Planning a Celebrity Cruise and wondering about the beverage budget? We all know the allure of sipping a cocktail by the pool or enjoying a fine wine with dinner while sailing the open seas. But, how much do drinks cost on Celebrity Cruises, really? This guide breaks down the pricing of various beverages onboard, explores drink package options, and provides tips for managing your onboard spending. Get ready to navigate the world of Celebrity Cruise drink prices like a pro!
Understanding Drink Prices on Celebrity Cruises
Understanding the cost of drinks on a Celebrity Cruise involves knowing the base prices and any associated fees. This knowledge helps you plan your onboard spending effectively, whether you choose to pay as you go or opt for a beverage package. We’ll cover the standard pricing structure and how it applies to different drinks, from alcoholic beverages to non-alcoholic options.
Standard Drink Prices
Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for individual drinks on board.
- Soft Drinks and Juices: Typically range from $3 to $5 per serving. These are perfect for a refreshing sip by the pool or a quick thirst quencher between activities.
- Specialty Coffees and Teas: Prices start around $4 and can go up to $7 for more elaborate concoctions. A great way to start the day or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Beers: Expect to pay around $7 to $9 for domestic and imported beers. A chilled beer is a classic cruise vacation choice.
- Cocktails: These generally range from $10 to $15 each. From margaritas to mojitos, the options are plentiful and can add to the vacation vibe.
- Wine by the Glass: Starts around $9 and can easily exceed $20 for premium selections. Perfect for pairing with your dinner.
The convenience of having readily available soft drinks and juices can be a real lifesaver, especially when you’re enjoying the sun and need something hydrating. Knowing the price allows you to budget accordingly, particularly if you have children or prefer non-alcoholic options.
Specialty coffees and teas offer a touch of luxury and can be a delightful treat while on vacation. Many cruise ships offer a wide variety of options, from lattes and cappuccinos to herbal teas and iced coffees. Budgeting for these little indulgences can make your cruise even more enjoyable.
The price of beer on a cruise can vary depending on the brand and whether it’s a domestic or imported option. Knowing the range helps you determine if purchasing individual beers is more cost-effective than opting for a beverage package, especially if you plan to enjoy a few each day.
Cocktails are a staple of cruise vacations, offering a wide variety of flavors and experiences. However, the cost can quickly add up if you’re purchasing them individually. Knowing the price range can help you decide whether a beverage package is a better value for you.
Wine lovers will find a diverse selection on board, but the cost per glass can vary significantly based on the quality and rarity of the wine. If you plan to enjoy several glasses of wine throughout your cruise, a beverage package that includes wine may be a more economical choice.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the base price, there are additional fees and considerations that can impact the final cost of your drinks.
- Gratuities: Celebrity Cruises automatically adds a gratuity (usually around 20%) to each beverage purchase. This covers the service provided by the bartenders and waitstaff.
- Specialty Bars: Some bars on Celebrity Cruises offer premium drinks with higher price tags. These venues may feature rare spirits, unique cocktails, or special presentations.
- Promotional Offers: Keep an eye out for onboard promotions, such as happy hour deals or discounts on certain drinks. These can help you save money on your beverage consumption.
The automatic gratuity can significantly increase the overall cost of drinks. Knowing this in advance helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises when you receive your final bill. Consider this additional percentage when calculating the value of a beverage package.
Specialty bars often offer an elevated drinking experience, but they come with a higher price point. If you’re interested in exploring these options, be prepared for the costs to exceed the standard drink prices found throughout the ship. These might not be covered by standard beverage packages.
Taking advantage of promotional offers can be a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. Check the daily schedule and onboard announcements for information about happy hours, special events, and discounted beverages. These deals can provide significant savings throughout your cruise.
Celebrity Cruises Beverage Packages: Are They Worth It?
Celebrity Cruises offers various beverage packages designed to cater to different drinking preferences. Determining whether a beverage package is worth it depends on your individual consumption habits and preferences. This section explores the available packages, their inclusions, and provides tips for deciding if they’re right for you.
