Imagine yourself lounging on the deck of a luxurious Celebrity cruise ship, the ocean breeze in your hair, and the sun warming your skin. A server approaches, offering a refreshing cocktail. The only question is, are you reaching for your wallet or simply enjoying the moment? Many cruisers ponder this very question: are Celebrity cruise drink packages worth it? This blog post will dive deep into the world of Celebrity Cruises drink packages, breaking down the costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks, so you can make an informed decision and maximize your vacation budget.
Understanding Celebrity Cruise Drink Package Options
Celebrity Cruises offers several drink package options, each tailored to different drinking habits and budgets. Understanding the nuances of each package is crucial in determining whether a drink package makes financial sense for your specific cruise. This section will outline the available packages, their inclusions, and their costs, providing a clear overview of your choices.
Classic Package
The Classic Package is often considered the entry-level option, catering to those who enjoy a moderate amount of alcoholic beverages during their cruise. This package typically includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails (up to a certain price point), and non-alcoholic drinks like sodas and juices.
- Beers: Includes a variety of domestic and imported beers. Think Bud Light, Coors Light, and some basic imports.
- Spirits and Cocktails: Covers a range of well liquors and classic cocktails, usually priced under $9.
- Non-alcoholic Beverages: Includes fountain sodas, juices, and non-premium bottled water.
If you primarily stick to cheaper beer options, this could be a cost-effective choice.
Consider whether the included brands and cocktail selections meet your preferences. If you typically opt for premium liquors, you might find this package limiting.
If you drink a lot of soda or juice throughout the day, this aspect of the package could save you money.
Premium Package
The Premium Package offers a more extensive selection of beverages, catering to those who enjoy higher-end drinks and cocktails. This package typically includes a wider variety of beers, premium spirits, cocktails (up to a higher price point), premium bottled water, specialty coffees, and teas.
- Beers: Includes a wider selection of domestic, imported, and craft beers.
- Spirits and Cocktails: Covers a broader range of premium liquors and more elaborate cocktails, usually priced under $15.
- Premium Non-alcoholic Beverages: Includes premium bottled water, specialty coffees, and teas.
If you appreciate craft beers and a more varied selection, this is a significant upgrade from the Classic Package.
This is a good choice if you enjoy top-shelf liquors and more complex mixed drinks.
Coffee lovers will appreciate the inclusion of lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffee drinks, which can quickly add up if purchased individually.
Zero Proof Package
For those who don’t consume alcohol, the Zero Proof package focuses solely on non-alcoholic beverages. This package includes sodas, juices, specialty coffees, premium teas, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
- Sodas and Juices: Unlimited access to a variety of soft drinks and juices throughout the cruise.
- Specialty Coffees and Teas: Enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and a selection of premium teas.
- Non-alcoholic Cocktails: Indulge in mocktails and other creative non-alcoholic beverages.
This can be a good value if you typically purchase several sodas or juices per day.
If you are a coffee or tea enthusiast, this package can be well worth the investment.
Perfect for those who want to enjoy the social aspect of cocktails without the alcohol.
Calculating the Cost and Consumption
To determine if a Celebrity cruise drink package is worthwhile, you must realistically estimate your daily beverage consumption and compare the total cost of the package to the a la carte prices. This section provides a detailed breakdown of how to calculate your potential savings (or losses) by purchasing a drink package.
Estimating Your Daily Drink Consumption
The first step in determining whether a drink package is right for you is to honestly assess your daily drinking habits while on vacation. Consider the following factors:
- Number of alcoholic drinks per day: Be realistic! Think about pre-dinner cocktails, drinks with meals, and late-night beverages.
- Types of drinks you typically order: Do you prefer beer, wine, cocktails, or a mix of everything?
- Non-alcoholic beverage consumption: How many sodas, juices, coffees, or bottled waters do you consume daily?
Most people tend to indulge more on vacation. Be honest with yourself about how many drinks you will *actually* have each day.
Knowing your preferred drinks will help you estimate the cost of purchasing them individually.
Don’t forget to factor in non-alcoholic beverages, as they can add up quickly.
Comparing Package Costs to A La Carte Prices
Once you have a good estimate of your daily drink consumption, compare the cost of the drink package to the cost of purchasing each drink individually. This requires a little research, as drink prices can vary slightly depending on the specific cruise and venue.
- Obtain a price list: Check online forums and cruise blogs for recent menus and drink prices on Celebrity Cruises.
- Calculate the cost of your typical daily drinks: Based on your estimated consumption and the price list, calculate how much your drinks would cost if purchased individually.
- Compare the total cost to the drink package price: If the cost of your individual drinks exceeds the price of the drink package, the package is likely a good value for you.
Many cruisers share photos of menus and drink prices online.
