Imagine yourself lounging by the pool on a Celebrity cruise, the warm sun on your skin, and the ocean breeze in your hair. But before you reach for that refreshing cocktail, you might be wondering, how much are drinks on a Celebrity cruise? This blog post will break down the beverage costs, from basic drinks to premium packages, helping you budget and decide which option best suits your vacation needs. We’ll cover individual drink prices, different drink packages, and tips for saving money on beverages while enjoying your Celebrity cruise.
Understanding Celebrity Cruise Drink Prices
Celebrity Cruises offers a wide variety of beverages, and understanding their pricing structure is key to planning your onboard spending. This section will delve into the average costs of different types of drinks, from soda and juice to beer, wine, and cocktails. We’ll also explore factors that can influence these prices, such as the specific bar or lounge, the ingredients used, and any onboard promotions that may be available.
Typical Drink Prices
Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of drinks, each with a corresponding price. Here’s a general overview:
- Sodas and Juices: Expect to pay around $3 – $5 for a soda or juice. These are usually readily available at most bars and lounges.
These are staple drinks that can be readily sourced from any bar on the ship. The ease of preparation makes them an affordable option.
- Beers: Beers typically range from $7 – $9, depending on the brand and whether it’s domestic or imported.
A wider selection of beers, including specialty and craft brews, may command slightly higher prices.
- Wines by the Glass: Wine prices can vary considerably, from around $10 – $15 for a basic glass to much higher for premium selections.
Wine connoisseurs can choose from an extensive wine list, featuring both domestic and international wines.
- Cocktails: Cocktails are generally priced between $12 – $15. This includes classic cocktails as well as specialty drinks created by the onboard mixologists.
Signature cocktails and those made with premium spirits may be priced at the higher end of the range.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors can impact the price you pay for a drink on a Celebrity cruise. These include:
- Bar Location: Prices may vary slightly between different bars and lounges on the ship. Specialty bars might have higher prices for certain drinks.
Rooftop bars or those with premium views often have higher prices due to the ambiance.
- Ingredient Quality: Cocktails made with premium spirits or fresh, high-quality ingredients may be more expensive.
A cocktail made with top-shelf liquor will naturally cost more than one made with well liquor.
- Onboard Promotions: Keep an eye out for daily specials or happy hour promotions that can help you save money on drinks.
These promotions can vary, so check the daily cruise planner or the Celebrity Cruises app for details.
A 2022 report by Cruise Market Watch indicated that onboard spending on beverages can account for a significant portion of a passenger’s total cruise cost, highlighting the importance of understanding drink prices. Consider using the ship’s app to monitor your spending as you go.
Celebrity Cruise Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Celebrity Cruises offers a range of drink packages that can potentially save you money, depending on your drinking habits. This section will examine the different drink packages available, their costs, and whether or not they represent a good value for your money. We’ll also look at how to estimate your average daily consumption to determine if a drink package is right for you.
Overview of Available Drink Packages
Celebrity Cruises typically offers several drink packages to suit different needs and preferences. These packages allow you to pay a fixed daily price for unlimited drinks within specified limits.
- Classic Package: This package usually includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass, as well as sodas and juices. It’s a good option for those who want a basic selection of alcoholic beverages.
The Classic Package typically covers drinks up to a certain price point, such as $9 per drink.
- Premium Package: The Premium Package offers a wider selection of beverages, including premium spirits, craft beers, and a more extensive wine list. This is ideal for those who enjoy higher-end drinks.
With the Premium Package, the drink price limit is generally higher, often around $15 per drink.
- Zero Proof Package (Non-Alcoholic): This package is designed for those who don’t drink alcohol and includes unlimited sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and premium bottled water.
This is a great option for families or individuals who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Cost of Drink Packages and Value Assessment
The cost of drink packages can vary depending on the length of the cruise and the specific package selected. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
| Drink Package | Approximate Daily Cost (USD) | Typical Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Package | $69 – $79 | Beers, spirits, cocktails (up to $9), wines by the glass, sodas, juices |
| Premium Package | $89 – $99 | Premium spirits, craft beers, extensive wine list (up to $15), all Classic Package inclusions |
| Zero Proof Package | $22 – $30 | Sodas, juices, specialty coffees, premium bottled water |
To determine if a drink package is worth it, estimate your average daily consumption. For example, if you typically drink 5 cocktails per day and each cocktail costs $12, you would spend $60 per day on drinks. In this case, the Classic Package might be a good value. However, consider that a mandatory gratuity (usually around 20%) is added to the price of the drink package. You must factor in the gratuity to correctly assess the total cost.
