Planning a Celebrity cruise and wondering about the onboard expenses? It’s a common question! Many cruisers want to budget accurately for their trip, and understanding the drink prices is essential. This guide will break down how much do drinks cost on Celebrity Cruises, covering everything from individual drink prices to beverage packages, so you can set realistic expectations and enjoy your vacation without any financial surprises. You’ll learn about the various factors that influence the price of drinks, what options are available for saving money, and helpful tips to maximize your cruise experience.
Understanding Drink Prices on Celebrity Cruises
Understanding the pricing structure for beverages on Celebrity Cruises is essential for planning your cruise budget. Several factors influence the cost of drinks, from the type of drink to the location on the ship where you purchase it. Recognizing these elements can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money during your voyage.
Individual Drink Prices
The prices of individual drinks can vary quite a bit depending on what you’re ordering. Alcoholic beverages like cocktails, beer, and wine will generally be more expensive than non-alcoholic options like soda, juice, or bottled water. Premium brands and specialty drinks will also command a higher price. For example, a basic mixed drink might cost around $10-$14, while a premium cocktail could easily exceed $15 or $16.
- Cocktails: Expect to pay between $10 and $16 for standard cocktails. Premium cocktails, especially those made with top-shelf liquor, can range from $15 to $20+.
- Beer: Domestic beers usually range from $7 to $9, while imported and craft beers could be $8 to $11.
- Wine: Wine by the glass typically starts around $9 and can go up to $20+ for premium selections. Bottles of wine are available for purchase as well, with prices varying significantly based on the vintage and type.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Sodas, juices, and bottled water generally range from $3 to $5 each. Specialty coffees and teas can be slightly more expensive, usually around $4 to $7.
Many cocktails are made with premium ingredients, and skilled bartenders take pride in their craft. The prices reflect the quality and service you receive when ordering these specialty beverages.
Beer selections on Celebrity Cruises often cater to a variety of tastes. From popular domestic brands to unique imported options, you’ll find a range of choices at varying prices.
Wine lovers will appreciate the extensive wine lists available onboard. With options ranging from affordable everyday wines to high-end vintages, there’s something for every palate and budget.
Even if you don’t drink alcohol, staying hydrated is important. While some beverages like basic coffee, tea, and water are complimentary, others like soda and bottled water will cost extra.
Impact of Location on Pricing
The location on the ship where you purchase your drink can also influence the price. For instance, drinks purchased at specialty bars or premium lounges may be more expensive than those ordered at the main pool bar. Additionally, drinks served in the main dining room or at private events might have different pricing structures.
- Specialty Bars and Lounges: Venues such as the Martini Bar or the Molecular Bar often have higher prices due to the unique experience and premium ingredients they offer.
- Pool Bars: Typically offer standard drink prices, making them a more affordable option for casual poolside refreshment.
- Main Dining Room: Drinks ordered in the main dining room generally follow standard pricing, but some premium wines or cocktails might have a higher price point.
These bars often feature expert mixologists who create inventive and aesthetically pleasing drinks. The higher prices reflect the elevated experience and specialized ingredients used.
Pool bars are a great place to grab a quick and refreshing drink without breaking the bank. They usually offer a range of popular cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages at standard prices.
Enjoying a drink with dinner can enhance your dining experience. Check the menu for the pricing of specific beverages, as some premium options might come at an additional cost.
According to a 2022 survey of cruise passengers, drink prices on Celebrity Cruises average about $12 for a cocktail, $8 for a beer, and $4 for a soda when purchased individually. Understanding these costs upfront can help you decide whether a beverage package might be a better fit for your needs. It’s important to remember that these are averages and specific prices may vary.
Beverage Packages: Are They Worth It?
One of the most important decisions when planning a cruise is whether to purchase a beverage package. These packages allow you to pay a fixed daily rate for unlimited drinks, potentially saving you money if you plan on enjoying multiple beverages each day. However, it’s crucial to assess your drinking habits and compare them against the cost of the package to determine if it’s a worthwhile investment. Factors like the type of drinks you prefer, the length of your cruise, and your overall drinking habits will all influence the value of a beverage package.
Types of Beverage Packages Available
Celebrity Cruises offers several types of beverage packages, each catering to different drinking preferences and budgets. These packages typically range from basic options that include non-alcoholic beverages to premium packages that offer unlimited alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and more. Understanding the specifics of each package is crucial for making an informed decision.
- Zero Proof Package: Includes unlimited soda, juices, premium coffees and teas, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
- Classic Package: Includes select cocktails, beers, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, premium coffees and teas, and bottled water.
- Premium Package: Includes all beverages covered in the Classic Package, plus a wider selection of premium liquors, cocktails, beers, wines by the glass, and other specialty drinks.
This package is perfect for guests who do not consume alcohol but still want to enjoy a variety of beverages throughout their cruise. It offers a cost-effective way to stay hydrated and enjoy specialty drinks without incurring individual charges.
The Classic Package is a popular choice for guests who enjoy alcoholic beverages but are not looking for top-shelf brands. It offers a good balance between variety and affordability, making it a great option for many cruisers.
For guests who want the ultimate beverage experience, the Premium Package offers access to a vast array of top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and specialty cocktails. It provides the greatest flexibility and choice, ensuring you can indulge in your favorite drinks throughout your cruise.
Calculating the Break-Even Point
To determine whether a beverage package is worth the cost, you need to calculate the break-even point. This involves comparing the daily cost of the package to the cost of purchasing individual drinks. If you plan on consuming more drinks than the break-even point requires, the package is likely a good investment. Consider the types of drinks you typically enjoy and how many you’re likely to consume each day.
- Calculate the daily cost of the beverage package. Divide the total cost of the package by the number of days in your cruise.
- Determine the average cost of the drinks you typically order. Look at the prices of your favorite cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Calculate the number of drinks you need to consume each day to break even. Divide the daily cost of the package by the average cost of your drinks.
This will give you a clear understanding of how much you’re paying per day for the package.
This will help you estimate how much you would spend on individual drinks each day.
This number will tell you how many drinks you need to consume to make the package worthwhile.
Factors to Consider Beyond Cost
While cost is a significant factor, there are other considerations when deciding whether to purchase a beverage package. Convenience, peace of mind, and the ability to try new drinks without worrying about the cost are all valuable benefits. Additionally, some packages may include perks like discounts on bottles of wine or access to exclusive events.
- Convenience: With a beverage package, you don’t have to worry about signing for each drink or keeping track of your onboard expenses.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have unlimited access to beverages can help you relax and fully enjoy your vacation.
- Trying New Drinks: A beverage package allows you to experiment with different cocktails and wines without the fear of running up a large bill.
This can make your cruise more relaxing and enjoyable, as you can focus on having fun rather than constantly monitoring your spending.
You won’t have to think twice about ordering a drink when you’re thirsty or want to celebrate a special occasion.
This can be a great way to discover new favorites and expand your palate.
A 2021 analysis by Cruise Critic found that passengers who purchase a beverage package tend to spend less on drinks overall compared to those who pay individually. This is often attributed to the peace of mind and convenience that the packages provide, encouraging more responsible and planned consumption. It’s important to assess your personal drinking habits and preferences to determine if a package is the right choice for you.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you choose not to purchase a beverage package, there are still several ways to save money on drinks during your Celebrity cruise. Taking advantage of happy hour specials, purchasing drinks during promotional periods, and utilizing your Captain’s Club benefits can all help you reduce your onboard expenses without sacrificing your enjoyment.
Happy Hour and Drink Specials
Many bars and lounges onboard Celebrity Cruises offer happy hour specials with discounted drink prices. These specials typically occur during off-peak hours, such as early afternoon or late evening. Keep an eye out for announcements in the daily cruise planner or on digital displays around the ship to take advantage of these savings.
- Check the Daily Cruise Planner: The daily planner will list any happy hour specials or drink promotions happening on the ship.
- Ask Bartenders: Bartenders can often provide information about upcoming specials or promotions.
- Look for Signage: Keep an eye out for signs or posters advertising drink specials in various bars and lounges.
This is your go-to resource for finding out about the latest deals and discounts on beverages.
They are a wealth of knowledge about the various offerings on the ship and can help you find the best deals.
These signs will often highlight specific drinks or timeframes with discounted prices.
Captain’s Club Benefits
Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club loyalty program offers various benefits to its members, including discounts on drinks, complimentary happy hour events, and even free drinks for higher-tier members. Be sure to take advantage of these perks if you’re a member of the program.
- Discounted Drinks: Depending on your tier, you may be eligible for discounts on individual drinks or beverage packages.
- Complimentary Happy Hour: Higher-tier members often receive invitations to exclusive happy hour events with complimentary drinks.
- Free Drinks: Some top-tier members may receive a certain number of free drinks per day or per cruise.
These discounts can add up significantly over the course of your cruise.
This is a great opportunity to enjoy free drinks and socialize with other members of the Captain’s Club.
This is a valuable perk that can save you a considerable amount of money on beverages.
Bringing Your Own Wine Onboard
Celebrity Cruises allows passengers to bring a limited amount of wine onboard. While a corkage fee may apply if you consume the wine in the dining room or other public areas, this can still be a cost-effective option if you prefer to enjoy wine in your stateroom. Check Celebrity’s official website for the latest policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard.
- Check the Policy: Before your cruise, review Celebrity’s policy on bringing alcohol onboard to ensure you comply with the rules.
- Consider Corkage Fees: If you plan to consume your wine in the dining room, be aware of the corkage fee, which is usually around $25 per bottle.
- Enjoy in Your Stateroom: The most cost-effective way to enjoy your own wine is to drink it in your stateroom, where no corkage fee applies.
This will help you avoid any issues when boarding the ship.
Factor this fee into your cost calculation to determine if it’s still a worthwhile option.
This can be a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring.