Types of Beverage Packages
Celebrity Cruises offers different tiers of beverage packages, each with varying levels of inclusions and prices.
- Classic Package: This package typically includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, and specialty coffees. It’s a good option for those who enjoy a variety of standard drinks.
- Premium Package: The Premium Package offers an expanded selection of drinks, including top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and more exotic cocktails. This is ideal for those who prefer higher-end beverages.
- Zero Proof Package: This package focuses on non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty coffees, teas, premium bottled water, and a variety of juices and sodas.
The Classic Package is a popular choice for cruisers who want a wide selection of beverages without paying extra for premium options. It covers many standard drinks, making it a versatile option for those who enjoy cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
The Premium Package caters to those with more discerning tastes, offering access to top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and handcrafted cocktails. It’s a great choice for cruisers who appreciate quality and are willing to pay a bit more for a superior drinking experience.
The Zero Proof Package is perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, offering a wide range of premium beverages. It’s a great value for cruisers who enjoy specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, and other non-alcoholic drinks.
Calculating the Break-Even Point
To determine if a beverage package is worth the cost, you need to calculate the break-even point.
- Determine the Daily Cost: Divide the total cost of the package by the number of days in your cruise. For example, if a package costs $700 for a 7-day cruise, the daily cost is $100.
- Calculate the Number of Drinks: Divide the daily cost by the average price of the drinks you typically consume. For example, if the daily cost is $100 and your average drink costs $12, you would need to consume approximately 8 drinks per day.
- Consider Gratuities: Remember to factor in the gratuity that would be added to each individual drink purchase. This can significantly impact the break-even point.
Calculating the daily cost of the beverage package provides a baseline for determining how many drinks you need to consume each day to make the package worthwhile. This is a crucial step in the decision-making process.
This calculation helps you understand the quantity of drinks you need to consume daily to reach the break-even point. If you typically drink fewer than this amount, the beverage package may not be the most cost-effective option for you.
Gratuities can add a substantial amount to the cost of individual drinks, making the beverage package more appealing. Be sure to include this factor when calculating the break-even point to get an accurate assessment of the value.
Tips for Deciding if a Package is Right for You
Consider these factors when making your decision.
- Your Drinking Habits: Are you a frequent drinker, or do you only enjoy a few drinks per day? If you typically consume several alcoholic beverages each day, a beverage package is likely a good investment.
- The Itinerary: Consider the port days on your cruise. If you plan to spend most of your port days off the ship, you may not consume as many drinks onboard, making a package less valuable.
- Promotions and Discounts: Celebrity Cruises often offers promotions on beverage packages, such as discounts or bundled deals. These promotions can make a package more attractive.
- Non-Alcoholic Preferences: If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the Zero Proof Package may be a worthwhile option. Calculate the cost of your usual non-alcoholic drinks to see if the package offers savings.
Your personal drinking habits are a primary factor in determining the value of a beverage package. If you tend to drink multiple cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine each day, a package can offer significant savings compared to purchasing individual drinks.
The itinerary of your cruise can impact your drinking habits. If your cruise includes several port days where you plan to explore local bars and restaurants, you may not be on the ship enough to take full advantage of a beverage package.
Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts on beverage packages, as these can significantly improve the value. Sometimes, you can find deals that make the package a no-brainer, even if you’re not a heavy drinker.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the Zero Proof Package can be a great option. It provides access to a variety of premium drinks, such as specialty coffees, teas, and bottled water, at a fixed price, potentially saving you money compared to purchasing them individually.
Strategies for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a beverage package, there are still several strategies you can use to save money on drinks onboard. These tips range from taking advantage of promotions to bringing your own beverages (where allowed) and being mindful of your consumption.
Taking Advantage of Promotions
Keep an eye out for onboard promotions and special offers.
- Happy Hour: Many bars on Celebrity Cruises offer happy hour deals with discounted drinks. Check the daily schedule for times and locations.
- Drink of the Day: Some bars feature a “drink of the day” at a special price. This is a great way to try new cocktails without paying full price.
- Bundled Deals: Look for promotions that bundle drinks with other onboard services, such as spa treatments or shore excursions.
