Imagine yourself lounging by the pool on a Celebrity Cruises ship, the sun shining, and a refreshing drink in hand. But before you get there, you’re probably wondering about the cost of enjoying those poolside cocktails and other beverages. Understanding how much is the classic beverage package on Celebrity Cruises is key to planning your budget and maximizing your onboard experience. This post will break down the cost, what’s included, and whether it’s worth it for you, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your cruise adventure.
Understanding the Celebrity Cruises Classic Beverage Package
The Classic Beverage Package on Celebrity Cruises is designed to provide guests with a wide selection of drinks throughout their voyage. It’s crucial to understand what this package includes, its cost, and its limitations to determine if it fits your preferences and spending habits. This section will give you a detailed overview so you can make an informed decision.
What is Included in the Classic Package?
The Classic Beverage Package offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The goal is to provide a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy beverages without paying individually for each drink.
- Select Cocktails, Spirits, and Liqueurs: This includes a range of popular cocktails, well-known spirits (like vodka, gin, and rum), and liqueurs, all available at various bars and lounges onboard. For example, a classic Margarita or a Gin and Tonic would likely be included.
- Beer and Wine by the Glass: The package usually covers a selection of beers and wines up to a certain price point per glass. This allows you to try different wines with dinner or enjoy a cold beer by the pool.
- Sodas and Juices: Unlimited sodas and juices are included, making it ideal for both adults and children. This ensures everyone in your travel party can enjoy their favorite non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.
- Premium Coffees and Teas: Specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos, as well as premium teas, are part of the Classic Beverage Package. This is great for coffee lovers who enjoy a morning espresso or an afternoon tea.
Having access to these drinks allows guests to enjoy their favorite cocktails without worrying about racking up a large bill each day. It’s a simple way to enhance the vacation experience.
Many cruise enthusiasts appreciate the flexibility of trying different wines throughout their dining experience. The wine selection within the Classic Package provides a good range to choose from.
This is especially beneficial for families with children who frequently want sodas or juice. The cost can quickly add up if you’re paying per drink, so this is a major cost saver.
Instead of paying extra for your specialty coffee each morning, you can enjoy it without worrying about additional charges. It’s a small luxury that enhances the overall cruising experience.
Classic Package Price: An In-Depth Look
Determining the exact cost of the Classic Beverage Package involves understanding the daily rate, any potential taxes or gratuities, and how these costs compare to buying drinks individually. The price can vary, so it’s important to get current information.
- Daily Rate: The classic beverage package on Celebrity Cruises typically costs around $69 per day. However, the price can vary depending on the specific cruise, the length of the voyage, and any promotional offers.
- Taxes and Gratuities: Beverage packages usually come with additional taxes and gratuities, adding to the overall cost. This can increase the daily cost by about 18-20%.
- Comparing to Individual Drink Prices: Consider the average cost of individual drinks onboard to determine if the package is worth it. If you plan to drink multiple alcoholic beverages per day, the package can be more economical.
- Promotional Offers: Keep an eye out for promotions. Cruise lines often offer promotions such as “Drinks Included” or discounted beverage packages when booking your cruise.
It’s always best to check the current pricing on the Celebrity Cruises website or with your travel agent, as prices are subject to change. Keep an eye out for special offers that might include the beverage package at a discounted rate.
Be sure to factor in these extra costs when calculating the total price of the package. These charges are typically applied to the package price, so understanding them helps avoid any surprises when you receive your final bill.
Most cocktails and alcoholic beverages on Celebrity Cruises range from $8 to $14 each. If you typically consume 5 or more drinks per day, the beverage package will likely save you money compared to paying for each drink individually.
Checking for these offers can significantly reduce the overall cost of your cruise. Booking during promotional periods can be a great way to secure a beverage package at a more affordable price.
Is the Classic Beverage Package Worth It?
Deciding whether the Classic Beverage Package is a worthwhile investment depends on your drinking habits, preferences, and budget. This section explores the factors to consider to help you make an informed decision about the package.
Assessing Your Drinking Habits
Your consumption habits play a major role in determining the value of the Classic Beverage Package. Consider the types of drinks you typically enjoy, the quantity you consume, and the times you usually drink during the day.
- Frequency of Alcoholic Drinks: If you enjoy several cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine each day, the package can be a cost-effective option. Consider how many alcoholic drinks you’d typically consume to justify the daily cost.
- Non-Alcoholic Consumption: Even if you don’t drink a lot of alcohol, the package includes sodas, juices, premium coffees, and teas. If you frequently consume these beverages, the package can still offer value.
- Days at Sea vs. Port Days: Consider the number of days at sea versus port days. On sea days, you’re more likely to be onboard and consuming drinks. On port days, you might be exploring and less likely to use the package.
- Group Dynamics: If traveling in a group, discuss each person’s drinking habits. It might make sense for some to purchase the package while others don’t, depending on their preferences.
If you are someone who enjoys having a cocktail before dinner, wine with your meal, and perhaps another drink at the bar afterward, then the Classic Beverage Package can offer significant savings. The key is to be realistic about your consumption.