Be sure to include tips, as they are usually added to each drink purchase.
Remember to factor in the convenience and peace of mind that comes with a drink package, knowing you don’t have to worry about constantly tracking your spending.
Case Study: The Smith Family
The Smith family is going on a 7-night Celebrity cruise. Mr. and Mrs. Smith enjoy 3-4 cocktails each per day, while their teenage children consume 2-3 sodas each. The Premium Package costs $89 per person per day. Individually, cocktails average $13 each, and sodas are $4. Let’s calculate the costs.
Without the package:
- Mr. Smith: 3 cocktails x $13 x 7 days = $273
- Mrs. Smith: 4 cocktails x $13 x 7 days = $364
- Child 1: 2 sodas x $4 x 7 days = $56
- Child 2: 3 sodas x $4 x 7 days = $84
- Total: $273 + $364 + $56 + $84 = $777
With the package:
- Mr. Smith: $89 x 7 days = $623
- Mrs. Smith: $89 x 7 days = $623
- Child 1: $89 x 7 days = $623
- Child 2: $89 x 7 days = $623
- Total: $623 x 4 = $2492
In this scenario, the drink package is significantly more expensive for the Smith family. However, this calculation doesn’t account for specialty coffees, premium water, or other included beverages, which could shift the balance if the Smiths consume these items regularly.
Factors Influencing the Value of Drink Packages
Beyond simple cost calculations, several other factors can influence whether a Celebrity cruise drink package is a good value. These factors include itinerary, port days, onboard activities, and personal preferences. Understanding these nuances can help you make a more informed decision.
Itinerary and Port Days
The itinerary of your cruise can significantly impact the value of a drink package. Cruises with many port days may result in less time spent onboard consuming beverages. Conversely, cruises with numerous sea days offer more opportunities to utilize the drink package.
- Cruises with frequent port days: If you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ports of call, you may not have as many opportunities to use the drink package.
- Cruises with multiple sea days: On sea days, you are more likely to be onboard, enjoying the ship’s amenities and consuming beverages.
- Consider shore excursions: If you book excursions that include drinks (e.g., a wine tasting tour), factor this into your calculation.
Consider whether you will be purchasing drinks while ashore, which would further reduce the value of the onboard package.
This is where a drink package can truly shine, providing unlimited access to your favorite drinks without worrying about individual costs.
You might not need as many drinks onboard on those particular days.
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
The types of onboard activities and entertainment offered on your cruise can also influence the value of a drink package. Cruises with numerous bars, lounges, and live music venues provide more opportunities to enjoy beverages.
- Extensive bar and lounge options: Celebrity Cruises boasts a variety of bars and lounges, each offering a unique atmosphere and drink menu.
- Live music and entertainment: Enjoying a drink while listening to live music or watching a show is a common cruise activity.
- Special events and parties: Celebrity Cruises often hosts special events and parties with themed cocktails and drinks.
If you plan to hop between these venues and sample different cocktails, a drink package can be a great way to explore the ship’s offerings without racking up a huge bill.
The drink package allows you to indulge in these experiences without worrying about the cost of each individual beverage.
A drink package allows you to fully participate in these events without hesitation.
Personal Preferences and Drinking Habits
Ultimately, the value of a drink package depends on your individual preferences and drinking habits. Factors such as your preferred types of beverages, the frequency with which you drink, and your tolerance for alcohol all play a role.
- Preferred types of beverages: If you primarily drink inexpensive beverages like water and soda, a drink package may not be necessary.
- Frequency of drinking: If you only have a few drinks per day, purchasing them individually may be more cost-effective.
- Tolerance for alcohol: If you have a low tolerance for alcohol, you may not be able to consume enough drinks to justify the cost of the package.
However, if you enjoy premium cocktails and specialty coffees, the package can be a worthwhile investment.
However, if you tend to drink more heavily, a drink package can provide significant savings.
Be realistic about how much you can comfortably drink in a day.
Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Drink Packages
Several misconceptions surround cruise drink packages, leading to confusion and potentially poor decision-making. This section will address and debunk some of the most common myths, providing clarity and ensuring you have accurate information.
Myth: Everyone in the Cabin Must Purchase the Package
While this used to be a more common practice, Celebrity Cruises often offers flexibility in its drink package policies. Typically, if one adult in a cabin purchases a drink package, all other adults in the same cabin are also required to purchase a package (to prevent sharing). However, policies can change, and it’s best to confirm the current rules with Celebrity directly or through your travel agent.
Truth: This policy helps the cruise line ensure fair usage and prevent abuse of the drink package benefits. It’s essential to check the specific terms and conditions of your cruise before purchasing a package.
