How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines

Alcoholic drink prices on Royal Caribbean cruise lines typically range from $8 to $18 per drink, depending on the type and brand—beer starts around $8, cocktails average $12–$15, and premium spirits or wine can reach $18 or more. Drink packages, starting at $60–$90 per person per day, offer unlimited beverages and often provide better value for frequent drinkers, though individual purchases are always an option.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Expect $8–$15 for beer, cocktails, and wine onboard.
• Buy drink packages: Save with all-inclusive options if drinking 5+ drinks daily.
• Happy hour deals: Enjoy discounts during daily bar promotions and sail-away events.
• Premium costs more: Craft cocktails and top-shelf liquor carry higher price tags.
• Track spending: Monitor purchases via your SeaPass account to avoid surprises.
• Free options exist: Tap water, coffee, and tea are complimentary at all bars.

How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines

Picture this: you’re lounging on the deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, the sun is setting, and the ocean breeze brushes your face. You’re ready to unwind with a cocktail in hand, but then it hits you—how much are alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines? You don’t want to ruin the mood with a shocking bill at the end of the week. Whether you’re sipping a mojito at the pool bar, enjoying a glass of wine at dinner, or toasting with friends in the nightclub, knowing the costs upfront can make a big difference in your vacation experience.

Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, known for its vibrant nightlife, themed bars, and all-inclusive entertainment. But unlike all-inclusive resorts, most drinks on board aren’t automatically covered in your cruise fare. That means every cocktail, beer, or glass of wine comes with a price tag—and it’s not always cheap. The good news? There are smart ways to manage your spending, take advantage of deals, and still enjoy a few (or many) drinks without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much alcoholic drinks cost on Royal Caribbean, explore your options, and share practical tips to help you sip smarter on your next cruise.

Understanding the Basics: How Royal Caribbean Prices Alcoholic Drinks

Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to understand how Royal Caribbean structures its drink pricing. Unlike all-inclusive resorts where drinks are free, most alcoholic beverages on Royal Caribbean are à la carte—meaning you pay per drink. This includes everything from beer and wine to cocktails and premium spirits. However, the cruise line offers several ways to reduce costs, including drink packages, happy hours, and special promotions.

Standard Pricing Without a Package

If you choose to pay per drink, prices vary based on the type and quality of the beverage. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

• Domestic beer: $7–$9
• Imported or craft beer: $8–$11
• House wine (glass): $10–$14
• Premium wine (glass): $15–$25+
• Classic cocktails (mojito, margarita, daiquiri): $12–$16
• Premium cocktails (signature drinks, top-shelf liquor): $15–$20+
• Martinis: $13–$18
• Shots or straight spirits: $8–$15

For example, ordering a mojito at the pool bar might set you back $14, while a glass of mid-range red wine at dinner could cost $12. If you’re having two drinks a day, that adds up to $168 over a 7-day cruise—without factoring in tips, which are automatically added (more on that later).

Automatic Gratuities: The Hidden Cost

One thing many first-time cruisers don’t realize is that a 15% to 20% gratuity (tip) is automatically added to every drink purchase. This isn’t optional and appears on your final bill. So, a $14 cocktail actually costs you $16.10 after the tip. While this is standard across the cruise industry, it’s a cost that can catch people off guard. The tip goes directly to the bar staff, which is fair, but it means your actual spending is higher than the menu price suggests.

Where You Drink Matters

Prices can also vary slightly depending on the location. A cocktail at the Royal Promenade Bar might be the same as one at the pool bar, but drinks at specialty venues like 150 Central Park (a fine dining restaurant) or Chops Grille (steakhouse) often come with a premium. For instance, a glass of wine at a specialty restaurant might cost $2–$3 more than at the main dining room.

Royal Caribbean Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

If you plan on drinking more than a few beverages during your cruise, a drink package could save you money—or cost you more, depending on your habits. Royal Caribbean offers several options, but the most popular are the Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP) and the Classic Soda Package (for non-alcoholic drinks). Let’s break down the DBP, which is the one most people consider for alcohol.

Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP) – The Full-Alcohol Option

The DBP includes:

• Unlimited cocktails, beer, wine (by the glass), and spirits up to $15
• 20% discount on bottles of wine over $100
• Free non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juice, bottled water)
• Access to specialty bars and lounges

The price varies by cruise length, destination, and season, but typically ranges from $70 to $95 per person per day. For a 7-day cruise, that’s about $490 to $665 per person. The 15% gratuity is still added to the package price, so expect an extra $75–$100 per person in tips.

Is the DBP Worth It?

To determine if the DBP makes sense for you, do a quick math check:

• If the DBP costs $80/day ($560 for 7 days), you’d need to drink at least 6–7 drinks per day to break even, depending on the average price per drink.
• For example: 3 cocktails ($14 each) + 2 glasses of wine ($12 each) + 2 beers ($8 each) = $80. Add the 15% tip, and you’re at $92—already above the daily cost.
• If you’re a light drinker (1–2 drinks per day), the DBP will likely cost you more than paying per drink.

