Imagine yourself lounging on the deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, soaking up the sun and craving a refreshing cocktail. Before you order, you might be wondering: how much do individual drinks cost on Royal Caribbean cruises? Understanding the beverage pricing structure is essential for budgeting and enjoying your vacation to the fullest. This post breaks down the average prices for various drinks, potential drink packages, and tips for saving money on beverages during your cruise, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your time at sea without unexpected expenses.
Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Beverage Pricing
Getting a grasp on how Royal Caribbean prices its drinks is crucial for planning your budget. The cruise line offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, each with its own cost structure. By understanding these pricing models, you can make informed decisions about what to drink and whether purchasing a beverage package is the right choice for you.
Average Drink Prices Onboard
Royal Caribbean’s beverage prices are generally comparable to what you might find at a resort or bar on land. Prices can fluctuate slightly depending on the specific ship, itinerary, and venue, but here’s a general breakdown:
- Soft Drinks (Soda): Typically around $3-4 per can or glass.
Soft drinks like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and ginger ale are usually priced per serving. Purchasing a soda package can be a cost-effective option if you plan to consume multiple soft drinks daily. Some locations may offer free soda refills with a soda package purchase.
- Juices: Around $4-6 per glass.
Juices such as orange juice, apple juice, and cranberry juice are commonly available at various bars and restaurants. Prices may vary depending on the brand and whether the juice is fresh or from concentrate. Freshly squeezed juices tend to be more expensive.
- Bottled Water: About $3-5 per bottle.
Staying hydrated is vital on a cruise. Bottled water is available for purchase, but you can also bring your own sealed bottles of water onboard. Consider a water package if you prefer the convenience of having bottled water readily available.
- Coffee & Tea: Usually $3-5 per cup.
Basic coffee and tea are often included in the main dining room and buffet. Specialty coffee drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos, are available at coffee shops like Cafe Promenade and typically cost extra. Teas are also available, with premium options incurring additional charges.
- Beers: Generally $7-9 per bottle or draft.
Beer prices can vary depending on the brand, with domestic beers usually being slightly cheaper than imported or craft beers. Draft beer is available at many bars and lounges. Purchasing beer by the bucket may offer some savings.
- Wine: Around $9-15 per glass.
Wine is sold by the glass or by the bottle. Prices depend on the type and quality of the wine. House wines are typically more affordable than premium selections. Wine packages can offer significant savings for wine enthusiasts.
- Cocktails: Usually $12-14 each.
Cocktail prices vary depending on the ingredients and complexity of the drink. Classic cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and daiquiris are standard offerings. Specialty cocktails unique to specific bars or venues may be priced higher.
According to a 2022 study by Cruise Market Watch, the average onboard spending on beverages per passenger is approximately $350 per cruise. This figure underscores the importance of understanding drink prices and considering beverage packages to manage costs.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors can influence the prices of drinks on Royal Caribbean cruises. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate and manage your onboard spending:
- Ship Class: Newer and larger ships often have a wider selection of premium beverages and specialty bars, which may command higher prices.
Larger ships, such as those in the Oasis and Quantum classes, often feature a greater variety of bars and lounges, including specialty venues with unique cocktail menus. These premium offerings can result in higher overall drink prices compared to smaller, older ships.
- Itinerary: Cruises to more exotic destinations or longer itineraries may have slightly higher prices due to increased transportation and supply costs.
Itineraries that include stops in remote or less-developed ports may experience higher beverage prices due to the increased logistical challenges of supplying the ship. Longer itineraries, which require more extensive stocking, can also impact prices.
- Venue: Specialty bars and lounges, such as the Rising Tide Bar or the Bionic Bar, often feature premium drinks with corresponding higher prices.
Specialty bars often employ skilled mixologists and use higher-quality ingredients, justifying the higher price point. The unique atmosphere and entertainment offered at these venues also contribute to the premium pricing.
- Promotions: Royal Caribbean frequently offers promotions on drinks, such as happy hour specials or discounts for certain drinks.
Keep an eye out for daily promotions and happy hour specials advertised in the ship’s daily planner or on digital signage. These promotions can provide significant savings on select beverages. Loyalty program members may also receive additional discounts or complimentary drinks.
