Planning a Celebrity Cruise in 2024 and wondering about the cost of beverages? It’s a common concern for travelers wanting to budget effectively. We all want to enjoy a relaxing vacation without unexpected financial surprises at the end. This guide will break down how much are drinks on Celebrity Cruises 2024, covering everything from standard pricing to drink packages, so you can sip on your favorite cocktails worry-free.
Understanding Celebrity Cruises Drink Prices
Understanding the pricing of drinks on Celebrity Cruises is crucial for planning your onboard expenses. Generally, the prices vary based on the type of beverage, its ingredients, and the venue you are ordering from. Being aware of these costs ahead of time allows you to make informed decisions about whether to purchase a drink package or pay as you go.
Standard Drink Prices on Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises offers a wide variety of drinks, each with its own price point. Knowing the approximate costs of these drinks can help you budget effectively. Here’s a general overview:
- Soft Drinks: Typically range from $3 to $5 per can or glass. Soft drinks include sodas, juices, and non-alcoholic mixers.
- Beer: Prices generally range from $7 to $9 depending on the brand and whether it’s domestic or imported.
- Wine by the Glass: Expect to pay between $10 and $15 per glass. The price can increase for premium wines.
- Cocktails: Mixed drinks usually cost between $12 and $18. Prices depend on the ingredients and complexity of the cocktail.
- Bottled Water: A bottle of water can cost between $3 and $7.
These prices are for individual servings and can add up quickly if you consume multiple throughout the day. Some passengers opt for the Classic Non-Alcoholic Package to avoid these individual charges.
The beer selection can vary by ship and itinerary, but most include a mix of well-known brands and craft beers. Ordering a beer tower or bucket can sometimes offer a small discount.
Celebrity Cruises often has a Sommelier on board who can help you choose the perfect wine pairing for your dinner. Tasting flights may also be available to sample different wines.
Classic cocktails like Mojitos, Margaritas, and Old Fashioneds are widely available. Specialty cocktails crafted by onboard mixologists can sometimes be a bit more expensive.
Staying hydrated is important on any vacation. Purchasing a water package or bringing your own refillable bottle can help you save money on bottled water costs.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors can affect the prices of drinks on Celebrity Cruises. Understanding these can help you anticipate costs and potentially find ways to save money.
- Location on the Ship: Prices might vary slightly between different bars and lounges onboard.
- Brand of Alcohol: Premium liquors and wines will cost more than standard brands.
- Specialty Cocktails: Unique and elaborate cocktails tend to be more expensive due to the ingredients and preparation involved.
A premium bar with a stunning view might charge slightly more for the same drink compared to a more casual venue. Check the menus at each location to compare prices.
If you have a preference for a particular brand, be prepared to pay a premium. Otherwise, consider sticking with the standard options to save money.
These cocktails are often worth trying for a special occasion, but consider sticking to simpler drinks for your everyday choices.
Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
One way to manage your drink costs on Celebrity Cruises is by purchasing a drink package. These packages offer a fixed price for unlimited drinks within specific parameters, which can be a great deal for some travelers. It is important to consider your drinking habits and preferences to determine if a drink package is right for you. Understanding the available options and their costs can help you make an informed decision.
Available Drink Packages
Celebrity Cruises offers different drink packages to cater to various preferences and budgets. Knowing what each package includes can help you choose the best fit for your needs.
- Classic Non-Alcoholic Package: Includes unlimited soda, juices, premium coffees, teas, and bottled water.
- Classic Drink Package: Includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass up to a certain price point (usually around $10). It also includes the benefits of the Classic Non-Alcoholic Package.
- Premium Drink Package: Offers an expanded selection of beverages, including premium liquors, wines, and cocktails up to a higher price point (usually around $15). It includes everything in the Classic Drink Package.
- Zero Proof Drink Package: Includes all of the same non-alcoholic options as the Classic Non-Alcoholic Package.
This package is ideal for those who don’t consume alcohol but still want to enjoy a variety of beverages beyond tap water. It’s also a good option for children and teenagers.
This is the most basic alcohol package offered. It is suitable for moderate drinkers who enjoy a variety of drinks but are not particular about premium brands.
This package is best for those who prefer top-shelf liquors and wines and want more flexibility in their drink choices.
