, time of year, and itinerary. Historically, the onboard price of the Deluxe Beverage Package ranges from $63 to $89 a day (plus gratuity).

However, prices seem to have increased recently, with an upcoming cruise quoting a sale price of $83.99 and an onboard price of $105!

Prices for the non-alcoholic drink packages are obviously much cheaper.

• Royal Refreshment Drink Package: $29-38 per person, per day
• Classic Soda Package: $12.99-$15 per person, per day
• Café Select Coffee Card: $31 for 15 drinks

How do you get the best deal on a Royal Caribbean drink package?

Typically, you can purchase a drink package pre-cruise using the online cruise planner for cheaper than onboard prices.

From time to time, Royal Caribbean may run sales on drink packages. So, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your Cruise Planner and your email for any such promotions. The discount does vary by ship, itinerary, and time of year.

What Do the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Include?

When it comes to the Royal Caribbean drink packages, cruisers can select from a number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Below, we detail what is included in the drink packages on Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package

Royal Caribbean offers only one alcoholic drink package, known as the Deluxe Drink Package.

So, many cruisers refer to this as the unlimited drink package, as it includes essentially all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

This plan covers all alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine by the glass, and cocktails up to $14. This allotment covers basically all 16 oz beers and a decent selection of red and white wines at the onboard restaurants and bars.

Further, the package also includes most liquor and premium spirits. Brands such as Grey Goose, Tito’s Vodka, Patron, Johnny Walker Black Label, and Dewar’s 12 scotch are all included, as are Premium and Classic cocktails.

If a drink costs more than the maximum dollar amount, guests will only pay the difference (+18% gratuity on the difference).

While this package does include a lot, some drinks are excluded.

Room service and minibar items are not included. Drinks in souvenir glasses, specialty beers, and super premium category beverages are also excluded. Further, all beverages served inside licensed Starbucks stores are not included.

Royal Caribbean Drink Prices:

• Cocktails around $10-14
• Wine by the glass average price $11
• Beer around $7.50

Of note, the Royal Caribbean drink prices do vary slightly by class of ship. The Quantum Class and Oasis Class ships usually have higher priced drinks; however, most drinks are still included in the beverage package.

This means you will need to consume on average 6-7 of most drinks a day to “break even”. While, beer lovers will have to drink a bit more, around 9-10 drinks a day. Of course, this number of drinks will vary based on the quoted price of the beverage package for your sailing.

You can view our Royal Caribbean bar menus from a recent Wonder of the Seas cruise to determine the pricing of your favorite beverages.

Of course, this does not include any other non-alcoholic beverages that you may get throughout the day that are also part of the package.

The Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package includes fountain soda, Coca-Cola freestyle machines (where available), still and sparkling water, premium coffees and teas, and fresh-squeezed juices as well.

Plus, guests who purchase the Deluxe drink package will receive a 40% discount on bottled wines priced up to $100, and 20% discount on wine prices above $100.

Non-Alcoholic Royal Caribbean Drink Packages

Royal refreshment drink package.

If you want more options than just soda in your Royal Caribbean non-alcoholic drink package, then the Royal Refreshment package might be right for you.

The Royal Refreshment package onboard price is $29-38 per person, per day.

This plan gives cruisers unlimited choices of premium coffees and teas, soda (including the souvenir cup), bottled water (both sparkling and still), freshly squeezed orange juice, and non-alcoholic frozen drinks.

Essentially, you can enjoy almost any non-alcoholic beverage on this package, including Johnny Rockets milkshakes. There are only a few exclusions, such as Starbucks from licensed kiosks. Starbucks brewed coffee from other onboard locations ARE included.

While we often get the alcoholic package, we can see how this package would be a good value for those who do not drink alcohol.

With current onboard pricing, it takes about 6-8 non-alcoholic drinks to hit the “break even” point for the Royal Refreshment drink package.

Classic Soda Package

The Classic Soda Package is a popular drink package choice for families. Current onboard pricing for this package is $12.99-$15 (plus gratuity) per person, per day.

This plan includes unlimited soda from the bars and restaurants onboard the ship and at the private islands. However, it does not include cans of soda or soda ordered through room service.

Further, guests who purchase this package will get a souvenir cup. If you happen to lose this cup, you will be charged $9.95 for a replacement.

Many Royal Caribbean ships have Coke Freestyle machines. These freestyle machines dispense over 100 different soda/flavor combinations. So, you can make your own crazy soda concoctions using your souvenir cup.

Of note, guests who do not purchase a drink package will not be able to use the freestyle machines.

Soda is priced around $3.50, meaning that you will need to drink about 4-5 servings a day to “break even” for this package.

Related Post: Best Cruise Lines for Families

Are Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Worth It?

This brings us back to the original question. Are Royal Caribbean drink packages a good value ?

Ultimately, that is a question that only you can answer based on your own drinking habits.

Essentially, the question should be whether you will consume enough to make the purchase “worth it”. 

Below are the average costs of the different beverages within each category from a recent Royal Caribbean drink menu.

Using this chart, you can do the quick math to see if you would routinely hit the daily “break even” point for the above drink packages based on the current pricing for your particular sailing.

When compared to competitor brands, Royal Caribbean drink packages are averagely priced, with Carnival being cheaper and NCL being more expensive.

However, a Royal Caribbean drink package does offer convenience, as you never have to worry about the bar tab at the end of the cruise!

The recently revamped perk for Crown and Anchor members does make the decision to purchase a drink package a bit more difficult for C&A members who are Diamond status and above.

With these new perks, C&A guests can use their drink vouchers for any drink up to $13, any time of day. This is no longer limited to just Happy Hour. Diamond cruisers receive 4 drink vouchers, Diamond Plus 5 vouchers, and Pinnacle 6 vouchers.

Other considerations include the length of the cruise and how many ports of call are on the itinerary.

For instance, will you be able to sustain the same drinking pattern over the course of a 10-day or 14-day cruise? If your cruise is port intensive, will you be on the ship enough to make good use of your Royal Caribbean drink package?

BOOK NOW: Bonus Perks for Cruising With Royal Caribbean

Our Quick Analysis of the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package

If we look at our breakdown from one of our cruises (prior to the drink voucher changes), we tracked all beverages consumed, per day, per drink category, to determine the value of getting the drink package.

Over the week, we consumed a total of 140 drinks (combined) for the two of us.

Sixty-four of those drinks (45%) were non-alcoholic- bottled waters and specialty coffees. Therefore, we averaged about 5.5 alcoholic drinks a day, which really is not hard to do if you have a few poolside drinks, dinner cocktails, and then a couple during the shows or nightly entertainment.

Paying out of pocket for the drinks, the total (with the service charge) would have been $1,211.86.

We purchased the drink package pre-cruise for $48 per person which was advertised as 25% off the onboard price ($792.96). (Of course, the drink package prices do vary. Likewise, the pre-cruise sales and promotions vary as well.)

This meant we saved a total of $418.90 or about 34% by getting the package as opposed to paying a la carte for each drink!

Though, we did purchase a significant amount of bottled water and specialty coffee on the cruise which helped the numbers.

However, the added bonus of the C&A drink vouchers has swung the pendulum for us from always buying a drink package to not purchasing one as of late. Instead, we have opted to purchase a case of water for our room and a Café Select Coffee card.

Even if we purchase an additional alcoholic drink or two each (above our 4 free drinks), we are still saving a considerable amount of money by not purchasing a Royal Caribbean drink package!

Have you purchased one of the Royal Caribbean drink packages on a cruise? Do you think the Deluxe beverage package is a good value? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences with drink packages on a cruise.

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Great round up! We just did our first cruise (on RCL) but didn’t purchase a drink package as we don’t drink much at all. We did order the odd cocktail or bottle of wine when we felt like it though!

Thanks Bethaney for reading. Glad to hear that your first cruise was on RCL, which ship? Drink packages are not for everyone, but they can be a good cost saving mechanism for those who do like to indulge in more than a few cocktails. Also, many ships offer non-alcoholic packages which include things like soda, water, and premium coffee, which are a good deal for some. Appreciate the comment. Safe Travels.

Hey DB I have read almost all of the questions you have answered in hopes that you would know if you can purchase the plan only on the days you are at sea (fun day at sea, or something like that) or its either all or nothing. I am thinking it would only be beneficial to us on days not ported at our destinations. Thanks 7-11 day cruise……

He did mention that the packages CAN NOT be bought on individual selected days. However if you have 3 sea days at the end of your cruise you can buy it then, with the minimum being three days. It also appears that you can’t buy just three days in the middle of a cruise, that when you buy the package it is for the remainder of the cruise, again with three day minimum.

Thanks for question Chad. William is right, currently, you need to purchase the drink package for the “remaining days of your cruise” with at least three days remaining. So, in your case, you would need to buy the plan for days 7-14 of a two week cruise. Now, could you buy the plan, use it for a few days, and then try to cancel it. Perhaps, but there is no guarantee RCI would let you cancel it. On some ships, RCI is now testing promotions for “single day” drink packages on select sea days. These are test trials, and there is no details about whether this option will be available on all sea days or on what ships and sailings they will try this deal. Appreciate you reading our post!

$55.00 per day and you don’t serve Pinot Grigio????

Great review of the drink packages. Really like the fact that you included actually prices on your sample days. Makes it very clear to everyone.

Thanks Joanne for reading and the comment. Honestly, the prices for drinks change on the ships based on the region of the country. In our recent experience on two Royal Caribbean ships, sailing within two months of each other to the Caribbean, the signature cocktails cost $12 and are included in both the Premium and Ultimate drink packages. Most beers cost around $6.00 and frozen drinks were around $7-8. Of course, this can change as many bar menus now do not quote prices on the ship. Glad you found this information useful. Happy Cruising!

