Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool on a Royal Caribbean cruise, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. A refreshing drink sounds perfect, but you hesitate. You’ve heard rumors about the cost of drinks on cruise ships. Understanding how much do beverages cost on a Royal Caribbean cruise is crucial for budgeting and truly enjoying your vacation. This article will break down all the drink prices, packages, and sneaky hidden costs, allowing you to plan your onboard spending accordingly.
Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Beverage Packages
Royal Caribbean offers several beverage packages to help you manage your drink costs. Knowing the ins and outs of each package can save you money and ensure you get the drinks you want without constantly reaching for your wallet. This section will detail what these packages entail, their limitations, and which might be the best fit for your cruising style.
Deluxe Beverage Package
The Deluxe Beverage Package is the most comprehensive option, covering virtually all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks onboard. It’s ideal for those who plan to indulge in a variety of beverages throughout their cruise.
- Includes cocktails, beers, wines, spirits, fountain sodas, specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, juices, and milkshakes. This wide range of options ensures there’s something for everyone.
- Covers drinks up to a certain price point (typically $14 per drink). While most drinks fall within this range, premium liquors might exceed the limit, requiring an additional charge.
- Often comes with a discount on bottles of wine. This can be a great perk for those who enjoy wine with dinner.
- Must be purchased for all adults in the same stateroom. This can be a drawback for those who aren’t heavy drinkers.
According to Royal Caribbean’s website, the Deluxe Beverage Package can cost anywhere from $70 to $90 per person, per day, before gratuities. It’s essential to factor this daily cost into your overall cruise budget.
Refreshment Package
The Refreshment Package is designed for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a more affordable option compared to the Deluxe Beverage Package.
- Includes fountain sodas, specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, juices, and mocktails. This package is perfect for those who don’t drink alcohol but still want a variety of refreshing drinks.
- Available to all guests, regardless of age. It’s a popular choice for families with children or teens.
- Can be a good value if you consume several non-alcoholic beverages per day. Consider how much you typically spend on these drinks and compare it to the package price.
The Refreshment Package typically costs between $30 and $40 per person, per day, before gratuities. For families, this can provide significant savings compared to paying for each drink individually.
Classic Soda Package
The Classic Soda Package is the most basic option, providing unlimited fountain sodas throughout the cruise. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to stay hydrated.
- Includes unlimited fountain soda refills at any bar, lounge, or restaurant. This is a cost-effective solution for soda lovers.
- Comes with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup. The cup activates the soda fountains around the ship.
- The most budget-friendly beverage package. It’s a great option if you only drink soda.
The Classic Soda Package generally costs around $12.99 per person, per day, before gratuities. If you regularly purchase sodas, this package can quickly pay for itself.
Understanding Individual Drink Prices
If you choose not to purchase a beverage package, you’ll pay individual prices for each drink you order. Understanding these prices can help you decide whether a package is worth the investment or if you’re better off paying as you go. This section covers the typical costs for various types of drinks onboard Royal Caribbean ships.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverage prices on Royal Caribbean can vary depending on the specific drink and venue. However, here are some general guidelines.
- Cocktails: $10 – $14. Classic cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and daiquiris usually fall within this price range.
- Beers: $7 – $9. Both domestic and imported beers are available, with prices varying accordingly.
- Wines by the glass: $9 – $15. A selection of wines is typically offered by the glass, with higher-end wines costing more.
- Spirits: $8 – $12. Prices for spirits like vodka, rum, and whiskey depend on the brand and pour.
Keep an eye out for drink specials and happy hour promotions, which can offer discounted prices on select beverages.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic beverage prices are generally lower than alcoholic ones, but they can still add up over the course of a cruise.
- Fountain Sodas: $3 – $4. Individual sodas can be purchased at any bar or restaurant.
- Specialty Coffees: $4 – $6. Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees are available at the ship’s coffee shop.
- Bottled Water: $3 – $4. Bottled water is a convenient option for staying hydrated, but it can be costly.
- Juices: $3 – $5. A variety of juices are available, including orange juice, apple juice, and cranberry juice.
Consider bringing your own reusable water bottle and filling it at water stations to save money on bottled water.
Specialty Drinks
Royal Caribbean ships often feature unique specialty drinks at themed bars or restaurants. These drinks typically command a higher price due to their premium ingredients and presentation.
- Elaborate Cocktails: $15 – $20. Drinks with unique ingredients or elaborate presentations can be pricier.
- Milkshakes: $7 – $9. Milkshakes are available at certain venues, like Johnny Rockets, and can be a fun treat.
Check the menus at specialty venues to see the prices of their signature drinks before ordering.
Hidden Costs and Considerations
Beyond the listed prices of drinks and beverage packages, there are some hidden costs and considerations to keep in mind when budgeting for beverages on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Being aware of these can help you avoid unexpected expenses.