Estimating Your Daily Consumption
A key step in deciding whether to purchase a drink package is to estimate your average daily beverage consumption. Consider the following:
- Drinking Habits: Are you a heavy drinker, a moderate drinker, or do you mostly stick to non-alcoholic beverages?
Consider your usual drinking patterns when you’re on vacation versus at home. Vacations often involve more socializing and, potentially, more drinking.
- Cruise Itinerary: Are there many port days where you’ll be off the ship and potentially buying drinks ashore?
If you plan to spend most of your port days exploring and trying local beverages, you might not need a drink package for the entire duration of the cruise.
- Alternative Options: Consider whether you prefer to pay as you go or enjoy the convenience of a pre-paid package.
Some people prefer the flexibility of paying for drinks individually, while others appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a drink package.
Remember to factor in that all adults staying in the same stateroom are generally required to purchase the same drink package, which can impact your decision if some members of your party drink more or less than others.
Insert a table here comparing the different drink package options in terms of price, inclusions, and overall value.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a drink package, there are still several ways to save money on beverages while enjoying your Celebrity cruise. This section will provide practical tips for cutting down on your drink bill, from bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages to taking advantage of happy hour specials and loyalty program perks.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverages) Policies
Celebrity Cruises has specific policies regarding bringing your own beverages onboard. Understanding these rules can help you save money on drinks.
- Wine and Champagne: Guests are generally allowed to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard at embarkation.
A corkage fee may apply if you choose to consume it in the ship’s dining rooms or bars.
- Other Beverages: Bringing other alcoholic beverages, such as liquor or beer, is typically prohibited.
These items will likely be confiscated at embarkation and returned to you at the end of the cruise.
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: You are usually allowed to bring non-alcoholic beverages, such as sodas and bottled water, onboard.
This can be a great way to save money, especially if you prefer certain brands or have dietary restrictions.
Happy Hour and Special Promotions
Keep an eye out for happy hour specials and other promotions that can help you save money on drinks.
- Daily Specials: Celebrity Cruises often offers daily specials on certain drinks or cocktails at specific bars.
Check the daily cruise planner or the Celebrity Cruises app for details on these specials.
- Happy Hour: Some bars and lounges may have happy hour promotions with discounted drink prices.
These promotions are usually offered during off-peak hours, such as in the late afternoon.
- Loyalty Program Perks: Members of Celebrity Cruises’ loyalty program, Captain’s Club, may be eligible for complimentary drinks or discounts.
The benefits vary depending on your membership level.
Other Cost-Saving Strategies
Here are some additional strategies to help you save money on drinks:
- Order Water or Iced Tea: Water and iced tea are usually complimentary on Celebrity Cruises.
These are refreshing and hydrating options that can help you avoid purchasing more expensive beverages.
- Share Drinks: Consider sharing a cocktail or a bottle of wine with a friend or partner.
This can be a great way to enjoy a drink without paying for a full serving yourself.
- Utilize the Buffet: The buffet often offers complimentary beverages, such as juice, coffee, and tea.
Take advantage of these options, especially during breakfast and lunch.
According to a 2021 survey by The Points Guy, passengers who brought their own non-alcoholic beverages onboard saved an average of $50 per cruise. Little savings can add up over the course of your cruise.
Understanding Beverage Package Fine Print
Before purchasing a Celebrity Cruises beverage package, it’s crucial to understand the fine print and any restrictions that may apply. This section will highlight some important details to consider, such as included and excluded beverages, sharing policies, and potential cancellation policies.
Included and Excluded Beverages
Each beverage package has a specific list of included and excluded beverages. Make sure you understand which drinks are covered before making your purchase.
- Price Limits: Beverage packages typically have a price limit on the drinks they cover. For example, the Classic Package might cover drinks up to $9, while the Premium Package might cover drinks up to $15.
If you order a drink that exceeds the price limit, you will be charged the difference.
- Premium Brands: Some premium brands of liquor, wine, or beer may not be included in the lower-tier beverage packages.
Check the list of included beverages to ensure that your favorite brands are covered.
- Specialty Drinks: Certain specialty drinks, such as those served at exclusive bars or lounges, may not be included in all beverage packages.
Inquire about the inclusions when ordering at these venues.
Sharing Policies and Restrictions
Celebrity Cruises has strict policies regarding sharing drinks from beverage packages.
- No Sharing: Sharing drinks from a beverage package is generally prohibited.
If caught sharing drinks, your beverage package may be revoked without a refund.
- Minimum Age: All guests who purchase a beverage package must be of legal drinking age.
ID may be required to verify age.
- All Adults in Stateroom: Generally, all adults staying in the same stateroom must purchase the same beverage package.
This policy is designed to prevent sharing and ensure that all guests comply with the cruise line’s rules.