For those who enjoy specialty coffees in the morning, sodas throughout the day, and perhaps some juice, the non-alcoholic benefits alone can make the package worthwhile, especially when combined with some occasional alcoholic drinks.
If your itinerary includes many sea days, the beverage package will be more useful. Alternatively, if you plan to spend most port days exploring, the value decreases since you won’t be on the ship consuming beverages.
Having open communication within your travel group helps to make informed decisions. Some may prefer to pay as they go, while others may want the convenience and potential cost savings of the beverage package.
Comparing Package Prices to Individual Drink Costs
To accurately determine if the Classic Beverage Package is worth the investment, you need to compare the daily cost of the package to the price of individual drinks you’d typically consume.
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- Average Drink Prices: On Celebrity Cruises, cocktails can range from $8 to $14, beers from $7 to $9, and glasses of wine from $9 to $15. Specialty coffees and teas are around $4 to $6.
- Break-Even Point: Calculate how many drinks per day you need to consume to break even with the cost of the package. Divide the daily cost of the package (including gratuities) by the average price of your preferred drinks.
- Value Beyond Alcoholic Drinks: Remember to factor in the value of non-alcoholic drinks if you frequently consume them. These drinks contribute to the overall value of the package, especially if you’re not a heavy drinker.
- Potential for Overconsumption: Be honest about your potential for overconsumption. The package can encourage some people to drink more than they normally would, leading to unnecessary spending and health concerns.
Understanding these costs allows you to estimate your average daily spending on drinks if you were to pay individually. This is the baseline against which you compare the cost of the beverage package.
For example, if the daily cost of the Classic Package (including gratuities) is $82.62, and your average drink costs $10, you need to consume approximately 8.26 drinks per day to break even. Consuming more than this number makes the package cost-effective.
Non-alcoholic beverages can add significant value to the package, especially if you enjoy multiple sodas, juices, or premium coffees each day. Consider these beverages when calculating the overall value of the package.
While the package offers convenience and potential savings, it’s important to remain responsible with your consumption. Don’t let the unlimited nature of the package lead to excessive drinking.
Case Study: Real-Life Examples
To better illustrate the decision-making process, let’s consider a few real-life examples of different types of cruisers and how they might evaluate the Classic Beverage Package.
- The Social Cruiser: Sarah loves to socialize and enjoys several cocktails throughout the day while chatting with fellow passengers. She averages 4 cocktails, 2 glasses of wine, and 2 sodas per day. With individual drink prices, she would spend around $60 on cocktails, $24 on wine, and $8 on sodas, totaling $92. The Classic Beverage Package would save her money.
- The Casual Drinker: Mark enjoys a glass of wine with dinner and perhaps a beer by the pool. He also drinks 2 sodas per day. Individually, he would spend around $12 on wine, $8 on beer, and $8 on sodas, totaling $28. The package wouldn’t be worth it for him.
- The Family with Kids: The Johnson family includes two adults and two teenagers. The adults enjoy a few cocktails and glasses of wine, while the teenagers primarily consume sodas and juices. For this family, the beverage package could offer good value, especially when considering the cost of drinks for the entire family.
Sarah’s drinking habits make the Classic Beverage Package a worthwhile investment. Her consumption of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages exceeds the daily cost of the package, making it a financially sound choice.
Mark’s moderate drinking habits make the Classic Beverage Package less appealing. His consumption is significantly lower than the daily cost of the package, so it’s more economical for him to pay as he goes.
Families can often benefit from beverage packages, especially if the teenagers consume multiple sodas and juices each day. The combined consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks can make the package a cost-effective choice for the whole family.
Maximizing the Value of Your Classic Beverage Package
If you decide to purchase the Classic Beverage Package, there are several strategies to maximize its value. These tips can help you get the most out of your investment and enhance your cruise experience.
Utilizing All Included Options
To maximize the value of your package, make sure you take full advantage of all the included beverages. Exploring the range of options available can lead to discovering new favorites while getting your money’s worth.
- Explore the Cocktail Menu: Don’t stick to the same drink every time. Try different cocktails and liqueurs that are included in the package to see what you enjoy.
- Sample Different Wines: Take advantage of the wine by the glass options to sample different varieties. Ask the bartenders for recommendations based on your preferences.
- Enjoy Specialty Coffees and Teas: Start your mornings with a latte or cappuccino and enjoy an afternoon tea. These premium beverages are included in the package and can add a touch of luxury to your day.
- Stay Hydrated: Don’t forget to stay hydrated with sodas, juices, and water. Staying hydrated is important for your health and well-being, especially in warm climates.
Many cruise lines offer a wide variety of cocktails, and experimenting with different options can add variety to your cruise experience. You might discover a new favorite drink that you wouldn’t have otherwise tried.
Sampling different wines is a great way to expand your palate and enhance your dining experience. Bartenders are often knowledgeable and can offer recommendations based on your preferences.
Specialty coffees and teas can provide a welcome break throughout the day. Whether you enjoy a morning espresso or an afternoon tea, these options can enhance your overall cruise experience.
