Have you ever dreamt of lounging by the pool on a cruise ship, a refreshing drink in hand, without worrying about the accumulating cost? Many cruisers find themselves pondering the value of drink packages. Determining whether it’s a smart financial move depends heavily on your drinking habits and the specific cruise line. This guide will explore everything you need to know about **how much is a Celebrity cruise drink package**, helping you decide if it’s right for your next voyage.
Understanding Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages
Celebrity Cruises offers various drink packages tailored to different preferences and budgets. These packages aim to simplify onboard spending and provide a predictable cost for beverages throughout your cruise. Knowing the different types available, what they include, and their prices is crucial for making an informed decision about whether to purchase one. It’s a great way to budget and enjoy your vacation without constant financial calculations.
Classic Package
The Classic Package is the most basic option offered by Celebrity Cruises. It includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass. Essentially, this package covers the most common and popular drinks you would find at any bar onboard. It’s a good starting point if you’re not a heavy drinker but still want to enjoy alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise without watching every penny.
- Price Point: Typically falls in the middle range, offering a good balance between cost and included beverages.
- Included Beverages: Usually covers drinks up to a certain price point (e.g., $9 per drink).
- Ideal For: Passengers who enjoy a few alcoholic drinks per day but aren’t necessarily looking for top-shelf brands.
This price makes it appealing to those who plan to have a few drinks each day but aren’t looking for premium options. Consider your usual spending on drinks per day to determine if the package offers savings.
This price limit means that many standard cocktails, beers, and wines are included. However, more expensive or premium drinks may not be covered, requiring you to pay the difference or choose a different package.
If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a beer by the pool, and perhaps a cocktail or two in the evening, this package could be a good fit. It allows you to enjoy your drinks without worrying about the individual cost of each one.
Premium Package
The Premium Package is the more comprehensive option offered by Celebrity Cruises. It builds on the Classic Package by including a wider range of beers, spirits, cocktails, and wines, along with non-alcoholic options like premium coffees and bottled water. This package is designed for those who want more variety and higher-quality beverages throughout their cruise.
- Price Point: More expensive than the Classic Package, reflecting the expanded range of included beverages.
- Included Beverages: Covers drinks up to a higher price point (e.g., $15 per drink) and includes premium brands.
- Non-Alcoholic Perks: Often includes specialty coffees, bottled water, and premium sodas.
- Ideal For: Passengers who prefer premium brands, a wider variety of cocktails, and additional non-alcoholic options.
This higher price point is justified by the inclusion of premium drinks and non-alcoholic options. Assess whether the added benefits align with your drinking habits to determine if the investment is worthwhile.
The higher price limit means that you can enjoy a wider selection of cocktails, wines, and spirits without incurring extra charges. This is particularly appealing if you prefer specific high-end brands or more elaborate drinks.
These non-alcoholic perks add value to the package, especially if you enjoy specialty coffees or prefer bottled water over tap water. They can also be beneficial for non-drinking members of your party.
If you enjoy trying different cocktails, sipping on premium wines, or indulging in specialty coffees, the Premium Package is likely the better choice. It offers more flexibility and allows you to enjoy a more luxurious drinking experience.
Zero Proof Package
The Zero Proof Package caters to passengers who don’t consume alcohol. It includes a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, such as premium coffees, teas, bottled water, specialty sodas, and juices. This package ensures that non-drinkers also have a wide range of options to enjoy throughout their cruise.
- Price Point: Typically the least expensive of the drink packages, reflecting the absence of alcoholic beverages.
- Included Beverages: Encompasses a wide array of non-alcoholic options, from specialty coffees to premium juices.
- Ideal For: Passengers who do not drink alcohol but still want to enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
This lower price point makes it an attractive option for non-drinkers who still want to enjoy a variety of beverages. It allows you to stay hydrated and enjoy specialty drinks without worrying about the cost.
The extensive range of non-alcoholic beverages ensures that you won’t feel limited in your choices. You can enjoy everything from a refreshing iced tea by the pool to a frothy cappuccino in the café.
If you’re a non-drinker, this package provides excellent value. It allows you to enjoy specialty drinks and stay hydrated without incurring high individual costs.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the price range, included beverages, and target audience for each drink package (Classic, Premium, Zero Proof).
Factors Influencing Celebrity Drink Package Costs
The price of a Celebrity cruise drink package isn’t fixed. Several factors contribute to the final cost, including the length of the cruise, the destination, and any ongoing promotions or discounts. Understanding these factors can help you secure the best possible deal on a drink package that suits your needs. Always check for deals and promotions before booking!