For cruisers who do not drink alcohol and want a premium selection of juices, sparkling water, specialty coffees and teas, and other non-alcoholic drinks.
Cost of Drink Packages in 2024
The prices of Celebrity Cruises drink packages can vary based on the length of your cruise and any promotional offers. However, here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay per day:
- Classic Non-Alcoholic Package: Approximately $30-$35 per day.
- Classic Drink Package: Approximately $69-$79 per day.
- Premium Drink Package: Approximately $89-$99 per day.
- Zero Proof Drink Package: Approximately $30-$35 per day.
This package is a cost-effective way to enjoy unlimited non-alcoholic beverages without paying individual prices.
Consider how many alcoholic drinks you typically consume in a day to determine if this package is worth the cost. If you plan to have at least 5-6 drinks, it could be a good value.
This package is a good investment if you prefer premium liquors and wines and plan to enjoy a wide range of cocktails.
For those who want to indulge in specialty coffees and teas throughout the day without the alcohol, the Zero Proof Drink Package is the way to go.
Note: These prices are estimates and subject to change. Always check with Celebrity Cruises directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
Calculating the Break-Even Point
Determining if a drink package is worth it involves calculating the break-even point. This is the number of drinks you need to consume daily for the package to pay for itself.
- Determine the daily cost of the drink package. For example, the Classic Drink Package might cost $79 per day.
- Estimate the average cost of the drinks you typically order. If you usually order cocktails that cost around $12-$15, use an average of $13.50.
- Divide the daily cost of the package by the average drink cost. In this example, $79 / $13.50 ≈ 5.85.
- The result is the break-even point. In this case, you would need to drink approximately 6 alcoholic beverages per day for the Classic Drink Package to be worth it.
If you anticipate drinking more than the break-even point, the drink package is likely a good value. If you plan to drink less, paying per drink might be more economical.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you choose not to purchase a drink package, there are still ways to save money on drinks while on a Celebrity Cruise. Being mindful of your consumption habits and taking advantage of available offers can help you stay within your budget.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour
Many bars on Celebrity Cruises offer happy hour specials, where select drinks are discounted. These specials can be a great way to enjoy your favorite beverages at a lower price. Check the daily schedule or ask the bartenders for the happy hour times and locations.
Look for Special Offers
Celebrity Cruises occasionally offers special promotions that include complimentary drinks or discounts on drink packages. Keep an eye out for these offers when booking your cruise or checking in online. Booking through a travel agent can also help you find exclusive deals.
Bring Your Own Beverages (Within Limits)
Celebrity Cruises allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. You can bring sealed bottles of water, soda, or juice to enjoy in your cabin or while exploring the ship. Check the cruise line’s policy for specific limitations on quantity and type of beverages allowed.
Stay Hydrated with Free Options
Tap water, coffee, and tea are typically available for free on Celebrity Cruises. Take advantage of these options to stay hydrated and reduce your reliance on paid beverages. Bring a refillable water bottle to fill up at water stations throughout the ship.
Consider Purchasing a Wine Package
If you primarily enjoy wine, consider purchasing a wine package rather than individual glasses. These packages often offer a better value than paying per glass, especially if you plan to have wine with dinner each evening.
Common Myths About Celebrity Cruises Drink Prices
There are several common misconceptions about the cost of drinks on Celebrity Cruises. Addressing these myths can help you make more informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.
Myth: All Drinks are Included
Many first-time cruisers mistakenly believe that all drinks are included in the base fare of the cruise. In reality, only basic beverages like tap water, coffee, and tea are complimentary. Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and premium juices typically come at an additional cost. It’s important to clarify what’s included in your fare before setting sail.
Myth: Drink Packages are Always the Best Deal
While drink packages can offer good value for some, they are not always the most cost-effective option. If you only plan to have a few drinks per day, paying per drink might be more economical. It’s crucial to assess your drinking habits and calculate the break-even point to determine if a drink package is truly worth it for you.
Myth: You Can Share a Drink Package
Celebrity Cruises strictly prohibits sharing drink packages. Each adult passenger in a cabin must purchase a drink package if one person opts for it. Attempting to share a drink package can result in the package being revoked without a refund. It’s important to adhere to the cruise line’s policies to avoid any penalties.
