Planning a cruise can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming. You might be wondering about all the extras, especially when it comes to drinks. Are you going to have to pay for every soda, juice, or cocktail you enjoy on board? The question of are any drinks included on Celebrity Cruises is a common one. This article breaks down what beverage options are complimentary, which require an additional fee, and how to maximize your onboard beverage experience without breaking the bank. We will explore different packages, strategies, and things to consider. Prepare to set sail armed with the knowledge you need!
Understanding Beverage Inclusions on Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises takes a different approach to beverage packages compared to some other lines. While not all drinks are free, understanding their base offerings is key. This section will cover the standard inclusions and how they compare to what you might expect from other cruise lines or all-inclusive resorts. Knowing what’s covered from the get-go will help you decide if a beverage package is right for you.
Basic Beverage Options
Celebrity Cruises typically includes a selection of basic beverages as part of the standard cruise fare. These generally consist of:
- Tap Water: Readily available and safe to drink, tap water is always a complimentary option in the dining rooms and at various beverage stations. Staying hydrated is important, and this is a free and easy way to do it.
- Coffee and Tea: Regular coffee (both brewed and decaf) and a selection of teas are usually included during meal times and at designated locations. While specialty coffees like lattes or cappuccinos are not included, the standard options are a great way to start your day or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Iced Tea and Lemonade: These refreshing options are often available at buffet areas and during meal services. They are a great alternative to sugary sodas and can be a nice, light choice to enjoy by the pool.
- Juices During Breakfast: A limited selection of juices, such as orange juice, apple juice, and grapefruit juice, is typically included during breakfast service in the main dining room and buffet. This is a standard offering on most cruise lines.
Beverage Packages
While some basic beverages are included, many guests opt for a beverage package to enjoy a wider variety of drinks without worrying about individual costs. These packages come in different tiers, each offering a different selection of beverages and price points.
- Classic Package: This is typically the entry-level package, offering a selection of beers, wines by the glass, and cocktails up to a certain price point. This is good for someone who wants a little something extra but not everything on the menu.
- Premium Package: The Premium Package includes everything in the Classic Package, plus a wider selection of premium liquors, cocktails, and wines by the glass. This is a good value for those who enjoy more sophisticated drinks or higher-end brands.
- Zero Proof Package: This is designed for those who don’t consume alcohol and includes specialty coffees, premium teas, bottled water, sodas, and non-alcoholic cocktails. This is a great option for kids and those who are staying sober.
Considerations Before Purchasing a Beverage Package
Before deciding whether to purchase a beverage package, consider your drinking habits and preferences. Estimate how many drinks you typically consume each day and compare the cost of the package to the cost of purchasing individual drinks. Also, consider the length of your cruise and the itinerary, as some itineraries may have more port days where you’re less likely to be on board drinking.
For example, if you only plan to have a couple of beers or glasses of wine each day, purchasing drinks individually might be more cost-effective. However, if you enjoy cocktails, specialty coffees, and bottled water throughout the day, a beverage package could save you money.
Exploring Included Drinks in Detail
Let’s dig a bit deeper into what drinks are actually included in the base cruise fare on Celebrity Cruises. It’s important to understand the specifics, so you’re not surprised by extra charges. This section will clarify exactly what you can expect to enjoy without an additional fee.
Water Availability and Options
Staying hydrated on a cruise is essential, and Celebrity provides several options for accessing water.
- Tap Water: As mentioned earlier, tap water is freely available from taps in your stateroom and at various beverage stations throughout the ship. This is the most basic and readily accessible option. The water is safe to drink and regularly tested.
- Water Dispensers: Many Celebrity ships have water dispensers in buffet areas and near the gym. These dispensers provide filtered water, which is a slightly upgraded option compared to tap water.
- Bottled Water (Not Included): Bottled water is not included in the base fare and must be purchased separately or as part of a beverage package. If you prefer bottled water, factor this into your budget or consider bringing your own (check Celebrity’s policy on bringing beverages onboard).
Coffee and Tea Service Explained
Coffee and tea are staples for many travelers, and Celebrity offers a range of options, both complimentary and for purchase.