Hey, great review. I am sailing on Anthem of the seas on the 4th of july and have the select package included. However, i have been told that this only includes beers up to $6.25 and therefore blue moon for example is not available through the package. Did you have any experience of this or any other beers that you can remember that were not on offer through the select package? thanks in advance, rhys

How much is rc drink package for 6 nights?

You can also cancel the drink package if you tried it and not worth it for you, or if you do get ill. They will prorate the same way as with days remaining on your package. The day of cancel they will charge you for that day, unless you have not gotten any drinks and ask them to look it up for proof.

Otherwise the drink packages are great.

Thanks Joe for the info. We never had to cancel the package, but it is good to know you can do so and at least get a partial refund. Appreciate the comment and keep on cruising!

We are going on a cruise in May next year, do you think we can get away with one drink pkg between my mom and I? Will they notice if we space it out in between times

If I go on a 7 night cruise and after 3 days decide I don’t want the drink package, can I get a refund for the final 4 days?

Just returned from Majesty, today! Purchased the “Ultimate Drink Package” while onboard. I dont usually do this. But this was a spring break, almost Carnival like, Cruise.What a Bargain. Had a lot of fun. For a 3 night,not very expensive. Comes highly recommended from a “Seasoned” Cruiser!

Thanks for the comment. Glad the drink package worked out for you Tim. We believe it is a great value, especially on short cruises! Appreciate you reading the post and weighing in on this topic. Happy Cruising!

Great write up! Interestingly, I’m seeing different package pricing on my RC cruise, which *DOES* include gratuity. For example, the Premium is $57/day. Screencap of the pricing shown on my 12-night Scandinavia And Russia Cruise: http://i.imgur.com/Qvvfiag.jpg

Thanks Dr. Hook for reading. We just checked our cruise planner for an upcoming August 2015 Caribbean cruise and the price quoted for the Ultimate Package is $64.90, which is the $55 dollars a day, plus 18% service charge, in USD. Same price breakdown for the Premium. Strange that you are getting a different price, is your cruise in 2016? Given the recent increase in drink prices fleet wide, it is only a matter of time until the beverage package prices increase. Appreciate the comment and keep on cruising!

Our cruise is June of this year (2015). Perhaps there is some cruise-specific component to the pricing.

My wife and I will be on our first cruise, a 5 night at the Independence of the Seas and I have some questions, I like to drink beer and wine I can easily drink up to 6 to 7 beers/wine per day I’m not so keen on spirits and my wife doesn’t drink to much maybe 2 or 3 mixed drinks, wine or beer, so Can I buy a “select” or “premium” package just for me and buy single drinks for her? Beer and wine included in these packages are available on all restaurants and bars or do I need to buy in certain areas of the ship regardless the packages? thank you so much.

Hi Cesar, Thanks for reaching out. Yes, you can buy a package for just yourself. RCI changed this a few years ago as they used to require both adults in a cabin have the same package. So, you can purchase the Select plan, and no plan for your wife. The package works in any venue, so you can get beer and wine at the restaurants and bars that are part of that package. In the Select package, the wines are very limited, so the options might differ in the different venues, but if you are not too picky on the brand of wine, you should be all set. Let us know if you have any other questions. Happy Cruising!

Hi Rhys, thanks for reading. We did not get the Select package, but I am pretty sure it includes all beers that are 16oz or less. On our sailing on Quantum of the Seas, there were a few craft beers/specialty beers that came in larger sizes that were not covered even on the Premium and Ultimate Packages. Blue Moon is a pretty common beer, and the Select Package does cover wines up to $8.00, so I think you should be good. Just check to make sure when you are onboard before purchasing the package. Appreciate the comment. When do you set sail on Anthem?

when we booked there was a deal that meant we got the select package free of charge. Think my partner is going to upgrade to premium because she does not drink beer or wine ha! We sail on the 4th of July of this year. This will be my 4th cruise but first time with a drinks package. Thanks for your quick response 🙂

Sounds like you got a great deal! Upgrading for the difference seems like a perfect option for your travel partner. Have a great cruise!

Thanks so much this has been very helpful. I am cruising in August 2015 and i was debating on weather to get a package or not and this has helped me. I am going to go for it and try to keep track of all my beverages to see if i saved or not. Thanks again!

Thanks for the piece. My family and I are taking our first cruise (Alaska) in July. I noticed you included bottled water & coffee. Is there no other water available on board? And are coffee and juice not included with breakfast? Thanks.

Hi Ed Q. So sorry for the delay. Just seeing your comment now. Tap water is available on board, as is drip coffee, or what European’s refer to as “American Coffee”. If you want bottled water, or espresso coffee drinks (lattes, mochas, etc) those are not included in the cruise fare, but are part of the upgraded drink packages. At breakfast, they do offer some juices, and throughout the day unsweetened ice tea and lemonade are complimentary. For the remainder of the day other juices and sodas are additional charges. Hope this gets to you in time!

Can you order wine during dinner with the package or does it need to be brought in with you? I could easily see myself drinking 2 glasses of wine at dinner, a drink before dinner, a drink before the show and one at the show if I had the package. Wondering if this would be worth it for me. Especially since i could get coffee and OJ in the morning. I would love to see current bar menus from the Oasis!

Hi Iboyer, Thanks for the question. Yes, with the drink packages you can order wine at dinner. The drinks packages can be used anywhere on the ship. Just keep in mind that wine options are different at every venue. If you do the classic, at dinner you will be very limited to what types of wine you can get. Even with the Ultimate, which covers up to $12 a drink, the varietals and brands available will vary in each venue, and may even change night to night in the main dining room. We used our drink packages multiple times at dinner to get cocktails and wine and never had an issues. Have a great cruise!

PLenny of time. This is tremendously helpful. Thanks so much

Err, plenty that is. My fault for replying on my phone

Anytime. Thanks for stopping by and reading the post. Have a great cruise. Let us know how you make out with your drinks onboard!

Are you sure you can get this package on a three night cruise? I’m going on Enchantment for three nights in October. On the RC website, it says this package is available for cruises four nights or longer.

Hi SteveC, sorry for the delay. Yes, you can get a drink package on a 3 night Enchantment of the Seas cruise. We literally just went on that same cruise this past March and both got the package. We do a comparison of our experiences on that cruise and a longer cruise to show how these packages compare on short vs long cruises ( https://eatsleepcruise.com/2015/04/compare-cruise-drink-packages-short-vs-long-cruisesn-drink-packages-on-long-vs-short-cruises/ ). There were actually a lot of people getting the drink package on Enchantment and the bars were always pretty busy. Have a great cruise!

Great review on the drink packages. Just booked a cruise on Anthem of the seas. On Celebrity I could bring a case of water on. Can I do the same for Royal Caribbean?

Thanks Cindy for reading and the question. Many individuals do bring a case of water onboard- some cruisers just put a luggage tag on the case of water and check it, or place it in a duffel bag. Honestly, we have not done this personally, but know many people who have been able to bring bottled water with no problems. According to RCI’s policy, they can inspect containers to ensure you are not trying to smuggle alcohol onboard. So, you should be fine with the water. We will be sailing on Anthem of the Seas in April 2016, when do you depart?

We are sailing June 16, 2016. I will be anxious to see how you make out. So far I have not been able to sign up for any dining or entertainment.

We sailed last year on Explorer and are going again in December on Freedom. Last year my husband and I both took a 6 pack of water and my suitcase showed up fine at my door. However, my husband got called to the naughty room and told him that water wasn’t allowed. So we don’t know what to do this year…

Thanks Tiffany for the comment. It does seem like the policies are enforced unevenly, especially if one of you brought water on and the other one was “tagged”. It seems the new “official” policy on RCI is that “Guests are not allowed to bring beer, hard liquor, fortified wines or non-alcoholic beverages onboard for consumption or any other use on boarding day or while in port. Alcoholic beverages seized on boarding day will not be returned”. Cases of water have always been a wild card, that is another reason we purchase a drink package that includes water. Have a great cruise on Freedom, it is a great ship!

Thank you for your reply!! Your break down is very helpful!!

I just finished purchasing the Ultimate for a 4 night out of Tampa March 2016, this is our 4th cruise and I can tell you sitting around the pool can be costly if you need to pay per drink, so now we get the package and have less to worry about. I love the breakdown which you have provided above however on another site it stated that no coffee products from Starbucks were includes in any of the packages. I like an good iced coffee in the morning versus something hot and while it isn’t a big issue I would like clarification. Thanks and Happy Sailing. Citrus County Jeep Life sailing March 31st Tampa.

Thanks Michael for the comment. I am glad you found the post useful. You are correct, the coffee at Starbucks is not included; however, Starbucks is only found on a few ships (I believe just the Oasis class). On Quantum there was a cafe that served Starbucks brand coffee, and on Enchantment the coffee shop there also brewed Starbucks. Neither ship had an “official” Starbucks, so the lattes and premium coffees on both of those ships were included. Hope this helps.

Hello! I am planning on going on a 4 night cruise in March. When purchasing a drink package do they charge you for the 4 days that you’re on the ship? Or do they charge you for the 5th day when you reach port at 7am? Thank you!

Hi Ameila. Thanks for reading. Great question. The drink package is paid per night, so no the fifth day is not “included” and you are not charged for that day. However, we have found that you can still get bottled water and specialty coffees (depending on the package you buy) the morning of disembarkation and we have never been charged. So, you may be able to squeeze a few more drinks out of the package that day. We have never tried to get alcoholic beverages, as we do get right off the ship, so not sure if those would be included on that final morning. Have a great cruise.