According to Celebrity Cruises’ official website, as of 2023, passengers are allowed to bring two bottles of wine per stateroom on embarkation day. Utilizing this policy can result in significant savings for wine enthusiasts who prefer specific vintages or want to avoid onboard prices. This is a simple and effective way to reduce your overall drink expenses while still enjoying your favorite wines.
Comparing Drink Costs to Other Cruise Lines
When budgeting for a cruise vacation, comparing drink prices across different cruise lines can be a useful exercise. While prices can vary depending on the specific cruise line, the type of drink, and the location on the ship, understanding the general range of costs can help you make an informed decision about which cruise line offers the best value for your money. Celebrity Cruises typically falls within the mid-range category when it comes to drink prices, offering a balance between quality and affordability.
Celebrity Cruises vs. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean, another popular cruise line, generally has slightly lower drink prices than Celebrity Cruises. However, Royal Caribbean’s beverage packages may also be less inclusive, with fewer premium options available. It’s important to compare the specifics of each cruise line’s offerings to determine which one aligns best with your drinking preferences and budget.
| Feature | Celebrity Cruises | Royal Caribbean |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cocktail Price | $12-$16 | $10-$14 |
| Average Beer Price | $7-$11 | $6-$10 |
| Classic Beverage Package | ~$69 per day | ~$63 per day |
| Premium Beverage Package | ~$89 per day | ~$75 per day |
Celebrity Cruises vs. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its budget-friendly pricing, and its drink prices generally reflect this. You can typically expect to pay less for drinks on Carnival compared to Celebrity Cruises, but the quality and selection may also be different. If you’re primarily concerned with saving money, Carnival might be a better option, but if you prioritize premium drinks and a more upscale experience, Celebrity Cruises may be worth the extra cost.
- Cost Savings: Carnival often offers lower drink prices, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious cruisers.
- Quality and Selection: Celebrity Cruises typically offers a wider selection of premium liquors and cocktails.
- Overall Experience: Celebrity Cruises is known for its upscale atmosphere and sophisticated dining options.
If you’re looking to save money on drinks, Carnival can be a good choice.
If you’re a connoisseur of fine beverages, you may prefer Celebrity’s offerings.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious cruise experience, Celebrity might be a better fit.
Celebrity Cruises vs. Luxury Cruise Lines
Luxury cruise lines like Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas often include alcoholic beverages in their cruise fares, providing an all-inclusive experience. While the initial cost of these cruises is higher, you won’t have to worry about paying extra for drinks. If you plan on consuming a significant amount of alcohol during your cruise, a luxury cruise could potentially be more cost-effective in the long run.
- All-Inclusive Pricing: Luxury cruise lines often include alcoholic beverages in their cruise fares.
- Higher Initial Cost: Luxury cruises typically have a higher upfront cost compared to mainstream cruise lines.
- Overall Value: If you plan on consuming a lot of alcohol, a luxury cruise could be a good value, as you won’t have to pay extra for drinks.
This can simplify budgeting and make your cruise more predictable.
Factor this into your decision-making process.
Consider your drinking habits and preferences when weighing the options.
A 2020 comparison of cruise line pricing by The Points Guy revealed that Celebrity Cruises’ beverage packages are competitively priced compared to other mainstream cruise lines. However, the specific value of each package depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. Understanding the pricing structure and offerings of different cruise lines is essential for making an informed decision and maximizing your cruise budget.
FAQ
What is the average cost of a beer on Celebrity Cruises?
The average cost of a beer on Celebrity Cruises ranges from $7 to $11, depending on whether it’s a domestic, imported, or craft beer. Keep an eye out for promotions and happy hour specials that could offer discounts on these prices.
How much is a glass of wine on Celebrity Cruises?
A glass of wine on Celebrity Cruises typically starts around $9 and can go up to $20+ for premium selections. Bottles of wine are also available for purchase, with prices varying significantly based on the vintage and type.
Are there any complimentary drinks on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises offers complimentary basic coffee, tea, and water in the dining rooms and buffet areas. Some Captain’s Club members may also receive complimentary drinks as part of their loyalty benefits.
Can I bring my own alcohol on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring a limited amount of wine onboard, usually two bottles per stateroom on embarkation day. A corkage fee may apply if you consume the wine in the dining room or other public areas.
Is the beverage package on Celebrity Cruises worth it?
The value of a beverage package depends on your drinking habits. If you plan on consuming multiple alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water each day, the package could be a worthwhile investment. Calculate the break-even point to determine if it makes financial sense for you.
Are there any discounts on drinks for Captain’s Club members?
Yes, depending on your tier in the Captain’s Club loyalty program, you may be eligible for discounts on individual drinks, complimentary happy hour events, or even free drinks.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do drinks cost on Celebrity Cruises is crucial for effective cruise budgeting. From individual drink prices to beverage packages, numerous factors can influence your onboard spending. By considering your drinking habits, comparing available options, and taking advantage of cost-saving strategies, you can enjoy your Celebrity cruise without breaking the bank. Plan carefully and you’ll be able to relax and enjoy every sip of your vacation!