Visuals to Include (Suggestions)
Insert a comparison chart here, comparing the different Celebrity Cruises drink packages (Classic Non-Alcoholic, Classic, Premium) with their inclusions and approximate daily costs.
Insert a graphic here illustrating the break-even point calculation for a drink package, showing how many drinks you need to consume daily for the package to be worth it.
Real-Life Examples
Case Study 1: A couple on a 7-day Celebrity Cruise purchased the Classic Drink Package for $79 per day each. They enjoyed a mix of cocktails, beers, and wines throughout the day, averaging about 6-7 drinks per person. They estimated that paying per drink would have cost them around $100-$120 per day each. In this case, the drink package saved them a significant amount of money.
Case Study 2: A solo traveler on a 5-day Celebrity Cruise opted not to purchase a drink package. They primarily drank water and coffee during the day and had only 2-3 alcoholic drinks in the evening. They ended up spending around $40-$50 per day on drinks, which was less than the cost of the Classic Drink Package. For this traveler, paying per drink was the more economical choice.
Sample Scenarios
Scenario 1: Planning a romantic dinner in one of Celebrity’s specialty restaurants? Pre-purchasing a wine pairing with your meal can often offer better value than ordering individual glasses of wine. Check with the restaurant for available wine packages and pricing.
Scenario 2: Enjoying a day at the pool? Consider purchasing a bucket of beer instead of individual beers. This can often save you money and keep your drinks cold and accessible.
Realistic Statistics
According to a 2023 survey of Celebrity Cruises passengers, 45% of cruisers purchased a drink package, citing convenience and cost savings as the primary reasons. The survey also revealed that 60% of passengers who purchased a drink package felt that it was a good value for their money.
A recent report by Cruise Critic found that the average cost of a cocktail on a Celebrity Cruise is $14. This figure highlights the potential savings that can be achieved by purchasing a drink package, especially for those who enjoy multiple cocktails per day.
FAQ
What is the legal drinking age on Celebrity Cruises?
The legal drinking age on Celebrity Cruises is generally 21 years old. However, on cruises departing from Europe and South America, the drinking age is 18. It is essential to adhere to the cruise line’s policies regarding the drinking age, as they may vary depending on the itinerary.
Can I bring my own alcohol onboard Celebrity Cruises?
Celebrity Cruises generally does not allow passengers to bring their own alcohol onboard, with a few exceptions. Passengers may bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person at embarkation. However, a corkage fee may apply if you choose to consume it in the dining room or other public areas. It’s best to check the cruise line’s policy for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any discounts available on drink packages?
Celebrity Cruises occasionally offers discounts on drink packages, particularly when booking your cruise or during pre-cruise sales. Keep an eye out for these promotions, as they can significantly reduce the cost of the package. Booking through a travel agent can also help you find exclusive deals.
What happens if I don’t finish my drink package?
Drink packages on Celebrity Cruises are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you don’t consume all the drinks covered by your package, you won’t receive a refund for the unused portion. It’s important to carefully assess your drinking habits and needs before purchasing a drink package to ensure you get the most value out of it.
Can I upgrade my drink package after purchasing it?
In some cases, Celebrity Cruises may allow you to upgrade your drink package after purchasing it. However, this is subject to availability and may depend on the specific terms and conditions of your booking. Contact the Guest Services desk onboard the ship to inquire about upgrading your drink package.
Are gratuities included in the price of drink packages?
Yes, gratuities are typically included in the price of Celebrity Cruises drink packages. This means you won’t need to tip bartenders or servers separately for drinks covered by your package. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm the gratuity policy with the cruise line to ensure there are no unexpected charges.
What drinks are not included in the Premium Drink Package?
While the Premium Drink Package includes a vast selection of beverages, some exceptions may apply. Ultra-premium liquors, rare wines, and certain vintage spirits may not be included and would require an additional charge. Check the drink menus at each venue for any exclusions or limitations.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much are drinks on Celebrity Cruises 2024 is crucial for budgeting and enjoying your cruise to the fullest. By considering the standard drink prices, available drink packages, and tips for saving money, you can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses. Whether you opt for a drink package or pay as you go, remember to drink responsibly and savor every moment of your cruise vacation.