Just four days.

Thanks Steve for the concise answer.

Thanks for all the great info on the drink packages! I read that they do not allow you to buy two drinks at a time. How stringent are they with this rule? Meaning there’s no way to have a bottle of water with your alcoholic drink as your poolside? Also is there some kind of time limit on the card, for example could you grab a water in one location on the ship and then grab a beer at another a couple minutes later? We’re sailing on Freedom of the Seas in February and I’m still weighing the pros and cons of these packages. Although this blog has been a big help.

My experience is that the bartenders are not too concerned with bottled water – some of them don’t even swipe your card. I did not try ordering a drink + water at the same time; what I usually did was walk by one bar, get a water, then go to the next for a drink-drink. To your next question, I was able to do the same routine for alcoholic drinks as well. No bartender ever said anything about my last drink being only X minutes ago – I doubt they are looking too closely at that. Certainly a timestamped audit trail does exist, but I’d guess the cruise line only pulls that out if they suspect egregious abuse of the drink plan.

Does anyone know if Crown Royal Regal Apple is served onboard RCCL’s Enchantment of the Seas?

Hi Gloria. Thanks for reading and the question! My suggestion would be to contact Royal Caribbean and see if they can get your request to the Food and Beverage manager on Enchantment of the Seas. Normally, on a longer sailing you could speak to the manager on day 1, and they would try and accommodate your request at the next port of call. Given that Enchantment does short sailings, you probably would need to put the request in before the sailing. Please let us know how you make out. We sailed on the ship earlier this year and had a blast! Enjoy your cruise.

Thanks for putting all this together. It makes figuring it out much easier. When we cruised last February, they ran a special the day we boarded of buy one package, get the second half price. This made it even easier to decide! The only problem is that they would not refund the difference to people who prepurchased their packages. I have three cruises coming up in the next year and I will not be purchasing anything ahead of time in case they do this again. Just an FYI.

Hi Lisa. Thanks for reading! Appreciate the information about the deal you got. Sounds like a great money saving offer and I hope one cruise they run that promotion when we are onboard! We do always purchase the drink package onboard, so we agree with your recommendation. Where are you going on your upcoming cruises?

I have a question about the drink packages. My boyfriend and I are mostly beer and wine drinkers. I see that if we get the select package it does include beer and wine which is awesome. However I am seeing that the beer and wine is limited. My boyfriend really enjoys craft beers. Are the beers that are offered on this plan primly domestic (coors, bud light, miller, etc) or can you find some quality beers on this list. As far as the wine, is it cheaper wine? My other question is I see that I am allowed to bring 2 bottles of wine with me on board. Is there a way to chill it? Will they store it for me, and can I bring it to dinner? I wanted to bring a couple of bottles of champagne with me to enjoy, preferably at dinner. I don’t to pack them if there is no way to chill it.

Hi Jes. Thanks for reading and the great questions. The Select Package includes beers up to $6 and wines up to $8. For beers, this will include basically all the beers onboard, except for some high end specialty beers or larger sized beers (e.g., Fosters large cans). From our experience, most ships have a limited number of craft beers, and the selection changes throughout the cruise. Getting either the Premium or Ultimate plan really wouldn’t affect your options for beer, so your boyfriend should be fine with the Select. The wines on the other hand are very limited at the $8 range on the select. It is basically house wine, and the brands and varietal vary greatly. If you are a wine connoisseur, you would probably be better off with a Premium package. What time of room do you have? Most rooms have a small refrigerator where you can store the champagne. You can also ask your stateroom attendant for ice to keep the bottles cold. If you bring the bottles to dinner, and do not finish them, then your waiter might store them for you. They do store unused bottles you purchase from the bar, but I am not 100% sure if they will store the remaining champagne from a bottle you bring onboard. Let me know if you have any other questions. Happy cruising!

Thank you so much for your response! It was very helpful! With what you said, does that mean that it acceptable for me to bring my own wine to dinner? Thank you so much!

You are welcome Jes. Short answer is yes, you can bring your wine. Most likely they will store it for you as well if you do not finish it during the meal. Thanks again.

On a recent Greek isle cruise, they offered a 30% discount on drink packages on embarkment day. It was set out outside the windjammer. I was told they didn’t sell enough packages , so were trying to get more sold. Our cruise this January 2016, I have told the kids to wait until we are on board to see if there are any deals like this, as you are able to purchase a prorated package anytime three days prior to sailing.

Thanks William for the feedback and for reading the post. We have heard that occasionally, drink packages do get discounted, so we also always wait to purchase until we are on-board. One thing to be careful about is buying the package in certain ports, as you maybe charged sales tax in some home-port cities. It has not happened to us, but we heard others have been charged local sales tax when buying the package, or even buying a drink. Happy cruising!

$55 per day for the ultimate drink package….. So why is it $65 per day for RC cruises leaving from Australia?

Hi Judith, Thanks for reading and the comment. Just recently RCI increased the price of the drink package. We are in the process of updating the article to reflect the new pricing. Also, keep in mind the prices here are in USD, so depending where in the world you are sailing, the amounts may vary due to currency conversions. Appreciate the question. Happy sailing!

Thanks for the reply, I am sailing on the Legend of the Seas on a South Pacific cruise and all the prices quoted for this cruise are in US dollars, so even before the price rise there still seemed to be quite a discrepancy in the price of drink packages. I will be interested though to see the new price list.

Hi, I too have asked the same question, I wrote to Royal Caribbean, but am yet to get a reply. The 2016 rate is $US49 for Premier, and $59 for the ultimate. Based on XE (yes well aware it fluctuates daily – I actually keep a close eye on it) that amounts to $AU65.88 for Premier and $AUD79 for Ultimate. According to RC Australian site, it is $74 for Premium and $87 for Ultimate. So, if we pre-purchase, we will pay for 2 packages almost $200 more than US or UK passengers!!!! So, there is absolutely NO incentive to pre-purchase, correct?

Does anyone have experience with sharing a drink with someone else? I know it’s not “allowed” but I will only have 1 drink/day (I’m breast feeding) while my husband will have the ultimate package. Should we just buy my drink? Or can he get me one fairly easily? Thanks!

Hi Morgan. Thanks for reading and the question. It really depends where you have the drink. If you both order a drink at dinner, then you will be charged by the bar service for your drink. If you are at the pool deck, and your husband gets a drink at one bar, then goes to another bar to get you a drink, he will not be charged. Same holds true if you go from one bar to another on the Promenade. While we don’t recommend doing this on a regular basis, I know from personal experience that this is possible. Hope this helps. Have a great cruise.

Hi we are going on VOTS on Jan 22 2016 and was wondering is filtered water free on board and can you refill your own water bottles?

Hi Gabriella, Thanks for reading and I appreciate the comment. Not sure what you mean by filtered water. At the bars, restaurants, and on the pool decks ice water is available as part of the cruise fare. You are not allowed to refill your water bottles directly. You must use a cup provided by RCI, fill it with water, and then use the cup to refill your water bottle. This is for sanitation reasons. We have done this before and it is easy to do. Let us know if you have any other questions. Have a great cruise this week!

does anyone know with the ultimate package on the anthem of the seas if the bionic bar is covered? Or Michaels Pub? Just making sure the ultimate includes everywhere. Also we are will be sailing for xmas and new years with kids. Do they do anything special for the holidays?

Hi Joe. Great questions. We sailed on Quantum of the Seas and know that the drinks at Bionic Bar are covered. Also, most drinks at Michael’s Genuine Pub are covered-there are a few extra large size beers on the menu that are not included in the package, and there are a few wines that are not covered. Neither are the whiskey flights. We have a review of that venue, complete with menus ( https://eatsleepcruise.com/2015/02/quantum-seas-michaels-genuine-pub-review/ ) from this time last year. Around the holidays, the ship is decorated and there are some special activities geared toward the holidays. All of the main shows stay the same. On the actual holidays, there are usually specialty menus on the ships featuring holiday favorites. We would love to hear about your experiences on the ship as we have never sailed around Christmas time. Hope this helps. Appreciate you reading the post.

This blog post has been so helpful! My boyfriend and I are going on the Harmony of the Seas next week out of Barcelona and it is his first cruise, my second (but it has been 10 years since my last). We were unsure if he should get the Ultimate Package since he likes iced coffee a lot and of course several alcoholic drinks at night. Oh and he drinks water like a fish. I have been searching all over for pricing of individual drinks and info on if the Bionic bar is included. So glad I stumbled across this post! It is hard to really compare pricing if you can’t find drink pricing! Thanks so much for clarifying all of this!

Hi Krystle, thanks for the kind words and comment. We are glad you found the post helpful. We are interested to see how the prices compare as when you are sailing in Europe, everything will be in Euros, not USD. The packages have gone up slightly since this post, but so too have drink prices, so we think the math should compare. We sail on Harmony of the Seas in January and we plan on doing an entire post about the package after that sailing. Please do report back about your experiences on the ship. Happy sailing.

Hi, if you go on the smaller boats what soda’s are available? I am told they do not have the 100 different flavors on the smaller boats. I try to stay away from the regular drinks so will I only have one choice for diet sodas?

Hi Carolyn, you are correct not all of the Royal Caribbean ships have the freestyle machines. What ship will you be sailing on? If the ship does not have a freestyle machine, then you have the typical coke, diet coke, sprite, ginger ale, etc. I believe that is all. Here is a list of the ships that have freestyle machines as of the Fall 2015. Allure of the Seas Anthem of the Seas Enchantment of the Seas Explorer of the Seas Freedom of the Seas Grandeur of the Seas Jewel of the Seas Majesty of the Seas Oasis of the Seas Quantum of the Seas Let us know if you have any other questions. Happy sailing! Appreciate the comment.