Cruise Length
The duration of your cruise significantly impacts the cost of the drink package. Longer cruises will naturally have higher package prices because you’re essentially paying for more days of unlimited drinks. Conversely, shorter cruises will have lower package prices. It’s important to consider the length of your cruise when evaluating the value of a drink package.
- Shorter Cruises (3-5 days): Drink package prices are generally lower, making them potentially more appealing for a quick getaway.
- Longer Cruises (7+ days): Drink package prices are higher, requiring a more careful assessment of your drinking habits to determine value.
For shorter cruises, the convenience of a drink package can outweigh the cost, especially if you plan to indulge regularly. It allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation without constantly checking your bill.
Longer cruises offer more opportunities to spread out your drinking, so it’s crucial to calculate whether the daily cost of the package is justified. Compare the package price to your estimated individual drink spending over the course of the cruise.
Destination
The destination of your cruise can also influence drink package costs. Cruises to more exotic or remote locations may have higher prices due to increased logistical challenges and potential supply chain issues. Conversely, cruises to more common destinations may have more competitive pricing.
- Exotic Destinations: Cruises to places like Alaska, the Galapagos Islands, or Antarctica may have higher drink package prices.
- Popular Destinations: Cruises to the Caribbean, Europe, or Mexico may have more competitive drink package pricing.
The increased cost associated with these destinations often reflects the higher expenses of transporting and storing beverages in remote locations. Factor this into your decision when considering a drink package.
Due to the higher volume of cruises to these destinations, competition among cruise lines can lead to more affordable package options. Take advantage of potential discounts and promotions when booking these cruises.
Promotions and Discounts
Celebrity Cruises frequently offers promotions and discounts on drink packages. These can include reduced package prices, onboard credit that can be used towards the purchase of a package, or bundled deals that include other perks. Staying informed about these promotions can help you save money on your drink package.
- Early Booking Discounts: Booking your cruise and drink package well in advance can often result in significant savings.
- Bundled Deals: Look for packages that combine drink packages with other amenities, such as shore excursions or specialty dining.
- Onboard Credit: Keep an eye out for promotions that offer onboard credit, which can be used to offset the cost of a drink package.
Cruise lines typically offer early booking incentives to secure reservations and fill cabins. Take advantage of these discounts to lock in a lower price on your drink package.
Bundled deals can offer a more comprehensive and cost-effective way to enjoy your cruise. Evaluate the included amenities to determine if the package aligns with your overall vacation plans.
Onboard credit effectively reduces the out-of-pocket expense of the drink package, making it a more attractive option. Be sure to understand any restrictions on how the credit can be used.
A 2023 report by CruiseCritic found that passengers who purchased drink packages during promotional periods saved an average of 15% compared to those who bought them at full price.
Calculating the Value of a Drink Package
Determining whether a Celebrity cruise drink package is worth the investment requires a careful calculation of your potential spending on individual drinks versus the cost of the package. Consider your average daily consumption, the types of drinks you prefer, and any potential discounts or promotions that may be available. This evaluation will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and drinking habits.
Estimating Daily Consumption
The first step in calculating the value of a drink package is to estimate your average daily consumption of beverages. This involves considering the types of drinks you typically enjoy, the number of drinks you consume per day, and the average cost of each drink if purchased individually.
- Consider Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Include all beverages you plan to consume, not just alcoholic ones.
- Factor in Sea Days and Port Days: Your drinking habits may vary depending on whether you’re at sea or in port.
- Be Realistic: Don’t underestimate or overestimate your drinking habits.
If you enjoy specialty coffees, bottled water, or premium sodas in addition to alcoholic drinks, factor these into your daily consumption estimate. This will provide a more accurate picture of your overall beverage spending.
You might consume more drinks on sea days when you’re relaxing by the pool or participating in onboard activities. Conversely, you might drink less on port days when you’re exploring ashore. Adjust your daily consumption estimate accordingly.
Accurate estimation is crucial for determining the true value of a drink package. Reflect on your past cruise experiences or daily routines to arrive at a realistic assessment of your consumption.
Comparing Package Cost to Individual Drink Costs
Once you have an estimate of your daily consumption, compare the cost of the drink package to the cost of purchasing each drink individually. This involves multiplying your estimated daily consumption by the average cost of each drink and then comparing that total to the daily cost of the drink package.