Real-life example: On a recent Oasis-class cruise, a passenger who opted for individual drink purchases spent an average of $80 per day on beverages, significantly more than the cost of a Deluxe Beverage Package, which would have covered unlimited drinks for a fixed daily price.
Exploring Royal Caribbean’s Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean offers several drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. These packages can be a great way to control your spending and enjoy unlimited drinks throughout your cruise. Understanding the different packages and their costs is essential for making an informed decision.
Types of Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean typically offers several drink packages, each with varying inclusions and prices:
- Deluxe Beverage Package: Includes virtually all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, such as cocktails, beer, wine, soda, juices, specialty coffees, and bottled water.
The Deluxe Beverage Package is the most comprehensive option, offering unlimited access to a wide range of beverages. This package is ideal for guests who plan to consume a variety of drinks throughout the day, including cocktails, beer, wine, and specialty coffees. It also includes a discount on bottles of wine.
- Refreshment Package: Includes non-alcoholic drinks such as soda, juices, specialty coffees, bottled water, and mocktails.
The Refreshment Package is designed for guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. It provides unlimited access to soda, juices, specialty coffees, bottled water, and mocktails. This package is a great option for children, teens, and adults who do not consume alcohol.
- Soda Package: Includes unlimited fountain soda and juice from the soda fountain.
The Soda Package is the most basic option, offering unlimited fountain soda and juice. This package is suitable for guests who primarily consume soda and juice and do not require access to other beverages like specialty coffees or bottled water.
According to Royal Caribbean’s website, the Deluxe Beverage Package typically costs between $70 to $90 per day, per person, depending on the cruise and time of purchase. Purchasing the package before your cruise can often result in significant savings.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Drink Packages
Determining whether a drink package is worth the investment requires a careful analysis of your drinking habits and preferences:
- Calculate Your Average Daily Drink Consumption: Estimate how many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks you typically consume in a day.
Consider your drinking habits both at home and on vacation. If you typically enjoy several cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine throughout the day, a drink package may be a worthwhile investment. Also, factor in non-alcoholic beverages like soda, juice, and specialty coffee.
- Compare the Cost of Individual Drinks vs. the Package: Multiply your estimated daily consumption by the average price of each drink and compare the total cost to the daily price of the package.
Use the average drink prices mentioned earlier in this post to calculate the cost of purchasing individual drinks. Compare this total to the daily price of the drink package. If the cost of individual drinks exceeds the package price, the package is likely a better value.
- Consider the Convenience Factor: A drink package offers the convenience of unlimited drinks without having to worry about the cost of each individual beverage.
The convenience of a drink package can enhance your overall cruise experience. Knowing that you can order any eligible drink without incurring additional charges can add to your relaxation and enjoyment. This can be particularly valuable if you plan to frequent bars and lounges throughout the day.
Case study: A family of four (two adults and two teenagers) on a 7-night cruise purchased the Deluxe Beverage Package for the adults and the Refreshment Package for the teenagers. They found that the packages not only saved them money but also simplified their budgeting and allowed them to enjoy their vacation without constantly monitoring their spending.
Strategies for Saving Money on Drinks
If you prefer not to purchase a drink package, there are several strategies you can employ to save money on drinks during your Royal Caribbean cruise. These tips can help you enjoy your favorite beverages without breaking the bank.
Take Advantage of Free Beverages
Royal Caribbean offers several complimentary beverage options throughout the day:
- Water, Coffee, and Tea: Available in the main dining room and buffet.
Complimentary water, coffee, and tea are readily available in the main dining room and buffet. Take advantage of these options to stay hydrated and caffeinated without incurring additional charges. Bringing your own refillable water bottle can also help reduce the need to purchase bottled water.
- Juice at Breakfast: Typically offered complimentary during breakfast hours.
Juice is often offered complimentary during breakfast hours in the main dining room and buffet. This can be a great way to start your day with a refreshing beverage without spending extra money. Check the daily schedule for specific breakfast times and locations.
- Select Complimentary Events: Some events, such as Captain’s receptions, may offer complimentary drinks.
Keep an eye out for special events and receptions that offer complimentary drinks. These events can be a great way to enjoy a free cocktail or glass of wine while socializing with other passengers and crew members. Check the ship’s daily planner for information on upcoming events.