Hi, we are on Anthem of the Seas on 21st January. I am thinking of the Royal Replenish Drink Package. One question: is the bottled water unlimited in this package? Thanks in advance and keep on cruising.

Hi Florian, Thanks for reading. Great question. Yes, the bottled water is unlimited in this package. Our mother recently used the package on Adventure of the Seas and enjoyed unlimited bottles of water, along with the other included drinks. There were never any issues using the plan. Have a great cruise.

We are sailing on the majesty of the seas in June. I was wondering if we can use our on board credit to purchase the drink package once we board the ship?

Hi Shana, Great question. The short answer is yes, you can use your onboard credit (OBC). Essentially, your onboard credit applies to all purchase made onboard. You can not specify what you want to use the OBC towards, it just comes off your bill. Have a great cruise. We have yet to sail on Majesty, so we would love to hear your take of the ship. Happy Cruising.

One question though if the schedule is Day1- disembark 2-sea3-port4-sea 5-back home super early, how many days of the package would you technically be paying for, mainly concerned if I’m paying for that 7am home day as I’m new to this drink package set-up

Hi Brit, Great question. Sounds like you are doing a 4 night cruise. If that is the case, you would only have to pay for four days. In our experience, the morning of disembarkation (which you label Day 5) our drink packages have covered specialty coffees. So, even though you don’t pay for that 5th day, the drink package still work. However, we have not tested this out with alcoholic beverages, so not sure if it applies or not. What ship are you sailing on with RCI?

We’re looking at Brilliance of the Seas, thinking about doing the second from the top drink package but I’m not sure if we’ll drink enough to justify the splurge

Hi Brittany, Thanks for reading. It is a tough call. For the most part, you have to average about 6-7 alcoholic drinks a day to break even. Then, any bottled water, soda, or additional alcoholic drinks you consume within the plan are the “extra value”. On sea days, it is probably much easier to hit these numbers than days in port. That said, we routinely drank 8-10 waters a day (and I a few sodas) so we ended up saving. How many port days do you have on the Brilliance?

Hey guys. Just got off the phone with a rep from Royal Caribbean who was most helpful explaining the drink package. Here it is. The Gratuities are NOT included in the package. You WILL PAY an 18% gratuity on EACH DRINK YOU ORDER. Not the price of the package.

So if you order the ultimate package for $59/day. You do not pay 18% on the $59/day price. You pay it on EACH DRINK. These are the facts.

If the 18% gratuity is not included, then that’s a brand new policy. I just got off Freedom of the Seas on February 21st, having had the $59 package. All my drink receipts had “18% gratuity included” written clearly on the receipt. Although there is a space to tip an amount of your choosing on top of that 18%. Furthermore the only charges to my Seapass account as far as tips went were those $1-$3 additional tips that I left throughout the week.

Thanks Chris for the update. We are sailing next month on Anthem of the Seas and will see what the pricing is like for the beverage packages. In the meantime, we are going to contact the Crown and Anchor Society to see if the service charge policies have changed. Appreciate the comment and info.

Thanks Kdizzydaze for reading and the comment. We have checked numerous upcoming bookings we have for RCI and all of them include the 18% service charge if you go to purchase the drink package as they have for previous sailings. We are going to contact Royal Caribbean for clarification to see if this a new policy.We will be sailing on Anthem of the Seas next month and see if this new pricing structure is in effect as we plan on purchasing at least one drink package. We will report back and update this post. Thanks.

Great to have all of this input. We have never thought to get the drink packages before due to more city/island visits than sea days. However, at the end of April we are going on our first transatlantic cruise that will have 8 sea days, then a couple of more in between the places we visit. My questions are 1) after 8 days, would it be OK to stop the package and get a refund for the difference in days and 2) we do enjoy a couple of cocktails prior to dinner, wine with dinner and perhaps an after dinner drink. We also may have a drink during the day and at a show. Would you think for this particular cruise, the Premium package would be worth it for both of us? 3) They are offering a 20% discount off each package but it was still higher than what was advertised. I am thinking the service fee is added to it when in the final cart because my calculations certainly were not the same as theirs. We are 15 days, so I know to multiply by 15! 4) I get the impression that you think it is a better idea to book it onboard. I just am concerned that it will be difficult to get it on our account on time to take advantage of our first drink! Or maybe it is still going to count for the full day… thanks for future replies!!!!!

To comment on (2), if you are going to log 6 drinks/day then you should break even or better over that 8-day span – especially if you have 20% off. But depending on your constitution, it can be difficult to maintain that level of drinking day after day. And taking into account all the food that is available, sometimes your body just says, “Okay, I’ve had enough calories.”

My experiences have been that one needs to accomplish dedicated, sustained drinking in order for the package to make sense from a financial standpoint. But from a psychological standpoint, the package is nice because you aren’t making value decisions on a drink-by-brink basis (e.g., Is this $12 cocktail worth it vs a $6 beer). And it’s always nice to be able to grab an overpriced bottled water without a care.

Thanks Dr. Hook for your always thoughtful comments. We agree, there are both financially and psychological benefits to using the drink package. We showcased our experiences on vacation. It is not always about trying to get your moneys worth. There is also the nice feeling of knowing how much things costs and not having to worry about the bar tab. Now, RCI is doing some specials where the prepaid package is 20% off for some sailings. This might make it an even better deal for those who are heavy drinkers. Appreciate the additional thoughts. Happy sailing.

We’re cruising on the Harmony in June with kids–one who will be 4. How stickler are they if both adults have drink packages and we order her a juice or bottle of water, too? I’m not planning on getting her a drink package at this age…also, if there is a Starbucks on board, will there be OTHER shops that we can get our espresso-based drinks (that are included in the packages)? Thanks!

Hi HC, thanks for reading. With the package you are allowed one drink per card, per transaction. Doesn’t matter what that drink is as the computer only allows the staff to input one drink at a time for someone on the drink package. You are not allowed to buy someone else a drink. So, say you go to the bar to get two drinks for the adults, and two bottles of water for the kids. You have two cards in your hand for the adults that have the drink package. Your alcoholic drinks will be covered, but they will charge you for the the two bottles of water. But, if you go to the bar and get one adult drink and one water, you are fine. If you then give the water to your kids, odds are they won’t say anything. Are you sailing on Allure or Oasis? Those are the only two ships with official Starbucks onboard. On those ships, the drink package is not accepted at Starbucks. However, the Cafe Promenade does make lattes and specialty coffees that are accepted with the Ultimate Drink Package. Some ships, like Anthem of the Seas, have cafes that brew Starbucks coffee. At those shops, the drink package does work. Let us know if you have any other questions. When do you set sail?

Hi DB, Have you found anything definitive on the issue of the service charge either being included in the package price, or added to each “free” beverage ordered? It seems like RCCL can’t give the same answer twice, and the information on their site is contradictory as well. Thanks.

Hi Eric, Thanks for the question. The gratuity is included when you buy the package. We just got back from a 5 night Anthem Cruise and bought the package pre-cruise. We were never charged a service charge once onboard. All receipts came up zero. They will not double charge you. You pay the service charge based on the total cost of the beverage package you purchase, not per drink. Sorry for the delay getting back to you, I hope this helps. Happy sailing.

I’m booked for a 3 day on the Enchantment next Jan. The website offers the drink packages and says they are 20% off. It states the Premium for 46 and the Ultimate for 48. I have tried to calculate from the regular prices and these numbers seem off. The 46 for Premium– includes the 18% gratuity? The 48 for Ultimate seems less then it maybe should be. What’s up?

we are sailing on the adventure of the seas on Nov 14, i purchased the premium drink package while it was on sale for 44.00 plus 18% gratuity for a total of 51.92 per day and right after i purchased it they changed it to included coffees and stuff making it essentially the ultimate drink package, theres no way to go wrong with this package!

Hi Tricia, we agree, nothing wrong with that at all. Taking advantage of the 20% discount and then getting the upgrade is an added bonus. Thanks for sharing your good fortune with us. We do recommend getting the package early, especially when it is on sale. Have a great time on Adventure. We sailed on her last year and had a blast. Let us know how your cruise turns out when you are back next month. Happy sailing.

This is a great article. I really love the way all the drinks for a day layout ow much one would actually spend. So many people when determining the value of the package focus solely on the alcoholic drinks. Just bottled water alone can add up to $10 per day.

Hi Brian, thanks for the comment. Glad you found the breakdown useful. You are correct, the benefits of the beverage packages can go well beyond just the alcoholic drinks. When is your next cruise?

Jan 29 on the Allure OTS. I had booked the drink package on special 25% off, but I just re-booked t because they are offering the drink package and Voom for only $5 per day extra.

We will be cruising on Allure this summer. Is there a place to get mochas and lattes with the drink package? I heard Starbucks does not accept the drink package on the Oasis class ships so I’m trying to figure out if the drink package is worth it for an espresso junkie. I’m not sure if they have other coffee shops on Allure.

HI April, great question. Yes, the Deluxe Beverage Package works at Cafe Promenade. You can get lattes, mochas, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks there and they are covered in the package. It is found on the Promenade on Deck 5. Happy Cruising.

I am so excited about our upcoming cruise … our first ever!! Just reviewed the beverage package and I will be signing up for the full alcoholic beverage package. My wife does not drink any alcoholic beverages but will probably purchase the basic beverage package. Your policy states everyone sharing a suite has to purchase the beverage package. Can your policy accommodate our circumstances?