Happy hour is a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks at a reduced price. Many bars on the ship offer discounted beverages during specific hours, allowing you to save money without sacrificing your enjoyment. Make sure to check the daily schedule to find out when and where happy hour is offered.
The “drink of the day” is another opportunity to save money while exploring different flavors. These specially priced cocktails offer a chance to try something new without the full price tag, adding variety to your cruise experience.
Bundled deals can offer significant savings by combining drinks with other onboard amenities. For example, you might find a package that includes a spa treatment and a certain number of drinks at a discounted price, making it a great value if you plan to use both services.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverages) Policies
Understand the cruise line’s policy on bringing your own beverages onboard.
- Wine and Champagne: Celebrity Cruises typically allows passengers to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard (usually one or two bottles per stateroom). However, a corkage fee may apply if you consume it in the dining room.
- Other Alcohol: Generally, bringing other types of alcohol onboard is prohibited. Any alcohol purchased in port will be stored until the end of the cruise.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: You can usually bring non-alcoholic beverages onboard, such as bottled water or soda. Check the cruise line’s policy for any restrictions on quantities or packaging.
Bringing your own wine or champagne can be a great way to save money, especially if you have a favorite brand or vintage. However, be aware of the cruise line’s policy on the number of bottles allowed and any corkage fees that may apply if you consume it in public areas.
Most cruise lines have strict policies against bringing hard liquor or beer onboard. If you purchase alcohol in port, it will typically be stored by the cruise line and returned to you on the last day of the cruise. This policy helps ensure responsible alcohol consumption onboard.
Bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages, such as bottled water or soda, can help you save money, especially if you have specific preferences or dietary needs. Be sure to check the cruise line’s policy to ensure you comply with any restrictions on quantities or packaging.
Being Mindful of Your Consumption
Practice mindful drinking to control your costs and enjoy your cruise responsibly.
- Alternate with Water: Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic beverages with water. This helps you consume less alcohol and stay refreshed.
- Avoid Impulse Purchases: Be aware of spontaneous drink purchases, especially at poolside bars or during parties. These can quickly add up.
- Track Your Spending: Monitor your onboard account regularly to keep track of your drink purchases. This helps you stay within your budget and avoid surprises at the end of the cruise.
Alternating alcoholic drinks with water is a great way to stay hydrated and reduce your overall alcohol consumption. This not only helps you save money but also ensures you enjoy your cruise responsibly and avoid feeling unwell.
Impulse purchases can significantly increase your onboard spending. Being mindful of your drinking habits and avoiding spontaneous drink purchases, especially in high-traffic areas like poolside bars or during parties, can help you stay within your budget.
Regularly monitoring your onboard account is essential for staying within your budget. This allows you to track your spending on drinks and other expenses, ensuring you don’t overspend and are aware of any unexpected charges.
Comparing Drink Prices: Celebrity vs. Other Cruise Lines
Comparing drink prices across different cruise lines can help you make an informed decision based on your budget and preferences. While Celebrity Cruises is known for its premium offerings, understanding how its prices compare to other lines can be beneficial. We’ll explore pricing differences with competitor cruise lines.
Price Comparison Table
Here’s a table illustrating approximate drink prices on different cruise lines:
| Drink Type | Celebrity Cruises | Royal Caribbean | Carnival |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Drinks | $3 – $5 | $3 – $5 | $2 – $4 |
| Beers | $7 – $9 | $7 – $9 | $6 – $8 |
| Cocktails | $10 – $15 | $10 – $14 | $9 – $12 |
| Wine by the Glass | $9 – $20+ | $8 – $18+ | $7 – $15+ |
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
Analyzing the table provides insights into how Celebrity Cruises stacks up against other popular cruise lines.
- Soft Drinks: Prices are fairly consistent across Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival.
- Beers: Celebrity and Royal Caribbean have similar pricing, while Carnival tends to be slightly more affordable.
- Cocktails: Celebrity’s cocktail prices are comparable to Royal Caribbean but can be slightly higher than Carnival’s.