A 2021 survey by The Points Guy found that over 70% of cruise passengers take advantage of free beverage options to save money on their cruise. This highlights the popularity and effectiveness of this strategy.
Bring Your Own Beverages Onboard
Royal Caribbean allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard:
- Allowed Items: Passengers are typically allowed to bring up to two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom on embarkation day. Non-alcoholic beverages in cans or bottles are also permitted, with some restrictions on size and quantity.
Review Royal Caribbean’s specific policy on bringing beverages onboard before your cruise. Generally, passengers are allowed to bring a reasonable amount of non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption. Check the cruise line’s website or contact customer service for the most up-to-date information.
- Restrictions: Alcohol purchased in ports of call will be stored by the cruise line until the end of the cruise.
Alcohol purchased in ports of call will typically be stored by the cruise line until the end of the cruise. This policy is in place to regulate the consumption of alcohol onboard and ensure that passengers comply with the ship’s rules. You will be able to retrieve your purchases on the final day of the cruise.
Sample scenario: A passenger brought two bottles of wine onboard and saved approximately $60 compared to purchasing the same amount of wine by the glass in the ship’s bars and restaurants.
Look for Drink Specials and Promotions
Royal Caribbean frequently offers drink specials and promotions at various bars and lounges:
- Happy Hour: Many bars offer discounted drinks during happy hour.
Happy hour is a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks at a reduced price. Check the ship’s daily planner or digital signage for information on happy hour times and locations. Some bars may offer different specials on different days or times.
- Drink of the Day: A featured cocktail is often offered at a discounted price.
The “drink of the day” is a featured cocktail offered at a discounted price for a limited time. This can be a great way to try new drinks and save money. Check the daily planner or ask the bartender for the “drink of the day.”
- Two-for-One Deals: Occasionally, bars offer two-for-one deals on select drinks.
Two-for-one deals are a great way to double your savings on drinks. Keep an eye out for these promotions, which may be offered at specific bars or during certain times of the day. These deals are particularly beneficial if you are traveling with a companion.
Myth debunked: Many people believe that drink prices are fixed and never change. In reality, Royal Caribbean frequently offers promotions and specials, allowing savvy passengers to save money on their favorite beverages.
Navigating Royal Caribbean’s Beverage Policies
Understanding Royal Caribbean’s beverage policies is crucial for avoiding unexpected charges and ensuring a smooth cruise experience. These policies cover various aspects, from bringing your own beverages onboard to understanding the rules surrounding drink packages.
Understanding Drink Package Rules
Royal Caribbean’s drink packages come with specific rules and guidelines:
- Package Sharing: Drink packages are non-transferable and cannot be shared. If one adult in a stateroom purchases a Deluxe Beverage Package, all adults of legal drinking age in the same stateroom must also purchase the package.
Royal Caribbean requires all adults of legal drinking age in the same stateroom to purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package if one adult opts for it. This policy is designed to prevent package sharing and ensure that all guests adhere to the cruise line’s beverage policies. Exceptions may be made in certain circumstances, such as for medical reasons, but these require prior approval.
- Minimum Purchase Age: Guests must be of legal drinking age (typically 21 in North America and 18 in Europe) to purchase a beverage package that includes alcohol.
Guests must be of legal drinking age to purchase a beverage package that includes alcohol. Proof of age may be required at the time of purchase or when ordering drinks. Guests who are under the legal drinking age can purchase the Refreshment Package or Soda Package, which include non-alcoholic beverages only.
- Package Validity: Drink packages are valid for the entire duration of the cruise.
Drink packages are valid for the entire duration of the cruise and cannot be purchased for individual days. This policy ensures that guests who purchase a drink package commit to it for the entire sailing, which helps the cruise line manage inventory and pricing.
Knowing the Fine Print
It is essential to read and understand the fine print associated with Royal Caribbean’s beverage policies:
- Gratuities: Drink package prices typically include gratuities. However, an additional gratuity may be added for certain premium drinks or services.
Drink package prices typically include gratuities, but it’s always a good idea to confirm this before purchasing the package. An additional gratuity may be added for certain premium drinks or services, such as bottles of wine or special cocktails. Check the terms and conditions of the package for specific details.