Hi John, Thanks for reading and the question. You will need to contact Royal Caribbean. The current policy is that both individuals in the room have to purchase the same beverage package. So, if you purchase the Deluxe Package, your wife needs to do the same. There are some exceptions, but these usually require a medical note from a doctor. Let us know if you have any other questions. Happy Cruising.

Hi. I hate to beat a dead horse but…I plan to buy the refreshment package for my two children but not buy any drink package for myself. Will they allow that or do we all three have to have a package? Also, the kids love to drink virgin pina coladas. Would those be included in the refreshment package?

Did Royal Carribean give you any perks being a blogger?

we are cruising the Enchantment in Jun. we purchased the deluxe drink package. question: with this package can I order memosa’s for breakfast and would my drink package include the gratuities?

Hi, We are sailing on RC Harmony in Oct and have purchased the deluxe drink package. I have been told it DOES include gratuities (18%) because we booked online ahead of time. I called twice to double check and was told this both times. Can anyone clarify? Thanks

Hi, I will be on this cruise in the month of Sep. Do you have any Bottle packages on the cruise? can i purchase any bottles for consumption during my stay? Please let me know..

Stay on top of the specials before your cruise. We bought at the 30% off and then got an offer for buy one get one for 50% off. You can cancel and buy at that price and it saved us $50 on the total package.

Can you take drinks out of the bar you order them from? For instance, could I get a drink at the Lime and Coconut and then drink it as I walk back to my stateroom?

Do they carry any gluten-free beer?

how do you order a drink that comes under a drink package? (anything besides water, tea and lemonade). On Holland America, any drink order had to be placed through a “steward” in any restaurant, not the waiter. Stewards were scarce, and the whole experience was very frustrating. Even getting a glass of sparkling water was a cumbersome process. Not only were we challenged to get beverage access, we could in no way come near getting value for the package. For this reason, i do not recommend an HA cruise. On a Royal Caribbean ship can i order a beverage anywhere without difficulty? i have not sailed with RC before, and having easy access to the beverages i want makes a difference. thanks!

What about a shorter cruise? 3 nights would you purchase the deluxe drink package? I’m schedule for a cruise June 2022.

Hi DB, enjoy your blog and YT videos. Always helpful. Question regarding RC drink packages: If I purchase the Deluxe Drink Package and my husband, who only drinks occasionally or at dinner, purchases the Refreshment Package, can I purchase a bottle of wine at dinner using my plan’s 40% discount and share that with him? Or only in our cabin? I phoned RC and their representative was unclear/unsure of whether or not this would be a ship by ship decision to allow sharing of a bottle of wine that was purchased with the Deluxe package – In my view, I’m paying for the drinks package and paying again for the bottle of wine, so it seems it would be reasonable to share this with my husband at dinner. Thoughts or comments from other cruises who have opted for these disparate plans?

This was great info! One questions – if you purchase the alcoholic beverage package – is that included when you order drinks via room service to a balcony stateroom – or is that a separate charge?

We went on Oddesy for a 6 day cruise, and on the second day we wnt and got the deluxe package, we where two people and got charged 2 times 525 dollar. The poster said 50% off on the second package so we went to guest service to complian. They said that the amount was right. I drink beer and missus drink strawberry daquiry, it varied from 17.4 to 24.4 depending on what bar and what time of day we purchused it so that meant that we had to drink atleast 9 drinks each to break even. And with two days ashore we had no chance of drinking that much. Luckily they let us cancel it. And we bought drinks evry time we wanted one and the bill ended up with 400 dollar for the both of us. So for us the package would not have been beneficial at all

Hello, went on Independence of the Seas in February. Favorite drink was Strawberry Blonde. I know the main ingredients and have tried to replicate it. It’s their on twist apparently on it. If anyone can snag a detailed recipe, I would appreciate it! If you’re cruising soon, have it on the rocks or frozen by the pool. Yum!

Thank you for your informative post. Unfortunately the deluxe drink package would be a wast because we don’t drink beer, wine or alcoholic beverages. However, I might consider the refreshment package. I have a few questions regarding the drinks. How much does squeezed out cost and is it only served at breakfast? Do they have a supply of sugar free drinks, I.e., sugar free Shirley temple or Roy Rogers? Are only the non alcohol frozen drinks included? Since I don’t drink alcohol, the only frozen drink I know is strawberry daiquiri and the greenish drink that looks like the strawberry one. I also had one with cream de mint with another ingredient…is that a nonalcoholic drink? Also what are specialty coffees? Are these the iced coffee or flavored coffee? As you might guess, I don’t drink regular coffee or regular tea except for iced tea with lots of lemons. Too bad they don’t have diet Dr. Pepper. Hopefully, they’ll have Coke Zero. Looks like I’ll be hard pressed to make a drink package with it because my son can only drink nonalcoholic drinks due to his meds.

Our cruise has back to back days where we will be off ship at the beginning. The second half of the cruise has 2 sea days and a visit to perfect day. Can we purchase a drink package during the cruise when we get to the second half?

How do you utilize the drink package at the buffet? Is there a drink bar or will a server come to the table to take drink orders?

Does the drink package start the minute you get on the ship?

Yes although recently they don’t put the soda cup in your room anymore. You have to go to the promenade deck to get it.

Hi, When you buy a drink package, do they give you a wristband or is it linked to your sea pass? Thanks for the great info and advice!

DB & The Princess

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Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of drinks on its cruises, but not all of them are included in the fare. To help you plan your budget, here are the updated drink prices for Royal Caribbean in 2024.

Royal Caribbean Drink Prices, Key Takeaways:

• Royal Caribbean offers a variety of complimentary beverages, including iced water, iced tea, lemonade, and flavored waters.
• Specialty coffees and premium non-alcoholic beverages will incur an additional charge.
• Soda on Royal Caribbean costs $3.50 per can, while bottled water is priced at $3.25.
• Bottled beers range from $7.00 to $8.00 per serving, and wine prices vary greatly.
• Cocktails and mixed drinks are priced between $10 and $14 per serving.
• Royal Caribbean drink packages have dynamic pricing, with options for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• The value of a drink package depends on individual drinking habits and preferences.

Knowing the prices of drinks and the available drink packages can help you budget for your Royal Caribbean cruise and make the most of your onboard experience.

What Drinks are Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

When you embark on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll have access to a variety of complimentary beverages. These include iced water, iced tea, lemonade, and flavored waters at the buffet and main dining room . So, whether you’re looking to quench your thirst or have a refreshing drink with your meals, these options are included in your fare. Additionally, breakfast juices, coffee, and tea are also part of the complimentary beverage offerings .

It’s important to note that while many non-alcoholic beverages are included, there may be additional charges for specialty coffees and other premium non-alcoholic drinks. So, if you’re a fan of specialty coffee or have a hankering for a more indulgent non-alcoholic beverage, it’s good to be aware that these will come at an extra cost .

Overall, Royal Caribbean provides a generous selection of complimentary beverages to keep you hydrated and satisfied throughout your cruise. Whether you’re sipping on a glass of lemonade by the pool or enjoying a cup of coffee with breakfast, these offerings are sure to enhance your onboard experience.

What Non-Alcoholic Drinks Cost Money on Royal Caribbean?

If you’re planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean and wondering about the prices of non-alcoholic drinks, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect for soda, specialty coffee, bottled water, and energy drinks on Royal Caribbean ships.

Soda Prices

On Royal Caribbean, a can of soda will cost you $3.50. Whether you prefer classic cola or a refreshing lemon-lime soda, be prepared to spend this amount for each can you order. It’s worth noting that if you purchase a soda package, you can enjoy unlimited soda throughout your cruise at a better value than buying individual cans.

Specialty Coffee Prices

If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll find a variety of specialty coffee options on Royal Caribbean ships. The prices for specialty coffees range from $4.00 to $5.00 per serving. So whether you’re craving a classic cappuccino to start your day or a decadent mocha as an afternoon pick-me-up, you’ll need to budget accordingly for these premium coffee experiences.

Bottled Water and Energy Drinks

If you prefer bottled water over tap water or want an energy boost from drinks like Red Bull or Powerade, you’ll need to pay for them on Royal Caribbean. Bottled water can be purchased for $3.25 per bottle, while energy drinks range from $4.00 to $4.50. These prices will help you plan and budget for your preferred non-alcoholic beverages during your cruise .

Now that you know the prices of non-alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean, you can plan and budget accordingly for your cruise . Whether you choose to indulge in a specialty coffee or prefer to stick with complimentary options, there’s no shortage of refreshing beverages to enjoy onboard. Just keep in mind that prices are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the cruise line for the most up-to-date information. Cheers to a fantastic cruise experience !

How Much is Beer on Royal Caribbean?

If you’re a beer lover, you may be wondering about the prices of beer on Royal Caribbean cruises. Well, I’ve got the information you need! On the ships of Royal Caribbean, you can enjoy a variety of bottled beers at reasonable prices. Whether you prefer domestic or international brands, there’s something for everyone.

As you can see, the average price for a bottle of beer on Royal Caribbean is around $7.49 to $7.99. This allows you to enjoy your favorite brew while taking in the beautiful views and exciting activities onboard .

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, dining at one of the specialty restaurants , or catching a show at the theater, having a cold beer in hand can enhance your cruise experience. So, sit back, relax, and indulge in a refreshing beer on your Royal Caribbean vacation!

How Much Does Wine Cost on Royal Caribbean Ships?

