Planning a cruise can be exciting, but understanding the costs involved is crucial. Many travelers wonder about the price of onboard amenities, especially beverages. If you’re considering a Celebrity Cruises voyage and want to indulge in cocktails, wine, or beer, you’re probably asking: how much is a classic drinks package on Celebrity Cruises? This post will break down the pricing, inclusions, and considerations for the Classic Drinks Package, helping you make an informed decision for your next cruise adventure.
Understanding Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages
Celebrity Cruises offers several drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. Understanding the various options is the first step in determining which package, if any, best suits your needs. These packages allow passengers to prepay for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, often at a discounted rate compared to individual purchases. The Classic Package is a popular choice, striking a balance between cost and the range of available drinks.
What is Included in the Classic Package?
The Classic Package provides a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, premium teas, specialty coffees, and non-premium bottled water. The price limit for each drink covered is generally around $9 or $10, which covers a wide range of popular options. This package caters to those who enjoy a few drinks each day without requiring top-shelf liquors.
- Cocktails: Covers a wide selection of classic mixed drinks like margaritas, daiquiris, and screwdrivers, priced up to the package’s limit. This eliminates the stress of carefully selecting each drink based on price. Instead, guests can focus on enjoying their vacation.
- Beers: Includes domestic and imported beers, providing a range of choices for beer drinkers. Having access to this variety of beers will enrich your cruise experience.
- Wines by the Glass: Offers a selection of red, white, and rosé wines available by the glass, allowing you to pair wines with your meals. Wine pairings can greatly improve your dining experience.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Features sodas, juices, premium teas, and specialty coffees for those who prefer non-alcoholic options. Staying hydrated and caffeinated is important on any vacation, and the Classic Package helps provide these options.
Who Should Consider the Classic Package?
The Classic Package is ideal for those who plan to enjoy several drinks each day but are not necessarily seeking premium or high-end brands. If you typically order standard cocktails, beers, or wines with meals and enjoy the occasional poolside drink, this package can offer significant savings compared to paying for each drink individually. Consider your drinking habits and preferences to determine if the Classic Package aligns with your consumption patterns.
Example: Imagine you typically have two cocktails by the pool, a glass of wine with dinner, and a beer in the evening. Paying for each of these individually could easily exceed the daily cost of the Classic Package, making the package a worthwhile investment.
Decoding the Cost of the Classic Drinks Package
The price of the Classic Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises can fluctuate based on several factors, including the length of your cruise, the time of year, and any ongoing promotions. It’s essential to understand these variables to get an accurate estimate of the cost for your specific sailing. Knowing this cost beforehand can greatly affect your spending habits on your cruise.
Factors Influencing the Price
Several factors affect the Classic Drinks Package price: the duration of the cruise is a major component. Longer cruises tend to have higher overall package costs but may offer a better daily value. The time of year can also influence pricing, with peak season sailings (like summer and holidays) often commanding higher rates. Promotions and sales events are great times to book, as Celebrity Cruises occasionally offers discounts on drink packages. Look for deals that include beverage packages as part of your cruise fare. Finally, booking in advance can sometimes lead to lower prices compared to purchasing the package onboard the ship.
According to Cruise Critic, prices for drink packages can fluctuate by as much as 20% depending on the time of year and promotions.
- Cruise Length: Longer cruises generally have higher overall package costs. However, the daily rate may be lower compared to shorter sailings.
- Time of Year: Peak season cruises (summer, holidays) often have higher package prices due to increased demand.
- Promotions: Celebrity Cruises frequently offers promotions that include discounts on drink packages or bundle them with other perks.
- Advance Booking: Booking your drink package in advance, either at the time of booking your cruise or before departure, can sometimes secure a better price.
Typical Price Range
While prices can vary, a general estimate for the Classic Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises ranges from around $59 to $79 USD per person, per day. This range serves as a guideline, but it’s always best to check the specific price for your sailing on the Celebrity Cruises website or through your travel agent. Keep in mind that a gratuity (typically around 20%) will be added to the package price. Some cruises run promotions that include “Always Included” pricing. These promotions often offer a Classic Drink package as a part of the cruise fare.
The gratuity, typically around 20%, is added to the daily cost of the package.
Scenario: Calculating the Total Cost
Let’s consider a 7-night cruise with the Classic Drinks Package priced at $69 per day. The total cost would be calculated as follows:
- Daily Package Cost: $69
- Number of Days: 7
- Total Package Cost (before gratuity): $69 * 7 = $483
- Gratuity (20%): $483 * 0.20 = $96.60
- Total Cost (including gratuity): $483 + $96.60 = $579.60
Therefore, the total cost for the Classic Drinks Package on a 7-night cruise at $69 per day would be approximately $579.60 per person, including gratuity.
Maximizing the Value of Your Classic Drinks Package
To ensure you get the most out of your Classic Drinks Package, it’s essential to strategize your beverage consumption and take advantage of all the included options. By understanding the package’s limitations and utilizing its benefits wisely, you can significantly enhance your cruise experience. Making sure you drink enough to offset the price of the package each day is crucial.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Package
Plan ahead by considering your typical daily drinking habits. Are you likely to consume enough drinks to justify the daily cost of the package? Utilize the package for a variety of beverages, including specialty coffees, juices, and non-alcoholic drinks, in addition to alcoholic options. Be mindful of the package’s limitations, such as the price cap per drink, and choose beverages within that range. Take advantage of happy hour specials and other onboard promotions that may complement your package. It is important to understand your habits to best take advantage of this package.
- Track Your Drinks: Keep a rough estimate of how many drinks you’re consuming each day to ensure you’re maximizing the package’s value. This might require a little bit of calculation, but is worth it.