- Complimentary Coffee: Regular brewed coffee (both caffeinated and decaffeinated) is included during meal times in the main dining room and buffet. This is a standard offering and a great way to start your morning.
- Complimentary Tea: A selection of standard tea bags (e.g., black tea, green tea) is also included during meal times and at designated beverage stations. These are generally basic tea options.
- Specialty Coffee (Not Included): Lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and other specialty coffee drinks from cafes like Cafe al Bacio are not included in the base fare and must be purchased separately or as part of a beverage package.
Juices and Other Non-Alcoholic Beverages
The availability of juices and other non-alcoholic drinks varies depending on the time of day and location on the ship.
- Juices at Breakfast: A limited selection of juices, such as orange juice, apple juice, and grapefruit juice, is typically included during breakfast service in the main dining room and buffet.
- Lemonade and Iced Tea: These refreshing options are often available at buffet areas and during meal services. They are a good alternative to sugary sodas.
- Sodas and Specialty Non-Alcoholic Drinks (Not Included): Sodas, sparkling water, energy drinks, and non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails) are not included in the base fare and must be purchased separately or as part of a beverage package.
Case Study: The Smith Family’s Cruise: The Smith family of four went on a 7-night Celebrity cruise. They found that only the juices at breakfast were truly “free” in the sense that they were readily available and included. They purchased a soda package for the kids and paid for alcoholic beverages individually for the parents. They ended up spending slightly more than if they had purchased a full beverage package for everyone but felt they had more flexibility.
Real-Life Example: Many passengers find it useful to bring their own reusable water bottles and fill them up with tap water at the various beverage stations. This is a free and eco-friendly way to stay hydrated.
Maximizing Value: Beverage Packages and Strategies
Understanding how to strategically approach beverage consumption on a Celebrity Cruise can save you money and enhance your overall experience. This section provides tips and tricks for making the most of your options.
Calculating Your Potential Savings
Before purchasing a beverage package, take some time to estimate your daily beverage consumption. Review the drink menus online (if available) or use average prices from past cruises to get a sense of individual drink costs. Compare this to the daily cost of the beverage packages to determine if it’s a worthwhile investment.
For instance, if the Classic Package costs $69 per day and you estimate that you’ll consume three cocktails at $13 each, one glass of wine at $10, and a couple of sodas at $3 each, you’ll be spending close to $60 per day on drinks. In this case, the Classic Package could be a good value.
Sharing Policies and Restrictions
It’s important to understand the rules and restrictions surrounding beverage packages. Most cruise lines, including Celebrity, do not allow sharing of beverage packages. This means that each adult in the stateroom must purchase a package if one person does.
- No Sharing: Packages are for individual use only and cannot be shared with other guests.
- Minimum Age: All adults in the stateroom must purchase a beverage package if one person does (this may vary based on specific promotions).
- Package Duration: Beverage packages are typically valid for the entire duration of the cruise.
Leveraging Onboard Promotions and Deals
Celebrity Cruises often runs promotions that include beverage packages as part of the cruise fare. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can significantly reduce the overall cost of your cruise. Booking during these promotions can be a smart way to get a beverage package without paying extra.
- “Always Included” Fares: Celebrity often offers fares that include a Classic Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, and tips.
- Limited-Time Offers: Watch for special promotions that offer discounted beverage packages or onboard credit that can be used towards beverage purchases.
- Loyalty Programs: If you’re a member of Celebrity’s loyalty program (Captain’s Club), you may be eligible for discounts or complimentary drinks.
Statistical Data: According to a 2022 survey by Cruise Critic, 45% of cruisers purchase a beverage package, highlighting the popularity of these options.
Sample Scenario: How to decide on a package.
- List out all the drinks you expect to have each day.
- Research prices of those drinks on board.
- Multiply the daily cost by the number of days of the cruise.
- Compare that cost with the cost of available beverage packages.
Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Beverages
There are many misconceptions about what beverages are included on cruises and the value of beverage packages. It’s important to separate fact from fiction to make informed decisions.