When it comes to enjoying a glass of wine on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you have a range of options to choose from that cater to different tastes and budgets. The wine prices on Royal Caribbean ships vary depending on the label, brand, and vintage. Let’s explore the wine list with prices to help you plan your onboard experience.

Wine by the Glass

If you prefer to savor a single glass of wine, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of options. The prices for a glass of wine range from $8 for a glass of Beringer White Zinfandel to $24 for a glass of Moet & Chandon champagne. Most glasses of wine fall around the $11 mark, giving you the opportunity to indulge in your favorite varietals without breaking the bank.

Wine by the Bottle

For those who enjoy sharing a bottle of wine with friends or family , Royal Caribbean offers an extensive selection that caters to different preferences. The prices for bottles of wine range from $40 to $231, depending on the label and vintage. Whether you’re a fan of bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling wines, you’re sure to find a bottle that suits your taste.

With such a wide range of wine options available, you can enhance your dining experiences and celebrate special moments during your Royal Caribbean cruise. Cheers to discovering new flavors and creating lasting memories onboard!

What Are the Costs of Cocktails and Mixed Drinks on Royal Caribbean?

When it comes to enjoying a refreshing cocktail or mixed drink on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your tastes. From classic favorites to signature creations, the drink menu offers something for everyone. But what are the costs of these libations? Let’s take a closer look at the prices of cocktails and mixed drinks on Royal Caribbean.

Signature Cocktails:

One of the highlights of the Royal Caribbean drink menu is the selection of signature cocktails. These handcrafted creations are designed to tantalize your taste buds and quench your thirst. The Lime and Coconut cocktail, a tropical blend of rum, coconut cream, and lime, is a popular choice among cruisers. Priced at $14 per serving, it’s a refreshing sip of paradise. Other signature drinks, such as the Goombay Smash and the Coco Loco, can be enjoyed for the same price.

Classic Cocktails:

If you prefer the timeless elegance of classic cocktails, Royal Caribbean has you covered. Indulge in a martini, old-fashioned, or mojito for $11 each. These well-crafted libations are made with premium spirits and expertly mixed to perfection. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or enjoying an evening in the ship’s lounge, a classic cocktail is always a sophisticated choice.

Specialty Cocktails:

In addition to the signature and classic options, Royal Caribbean offers a range of specialty cocktails that cater to specific tastes. Whether you’re a fan of fruity concoctions or prefer something with a bold kick, there’s a specialty cocktail for you. Prices for these unique libations range from $11 to $14. From the refreshing Bahama Mama to the tangy Mango Tango, there’s a flavor to suit every palate.

With the prices of cocktails and mixed drinks on Royal Caribbean, you can plan your onboard adventures accordingly. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a signature creation, savor a classic cocktail, or try a specialty concoction, there’s a drink to suit every taste and budget.

What Are the Prices of Royal Caribbean Drink Packages?

When planning your Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s important to consider the prices of the drink packages available. These packages can provide excellent value for those who plan on enjoying a variety of beverages throughout their trip. Below, you’ll find the current pricing for Royal Caribbean drink packages in 2023:

The Deluxe Beverage Package, which includes a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, ranges in price from $63 to $98 per day. This package is perfect for those who enjoy cocktails, wines, and other alcoholic beverages throughout their cruise. The Royal Refreshment Drink Package, priced between $29 and $38 per day, provides unlimited access to non-alcoholic beverages, such as specialty coffees, bottled water, and soft drinks.

If you prefer to stick to soda, the Classic Soda Package is available for $12.99 per day. This package allows you to enjoy unlimited fountain sodas during your cruise. Whether you’re a soda lover or someone who enjoys a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, there is a package to suit your needs and budget.

It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the length of your cruise and the specific ship you choose. Additionally, Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions or discounts on drink packages, so it’s worth checking for any deals before making your purchase. By choosing the right drink package, you can enjoy a worry-free and cost-effective onboard experience with Royal Caribbean.

Is a Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?

When planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, one important consideration is whether or not to purchase a drink package. As an avid cruiser and a lover of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, I’ve often pondered this question myself. To help you make an informed decision, let’s explore the value of a Royal Caribbean drink package and whether it’s worth the investment.

Firstly, it’s essential to assess your drinking habits and preferences. If you enjoy indulging in a variety of cocktails, beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise, a drink package can offer significant savings. Paying individually for each drink can quickly add up, whereas a drink package provides a fixed cost for unlimited options.

Additionally, a drink package allows you to try new and exciting beverages without worrying about the price. It enhances your onboard experience, allowing you to savor your favorite drinks and discover new favorites without hesitation. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a show, or dining at one of the many specialty restaurants , a drink package ensures that you can enjoy your favorite libations anytime, anywhere.

However, it’s crucial to evaluate your individual needs and calculate the costs. Consider the duration of your cruise, the number of sea days versus port days, and the overall value you anticipate getting from the package. If you’re not a frequent drinker or prefer to have only a few beverages during your trip, it might be more cost-effective to pay for drinks individually.

In conclusion, a Royal Caribbean drink package can be worth it if you enjoy a wide variety of beverages and want the convenience of unlimited drinks throughout your cruise. It ensures hassle-free enjoyment and can provide significant savings compared to paying for each drink separately. Nevertheless, it’s important to assess your drinking habits and do the math to determine if a drink package aligns with your budget and preferences. Cheers to finding the perfect option for your Royal Caribbean adventure!

The Best Time to Buy Royal Caribbean Drink Packages

If you’re considering purchasing a drink package for your Royal Caribbean cruise, timing can make a big difference in terms of cost savings. To help you get the best deal , here are some insights on the best time to buy your drink package.

Black Friday Deals and Promotions

Black Friday is known for offering great discounts on a wide range of products and services, and Royal Caribbean is no exception. Keep an eye out for special Black Friday deals on drink packages, as this is often the best time to snag a discounted price . Take advantage of these limited-time offers to save on your onboard beverages.

In addition to Black Friday, Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions and price drops throughout the year. Stay updated on their website or sign up for their newsletter to be notified of any deals or discounts that may become available before your cruise.

Purchase Early

Another tip for getting the best price on a Royal Caribbean drink package is to purchase it as soon as you book your cruise. By doing this, you can secure the lowest price available at that time. Prices for drink packages may increase as your sail date approaches, so it’s best to lock in the lowest price early on.

By being strategic and taking advantage of promotions and early booking, you can maximize your savings and enjoy a worry-free experience onboard your Royal Caribbean cruise.

Final Thoughts

For those looking for convenience and savings, the drink packages offered by Royal Caribbean can be a worthwhile investment. By estimating your beverage consumption and comparing it to the cost of a package, you can determine if it’s the right choice for you. Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts to snag the best deal.

So, whether you’re sipping a complimentary iced tea or indulging in a signature cocktail, Royal Caribbean ensures that you won’t go thirsty. Cheers to a refreshing and enjoyable cruise experience with a wealth of beverage options to enhance your journey.

Royal Caribbean Drink Prices FAQs

Complimentary beverages on Royal Caribbean include iced water, iced tea, lemonade, flavored waters, breakfast juices, coffee, and tea.

Specialty coffees and premium non-alcoholic beverages like soda, juice from a bar, and bottled water incur additional charges.

Bottled beers on Royal Caribbean ships range from $7.00 to $8.00 per serving, with domestic and international options available.

Wine prices on Royal Caribbean vary, starting from $8 for a glass of Beringer White Zinfandel to $24 for a glass of Moet & Chandon champagne. Bottles of wine range from $40 to $231.

Cocktails and mixed drinks on Royal Caribbean ships are priced between $10 and $14 per serving, with specialty cocktails and new libations ranging from $11 to $14.

Royal Caribbean drink packages  have dynamic pricing. The Deluxe Beverage Package ranges from $63 to $98 per day, non-alcoholic packages range from $29 to $38 per day, and the Classic Soda Package is priced at $12.99 per day.

The value of a drink package depends on your drinking habits and preferences. For those who consume a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a drink package can offer cost savings. However, it’s important to calculate the costs and consider your individual needs before purchasing a package.

When Is the Best Time to Buy Royal Caribbean Drink Packages?

It is best to purchase a drink package when you book your cruise to secure the lowest price. Black Friday deals often offer the best discounts on drink packages. Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions and price drops, so it’s worth watching for any deals before your cruise.

Royal Caribbean offers various beverage options, from complimentary drinks to premium cocktails. Knowing the prices of drinks and the available drink packages can help you budget for your Royal Caribbean cruise and make the most of your onboard experience.

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Cruise Line Drink Package Calculator

There’s not much that’s more popular on a cruise ship than drinking. Bars are everywhere, and the party atmosphere mixed with the relaxation of vacation means the booze is flowing.

Whether you are sitting poolside with a fruity cocktail, or maybe playing at the casino with a beer, or having a glass of wine with dinner, having a drink just feels natural on a cruise.

It almost feels wrong not to be cooling off without a tasty beverage. But the truth is that the cost of drinks can add up on a ship. The solution to that problem?

The drink package.

Drink Spending Quickly Adds Up

If you’ve never been on a cruise, then don’t be surprised by the price of alcohol on the ship. Want a beer? They usually run $6-8, and then you add on the mandatory gratuity of 15-20%. Cocktails can easily run $10-14, and a glass of wine can be $8-12 — and even much more.

Even a soda or a bottle of water will run you $3. If you are a steady drinker, then it’s not hard to spend $100 or more on drinks per day.

Thankfully the cruise lines have rolled out drink packages. These packages allow you to pay one set fee per day and drink as much as you want. So instead of worrying about a bar bill, you know exactly what you’ll spend ahead of time.