Remember to balance your consumption of alcoholic beverages with plenty of water and non-alcoholic drinks. Staying hydrated will help you feel your best throughout your cruise.
Timing Your Beverage Consumption
Strategically timing your beverage consumption throughout the day can help you maximize the value of your Classic Beverage Package. Consider when and where you’re most likely to consume drinks onboard.
- Start Early: Begin enjoying your included beverages early in the day to spread out your consumption. A specialty coffee in the morning can be a great start.
- Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Some bars may offer happy hour specials or additional discounts on drinks included in the package. Check the onboard schedule for happy hour times and locations.
- Utilize Drink Service: Don’t forget to utilize the drink service at the pool, in the theater, and during meals. Having drinks brought to you can save time and enhance your relaxation.
- Plan for Port Days: If you’re planning to spend most of the day in port, consider starting your beverage consumption later in the afternoon when you return to the ship.
Starting early helps you maximize the value of the package and avoid trying to consume too many drinks later in the day. Spreading out your consumption is also better for your health.
Happy hour can be a great time to enjoy your included beverages and socialize with fellow passengers. Taking advantage of these specials can further enhance the value of your package.
Utilizing the drink service is a convenient way to enjoy your included beverages without having to leave your location. This can enhance your relaxation and allow you to fully enjoy the onboard experience.
On port days, focus on exploring and enjoying the local culture. Save your beverage consumption for when you return to the ship in the afternoon to maximize the value of the package.
Common Myths About the Classic Beverage Package
There are several common misconceptions about the Classic Beverage Package. Understanding these myths can help you make a more informed decision about whether the package is right for you.
Myth 1: The Package Includes All Drinks Onboard
Reality: The Classic Beverage Package has limitations. It does not include every drink available on the ship. Higher-end liquors, certain premium wines, and some specialty cocktails may not be covered.
It’s important to review the specific inclusions of the package before purchasing. Some drinks may require an additional charge, so be aware of the limitations before ordering. This can prevent unexpected costs on your final bill.
Myth 2: You Must Drink Constantly to Get Your Money’s Worth
Reality: While consuming several drinks per day can make the package cost-effective, you don’t need to drink excessively to justify the purchase. Even moderate consumption of a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can provide good value.
The package is about convenience and predictable pricing, not necessarily about drinking as much as possible. Consider your typical drinking habits and consumption of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to determine if the package is worthwhile.
Myth 3: Everyone in Your Cabin Must Purchase the Package
Reality: Celebrity Cruises typically requires all adults in a cabin to purchase the beverage package if one person does. However, policies can vary, so it’s best to confirm the specific rules at the time of booking.
Confirming the policy regarding mandatory purchase of beverage packages can help you plan accordingly. It’s important to be aware of these rules before making your booking to avoid any surprises.
FAQ
How much is the Classic Beverage Package on Celebrity Cruises per day?
The Classic Beverage Package on Celebrity Cruises typically costs around $69 per day, but this price can vary depending on the specific cruise, the length of the voyage, and any current promotional offers. Remember that taxes and gratuities, usually around 18-20%, are added to this daily rate.
What drinks are included in the Classic Beverage Package?
The Classic Beverage Package includes a variety of select cocktails, spirits, and liqueurs, as well as beer and wine by the glass (up to a certain price point). It also includes unlimited sodas, juices, premium coffees, and teas, providing a range of options for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic preferences.
Is the Classic Beverage Package worth it if I only drink a few alcoholic beverages per day?
Whether the package is worth it depends on your overall consumption habits. Even if you only drink a couple of alcoholic beverages, the inclusion of unlimited sodas, juices, and premium coffees can still make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you frequently consume these non-alcoholic options. Consider your total daily drink consumption to decide if it justifies the cost.
Do I have to purchase the Classic Beverage Package for every day of my cruise?
Yes, typically you must purchase the beverage package for every day of your cruise. Cruise lines generally require guests to purchase the package for the entire duration of the voyage to prevent sharing and ensure fair pricing. This policy helps to maintain the value and benefits of the package for all guests.
Can I upgrade my Classic Beverage Package to a Premium Package?
Yes, you can usually upgrade your Classic Beverage Package to a higher-tier package, such as the Premium Package, which includes a wider selection of drinks and more premium options. Upgrading allows you to access a broader range of beverages and enhance your overall cruise experience. Contact Guest Services onboard to inquire about upgrading your package and any associated costs.
What happens if I don’t use all of my Classic Beverage Package allowance in a day?
The Classic Beverage Package does not operate on an allowance system, so unused drinks do not roll over to the next day. The package provides unlimited access to included beverages throughout each day of your cruise. It’s designed for convenience and variety, encouraging you to enjoy the included options without worrying about unused allowances.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the cost and inclusions of the classic beverage package on Celebrity Cruises is essential for budgeting and planning your cruise experience. Evaluate your drinking habits, compare the package price to individual drink costs, and consider the potential benefits of unlimited sodas, juices, and premium coffees. By carefully weighing these factors, you can determine whether the package is a worthwhile investment for your next cruise vacation, ensuring a refreshing and relaxing getaway.