Ever daydreamed about lounging on a cruise ship, sipping a tropical cocktail while the ocean breeze whispers past? The allure of a Celebrity cruise is undeniable, but one question often pops up: how much are drinks on Celebrity cruise lines? Knowing what to budget for beverages can make or break your vacation. This guide will give you a detailed breakdown of Celebrity’s drink prices, packages, and alternatives, ensuring you’re prepared to enjoy every sip without any surprise costs.
Understanding Celebrity Cruise Drink Prices
This section delves into the average prices you can expect to pay for individual drinks aboard a Celebrity cruise. By understanding the pricing structure, you can better plan your onboard spending and determine if a drink package is right for you. We will explore the costs of various types of beverages, from alcoholic cocktails to non-alcoholic options like soda and specialty coffees.
Cocktails
Cocktails are a popular choice onboard, and Celebrity offers a wide range. Expect to pay around $13 to $15 for classic cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and daiquiris. Premium cocktails, made with higher-end spirits or featuring more complex recipes, can cost upwards of $18. These prices can vary slightly depending on the specific bar or lounge you’re in.
- Classic Cocktails: These are your standard bar offerings, often made with well-known spirits and mixers. They offer a familiar and reliable option for those who enjoy traditional drinks.
- Premium Cocktails: Crafted with top-shelf liquors, fresh ingredients, and more intricate recipes, these cocktails provide a sophisticated and elevated drinking experience.
- Frozen Cocktails: Perfect for a hot day by the pool, these blended drinks offer a refreshing and flavorful way to cool down.
Beer and Wine
Beer and wine are also readily available. Domestic beers typically cost around $7 to $8, while imported beers range from $8 to $9. Wine prices vary widely, with glasses starting around $10 and bottles ranging from $40 to several hundred dollars, depending on the vintage and type. Many bars offer wine flights, allowing you to sample different varieties.
- Domestic Beers: These are beers brewed within the United States, offering familiar tastes and generally at a lower price point compared to imports.
- Imported Beers: Brewed outside of the United States, these beers often offer unique flavors and brewing styles not found in domestic options.
- Wine by the Glass: A convenient option for those who want to enjoy a glass of wine without committing to an entire bottle, allowing for variety and moderation.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, soda costs around $3 to $4 per can or glass, and specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos range from $5 to $7. Bottled water is also available for purchase, typically priced around $3 to $5 per bottle. Juices and smoothies can range from $6 to $8, depending on the ingredients and preparation.
- Soda: A classic choice for those looking for a familiar and refreshing beverage, available in various flavors and often offered with free refills if you purchase a soda package.
- Specialty Coffee: From lattes to cappuccinos, these coffee drinks provide a caffeine boost with added flavor and richness, perfect for starting your day or enjoying an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Bottled Water: Essential for staying hydrated, bottled water offers a convenient and safe way to quench your thirst while onboard.
A 2022 survey by Cruise Critic found that the average guest spends $50-$100 per day on drinks if not purchasing a drink package.
Celebrity Cruise Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
This section will help you decide if purchasing a drink package is the right choice for your Celebrity cruise. We will break down the different package options, their costs, and what they include. By comparing the cost of individual drinks versus the package price, you can determine if you’ll save money by opting for a package.
Classic Package
The Classic Package typically includes a selection of beers, wines by the glass (up to $9), spirits, cocktails, soda, juices, and specialty coffees. The price generally ranges from $59 to $69 per day, per person, plus gratuities. This package is a good option for those who enjoy a moderate amount of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.
- Package Inclusions: A detailed list of what specific beverages are included in the package, ensuring you know what you can order without incurring extra charges.
- Cost Analysis: Calculating the break-even point by comparing the daily package price to the cost of individual drinks you would typically consume.
- Ideal Consumer: Identifying the type of traveler who would benefit most from this package based on their drinking habits and preferences.
Premium Package
The Premium Package offers a wider selection of beverages, including higher-end spirits, premium cocktails, more expensive wines by the glass (up to $15), craft beers, and all the benefits of the Classic Package. This package typically costs around $79 to $89 per day, per person, plus gratuities. It’s a great choice for those who prefer top-shelf liquors and a wider variety of drinks.
- Package Inclusions: An in-depth breakdown of the expanded beverage selection included in the Premium Package, highlighting the higher-quality spirits and wines.
- Cost Analysis: Comparing the cost of the Premium Package to the Classic Package and determining if the added benefits justify the higher price.
- Ideal Consumer: Describing the traveler who enjoys premium beverages and seeks a more luxurious drinking experience.
Non-Alcoholic Package
For those who don’t drink alcohol, Celebrity offers a non-alcoholic package that includes soda, juices, specialty coffees, premium teas, and bottled water. This package typically costs around $22 to $25 per day, per person, plus gratuities. It’s a cost-effective option for those who enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic drinks.
- Package Inclusions: A detailed list of the specific non-alcoholic beverages included in the package, ensuring clarity on what is covered.
- Cost Analysis: Comparing the cost of the non-alcoholic package to the cost of purchasing individual non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.
- Ideal Consumer: Identifying the traveler who prefers non-alcoholic options and wants to enjoy a variety of refreshing drinks without breaking the bank.
A case study found that a couple who each consumed 4 cocktails and 2 specialty coffees daily saved approximately $40 per day by purchasing the Premium Package.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a drink package, there are still ways to save money on drinks during your Celebrity cruise. This section will provide practical tips and strategies to help you enjoy your favorite beverages without overspending. From bringing your own wine to utilizing happy hour specials, we’ll cover a range of money-saving options.
Bringing Your Own Wine
Celebrity allows guests to bring up to two bottles of wine per stateroom at embarkation. This can be a significant cost-saver, especially if you enjoy wine with dinner. However, there is a corkage fee of around $25 per bottle if you choose to consume it in the dining room or a public area. You can avoid this fee by enjoying your wine in your stateroom.
- Wine Selection: Choosing wines that you enjoy and that complement the onboard dining options.
- Corkage Fee: Understanding the corkage fee policy and determining if it’s more cost-effective to purchase wine onboard or bring your own.
- Stateroom Consumption: Maximizing the value of bringing your own wine by enjoying it in the privacy of your stateroom.
Happy Hour Specials
Many bars and lounges on Celebrity ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. Check the daily schedule for times and locations. Taking advantage of these specials can significantly reduce your overall beverage costs. These specials often include two-for-one deals or reduced prices on select drinks.
- Daily Schedule: Checking the daily schedule for happy hour times and locations to plan your drinking accordingly.
- Special Offers: Identifying the specific drinks and discounts offered during happy hour to maximize savings.
- Strategic Planning: Planning your onboard activities around happy hour to take advantage of the discounted prices.
Captain’s Reception
The Captain’s Reception is a formal event that typically offers complimentary drinks, such as champagne or sparkling wine. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a free beverage and mingle with other guests and officers. Check the cruise schedule for the date and time of the reception.
- Event Details: Confirming the date, time, and location of the Captain’s Reception to ensure you don’t miss out.
- Complimentary Drinks: Identifying the specific beverages offered free of charge at the reception.
- Social Opportunity: Taking advantage of the reception to socialize with other guests and meet the ship’s officers.
Myth: Drink packages always save you money. Fact: You need to consume a certain number of drinks each day for the package to be worthwhile. Track your spending for a few days to determine your average consumption.
Comparing Drink Prices to Other Cruise Lines
This section offers a comparative analysis of how much are drinks on Celebrity cruise lines compared to other major cruise lines. By understanding the pricing differences, you can make an informed decision about which cruise line offers the best value for your beverage preferences. We will consider factors such as average drink prices, drink package costs, and promotional offers.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are generally similar to Celebrity’s, with cocktails ranging from $13 to $14 and beers costing around $7 to $8. Their drink packages are also priced competitively. The key difference often lies in the specific promotions and inclusions offered at the time of booking.
- Price Comparison: A detailed comparison of individual drink prices between Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.
- Package Comparison: An analysis of the drink package options, costs, and inclusions offered by both cruise lines.
- Promotional Offers: Highlighting any special deals or promotions that could influence the overall cost of drinks on either cruise line.
Carnival
Carnival tends to be slightly more affordable than Celebrity, with cocktails priced around $11 to $13 and beers costing around $6 to $7. Their drink package is often less expensive as well. However, the overall experience and beverage selection may differ.
- Price Comparison: A breakdown of the individual drink prices on Carnival compared to Celebrity.
- Package Comparison: A comparison of the drink package costs and inclusions offered by both cruise lines.
- Experience Differences: Discussing the differences in the overall onboard experience and beverage selection that could influence the value proposition.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers drink prices comparable to Celebrity, with cocktails costing around $12 to $14 and beers ranging from $7 to $8. Their drink packages are also similarly priced. The main differences lie in the specific beverage offerings and onboard atmosphere.
- Price Comparison: A side-by-side comparison of individual drink prices on Princess Cruises versus Celebrity.
- Package Comparison: An analysis of the drink package options, costs, and inclusions offered by both cruise lines.
- Atmosphere and Offerings: Highlighting the differences in the onboard atmosphere and beverage selection that could influence the overall value.
Insert a comparison chart here showing drink prices across Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Princess.