- Explore Included Options: Don’t limit yourself to just alcoholic beverages. Try different specialty coffees, juices, and premium teas offered as part of the package.
- Utilize at All Venues: The Classic Package is valid at most bars, restaurants, and lounges onboard the ship. Take advantage of this by enjoying drinks in different settings.
Comparing the Classic Package to Other Options
Celebrity Cruises offers other drink packages, such as the Premium Package, which includes a wider selection of beverages and higher price limits per drink. The Zero Proof Package is a non-alcoholic option, including specialty coffees, premium teas, sodas, and juices. Compare these options to determine which best aligns with your preferences and budget. Consider factors such as the types of drinks you typically consume, your daily consumption habits, and the overall cost of each package. Comparing packages is a crucial part of cruise planning.
| Feature | Classic Package | Premium Package |
|---|---|---|
| Price Limit per Drink | Approx. $9-$10 | Higher, allows premium brands |
| Beverages Included | Standard cocktails, beers, wines, non-alcoholic options | Wider selection of premium liquors, wines, and specialty cocktails |
| Best For | Those who enjoy standard drinks and want a good value | Those who prefer premium brands and a wider selection |
Common Misconceptions About Drink Packages
Some travelers believe that drink packages are only beneficial for heavy drinkers, but this is not necessarily true. Even moderate drinkers can benefit from the convenience and cost savings of a drink package, especially if they enjoy specialty coffees, juices, or sodas throughout the day. Another misconception is that drink packages are always cheaper than paying for individual drinks, but it depends on your consumption habits. Carefully evaluate your drinking patterns to determine if a package makes financial sense. Another thought is that you can share a drink package with another guest. This is not allowed on any of the Celebrity Cruise drink packages.
Alternative Strategies for Managing Beverage Costs
If a drink package doesn’t align with your budget or drinking habits, there are alternative strategies for managing beverage costs on a Celebrity Cruises voyage. These strategies can help you enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. These strategies can make for an affordable cruise vacation.
Strategies if a Package Isn’t Right for You
Consider purchasing individual drinks as needed, especially if you only plan to have a few drinks during your cruise. Look for happy hour specials and other onboard promotions that offer discounted drinks. Take advantage of complimentary beverages offered at certain events or gatherings. Some cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of your own alcohol onboard, which can help reduce costs. Check Celebrity’s policy on bringing onboard alcohol to see if it’s allowed. Buying drinks strategically can save you a lot of money.
- Happy Hour: Take advantage of happy hour specials to enjoy discounted drinks during designated times.
- Complimentary Drinks: Attend onboard events and gatherings that offer complimentary beverages.
- Bring Your Own (If Allowed): Check Celebrity Cruises’ policy on bringing onboard alcohol. Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited amount of wine or beer.
Budgeting for Drinks Onboard
Set a daily or overall budget for beverages to help you stay on track. Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to monitor your spending. Consider purchasing a beverage card, which offers a set amount of credit for drinks at a discounted rate. Stick to your budget and track your spending to avoid overspending.
A 2022 survey by The Points Guy found that the average cruiser spends $50-$100 per day on drinks when not utilizing a beverage package.
Sample Scenario: Managing Drinks Without a Package
Let’s say you’re on a 7-night cruise and plan to have one cocktail each evening during dinner and a specialty coffee each morning. If cocktails average $12 and specialty coffees average $5, your total cost for the week would be:
- Cocktails: $12/cocktail * 7 nights = $84
- Specialty Coffees: $5/coffee * 7 mornings = $35
- Total Cost: $84 + $35 = $119
In this scenario, your total beverage cost would be $119, which may be significantly lower than the cost of a Classic Drinks Package.
FAQ
How much is a classic drinks package on Celebrity Cruises per day?
The Classic Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises typically costs between $59 and $79 USD per person, per day, before gratuity. The exact price can vary depending on the cruise length, time of year, and any ongoing promotions. Remember to factor in the additional 20% gratuity when calculating the total cost.
What drinks are included in the Classic Package?
The Classic Package includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, premium teas, specialty coffees, and non-premium bottled water. There is usually a price limit around $9 or $10 per drink.
Is the Classic Drinks Package worth it?
The value of the Classic Drinks Package depends on your drinking habits. If you typically enjoy several drinks each day, including cocktails, beers, or wines with meals, the package can offer significant savings compared to paying for each drink individually. Calculate your estimated daily consumption and compare it to the daily cost of the package to determine if it’s a worthwhile investment.
Can I upgrade my Classic Drinks Package?
Yes, you can typically upgrade your drink package on Celebrity Cruises. If you find that the Classic Package doesn’t meet your needs or you want access to premium beverages, you can upgrade to the Premium Package, which offers a wider selection and higher price limits.
Do all guests in a cabin have to purchase the same drink package?
Generally, yes. Celebrity Cruises usually requires all adults (over the legal drinking age) staying in the same cabin to purchase the same drink package. This policy aims to prevent sharing of drinks and ensure fairness among passengers.
How do I purchase a drink package on Celebrity Cruises?
You can purchase a drink package when booking your cruise online, through your travel agent, or onboard the ship. Booking in advance is often recommended, as it may secure a better price or allow you to take advantage of promotions. You can also add the package to your reservation through the Celebrity Cruises website or by contacting their customer service department.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much a classic drinks package on Celebrity Cruises costs is just the first step in maximizing your cruise experience. By carefully considering your drinking habits, comparing package options, and exploring alternative strategies for managing beverage costs, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget and preferences. Whether you choose to indulge in a drink package or pay as you go, planning ahead will ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage.