Planning a Royal Caribbean cruise and wondering about the beverage situation? Many first-time cruisers are surprised by the cost of drinks onboard. Imagine relaxing by the pool, craving a refreshing cocktail, only to realize that each drink adds a significant amount to your bill. This guide will break down how much do drinks cost on Royal Caribbean cruise ships, covering everything from individual prices to drink packages, so you can budget effectively and enjoy your vacation without unexpected expenses.
Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Drink Pricing
Understanding the pricing structure for beverages on Royal Caribbean is crucial for managing your onboard spending. Different types of drinks, like alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and sodas, have varied prices. Royal Caribbean also offers different tiers of drink packages that can significantly impact your overall costs. Understanding these options will help you make informed decisions about your beverage consumption during your cruise.
Individual Drink Prices
Individual drink prices on Royal Caribbean cruises can vary depending on the type of beverage and the venue. Knowing the general price range for common drinks can help you estimate your potential spending. For instance:
- Sodas and Juices: These typically range from $3 to $5 per serving. Consider purchasing a soda package if you plan to consume several sodas each day. They are usually readily available at most bars and dining venues.
- Beers: Beer prices generally fall between $7 and $9 for domestic brands and slightly higher for imported or craft options. Royal Caribbean often has promotions on buckets of beer at select bars.
- Cocktails: Expect to pay anywhere from $13 to $15 for a standard cocktail. Specialty cocktails or premium liquors can increase the price. Look for daily cocktail specials at various bars to save money.
- Wines: Wine by the glass usually starts at around $10 and can go much higher for premium selections. Purchasing a bottle of wine with dinner can sometimes be more economical.
- Specialty Coffees: Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees can cost between $4 and $6. If you’re a coffee aficionado, consider a coffee card for discounted rates.
A 2023 report by Cruise Critic suggests that average drink prices on major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, have increased by 5-10% over the past few years due to inflation and supply chain issues.
Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Royal Caribbean offers various drink packages that can provide significant savings for guests who plan to consume multiple drinks per day. Evaluating your drinking habits and comparing the cost of the package to individual drink prices is essential to determine if a package is a good value. These packages range from soda packages to comprehensive alcohol packages.
- Soda Package: Ideal for those who primarily drink sodas, juices, and non-alcoholic beverages. It typically includes unlimited fountain sodas and often a souvenir cup. This package is best if you drink 3-4 sodas per day.
- Refreshment Package: This includes everything in the soda package, plus specialty coffees, teas, and bottled water. If you enjoy specialty coffees or premium teas, this might be the right choice.
- Deluxe Beverage Package: The most comprehensive option, covering virtually all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, beers, wines, and premium coffees. This package often makes sense if you plan to consume 5-6 alcoholic beverages each day.
To determine if a drink package is worth it, calculate the cost of the package per day and compare it to the price of the drinks you would typically consume. For example, if the Deluxe Beverage Package costs $80 per day and you normally drink 5 cocktails priced at $14 each, then the package is a good deal.
Hidden Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for drinks on a Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s important to factor in additional costs and considerations that may not be immediately obvious. These can include gratuities, location-based pricing, and restrictions on drink packages. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Gratuities: Royal Caribbean automatically adds a gratuity (usually 18-20%) to all individual beverage purchases and drink packages. This additional cost should be factored into your overall budget.
- Location-Based Pricing: Prices may vary slightly depending on the bar or restaurant on the ship. Some venues, like specialty restaurants or exclusive bars, may have higher prices.
- Package Restrictions: Drink packages often have restrictions, such as a limit on the price of individual drinks covered by the package or limitations on sharing drinks with others. Make sure to read the fine print before purchasing a package.
- Promotional Offers: Keep an eye out for promotional offers on drink packages, which can sometimes significantly reduce the cost. These offers are often available when booking your cruise or pre-purchasing packages online.
According to Royal Caribbean’s website, the Deluxe Beverage Package typically costs between $70 to $90 per day, depending on the sailing and time of booking. Always check for the latest prices and promotions.
Strategies to Save Money on Drinks
Cruises can be expensive, but there are several strategies you can use to save money on drinks without sacrificing enjoyment. From taking advantage of happy hour deals to bringing your own beverages (where allowed), these tips can help you manage your budget effectively. Planning ahead and being mindful of your consumption are key.
Happy Hour and Drink Specials
Many bars and lounges on Royal Caribbean offer happy hour specials and daily drink promotions. These specials can provide significant savings compared to regular prices. Knowing the schedule and locations of these deals can help you enjoy your favorite beverages at a fraction of the cost.
- Daily Specials: Check the daily cruise planner for information on drink specials offered at various bars and lounges. These specials often feature discounted cocktails or beers.
- Happy Hour: Many bars have designated happy hour periods with reduced prices. Check the times and locations to take advantage of these deals.
- Casino Royale: If you plan to spend time in the casino, take advantage of complimentary drinks offered to players. This can be a significant perk if you’re an avid gambler.
Insert a sample daily cruise planner highlighting drink specials here.
Bringing Your Own Beverages
Royal Caribbean has specific policies regarding bringing your own beverages onboard. Understanding these policies can help you save money by bringing allowed drinks from home. However, it’s essential to adhere to the rules to avoid any issues.
- Allowed Beverages: Royal Caribbean typically allows guests to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages, such as bottled water, sodas, and juices, onboard at embarkation.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Generally, guests are not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages onboard, except for one bottle of wine or champagne per adult guest. This bottle can be consumed in your stateroom or brought to the dining room (a corkage fee may apply).
- Restrictions: Be aware of any restrictions on the size and type of containers allowed. Glass bottles may be prohibited for safety reasons.
Remember to declare any alcohol you bring onboard to avoid potential confiscation. A 2019 study showed that nearly 40% of cruise passengers attempt to sneak alcohol onboard, risking fines or having their beverages confiscated.
Utilizing Loyalty Programs
Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program offers various perks and benefits to members, including discounts on drinks and drink packages. Utilizing your loyalty status can significantly reduce your onboard expenses. Joining the program is free, and you earn points for each night you cruise.
- Discounts: Depending on your loyalty tier, you may be eligible for discounts on individual drinks or drink packages. These discounts can range from 10% to 20% or more.
- Complimentary Drinks: Higher-tier members may receive complimentary drink vouchers or access to exclusive lounges with free drinks.
- Exclusive Events: Loyalty members often receive invitations to exclusive events and parties onboard, where complimentary drinks are served.
Make sure to check your Crown & Anchor Society account before your cruise to see what benefits are available to you. You can also inquire at the guest services desk onboard.
Comparing Drink Prices Across Royal Caribbean Ships
While the base prices for drinks are generally consistent across the Royal Caribbean fleet, there can be slight variations depending on the ship and the specific venue. Understanding these differences can help you plan your spending, especially if you’re cruising on a newer or more luxurious ship.
Older vs. Newer Ships
Newer Royal Caribbean ships often feature a wider variety of bars and lounges, including specialty venues with premium offerings. These venues may have slightly higher prices compared to the standard bars on older ships. For example:
- Quantum Class: Ships like Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas have innovative bars like the Bionic Bar (where robots mix drinks), which may have slightly higher prices due to the novelty.
- Oasis Class: Oasis-class ships, such as Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, feature numerous bars and lounges throughout their neighborhoods, offering a wide range of drink options and prices.
- Smaller Ships: Smaller ships, like those in the Vision Class, typically have fewer bars and a more limited selection of drinks, with prices generally similar to the larger ships.
Keep in mind that the atmosphere and overall experience can vary significantly across different ships and venues, so it’s worth exploring the different options to find what suits your preferences and budget.
Specialty Restaurants and Bars
Specialty restaurants and bars often feature premium drink menus with higher prices compared to the main dining room or standard bars. These venues offer a more upscale experience and unique cocktail creations. For example:
- Chops Grille: This popular steakhouse offers a curated wine list and premium cocktails, which may be priced higher than standard options.
- Izumi: The Japanese restaurant features a selection of sake and Japanese-inspired cocktails, which may also be priced at a premium.
- Vintages: This wine bar offers an extensive selection of wines by the glass and bottle, with prices varying depending on the vintage and region.
If you’re looking to indulge in a special dining experience, be prepared to pay a bit more for your drinks at these specialty venues.
Port Day vs. Sea Day Pricing
Drink prices can sometimes vary between port days and sea days. On port days, some bars may offer discounted drinks to encourage guests to stay onboard and spend money. Keep an eye out for these promotions.
- Port Day Specials: Some bars may offer happy hour specials or discounts on specific drinks during port hours.
- Sea Day Events: On sea days, Royal Caribbean often hosts pool parties and other events with special drink promotions.
- Casino Promotions: The Casino Royale may offer complimentary drinks or special promotions during certain hours, regardless of whether the ship is in port or at sea.
By being aware of these potential variations, you can plan your drink consumption to take advantage of any available discounts or promotions.
Myths About Cruise Drink Costs
There are several common misconceptions about the cost of drinks on Royal Caribbean cruises. Debunking these myths can help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.
Myth: Drinks are Always Included
This is a common misconception. While some luxury cruise lines include all drinks in their fare, Royal Caribbean typically charges extra for most beverages, including alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and sodas. Only basic beverages like tap water, coffee, tea, and some juices at breakfast are usually included. Don’t assume that drinks are free; always check the menu or ask a server.
Myth: Drink Packages are Always the Best Deal
Drink packages can be a great value for some people, but not for everyone. If you only plan to have a few drinks per day, the cost of the package may outweigh the savings. Before purchasing a package, estimate your daily drink consumption and compare the total cost to individual drink prices. Consider factors like your drinking habits, the length of your cruise, and whether you plan to spend much time in port.
Myth: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard Easily
Royal Caribbean has strict policies against bringing alcohol onboard (except for one bottle of wine or champagne per adult). Security personnel screen luggage carefully, and attempting to sneak alcohol onboard can result in confiscation and potential penalties. It’s best to adhere to the cruise line’s rules to avoid any issues. While some passengers succeed in sneaking alcohol, the risk is generally not worth it.
FAQ
FAQ
Question: How much is a beer on Royal Caribbean?
Answer: A domestic beer on Royal Caribbean typically costs between $7 and $9. Imported or craft beers may be slightly more expensive, usually around $8 to $10. Keep an eye out for specials or promotions that could lower the price per beer, especially during happy hour or at specific venues onboard.
Question: What is included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
Answer: The Deluxe Beverage Package on Royal Caribbean includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This typically encompasses cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, specialty coffees, teas, sodas, juices, bottled water, and premium beverages. It’s the most comprehensive package offered, ensuring almost all your drink needs are covered.
Question: Can I share my drink package with someone else?
Answer: No, Royal Caribbean’s drink packages are for individual use only and cannot be shared with other guests. If a guest purchases a drink package, it is expected that they will only be ordering drinks for themselves. Attempting to share drinks with someone who does not have a package can result in the package being revoked.
Question: Are there any non-alcoholic drink packages available?
Answer: Yes, Royal Caribbean offers several non-alcoholic drink packages. These include the Soda Package, which covers fountain sodas and often includes a souvenir cup, and the Refreshment Package, which includes everything in the Soda Package, plus specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, and juices. These are great options for those who don’t consume alcohol.
Question: How can I find out about daily drink specials on my cruise?
Answer: You can find information about daily drink specials on your cruise in several ways. Check the daily cruise planner, which is typically delivered to your stateroom each evening or available on the Royal Caribbean app. Also, look for signs and announcements at various bars and lounges throughout the ship. Asking a bartender is also a reliable way to discover the day’s deals.
Question: Is it cheaper to buy a drink package before my cruise?
Answer: In many cases, it is cheaper to purchase a drink package before your cruise through Royal Caribbean’s website or travel agent. Royal Caribbean often offers promotional discounts on drink packages purchased in advance. Prices can sometimes be higher when purchasing onboard, so pre-planning can lead to savings.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do drinks cost on Royal Caribbean cruise ships and planning accordingly is key to a stress-free vacation. By knowing the individual drink prices, exploring the different drink package options, and utilizing strategies to save money, you can enjoy your favorite beverages without breaking the bank. Remember to check for promotions, consider your loyalty status, and be mindful of your consumption to make the most of your cruise experience. Cheers to smooth sailing and smart spending!