Myth: All Drinks are Included on Luxury Cruises
While some ultra-luxury cruise lines offer all-inclusive fares that include all beverages, this is not the standard across all cruise lines, including Celebrity. Even on luxury lines, there may be exceptions for very high-end wines or spirits.
Reality: Celebrity Cruises offers a selection of complimentary beverages, but most alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic drinks require an additional purchase or beverage package. It’s important to check the specific inclusions of your cruise fare.
Myth: Beverage Packages Always Save You Money
While beverage packages can be a good value for some, they are not always the most cost-effective option. If you only consume a few drinks per day or prefer to drink mostly water or complimentary beverages, you may end up spending more on the package than you would on individual drinks.
Reality: Carefully assess your drinking habits and compare the cost of the package to the cost of individual drinks before making a decision. Consider whether you’ll be spending a lot of time in port, which could reduce your onboard consumption.
Myth: You Can Sneak Drinks Onboard Easily
Many people attempt to circumvent beverage costs by sneaking alcohol onboard. Cruise lines, including Celebrity, have strict policies against this and may confiscate any beverages found in violation of the rules.
Reality: Celebrity Cruises allows guests to bring a limited amount of wine onboard at embarkation (typically two bottles per stateroom). However, hard liquor is generally prohibited. Attempting to smuggle alcohol can result in confiscation and potential penalties.
Insert a comparison chart here comparing the different beverage package prices, inclusions, and suitability for different types of travelers.
Statistic: According to Cruise Industry News, onboard spending on beverages increased by 15% in 2023, suggesting a greater reliance on paid options and packages.
FAQ
Question: What drinks are included in the Celebrity Cruises “Always Included” fare?
Answer: The “Always Included” fare on Celebrity Cruises typically includes a Classic Beverage Package. This package covers a selection of beers, wines by the glass, and cocktails up to a certain price point. It also includes sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and bottled water. It’s important to note that premium liquors and higher-end wines are not included in the Classic Package, but you can upgrade to a Premium Package to cover those options.
Question: Are alcoholic drinks free on Celebrity Cruises?
Answer: No, alcoholic drinks are not generally free on Celebrity Cruises unless you have a beverage package that covers them. The base cruise fare includes some basic beverages, like water, coffee, tea, and juices during breakfast, but alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately or as part of a beverage package. Keep an eye out for promotions that include beverage packages in the cruise fare to get the best value.
Question: Can I bring my own alcohol on a Celebrity Cruise?
Answer: Celebrity Cruises allows guests to bring a limited amount of wine onboard at embarkation, typically two bottles per stateroom. However, hard liquor is generally prohibited. Any alcohol purchased in port during the cruise may be held by the cruise line until the end of the voyage. Always check Celebrity’s specific policy on bringing beverages onboard before your cruise.
Question: Is it worth it to get a beverage package on Celebrity Cruises?
Answer: Whether a beverage package is worth it depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. Estimate how many drinks you typically consume each day and compare the cost of the package to the cost of purchasing individual drinks. Consider the length of your cruise and itinerary, as well as any onboard promotions or deals. If you enjoy cocktails, specialty coffees, and bottled water throughout the day, a beverage package could save you money.
Question: What happens if I don’t purchase a beverage package?
Answer: If you don’t purchase a beverage package, you will pay for each drink individually. You can still enjoy the complimentary beverages that are included in the base cruise fare, such as water, coffee, tea, and juices during breakfast. Individual drink prices vary, so it’s a good idea to review the drink menus onboard to get a sense of the costs.
Question: Does Celebrity Cruises offer a non-alcoholic beverage package?
Answer: Yes, Celebrity Cruises offers a Zero Proof Package, which is designed for those who don’t consume alcohol. This package includes specialty coffees, premium teas, bottled water, sodas, and non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails). It’s a great option for kids, teenagers, and adults who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, understanding what drinks are included on your Celebrity Cruise, and the value of available beverage packages is crucial to planning and budgeting for your vacation. Are any drinks included on Celebrity Cruises? Yes, a selection of basic beverages is included, but most alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic drinks require an additional purchase. Carefully consider your drinking habits, explore package options, and take advantage of onboard promotions to make the most of your cruise experience. Cheers to smooth sailing and informed decisions!