Tip: Royal Caribbean often offers pre-cruise discounts on the DBP. Booking it online before your cruise can save you $10–$15 per day. Plus, some promotions include a “buy one, get one half off” deal for couples.

Other Package Options

Not everyone wants unlimited alcohol. Royal Caribbean also offers:

• Classic Soda Package: $12.99/day for unlimited soda, juice, and bottled water. Great for kids or non-drinkers.
• Refreshment Package: $29/day for premium non-alcoholic drinks like specialty coffees, smoothies, and energy drinks. Includes 20% off wine bottles.
• Wine & Dine Package: $59/day for 4 bottles of wine, 4 beers, and 4 cocktails. Best for couples or small groups.

Each has its own break-even point, so consider your drinking habits carefully.

Happy Hours, Promotions, and Free Drinks: Smart Ways to Save

Even if you don’t buy a package, there are plenty of ways to enjoy alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean without overspending. The key is timing, location, and knowing when to say “yes” to a freebie.

Happy Hour Deals

Royal Caribbean runs daily happy hours across most ships. These typically occur in the late afternoon (4–6 PM) and offer:

• Buy one, get one free on select drinks
• Half-price cocktails or beer
• Specialty drink deals at themed bars (e.g., $5 margaritas at the Mexican cantina)

For example, on Harmony of the Seas, the pool bar might offer BOGO mojitos from 4:30–5:30 PM. That means two $14 cocktails for $14 total—a 50% savings!

Free Drinks at Events and Shows

Many onboard events include complimentary drinks. Keep an eye out for:

• Captain’s Welcome Reception: Free champagne and cocktails during the first night’s welcome toast.
• Loyalty Events: If you’re a Crown & Anchor Society member (Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program), you’ll get invites to exclusive cocktail hours with free drinks.
• Shows and Performances: Some theater shows offer a complimentary glass of wine or beer to attendees.
• Port Days: On certain excursions, especially wine tastings or brewery tours, you might get free samples.

Tip: Check the daily Cruise Compass (the onboard newsletter) for a full list of events and free drink opportunities.

Specialty Bar Promotions

Bars like the Bolero’s Lounge (Latin music) or On Air Club (karaoke) often run drink specials during peak hours. For instance, Bolero’s might offer $8 mojitos during live band sets. These are great spots to enjoy music and save on drinks.

Bring Your Own (With Limits)

Royal Caribbean allows you to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person on embarkation day. You can drink it in your stateroom or at dinner (a $15 corkage fee applies at dining venues). This is a great way to enjoy a favorite bottle without paying cruise prices. Just remember: no hard alcohol or beer is allowed in carry-ons.

Premium and Signature Drinks: What You’re Paying For

Not all drinks are created equal. On Royal Caribbean, you’ll find everything from basic house wines to $100+ craft cocktails. Understanding the difference can help you decide when to splurge and when to save.

House vs. Premium vs. Signature

• House Drinks: These are the standard options. Think Bud Light, house red/white wine, or a basic rum and Coke. Prices: $7–$12. Good for casual drinking.

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• Premium Drinks: Mid-tier options like craft beer (e.g., Sam Adams), imported wines, or well-known brands (Grey Goose, Patron). Prices: $12–$18. A step up in quality.
• Signature Drinks: Exclusive cocktails created by Royal Caribbean’s mixologists. Examples: “The Royal Mojito” with infused mint or the “Skyline Spritz” with elderflower liqueur. Prices: $15–$20+. These often come with a souvenir glass.

Example: At the Bionic Bar on Quantum-class ships, a robot-made cocktail costs $15. It’s fun to watch, but you’re paying for the experience, not just the alcohol.

Wine by the Bottle

If you enjoy wine, consider ordering a bottle at dinner. While individual glasses cost $10–$25, a full bottle of the same wine might be $30–$60. For two people, that’s often cheaper than buying two glasses. Plus, you can keep the rest in your room (no corkage fee if not opened at the restaurant).

Pro tip: Look for the “Wine of the Day” at the main dining room. It’s usually a mid-range bottle at a discounted price (e.g., $35 instead of $50).

Non-Alcoholic “Cocktails”

Many bars offer mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) for $8–$12. These are great if you’re taking a break from alcohol or want something fancy without the buzz. Popular options: “Virgin Piña Colada,” “Berry Spritzer,” or “Mango Mojito.”

Real-World Examples: What Different Drinkers Spend

To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at three real-life scenarios based on typical drinking habits. These examples assume a 7-day cruise with a 15% gratuity on all purchases.