- Excluded Items: Certain premium drinks and bottles of wine may not be included in the Deluxe Beverage Package.
While the Deluxe Beverage Package includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, certain premium drinks and bottles of wine may be excluded. Check the list of included beverages to ensure that your favorite drinks are covered. You may be able to use a discount on bottles of wine, even if they aren’t fully covered by the package.
- Policy Changes: Royal Caribbean’s beverage policies are subject to change.
Royal Caribbean’s beverage policies are subject to change, so it’s important to review the most up-to-date information before your cruise. Check the cruise line’s website or contact customer service for the latest policies and guidelines. Changes may occur due to regulatory requirements or internal operational adjustments.
Insert a comparison chart here showcasing the different drink packages, their inclusions, and average costs.
Alcohol Restrictions
Royal Caribbean has specific policies regarding alcohol consumption onboard:
- Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age on Royal Caribbean ships is generally 21 in North America and 18 in Europe, regardless of the ship’s location.
Royal Caribbean enforces the legal drinking age on its ships, which is generally 21 in North America and 18 in Europe. Guests may be required to show proof of age when ordering alcoholic beverages. Violations of the drinking age policy may result in penalties, such as confiscation of alcohol or disembarkation.
- Responsible Drinking: Royal Caribbean encourages responsible drinking and reserves the right to refuse service to guests who appear intoxicated.
Royal Caribbean encourages responsible drinking and reserves the right to refuse service to guests who appear intoxicated. The cruise line wants all passengers to enjoy their cruise experience safely and responsibly. Guests who become disruptive or pose a safety risk may be subject to disciplinary action.
- Bringing Alcohol Onboard: As mentioned earlier, passengers are generally allowed to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard, but other alcohol is prohibited.
As mentioned earlier, passengers are generally allowed to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard, but other alcohol is prohibited. Alcohol purchased in ports of call will be stored by the cruise line until the end of the cruise. This policy helps regulate the consumption of alcohol onboard and ensures compliance with the ship’s rules.
Real-life example: A passenger attempted to bring a large quantity of liquor onboard hidden in their luggage. The alcohol was discovered during security screening, and the passenger was informed that it would be stored until the end of the cruise. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to Royal Caribbean’s beverage policies and avoiding prohibited items.
FAQ
How much is a beer on Royal Caribbean?
The cost of a beer on Royal Caribbean typically ranges from $7 to $9 per bottle or draft. Prices can vary based on the brand, with domestic beers often being slightly cheaper than imported or craft options. Purchasing beer by the bucket might offer some savings compared to individual purchases.
Are drinks free on Royal Caribbean cruises?
Basic drinks like water, coffee, and tea are generally free on Royal Caribbean cruises, especially in the main dining room and buffet areas. Juice may also be complimentary during breakfast hours. However, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, sodas, and bottled water usually come at an additional cost unless you have a drink package.
Is it worth getting a drink package on Royal Caribbean?
Whether a drink package is worth it depends on your drinking habits. If you plan to have several alcoholic drinks or specialty beverages each day, a drink package can save you money. Consider your average daily consumption and compare the cost of individual drinks to the package price. Also, factor in the convenience of unlimited drinks.
Can I bring my own drinks on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Yes, Royal Caribbean typically allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages, such as cans or bottles, and up to two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom on embarkation day. However, alcohol purchased in ports of call will be stored until the end of the cruise.
What is the legal drinking age on Royal Caribbean cruises?
The legal drinking age on Royal Caribbean cruises is generally 21 in North America and 18 in Europe, regardless of the ship’s location. Guests may be required to show proof of age when ordering alcoholic beverages.
How much does a cocktail cost on Royal Caribbean?
Cocktail prices on Royal Caribbean typically range from $12 to $14 each. Prices can vary depending on the ingredients and complexity of the drink. Specialty cocktails unique to specific bars or venues may be priced higher than classic cocktails.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do individual drinks cost on Royal Caribbean cruises, along with the available drink packages and cost-saving strategies, allows you to better plan your onboard budget and maximize your vacation experience. Whether you choose to purchase a drink package or pay as you go, being informed about the pricing and policies will help you avoid unexpected expenses and enjoy your cruise to the fullest. Remember to compare your potential consumption with package costs and always look for promotions.