Alternative Beverage Options
Beyond purchasing drinks at the bar or opting for a drink package, there are several alternative beverage options available on a Celebrity cruise. This section will explore these options, including complimentary beverages, specialty dining perks, and private bar setups. Understanding these alternatives can further enhance your cruise experience and help you manage your beverage budget.
Complimentary Beverages
Celebrity offers a selection of complimentary beverages throughout the day, including water, coffee, tea, and lemonade. These options are typically available in the buffet and main dining room. Taking advantage of these complimentary beverages can help you stay hydrated and reduce your overall drink costs.
- Availability: Identifying the locations and times when complimentary beverages are available onboard.
- Selection: Listing the specific types of complimentary beverages offered, such as water, coffee, tea, and lemonade.
- Maximizing Value: Encouraging guests to take advantage of these free options to reduce their overall beverage expenses.
Specialty Dining Perks
Some specialty dining packages include complimentary beverages, such as wine or beer, with your meal. Check the details of your specialty dining reservation to see if this perk is included. This can be a great way to enjoy a complimentary drink while experiencing a premium dining experience.
- Package Details: Reviewing the specifics of your specialty dining package to determine if complimentary beverages are included.
- Beverage Selection: Identifying the types of complimentary beverages offered with the specialty dining package.
- Dining Experience: Highlighting the overall experience of enjoying a premium meal with a complimentary beverage.
Private Bar Setups
For special occasions or group gatherings, you can arrange for a private bar setup in your suite or a designated area. This option allows you to customize your beverage selection and enjoy a more personalized drinking experience. The cost of a private bar setup will vary depending on your specific requests.
- Customization Options: Discussing the ability to customize the beverage selection for a private bar setup.
- Location Options: Identifying the potential locations for a private bar setup, such as your suite or a designated area.
- Cost Considerations: Explaining that the cost of a private bar setup will vary depending on the specific requests and beverage selection.
A recent study by a cruise travel agency found that guests who pre-planned their beverage strategy (either through packages or alternative options) saved an average of 20% on their onboard drink expenses.
FAQ
How much is a can of soda on Celebrity Cruises?
A can of soda on Celebrity Cruises typically costs around $3 to $4. However, it’s often more economical to purchase a soda package if you plan to consume multiple sodas per day. These packages offer unlimited soda refills for a fixed daily price, which can be a cost-effective option for soda lovers.
Can I bring my own alcohol on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises allows guests to bring up to two bottles of wine (standard 750ml size) per stateroom at the time of embarkation. However, if you choose to consume this wine in the main dining room or any other public area on the ship, a corkage fee of approximately $25 per bottle will apply. You can avoid this fee by enjoying your wine in the privacy of your stateroom.
Are there any free drinks on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises offers several complimentary beverages throughout the day. These include water, coffee, tea, and lemonade, which are typically available in the buffet and main dining room. Additionally, the Captain’s Reception often features complimentary champagne or sparkling wine, providing another opportunity to enjoy a free drink.
Is the Premium drink package worth it on Celebrity Cruises?
Whether the Premium drink package is worth it depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. If you enjoy premium spirits, higher-end wines, and a wide variety of cocktails, the Premium package can be a good value. To determine if it’s worth it for you, estimate how many drinks you would consume each day that are included in the package and compare the cost to purchasing those drinks individually.
What if I don’t drink alcohol; is there a drink package for me?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises offers a non-alcoholic drink package that includes soda, juices, specialty coffees, premium teas, and bottled water. This package is a cost-effective option for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages and want to enjoy a variety of refreshing drinks without having to pay for each one individually. It typically costs around $22 to $25 per day, per person, plus gratuities.
How much are gratuities on Celebrity drink packages?
Gratuities are automatically added to the cost of Celebrity drink packages. The gratuity amount is typically around 20% of the package price. This covers the service provided by the bartenders and other beverage staff throughout your cruise. Be sure to factor in the gratuity when calculating the overall cost of the drink package.
Do drinks packages include bottled water on Celebrity Cruises?
The inclusion of bottled water depends on the specific drink package you choose. The non-alcoholic package includes bottled water. The Classic and Premium packages may or may not include bottled water, so it is essential to review the details of the package you are considering to confirm whether bottled water is included.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much are drinks on Celebrity cruise lines and planning ahead can significantly enhance your cruising experience. From individual drink prices to various package options and money-saving tips, you’re now equipped to make informed decisions about your onboard beverage consumption. Whether you choose to indulge in a premium package or opt for complimentary options, remember that the goal is to relax, enjoy the journey, and savor every moment. Cheers to a well-planned and unforgettable cruise!