Cancellation Policies and Refunds
Before purchasing a beverage package, understand the cancellation policies and refund options.
- Pre-Cruise Cancellation: You may be able to cancel your beverage package for a full refund if you do so before your cruise departs.
Check the specific terms and conditions of your booking for details.
- Onboard Cancellation: Cancelling a beverage package after the cruise has begun may be subject to penalties or may not be allowed at all.
Contact Guest Services for assistance.
- Refunds: Refunds for cancelled beverage packages may be issued in the form of onboard credit or a refund to your original payment method.
The refund policy may vary depending on the circumstances of the cancellation.
It’s often said that “knowledge is power,” and that definitely applies to understanding the fine print when it comes to cruise drink packages.
Insert an image of the Celebrity Cruise drink package options to further illustrate the differences.
Comparing Drink Prices on Different Cruise Lines
While this guide focuses on Celebrity Cruises, it’s helpful to understand how their drink prices compare to those of other major cruise lines. This section will provide a brief overview of drink prices on Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line, allowing you to make a more informed decision about which cruise line offers the best value for your money.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are generally similar to those on Celebrity Cruises.
- Sodas and Juices: Similar in price to Celebrity, around $3 – $5.
They also offer soda packages for those who consume a large amount of soda throughout the cruise.
- Beers: Slightly cheaper than Celebrity, ranging from $6 – $8.
Royal Caribbean also has a good selection of craft and imported beers.
- Cocktails: Generally priced between $11 – $14.
They offer many themed cocktails tied to specific venues on the ship.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises tends to have slightly lower drink prices than Celebrity Cruises.
- Sodas and Juices: Around $2.50 – $4.
Princess offers a soda card for purchase to receive a discount on soda purchases.
- Beers: Between $5.50 – $7.50.
Their beer selection is comparable to other major cruise lines.
- Cocktails: Averaging between $10 – $13.
Princess also has a premium cocktail menu with higher priced options.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink prices are typically on par with or slightly higher than Celebrity Cruises.
- Sodas and Juices: $3.50 – $5.50.
NCL has a partnership with Pepsi, so Pepsi products are typically available.
- Beers: Ranging from $7 – $9.50.
NCL offers a wide variety of beers, including craft, domestic, and international options.
- Cocktails: Generally priced between $12 – $16.
They offer many unique and innovative cocktails.
Keep in mind that prices can vary slightly based on the specific ship, itinerary, and promotions offered by each cruise line. Also, note that these are average prices and may not reflect specific drinks you are interested in.
FAQ
How much does a beer cost on a Celebrity cruise?
The price of a beer on a Celebrity cruise typically ranges from $7 to $9, depending on the brand and whether it’s domestic or imported. Specialty and craft beers might be priced slightly higher. Keep an eye out for promotions or happy hour specials that could offer discounts on beer purchases.
Are sodas free on Celebrity cruises?
Sodas are generally not free on Celebrity cruises unless you have purchased a beverage package that includes them. If you don’t have a beverage package, you’ll typically pay around $3 to $5 for a soda. Consider the Zero Proof Package for unlimited sodas if you consume them frequently.
Can I bring my own alcohol on a Celebrity cruise?
Celebrity Cruises allows guests to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard at embarkation. However, bringing other alcoholic beverages, such as liquor or beer, is typically prohibited. Any other alcoholic beverages brought onboard may be confiscated and returned to you at the end of the cruise.
What is the gratuity on Celebrity cruise drink packages?
Celebrity Cruises typically adds a mandatory gratuity of around 20% to the price of its drink packages. This gratuity covers the service provided by bartenders and other beverage staff throughout your cruise. Be sure to factor this gratuity into your budget when considering whether to purchase a drink package.
Is the Premium drink package on Celebrity worth it?
Whether the Premium drink package on Celebrity is worth it depends on your drinking habits. If you enjoy premium spirits, craft beers, and a more extensive wine list, and you typically consume several alcoholic beverages per day, the Premium package can be a good value. Estimate your average daily consumption and compare the cost to the package price to determine if it makes financial sense for you.
How can I save money on drinks on a Celebrity cruise?
There are several ways to save money on drinks on a Celebrity cruise. You can bring your own non-alcoholic beverages onboard, take advantage of happy hour specials and daily promotions, and utilize complimentary beverages at the buffet. Additionally, consider ordering water or iced tea, which are usually free, and sharing drinks with a friend or partner.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much are drinks on a Celebrity cruise and the various options available is essential for budgeting and enjoying your vacation to the fullest. By considering individual drink prices, exploring drink packages, and utilizing cost-saving tips, you can make informed decisions that align with your preferences and budget. So, raise a glass and toast to a well-planned and enjoyable Celebrity cruise!