Myth: Drink Packages Cover Everything Onboard
Cruise drink packages typically cover a wide range of beverages, but they don’t usually cover everything. Certain high-end liquors, vintage wines, and some specialty cocktails may be excluded. Additionally, drinks purchased at certain onboard venues, like the casino, may not be included.
Truth: Always review the details of your chosen package to understand exactly what is and isn’t included. This prevents unexpected charges and ensures you can enjoy your cruise without surprises.
Myth: Drink Packages Are Always Cheaper
While drink packages can offer significant savings for some cruisers, they are not always the most cost-effective option. If you are a light drinker or prefer less expensive beverages, purchasing drinks individually may be more economical.
Truth: The value of a drink package depends entirely on your individual consumption habits. Do your research, estimate your drink intake, and compare the costs before making a decision.
Alternatives to Drink Packages
If a Celebrity cruise drink package doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, several alternatives can help you save money on beverages while still enjoying your cruise. This section explores some popular options.
Bringing Your Own Beverages Onboard
Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited amount of their own beverages onboard, which can be a great way to save money, especially on items like bottled water and soft drinks. Celebrity Cruises, for example, generally permits passengers to bring on board two bottles of wine per stateroom at embarkation.
Always check the specific rules and regulations of your cruise line regarding bringing beverages onboard to avoid any issues during embarkation. Corkage fees may apply if you consume your own wine in the dining room or other public areas.
Purchasing Drinks During Happy Hour
Many cruise ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. Taking advantage of these promotions can significantly reduce your overall beverage costs.
Check the daily schedule for happy hour times and locations. This is a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks at a fraction of the cost.
Utilizing Loyalty Program Benefits
If you are a member of a cruise line’s loyalty program, you may be eligible for complimentary drinks or discounts on beverages. These benefits can vary depending on your loyalty tier.
Check your loyalty program benefits to see if you qualify for any complimentary drinks or discounts. This can be a significant perk for frequent cruisers.
| Alternative | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bring Your Own Beverages | Bringing a limited amount of beverages onboard (e.g., wine). | Saves money, allows you to enjoy your preferred brands. | Limited quantity, may be corkage fees. |
| Happy Hour Specials | Purchasing drinks during discounted happy hour periods. | Significant savings, social atmosphere. | Limited hours, may be crowded. |
| Loyalty Program Benefits | Utilizing complimentary drinks or discounts offered through loyalty programs. | Free or discounted drinks, exclusive perks. | Requires loyalty program membership, benefits vary by tier. |
FAQ
Question: What happens if I purchase a drink package but don’t drink enough to make it worth it?
If you realize mid-cruise that you won’t consume enough drinks to justify the cost of the package, unfortunately, you typically cannot get a refund for the unused portion. This highlights the importance of accurately estimating your drinking habits before purchasing the package. However, the peace of mind of not having to worry about the price of each drink can still be worth it for some.
Question: Are tips included in Celebrity Cruise drink packages?
Yes, gratuities are typically included in the price of Celebrity Cruise drink packages. This means you don’t need to worry about tipping bartenders or servers each time you order a drink. The pre-paid gratuities cover the service provided, making the drink package a more convenient and predictable expense.
Question: Can I share my drink package with someone else?
No, Celebrity Cruise drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared. The cruise line monitors usage to prevent sharing, and violations may result in the cancellation of the package without a refund. Each adult in the cabin who wishes to consume alcoholic beverages is typically required to purchase their own drink package.
Question: What if I only want a drink package for some days of the cruise?
Unfortunately, Celebrity Cruises typically requires drink packages to be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise. It is generally not possible to buy a drink package for only a portion of your voyage. This policy encourages guests to fully utilize the package and provides a more predictable revenue stream for the cruise line.
Question: Are there any exceptions to the “everyone in the cabin must purchase” rule?
While the “everyone in the cabin must purchase” rule generally applies, there can be exceptions in certain circumstances. For example, if one adult in the cabin does not drink alcohol for medical reasons, they may be exempt from the requirement to purchase a drink package. You’ll typically need to provide documentation or a doctor’s note to request an exemption. It is best to contact Celebrity Cruises directly to discuss your specific situation.
Question: Does the drink package include drinks from the mini-bar in my stateroom?
No, the Celebrity Cruise drink packages do not typically include beverages from the mini-bar in your stateroom. Drinks from the mini-bar are usually charged separately at a la carte prices. If you plan to consume beverages in your stateroom, you may want to consider purchasing them individually or bringing a limited amount of your own beverages onboard (if permitted by the cruise line’s policies).
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, deciding whether Celebrity cruise drink packages are worth it comes down to your individual drinking habits, preferences, and cruise itinerary. Carefully consider your potential consumption, compare the costs, and factor in the convenience and peace of mind the packages offer. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision and ensure you get the most value out of your cruise vacation. Cheers to smooth sailing and smart spending!