- Calculate the Daily Cost of the Drink Package: Divide the total cost of the package by the number of days in your cruise.
- Estimate the Cost of Individual Drinks: Research the average price of the drinks you plan to consume on board.
- Compare the Two Totals: Determine whether the drink package is more or less expensive than purchasing drinks individually.
This will give you the per-day cost of the drink package, which you can then compare to your estimated daily spending on individual drinks. Make sure to factor in gratuities as well.
Celebrity Cruises typically publishes drink menus with prices online, or you can consult with past cruisers to get an idea of the average cost of beverages. Use this information to estimate your daily spending on individual drinks.
If the daily cost of the drink package is lower than your estimated daily spending on individual drinks, the package is likely a good value. Conversely, if the package is more expensive, you may be better off paying for drinks as you go.
Accounting for Gratuities and Taxes
Don’t forget to account for gratuities and taxes when calculating the cost of individual drinks and drink packages. Gratuities are typically added to each drink purchase, and taxes may also apply depending on the destination of your cruise. These additional costs can significantly impact the overall value of a drink package.
- Gratuities: Celebrity Cruises typically adds an automatic gratuity to each drink purchase.
- Taxes: Depending on the destination of your cruise, taxes may be added to drink purchases.
Factor this gratuity into your calculations when estimating the cost of individual drinks. This will provide a more accurate comparison to the cost of the drink package, which usually includes gratuities.
Research the tax rates for the countries or regions you’ll be visiting and factor these into your calculations. This will ensure that you’re comparing the true cost of individual drinks to the cost of the drink package.
Example: If a Classic package costs $69 per day including gratuities, and you estimate drinking 3 cocktails at $13 each, plus one specialty coffee at $6, your individual spending would be $45. So the package would pay for itself. However, drinking only 2 cocktails and a coffee may make buying individually more cost-effective.
Myths About Celebrity Cruise Drink Packages
Several common misconceptions surround Celebrity cruise drink packages. These myths can lead to incorrect assumptions about their value and suitability for individual cruisers. Debunking these myths can help you make a more informed decision based on accurate information.
Myth: Drink Packages Are Always Worth It
This is a common myth that assumes all cruisers will benefit from purchasing a drink package. In reality, the value of a drink package depends heavily on individual drinking habits and preferences. Passengers who only consume a few drinks per day may not find the package to be a worthwhile investment.
For example, consider a passenger who only enjoys one glass of wine with dinner each night. Purchasing a drink package would likely be more expensive than simply paying for the wine individually. It’s crucial to assess your own drinking habits before assuming that a drink package is automatically the best option.
Myth: You Have to Drink Heavily to Make a Package Worth It
While it’s true that heavy drinkers are more likely to benefit from a drink package, it’s not the only factor to consider. The value of a package also depends on the types of drinks you consume and the convenience it offers. Passengers who enjoy premium coffees, bottled water, or a variety of cocktails may find the package worthwhile even if they don’t drink heavily.
Moreover, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your drink costs are covered can be a significant benefit, regardless of your consumption level. For some cruisers, the convenience and predictability of a drink package outweigh the potential cost savings of paying individually.
Myth: Everyone in the Cabin Must Purchase a Drink Package
This is a partially true myth, as Celebrity Cruises generally requires all adults staying in the same stateroom to purchase the same drink package. However, this policy is designed to prevent passengers from sharing drinks purchased under a package. If one adult doesn’t drink alcohol, they can request an exemption from this rule.
To obtain an exemption, you’ll typically need to contact Celebrity Cruises directly and provide a valid reason, such as medical reasons or religious beliefs. The cruise line will then evaluate your request and determine whether to grant an exemption. It’s important to note that exemptions are not guaranteed and are subject to the cruise line’s discretion.
Tips for Maximizing Value from Your Drink Package
If you decide to purchase a Celebrity cruise drink package, there are several strategies you can employ to maximize its value. These include taking advantage of included beverages, exploring different bars and lounges, and strategically planning your consumption throughout the day. By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
Explore Different Bars and Lounges
Celebrity Cruises ships feature a variety of bars and lounges, each with its own unique ambiance and drink selection. Exploring these different venues can enhance your overall drinking experience and allow you to discover new favorite drinks.
- Martini Bar: Known for its extensive martini menu and lively atmosphere.
- Sunset Bar: Offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed setting.
- World Class Bar: Features handcrafted cocktails and premium spirits.
