Ever imagined yourself lounging by the pool on a Celebrity cruise, a perfectly crafted cocktail in hand? The thought of unlimited drinks certainly adds to the vacation allure. But, before you set sail, you’re probably wondering: how much are Celebrity cruise drink packages? This article breaks down the various Celebrity Cruises beverage packages, their costs, and helps you determine if purchasing one is the right choice for your cruising style. We will explore different packages, their prices, and the perks of each, empowering you to make an informed decision that maximizes your enjoyment without breaking the bank.
Celebrity Cruises’ Drink Package Options
Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. Understanding the different packages available is the first step in determining which one best suits your needs. This section breaks down the key features of each package, helping you compare their offerings and prices.
Classic Package
The Classic Package is the most basic option, designed for those who enjoy a more modest selection of beverages. It covers a range of beers, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, providing a solid foundation for your cruise experience. The pricing and included beverages will be discussed below.
- Beers: Covers a range of domestic and import beers up to a specific price point (usually around $6-$8). This is a good option if you enjoy a simple beer with lunch or dinner.
- Spirits & Cocktails: Includes a selection of well liquors and classic cocktails, also up to a specific price point. Think gin and tonics, vodka cranberries, and rum and cokes.
- Wines by the Glass: Offers a limited selection of wines by the glass.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Includes sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and teas. Staying hydrated is important, and this ensures you have readily available options.
- Discounts on Premium Beverages: Provides a discount (usually 20%) on beverages not included in the package. This is helpful if you occasionally want something outside the package limits.
Premium Package
The Premium Package offers a significantly expanded selection of beverages compared to the Classic Package. This is the most popular option among Celebrity cruisers, as it provides access to a wider variety of cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. This is often considered the best value for moderate drinkers.
- Expanded Beer Selection: Includes a wider range of beers, including craft beers and higher-priced options. This is ideal if you enjoy exploring different beer styles.
- Premium Spirits & Cocktails: Offers top-shelf liquors and more elaborate cocktails. You can enjoy margaritas, mojitos, and other specialty drinks.
- Increased Wine Selection: Provides a broader selection of wines by the glass, including more premium varietals. This caters to wine enthusiasts who want a more diverse selection.
- Bottled Water: Includes unlimited bottled water, which is essential for staying hydrated, especially in warmer climates.
- Specialty Coffees & Teas: Access to specialty coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos at onboard cafes, along with a variety of premium teas.
Zero Proof Package
The Zero Proof Package caters to guests who don’t consume alcohol. It provides access to a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring a fulfilling and enjoyable cruise experience without the need for alcoholic drinks. This package is ideal for families with children or individuals who prefer to abstain from alcohol.
- Specialty Coffees & Teas: Enjoy unlimited lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and a wide selection of teas throughout the cruise.
- Premium Juices & Smoothies: Access fresh-squeezed juices and blended smoothies, providing healthy and refreshing options.
- Bottled Water & Sodas: Stay hydrated with unlimited bottled water and a variety of sodas.
- Mocktails: Sip on expertly crafted non-alcoholic cocktails that mimic the flavors and presentation of alcoholic drinks.
- Energy Drinks: Boost your energy levels with a selection of energy drinks available at various bars and lounges onboard.
Understanding the Cost of Drink Packages on Celebrity Cruises
Determining the actual cost of Celebrity Cruises’ drink packages is crucial for budgeting your vacation. The price can vary depending on several factors, including the length of your cruise, the specific itinerary, and any promotional offers available at the time of booking. This section delves into the typical price ranges and factors that influence the final cost.
Factors Affecting Drink Package Prices
Several variables influence the price of Celebrity Cruises’ drink packages. Being aware of these factors allows you to strategize and potentially find the best deals for your desired package. Understanding these fluctuations is key to smart vacation planning.
- Cruise Length: Longer cruises generally result in higher overall package prices. The longer you are at sea, the more days you will be using the package.
- Itinerary: Certain destinations or itineraries may have higher prices due to local taxes or other associated costs. For example, Alaska cruises might have different pricing than Caribbean cruises.
- Time of Booking: Prices can fluctuate based on demand and seasonality. Booking early or during promotional periods may offer better rates.
- Promotional Offers: Celebrity Cruises frequently runs promotions that include discounted or complimentary drink packages. Keep an eye out for these deals when booking your cruise.
- Onboard vs. Pre-Cruise Purchase: Purchasing a package before your cruise is often cheaper than buying it onboard.
Typical Price Ranges
While prices are subject to change, here are typical price ranges you can expect for Celebrity Cruises’ drink packages (as of late 2024). These are daily prices, and you’ll be charged for each day of your cruise.
| Drink Package | Approximate Daily Price |
|---|---|
| Classic Package | $69 – $79 USD |
| Premium Package | $89 – $99 USD |
| Zero Proof Package | $30 – $35 USD |
These prices exclude gratuities, which are automatically added to the package cost. Expect to pay an additional 20% for gratuities on top of the daily rate.
Example: For a 7-night cruise with the Premium Package at $89 per day, the total cost would be ($89 x 7) + (20% gratuity) = $747.60.
Myth: Buying Onboard is Cheaper
It’s a common misconception that waiting to purchase a drink package onboard will result in a lower price. In reality, it’s almost always more expensive to buy a package after you’ve boarded the ship. Cruise lines incentivize pre-cruise purchases to better manage inventory and staffing.
Determining if a Drink Package is Worth It
Deciding whether to purchase a Celebrity Cruises drink package depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. Carefully consider how much you typically drink on vacation and compare that to the cost of the package versus paying for drinks individually. This section provides guidance on how to assess the value proposition.