And when it’s time to get a drink? Just head up to the bar and order what you like.

Of course, there is some fine print with the drink packages, ranging from how each adult in a cabin must buy one if one person does, to the drinks included with the deal. ( See our complete guide to drink packages here .)

But the biggest hesitation before getting the package for many people is whether or not they will get their money’s worth.

Estimate If Drink Packages Are A Deal For You

Drink packages are expensive, ranging from $60-80 per day in most cases. Some go up to more than $100 per day! Since you’re charged each day of the cruise, you’ll have to drink this amount’s worth each and every day of the trip over the course of the cruise.

Rightfully, many people aren’t sure if they will actually save money by getting the package deal.

Below, we have a calculator that can help you estimate whether or not a drink package is worth the money. Simply select your cruise line and estimate the number of drinks you’ll have per day to see what it would cost to purchase them individually.

Since there are so many different prices among drinks, we’ve used estimated average prices to give you an idea of what you might spend. Your actual drinks will vary in price, but this gives you a ballpark idea of what you might spend.

Compare the amount you’ll spend each day above with the cost of each drink package per day. Note that prices will vary in some cases, including discounts for ordering before the cruise. As well, some lines offer different package levels. To keep things simple, we’ve tried to use the most common prices we think you’ll see.

• Carnival : $59.95 per day ($70.74 with gratuity) | $69.95 per day ($82.54 with gratuity) on trips of five days or fewer
• Celebrity : $89.00 per day ($106.80 with gratuity)
• Norwegian : $109.00 per day ($130.80 with gratuity)
• Princess : $64.99 per day ($76.70 with gratuity)
• Royal Caribbean : Varies; ~$75-94 per day ($88-112 with gratuity)
• MSC : $64.00 per day (no gratuity is bought before boarding)

Keep in mind that these are all estimates as drink prices vary by cruise line and what you specifically drink. If you are in the ballpark of the daily cost of the drink package, it is likely to be worth it for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drink Packages

While drink packages sound simple, there are actually a lot of rules. These include rules on the number of drinks allowed, which drinks you can buy, and much more. Read our complete drink package guide here to learn everything you need to know before you buy. We’ve answered some common questions below.

Does everyone in a cabin have to purchase a drink package if one person does? Usually, the answer is yes. While it does depend on your specific cruise line, most make each adult in a cabin purchase a package if one person does. This helps discourage drink sharing where one person buys the package and gives other people free drinks.

Keep this in mind when deciding whether or not to buy a package. If one person drinks and another doesn’t, it means you’re essentially doubling the cost of the drink package without any added benefit.

Can I share drinks using a drink package? No. No cruise line allows sharing of drinks on a package. If caught sharing, you could lose your drink package. Plus, since most lines make you purchase the deal for all adults in a cabin, there isn’t usually a benefit to sharing since everyone will have a package anyway.

Can I purchase the package for just some days of the cruise? No. Drink packages are sold for the entire trip, not just some days. That means if you are on a week-long cruise, you can’t just purchase a drink package for a few days here and there. That’s why it’s important that you estimate what you’ll drink EACH day of the cruise on average.

Also keep in mind that except for some private islands run by the cruise lines, the packages don’t work off the ship. So if you are in port all day, that is time that you can’t use the package.

Are there discounts on drink packages? Yes. Often cruise lines will offer a discount off the headline price if you purchase the package before boarding. After you book your cruise, you can either call the cruise line or login to your cruise line account. There you should be able to find the package to purchase. In addition to a likely discount, buying ahead of time also means the package is ready to go for you the moment you get on the ship.

Where can I find more information about specific packages? Cruzely has a number of resources for different drink packages. We have more about specific cruise line drink packages here:

• Complete Guide to Carnival’s CHEERS! Package
• Everything to Know About Royal Caribbean Drink Package
• Complete Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages
• Complete Guide to MSC Cruises Drink Packages

Are drink packages worth it? We wish there was a definitive answer, but in reality, it depends.

For some people the package is absolutely worth it. If you’re the sort of person who always has a drink in your hand during vacation, you’ll likely get your money’s worth. However, for many others, the package isn’t a good deal. Those who might have a few drinks here and there — even several a day — likely won’t drink enough to make the deal worth buying.

To read more about drink packages, see our complete guide here .

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Does non-alcoholic beer count towards your 15 or not? I can’t seem to get an answer on that one.

Carnival’s rule specifically states “alcoholic drinks.” If it’s non-alcoholic, it shouldn’t count toward 15.

If I carry champagne or wine, can I drink them outside the stateroom?

Yes, technically there is a corkage fee. But if you pour it in the room and then walk around with it, it’s doubtful anyone would give a second notice.

I just priced out two sailings with NCL and got prices WITH the Free at Sea package (includes drinks), and WITHOUT. One sailing ended up costing $40/day for drink package (whole FAS package), and the other was $49/day. Where are you coming up with the $109/$130, with gratuities, per day costs? I referenced your info on a NCL Facebook group and was promptly corrected! LOL

Here is the standalone pricing from NCL. It’s less expensive to buy with free at sea.

https://www.ncl.com/onboard-packages/beverage-packages

They cam up with the bogus $109 price so they could charge you more on the mandatory 20% tip.

With a cheers drink package that allows 15 drinks a day, if I was to purchase a Cruise Cash Bar card am I still limited to only 15 drinks a day?

That I’m not sure about! Would love for you to test it out and let everyone know. I can’t drink 15 a day!

Are you still allowed to bring a case of water?

Are you allowed to bring a bottle of wine per person?

Depends on the cruise line. Most, however, do let you bring on those items. You can find more info here:

https://www.cruzely.com/bringing-water-or-soda-on-the-ship-carnival-royal-caribbean-princess-and-norwegian/ https://www.cruzely.com/cruise-line-alcohol-policies/

Does Carnival have water fountains that I can use to re-fill a water bottle? And do they offer non-bottled water as an option at meals? While I like my beer and my wife will have a cocktail or wine….I am not sure if we would drink enough alcohol to justify the cost. We do drink a lot of water, though and if bottled water is the only way…..??

Yes, there are cups and water machines available. And while you could fill a reusable water bottle, you are usually asked not to do that for health reasons. If sailing Carnival, I like to just order a couple of 12 packs of bottled water ($5 each) for the room. That way I always have some around.

The amount you have as the price of Celebrity drink package is not accurate since they now include a basic drink package. To get premium is only $30/day above the Always Included.

Morning, do Cunard do a discount on drinks package x

So on a 7 day 6 night cruise you get charged 7 days at say $100 ($700), but get thrown off the ship at 8 am on the 7th day. correct?! So I spent $700 for 6 days of drinking. Am I missing something? I have been searching the web for a week and no one brings up this point

The boarding day is considered the first day of the cruise. So when you get on the ship, the drink package is available. You aren’t charged for the day you debark. So a 7-day cruise that departs on Sunday, you are charged for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

NCL once again has gone completely over the edge charging $118.00 per day for their drink package. Almost twice the price of Carnival. Most lines are between $65-$85 per day. I personally like Princess who charges around $70 per day including gratuity. Even better if your room mate doesn’t drink you do not have to purchase two drink packages. As far as I Princess is the only line to do it and I commend them for it. If you like to drink stay away from NCL. I have 50 years of cruising under my belt and know all the deals.

So I have the Premium Drink package as part of my “Free” at Sea but from what I’ve read, it does not include specialty coffees from Starbucks, bottled water, or energy drinks. If I were to have a specialty Coffee each morning (either tea or coffee latte) and usually drink 4-6 bottles of water a day, and do an energy drink if I am exercising, does it make sense to upgrade to Premium Plus package? I can upgrade for $174 (divided by 5 days would be roughly $35 a day) Based on calculator if I drink the above in addition to my current package, it would cost me about $24/day + tip assuming each of these items are priced at $3 (guessing Starbucks drinks may not be…). Should I upgrade if they will allow me to do so without forcing my cabin mate to upgrade as well?

That’s a tough one. For one, it’s not certain, but it’s likely your cabin mate would have to upgrade as well. Also, don’t forget the extra gratuity on the more expensive package, if you aren’t already including it.

can you get water in a glass with ice from the bars or do you have to have a drink package

Sure, they will give you one. You can also head to the buffet and get one.

Do the non-alcoholic packages follow the same rules as the alcoholic packages? Also is it best to purchase cases of bottled water or would there be enough bottles accessible that you wouldn’t need that?

What specific rules are you referring to? We like to purchase water to be sent to the room before we arrive. That way we don’t have to carry it around when boarding.

Is specialty coffee from the coffee shops included?

Yes, almost always.

What types of drinks are included if you dont buy a drink pass

Water, tea, coffee, and some juices are available in the dining rooms/buffet.

Can you tell why Carnival doesn’t offer the cheers package on their Mediterranean cruises. I’m booked for the Legend 2020 and after 3 phone calls to Carnival no one seems to know! Thanks

No, we don’t. We’ve never sailed over there and are jealous that you get to go!

My 4 year old only needs milk and water on our cruise. Can i get away with not buying him a drink package?

Absolutely. You do not have to buy a drink package.

how many stories had you know that people actually got throw off the ship for having alcohol with Royal Caribbean

Do you mean trying to sneak alcohol onboard?

How much is drink pkg for carnival Horizon ship for 8 day cruise

It will be the cost of the package times 8 nights. So around $500 given that the package is $61 a night after gratuity.

The Drink Package Calculator doesn’t seem to be working.

Thanks for the comment. See the doohickey zigged when it should have zagged. It should be fixed now.