- Wine by the Glass: Celebrity and Royal Caribbean offer a wider range of premium wines, which can result in higher prices compared to Carnival.
The cost of soft drinks is generally similar across these cruise lines, making it less of a differentiating factor when choosing a cruise based on beverage costs. If soft drinks are a significant part of your consumption, this consistency can simplify your budgeting process.
Beer prices are relatively comparable between Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, while Carnival offers slightly lower prices. If you’re a beer drinker on a budget, Carnival might be a more attractive option, but the difference is not significant enough to be the sole deciding factor.
The cost of cocktails is similar between Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, but Carnival tends to offer slightly more affordable options. If you plan to enjoy a variety of cocktails, consider this price difference when comparing cruise lines to make the most cost-effective choice.
Wine by the glass can vary significantly depending on the quality and rarity of the wine. Celebrity and Royal Caribbean tend to offer a wider selection of premium wines, which can lead to higher prices. Carnival’s selection might be more limited but also more budget-friendly.
Other Factors to Consider
Beyond the base prices, consider the overall cruise experience and value proposition.
- Inclusions: Some cruise lines may offer complimentary beverages or perks that can offset the cost of drinks.
- Quality and Variety: Celebrity Cruises is known for its high-quality beverages and extensive selection. Consider whether the quality justifies the higher price compared to other lines.
- Promotions: Always check for promotions and discounts on drink packages or individual drinks when comparing cruise lines.
Certain cruise lines may include complimentary beverages, such as coffee, tea, and juices, or offer perks like free drink vouchers or onboard credits. These inclusions can help offset the cost of drinks and make a particular cruise line a more attractive option.
Celebrity Cruises is recognized for its high-quality beverages and extensive selection, offering a premium drinking experience. If you value quality and variety, the slightly higher prices may be worth it. Consider whether the quality justifies the cost compared to other cruise lines with more budget-friendly options.
Always check for promotions and discounts on drink packages or individual drinks when comparing cruise lines. Special offers can significantly impact the overall cost and make one cruise line more appealing than another. Keep an eye out for these deals to maximize your savings.
FAQ
How much is a beer on a Celebrity Cruise?
A beer on a Celebrity Cruise typically ranges from $7 to $9, depending on whether it’s a domestic or imported brand. Prices can vary slightly depending on the specific bar or venue on the ship.
Are drinks free on Celebrity Cruises?
Basic drinks like water, coffee, tea, and some juices are usually complimentary on Celebrity Cruises. However, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and premium bottled water typically cost extra unless you have a beverage package.
What drinks are included in the Classic Package?
The Classic Package on Celebrity Cruises usually includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass (up to a certain price point), sodas, juices, and specialty coffees. The specific inclusions can vary, so it’s best to check the details on the Celebrity Cruises website.
Is it cheaper to buy a drink package or pay as you go?
This depends on your drinking habits. If you plan to consume several alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks each day, a drink package is likely more cost-effective. Calculate the break-even point by comparing the daily cost of the package to the price of individual drinks to make an informed decision.
Do Celebrity Cruises offer non-alcoholic drink packages?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises offers a Zero Proof Package specifically for non-alcoholic beverages. This package includes specialty coffees, teas, premium bottled water, and a variety of juices and sodas.
Are gratuities included on drink packages?
Gratuities are typically included on Celebrity Cruises drink packages. This means you won’t have to pay an additional gratuity on each individual drink you order while using the package. Be sure to confirm this when booking your package.
Can I bring my own drinks on a Celebrity Cruise?
Celebrity Cruises generally allows passengers to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard (usually one or two bottles per stateroom). However, other types of alcohol are typically prohibited. You can usually bring non-alcoholic beverages onboard, but check the cruise line’s policy for any restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much drinks cost on Celebrity Cruises is essential for budgeting and enjoying your cruise to the fullest. Whether you choose to pay as you go, opt for a beverage package, or utilize cost-saving strategies, planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable vacation. Take the time to assess your drinking habits, compare your options, and make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and budget. Cheers to a fantastic cruise!