Calculate Your Average Daily Consumption
To determine if a drink package is worth it, estimate how many alcoholic beverages you typically consume each day on vacation. Consider your usual drinks of choice and their average prices onboard. This provides a baseline for comparison.
- Estimate Daily Drinks: How many beers, cocktails, or glasses of wine do you typically have in a day? Be realistic!
- Research Onboard Prices: Check menus online or ask your travel agent for the average price of your preferred drinks on Celebrity Cruises. A beer might be $8, a cocktail $12, and a glass of wine $10.
- Calculate Total Daily Cost: Multiply the number of drinks by their average prices. For example, if you have 2 beers ($8 each) and 1 cocktail ($12), your daily cost is $28.
- Compare to Package Price: Compare your estimated daily cost to the daily price of the drink package you’re considering, including gratuities.
If your estimated daily consumption cost exceeds the daily package price, the package is likely a good value for you.
Consider Your Drinking Style
Your drinking style plays a significant role in determining the value of a drink package. Are you a social drinker who enjoys a few cocktails with friends, or do you prefer to abstain from alcohol altogether? Your habits will directly impact the return on investment.
- Social Drinker: If you enjoy multiple drinks throughout the day, especially cocktails or premium beverages, a drink package is likely worthwhile.
- Moderate Drinker: If you only have a few drinks with dinner or during specific events, a package might not be necessary.
- Non-Drinker: The Zero Proof Package is a great option for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
- Family with Children: Consider the consumption habits of all adults in the cabin. Celebrity Cruises often requires all adults in a cabin to purchase a drink package if one person does.
Case Study: The Social Cruiser
Sarah loves to socialize and enjoys several cocktails throughout the day on vacation. She typically has 3-4 cocktails, a glass of wine with dinner, and a few beers by the pool. Her average daily consumption cost would easily exceed the price of the Premium Package, making it a worthwhile investment for her.
Case Study: The Occasional Sipper
Mark prefers to only have a glass of wine with dinner and perhaps a single beer in the afternoon. His consumption is minimal, and paying for individual drinks would be more cost-effective than purchasing a full drink package.
Tips for Maximizing Your Drink Package Value
If you decide to purchase a Celebrity Cruises drink package, there are several strategies you can employ to maximize its value and get the most out of your investment. Planning your beverage consumption strategically can help you enjoy your vacation to the fullest without feeling like you’re leaving money on the table.
Take Advantage of Included Beverages
Familiarize yourself with all the beverages included in your package and prioritize those options. Experiment with different cocktails and drinks to discover new favorites. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
- Explore the Cocktail Menu: Many bars have extensive cocktail menus featuring creative concoctions.
- Try Different Beers: Sample various beers from the included selection to find your preferred brews.
- Utilize Specialty Coffees: Start your day with a latte or cappuccino from one of the onboard cafes.
- Stay Hydrated: Take advantage of the included bottled water to stay refreshed throughout the day.
Pace Yourself
While the drink package offers unlimited beverages, it’s important to pace yourself and drink responsibly. Enjoy your drinks in moderation and alternate with water or non-alcoholic beverages. This will help you avoid overindulgence and ensure you have a pleasant cruise experience.
Plan Your Drinking Schedule
Consider planning your drinking schedule around specific events or activities. Enjoy a cocktail during sunset, a glass of wine with dinner, or a beer by the pool. This allows you to strategically maximize the value of your package while enjoying the cruise experience.
- Happy Hour: Take advantage of any happy hour specials or events.
- Dinner Time: Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail with your meals.
- Poolside Relaxation: Sip on a refreshing drink while lounging by the pool.
- Evening Entertainment: Enjoy a drink during shows or live music performances.
Debunking the Myth: You Have to Drink Constantly
Many believe that you need to be drinking constantly to get your money’s worth out of a drink package. This simply isn’t true. The value comes from the convenience and the ability to try different drinks without worrying about the individual cost. Even if you only have a few drinks a day, the peace of mind can be worth it.
FAQ
How much are the gratuities on Celebrity drink packages?
Gratuities are typically added at a rate of 20% of the drink package cost. This covers the service provided by the bartenders and other staff members. It’s automatically added to your bill when you purchase the package.
Can I share my drink package with another person?
No, Celebrity Cruises drink packages are non-transferable and can only be used by the individual who purchased them. Sharing is strictly prohibited and could result in the package being revoked without a refund.
What happens if I don’t use all the drinks in my package each day?
Drink packages are based on a daily rate and do not roll over any unused drinks to the next day. It’s a use-it-or-lose-it system. However, the goal is not to maximize every single drink, but rather to have the freedom to enjoy beverages throughout the day without worrying about the cost.
Are there any restrictions on what I can order with a drink package?
Yes, each package has specific limitations on the types of beverages and their price points. The Classic Package includes drinks up to a certain price, while the Premium Package offers a wider selection. Make sure to review the terms and conditions of your chosen package to understand its coverage.
Can I upgrade my drink package after I’ve purchased it?
Yes, you can usually upgrade your drink package after you’ve purchased it, either before your cruise or onboard. However, it’s generally more cost-effective to choose the package you want from the start. Upgrading usually involves paying the difference in price between the two packages.
If one person in my cabin buys a drink package, does everyone else have to?
Celebrity Cruises often requires all adults (usually those 21 and older) in a cabin to purchase a drink package if one person does. This policy is in place to prevent sharing of drinks. However, the Zero Proof package is often an exception and can be purchased individually.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to purchase a Celebrity cruise drink package is a personal decision based on your individual preferences and drinking habits. By carefully evaluating the different package options, understanding their costs, and considering your average daily consumption, you can make an informed decision that enhances your cruise experience. Remember to factor in gratuities and potential promotional offers to get the best value. Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy your vacation to the fullest, and a drink package can be a convenient and cost-effective way to do just that. Start planning your cruise today!