Gratuities
Gratuities are automatically added to all beverage purchases on Royal Caribbean. This typically amounts to 18% of the drink price.
For example, if a cocktail costs $12, you’ll be charged an additional $2.16 for gratuities, bringing the total cost to $14.16. Beverage packages also include daily gratuities, which are factored into the overall price.
Location-Based Pricing
Drink prices can vary slightly depending on the location onboard the ship. Premium bars or specialty restaurants might charge more for the same drink compared to a casual poolside bar.
It’s always a good idea to check the menu and confirm the price before ordering, especially if you’re unsure about the cost.
Promotional Offers
Royal Caribbean frequently offers promotional discounts on beverage packages, especially when booked in advance. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can significantly reduce the overall cost.
A 2024 study by Cruise Critic found that booking beverage packages online before your cruise can save up to 30% compared to purchasing them onboard.
Bringing Your Own Beverages
Royal Caribbean has specific rules regarding bringing your own beverages onboard. While you can bring some items, there are restrictions to be aware of.
- Guests are allowed to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per adult on embarkation day. This can be a great way to enjoy a bottle of wine in your stateroom without paying onboard prices.
- Guests can also bring non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda, water, or juice, in limited quantities. These must be in cans or bottles.
- Hard liquor and beer are not allowed to be brought onboard. These items will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.
Breaking these rules can result in your beverages being confiscated, so it’s important to adhere to Royal Caribbean’s policies.
Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise
Deciding whether to purchase a beverage package or pay as you go depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. Evaluating your needs can help you make the most cost-effective decision.
Assess Your Drinking Habits
Consider how many drinks you typically consume per day. If you enjoy several cocktails, beers, or specialty coffees, a beverage package is likely the better option. If you only drink a few beverages, paying as you go might be more economical.
For example, if you plan to drink four cocktails per day at an average cost of $12 each, you’ll spend $48 per day on drinks alone. A Deluxe Beverage Package, which typically costs around $70-$90 per day, could be a worthwhile investment in this scenario.
Consider Your Travel Style
Think about your overall travel style and how much time you plan to spend onboard the ship. If you’re primarily focused on shore excursions and activities, you might not have as much time to consume beverages, making a package less valuable.
On the other hand, if you plan to spend a significant amount of time relaxing by the pool or enjoying onboard entertainment, a beverage package can provide a convenient and cost-effective way to stay refreshed.
Compare Costs and Benefits
Carefully compare the costs of the different beverage packages and weigh them against the individual drink prices. Calculate how many drinks you would need to consume each day for a package to be worth the investment.
Use online calculators or spreadsheets to help you compare the costs and benefits of each option. This can provide a clearer picture of which choice is the most financially advantageous for your cruise.
Myth: Beverage Packages Are Always the Best Deal
Truth: While beverage packages can be a great value for some, they’re not always the best deal for everyone. If you only drink a few beverages per day or prefer to stick to water and complimentary drinks, paying as you go might be more cost-effective.
Myth: You Can Share a Beverage Package
Truth: Royal Caribbean requires all adults in the same stateroom to purchase the same beverage package. Sharing a package is not allowed, and attempting to do so can result in the package being revoked.
Myth: All Drinks Are Included in the Deluxe Beverage Package
Truth: While the Deluxe Beverage Package covers a wide range of drinks, there are some exceptions. Premium liquors and certain specialty drinks that exceed the price limit (typically $14) are not included and will incur an additional charge.
FAQ
How much is a soda on a Royal Caribbean cruise if I don’t have a package?
Individual fountain sodas typically cost between $3 and $4, plus an 18% gratuity, when purchased without a beverage package. Prices can vary slightly by venue.
Can I bring my own water on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Yes, you can bring non-alcoholic beverages, including water, in cans or bottles, but in limited quantities. Hard liquor and beer are not permitted.
Is it worth getting the Deluxe Beverage Package on Royal Caribbean?
It depends on your drinking habits. If you plan to consume several alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and bottled water each day, the Deluxe Beverage Package can be a good value. Consider your typical consumption and compare it to the package price.
Are there any complimentary drinks on Royal Caribbean cruises?
Yes, complimentary beverages include water, coffee (regular), tea, lemonade, and iced tea. These are usually available in the Windjammer Marketplace and select other locations.
What happens if I try to share a beverage package with someone else?
Sharing a beverage package is not permitted on Royal Caribbean. If caught, the package may be revoked without a refund.
How much are gratuities on drinks on Royal Caribbean?
An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all individual beverage purchases on Royal Caribbean. Beverage packages include daily gratuities in their overall price.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do beverages cost on a Royal Caribbean cruise is an essential part of planning your trip and sticking to your budget. By weighing the costs and benefits of beverage packages versus individual drink purchases, being aware of hidden costs like gratuities, and considering your personal drinking habits, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs. Now, go ahead and book your cruise with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect when it comes to onboard beverage expenses!