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Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board? Here's what cruise passengers should know.

A latte in the morning here, a piña colada by the pool there. On a cruise, ordering drinks can rack up a steep bill before you know it.

Though beverages like water, regular coffee, iced tea and lemonade are generally included in cruise fares, others cost extra. That’s where drink packages come in handy.

The optional add-ons broaden the range of beverages you can order without worrying about incurring charges each time. But they aren’t always worth it, and it can be cheaper to quench your thirst a la carte.

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“What I tell clients is: Do the math on it,” said Rusty Pickett, a travel adviser and owner of Shellback Cruises.

What do cruise drink packages include?

“Each cruise line has a different package system,” Pickett said. The packages typically range from more limited soda or coffee packages to those that cover a wide range of alcohol and other drinks.

Carnival offers a Bottomless Bubbles package that includes sodas and juice. The line’s Cheers! package includes those, plus spirits, beer and wine by the glass priced at $20 or less, specialty coffee and more (guests can order only one drink at a time and are limited to 15 alcoholic drinks in 24 hours). Carnival also offers wine-specific packages. 

Be sure to read the fine print, too, because there are often restrictions. On Royal Caribbean International ships, for example, beverage packages exclude drinks served in licensed Starbucks stores.

How much do cruise drink packages cost?

Beverage packages are typically priced per person, per day and sold for the duration of a cruise. Starting prices vary but can range from $10 to $15 for soda and specialty coffee packages to upward of $100 for those that include alcohol. Pickett also noted that a number of lines have raised drink package prices in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The aforementioned Cheers!, Carnival's most comprehensive package, starts at $59.95 per person, per day, while the Bottomless Bubbles package starts at $6.95 for kids and $9.50 for adults. During a recent cruise on the line’s newest ship, Jubilee , cocktails at new venues Dr.Inks, Ph.D., and The Golden Mermaid were priced at $14 a la carte, plus an 18% gratuity charge. Beverage packages generally include gratuities, Pickett said.

The most I racked up in a single day on Jubilee – for two lattes at the ship's JavaBlue Cafe and Marina Bar; two bottles of water in my stateroom; and one cocktail at the Marina Bar that night (plus additional gratuities I added) – was $34.86.

“When (clients) want to talk it through, it's usually about how much you drink per day,” said Valerie Dorsey, a franchise owner and travel adviser at Cruise Planners. “And if you're only going to have one or two drinks, even at $15 a drink, it's still cheaper than buying a $100-a-day package.”

Mainstream cruise lines may offer lower prices if guests purchase a package advance, according to Dorsey (luxury lines tend to include more in their fares, including drinks). Operators may also bundle them as part of other offers.

Even if not for cost savings, Pickett and Dorsey both said some travelers are drawn to drink packages for the convenience. “They're willing to pay money for not being nickeled-and-dimed when they go up to the bar,” Pickett said.

Does everyone in the cabin need to get the drink package?

Often, all guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom are required to purchase a drink package if any guest in the cabin buys one, including the Cheers! package and Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package .

Can I buy a drink package midcruise?

Even if you don't buy a drink package beforehand, you're not out of luck. Passengers may be able to buy them after they board, depending on when they make the purchase.

Royal Caribbean, for instance, sells drink packages on the first or second day of cruises four nights or longer; for sailings three nights or less, they're sold only on the first day. Celebrity Cruises (also part of Royal Caribbean Group), meanwhile, sells them up until three days before the end of a cruise.

Prices would be prorated on a per-day basis.

Can I bring my own drinks on a cruise?

Yes, depending on what it is. Beer and hard liquor are not allowed , but guests can bring wine or champagne to enjoy during their sailing – though Dorsey warned they will probably have to pay a corkage fee if they want to drink them outside their cabin.

For example, Princess Cruises charges $20 “should guests wish to consume their wine or champagne in the ship’s public areas,” according to its passage contract.

Guests may also be able to bring non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, sodas and milk, but policies vary by line.

Dorsey also noted that if guests don’t mind going without espresso-based drinks or cocktails, they can opt not to buy a drink package at all. “I say to clients, ‘You don't have to put up extra money on a cruise if you don't want to.’ ”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board? Here's what cruise passengers should know.

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© 2024 Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas has high-end upcharge options like a $200-per-person dinner. 

See what a vacation on the world's largest cruise ship is like for affluent travelers.

Are you looking to ball out on your weeklong vacation aboard the world's largest cruise ship ? Get ready to pay $200 for dinner and $100,000 for a cabin.

Vacations-at-sea can be a fairly affordable vacation option. With most cruise lines, your base fare already includes accommodations, unlimited food, endless activities, and the opportunity to see several destinations in one go.

But as more " pay-to-play " amenities show up on board, the more pricey these floating vacations could become. And there's likely no better example of this than Royal Caribbean's new world's largest cruise ship.

Forget tiny interior cabins and dinners at the buffet. On the 9,950-person Icon of the Seas, affluent travelers could have a vacation that rivals even the most luxurious small-ship cruise .

Guests interested in luxuriating in one of Icon’s 179 suites will be paying a minimum of $4,614 per person for a weeklong sailing.

The mega-ship's high-end suites range from 402 to 2,523 square feet, balconies included.

Some come with sweeping views of the AquaTheater . No need to scramble for the best seats when you can watch the show's divers, synchronized swimmers, and aerialists from your couch.

Others, like the floor-to-ceiling window-lined Icon Loft, are spread across two floors.

Guests in the most luxurious suites also get Starlink WiFi, laundry services, the best seats for on board shows, and a "Royal Genie" to help plan their trip.

But few compare to Icon’s most expensive cabin, the 2,523-square-foot Ultimate Family Townhouse.

Guests in the three-floor floating mansion get to wake up to sweeping ocean views and coffee on one of the three balconies.

The bottom floor has an open-air patio that opens into Icon's Surfside neighborhood.

The two bedrooms — one with a bunk bed — are back inside on the top floor.

Looking to watch a movie or flex your karaoke skills? Slide down to the second floor, where you can do just that at one of the several lounges.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean told Business Insider that travelers have been 'quickly' reserving the giant cabin for an average of $100,000 a week.

But a cruise ship worker stationed at the Ultimate Family Townhouse in January told BI that some guests have been snatching up the multilevel townhouse for a whopping $200,000 a week, noting that the playground-like cabin was mostly booked for 2024.

The keycards to these plush suites also open up another exclusive side of the ship: the Suite Neighborhood.

Only guests staying in suites can access the 60,924-square-foot retreat and its two restaurants, sundeck, hot tub, pool, and bar.

The list of exclusive restaurants doesn’t end there, of course.

More than half of the Icon of the Seas' 28 eateries come at an extra cost.

Some are more affordable, like Izumi at the Park's grab-and-go sushi window. For $10, hungry travelers can pick between seaweed salad and edamame, plus two choices of sashimi, nigiri, and rolls.

Cruisers craving a formal, upscale dinner could instead reserve the rabbit-slinging $200-per-person Empire Supper Club.

The price is comparable to high-end, on-land Michelin-starred restaurants.

Empire Supper Club's American fare dinner flexes eight courses, a cocktail pairing, and live jazz. Appetizer options include butter-poached langoustine with Osetra caviar. For the main course, the aforementioned rabbit leg and loin could be a bun-tastic choice.

The latter will be paired with a New York Sour — not a hoppy beer.

There are 18 other places to drink on the ship. As usual, none are complimentary.

Expect to front New York City prices without a beverage package: The popular Rye and Bean bar serves coffee and tea-infused cocktails ranging from $12 to $14.

Looking for a pampering? Like alcohol, spa treatments are rarely complimentary on cruise ships.

Vacationing can be stressful. At the mega-ship's spa, guests can unwind with an almost $150 25-minute facial or a nearly $180 50-minute Swedish massage.

Or, book one of the exclusive casitas to relax with unobstructed ocean views.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean did not immediately respond to BI's request for casita pricing on Icon of the Seas. But for context, a casita on the cruise line's older Symphony of the Seas mega-ship can cost about $360 per day during a sea day.

Amenities like the six-slide waterpark and mini-golf course are complimentary to all guests.

But the same can't be said for Crown's Edge , one of the ship's most distinctive amenities.

Travelers must don a bulky jumpsuit and harness before they face their fear of heights at the thrilling agility course.

The half-walking, half-ziplining route, which leaves its sweaty-palmed participants dangling 154 feet above the ocean, could be completed in a minute or so.

That's $49 down the drain in one minute.

And why stop there when you can splurge during port days too?

Icon of the Seas will dock at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private island for all 2024 sailings.

As expected, the Caribbean getaway is full of upcharged activities.

Travelers with young children might want to drop $100 per head for an afternoon at the waterpark.

Meanwhile, those without kids can pay between $39 to $89 per person for a boozy day at the adult-only Hideaway Beach .

Nearby, the more exclusive beach club could be almost triple that cost.

A weeklong trip on the new world's largest cruise ship could quickly become an ultra-luxurious vacation.

But even travelers looking to spend modestly might be shocked by the new ship's prices.

Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told investors in 2023 that Icon's inaugural season had commanded more bookings at "materially higher rates" than any of its previous ship launches.

Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told BI in late 2023 that new cruise liners generally command a 20% to 50% pricing premium.

Three months before Icon of the Seas' launch , he estimated the new vessel was priced at a premium of "at least 50% if not more."

At the time, the least expensive 2024 itinerary had started at $1,820 per person for an interior cabin.

Pricing has since increased by $17. That's $262 per person, per day, for a windowless stateroom.

And no, it doesn't come with access to the Suite Neighborhood.

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