The Martini Bar is a popular spot for pre-dinner cocktails or a sophisticated evening drink. Experiment with different martini variations to find your perfect blend.
The Sunset Bar is the ideal place to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. Sip on a refreshing cocktail and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
The World Class Bar is perfect for those who appreciate expertly crafted cocktails and top-shelf liquors. Indulge in a unique and memorable drinking experience.
Take Advantage of Included Beverages
Make sure to take full advantage of all the beverages included in your drink package. This includes not only alcoholic drinks but also non-alcoholic options like specialty coffees, bottled water, and premium sodas. By maximizing your consumption of included beverages, you can ensure that you’re getting the most value from your package.
- Hydrate Regularly: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water, especially in warm climates.
- Enjoy Specialty Coffees: Indulge in specialty coffees like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.
- Try Different Cocktails: Experiment with different cocktails to find new favorites.
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your health and energy levels throughout your cruise. Take advantage of the included bottled water to stay refreshed.
Specialty coffees can be a great way to start your day or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up. Explore the different coffee options available onboard.
With a wide range of cocktails available, there’s bound to be something that appeals to your taste. Don’t be afraid to try new and exciting concoctions.
Plan Your Consumption Strategically
Planning your consumption strategically can help you maximize the value of your drink package. This involves considering when and where you’re most likely to drink, and adjusting your consumption accordingly. For example, you might choose to drink more on sea days when you’re relaxing by the pool, or during happy hour when drinks are often discounted.
- Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Many bars offer discounted drinks during happy hour.
- Pace Yourself: Don’t feel pressured to drink excessively just to get your money’s worth.
- Consider Sharing (If Allowed): Some packages may allow you to share drinks with a non-package holder.
Take advantage of happy hour specials to stretch your drink package even further. This can be a great way to save money and enjoy your favorite drinks.
The goal is to enjoy your cruise, not to overindulge. Pace yourself and drink responsibly throughout the day.
Check the terms and conditions of your drink package to see if sharing is permitted. If so, this can be a great way to extend the value of your package.
FAQ
How much does a Celebrity Cruises drink package cost per day?
The cost of a Celebrity Cruises drink package varies depending on the specific package, the length of the cruise, and any ongoing promotions. Typically, the Classic Package ranges from $69-$79 per day, the Premium Package ranges from $89-$99 per day, and the Zero Proof Package ranges from $22-$30 per day, all including gratuities. Prices are subject to change, so it’s best to check with Celebrity Cruises directly for the most up-to-date information.
Can I upgrade my drink package after boarding the cruise?
Yes, in most cases, you can upgrade your drink package after boarding the cruise, but it’s subject to availability. Upgrading usually involves paying the difference between the cost of your current package and the package you wish to upgrade to. However, it’s generally recommended to purchase your drink package before boarding to take advantage of any pre-cruise discounts and ensure availability.
Are gratuities included in the price of a Celebrity drink package?
Yes, gratuities are typically included in the price of Celebrity Cruises drink packages. This means that you won’t have to worry about tipping each time you order a drink. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the terms and conditions of your specific package to confirm that gratuities are included, as policies can sometimes vary.
What happens if I don’t finish all my drinks in a day with the drink package?
Unfortunately, unused drinks do not carry over to the next day. Drink packages are designed for unlimited consumption during each day of the cruise. This means that if you don’t consume a certain number of drinks on a particular day, you won’t receive any refund or credit for the unused portion of your package. So, make sure to enjoy your drinks responsibly throughout each day!
Is it cheaper to buy a drink package before the cruise or onboard?
It is generally cheaper to purchase a drink package before your cruise. Celebrity Cruises often offers pre-cruise discounts on drink packages, which can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying them onboard. Plus, purchasing in advance guarantees availability and allows you to start enjoying your package from the moment you board the ship.
Can I share my drink package with someone else?
No, sharing drink packages is strictly prohibited on Celebrity Cruises. Drink packages are intended for individual use only and cannot be shared with other passengers. If you are caught sharing your drink package, the cruise line may revoke the package without a refund. In most instances, all adults in a stateroom must purchase a drink package to prevent sharing.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to purchase a Celebrity cruise drink package ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and drinking habits. By carefully evaluating your potential consumption, considering available promotions, and understanding the terms and conditions of each package, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and enhances your overall cruise experience. Weigh the pros and cons to see if **how much is a Celebrity cruise drink package** makes sense for you and your travel companions. Bon voyage!