Scenario 1: The Casual Drinker (1–2 Drinks per Day)

• Daily habits: One beer at lunch, one glass of wine at dinner
• Daily cost: $8 (beer) + $12 (wine) + 15% tip = $23
• Total for 7 days: $161
• With DBP ($80/day): $665 (including tip) → Not worth it
• Smart move: Pay per drink, take advantage of happy hours, and bring a bottle of wine.

Scenario 2: The Social Drinker (4–5 Drinks per Day)

• Daily habits: 2 cocktails, 1 beer, 1 glass of wine, 1 drink at a show
• Daily cost: 2 x $14 + $8 + $12 + $15 = $63 + 15% tip = $72.45
• Total for 7 days: $507
• With DBP ($80/day): $665 (including tip) → Close call
• Smart move: Book DBP pre-cruise for $65/day ($455 + tip) and save $50. Or mix packages with happy hour deals.

Scenario 3: The Enthusiast (6+ Drinks per Day)

• Daily habits: 3 cocktails, 2 beers, 1 glass of wine, 1 shot, 1 drink at a specialty bar
• Daily cost: 3 x $14 + 2 x $8 + $12 + $10 + $16 = $96 + 15% tip = $110.40
• Total for 7 days: $773
• With DBP ($80/day): $665 (including tip) → Saves over $100
• Smart move: Buy DBP pre-cruise and enjoy unlimited drinks guilt-free.

Cost Comparison Table

Drinker Type	Avg. Daily Drinks	Pay-Per-Drink (7-Day Total)	DBP Cost (7-Day Total)	Savings with DBP?
Casual	1–2	$161	$665	No (costs more)
Social	4–5	$507	$665	Maybe (with pre-cruise discount)
Enthusiast	6+	$773	$665	Yes (saves $108)

Final Tips: How to Enjoy Drinks Without the Guilt (or the Bill Shock)

After sailing on Royal Caribbean multiple times and talking to dozens of fellow cruisers, here are my top tips to enjoy drinks without overspending:

1. Know Your Drinking Habits

Be honest with yourself. Are you a one-drink-at-dinner person, or do you love bar-hopping? Use the scenarios above to estimate your spending. If you’re on the fence, start with a smaller package or pay per drink and upgrade later if needed (Royal Caribbean allows package upgrades onboard).

2. Book Packages Early

Pre-cruise discounts on the DBP can save you $70–$100 per person. Plus, you lock in the price and avoid last-minute stress.

3. Mix and Match

You don’t have to go all-in. Try a 3-day DBP if you’re on a longer cruise. Or combine a Wine & Dine Package with happy hour deals.

4. Use Loyalty Perks

If you’ve sailed with Royal Caribbean before, sign up for the Crown & Anchor Society. Higher tiers get free drink vouchers, priority access to events, and exclusive happy hours.

5. Skip the Souvenir Glasses

Many signature drinks come with a souvenir cup that adds $5–$10 to the price. Ask if you can get the drink without the cup—most bartenders will say yes.

6. Drink in Port (When Safe)

In some destinations (like Cozumel or Nassau), local bars offer much cheaper drinks. Just make sure you’re back on time and follow local laws.

At the end of the day, how much alcoholic drinks cost on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines depends on your choices. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone who loves to celebrate with a cocktail in hand, there’s a strategy that works for you. The key is to plan ahead, stay aware of your habits, and take advantage of the deals and promotions available. With a little smart planning, you can raise a glass to a great vacation—without worrying about the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines?

Alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean typically range from $8 to $18 per drink, depending on the type and brand. Cocktails, wines, and premium spirits fall on the higher end, while beer and house wine are more affordable.

Is there a drink package for alcoholic beverages on Royal Caribbean?

Yes, Royal Caribbean offers the Deluxe Beverage Package, which includes unlimited alcoholic drinks (up to $15 per drink) for a flat daily rate. This package is ideal for frequent drinkers and covers cocktails, wine, beer, and more.

Are alcoholic drinks included in the cruise fare?

No, alcoholic drinks are not included in the base cruise fare unless you purchase a beverage package. Otherwise, drinks are charged individually at bars, restaurants, and onboard events.

What’s the average cost of a cocktail on Royal Caribbean?

The average cost of a cocktail on Royal Caribbean is $12–$15, with premium or specialty options costing up to $18. Prices vary slightly depending on the bar or dining venue.

Do Royal Caribbean drink packages cover top-shelf alcohol?

The Deluxe Beverage Package covers drinks up to $15, but top-shelf liquors or wines above that price require a small upgrade fee. Check the onboard menu for specific exclusions.

Are there happy hour deals for alcoholic drinks on Royal Caribbean?

Yes, many bars offer happy hour promotions with discounted drinks, typically in the early evening. These deals are a great way to enjoy your favorite alcoholic beverages at a lower cost.