Imagine yourself lounging by the pool on a Celebrity cruise, the sun warming your skin, and a gentle sea breeze rustling through the palm trees. You’re craving a refreshing cocktail. But a thought crosses your mind: how much is a cocktail on Celebrity Cruises? It’s a common question, and understanding the beverage pricing onboard can significantly impact your vacation budget. This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the average cost of drinks, discuss beverage package options, and offer tips on how to save money while enjoying your favorite cocktails on your cruise.
Understanding Cocktail Prices on Celebrity Cruises
Understanding the pricing structure for cocktails on Celebrity Cruises is essential for budgeting your trip. Several factors influence the cost, including the specific drink, ingredients used, and the location on the ship where you purchase it. Being aware of these elements allows you to plan your spending and enjoy your cruise without unexpected surprises.
Average Cocktail Prices
The average cocktail price on Celebrity Cruises typically ranges from $10 to $15 USD, excluding gratuities. Prices can vary depending on the specific cocktail. For example, a classic margarita might be on the lower end of the scale, while a more elaborate drink with premium liquors and fresh ingredients could cost more. Keep in mind that a standard gratuity (usually around 20%) is added to each drink purchase.
- Standard Cocktails: These include classics like Mojitos, Margaritas, and Daiquiris, generally made with standard-brand liquors.
- Premium Cocktails: These cocktails feature high-end liquors, unique ingredients, and often, more complex preparation methods.
- Specialty Cocktails: These unique creations are often themed to a specific bar or event on the ship, adding an element of exclusivity.
These standard cocktails are your go-to options when you’re looking for something familiar and refreshing without breaking the bank. They are consistently available across various bars on the ship, ensuring you always have a reliable choice no matter where you are.
Premium cocktails are for those seeking a more refined drinking experience. They often feature rare or top-shelf liquors, hand-squeezed juices, and artisanal ingredients, making them a bit more expensive but well worth it for the discerning palate.
Specialty cocktails are designed to surprise and delight. These are often concocted by skilled mixologists and might include unusual flavor combinations or dramatic presentations, perfect for a memorable cruise experience.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors contribute to the price of cocktails on Celebrity Cruises. These include the brand of liquor, the complexity of the drink, and the venue where you purchase it. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your drink choices.
- Liquor Brand: Premium and top-shelf liquors will increase the cost of your cocktail.
- Ingredient Quality: Fresh juices, exotic fruits, and handmade syrups can elevate the price of a cocktail.
- Location on the Ship: Some specialty bars or higher-end lounges might have slightly higher prices than the main bars.
Opting for well-known, higher-quality brands such as Grey Goose Vodka or Patron Tequila will always increase the price compared to generic or house liquors. If you have a preference for specific brands, it’s important to be prepared for the higher cost.
The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients significantly enhances the flavor and appeal of a cocktail. Freshly squeezed juices, exotic fruits, and homemade syrups require more preparation and are more costly, contributing to the overall price.
Certain venues on the ship, such as Martini Bars or rooftop lounges, often have a more exclusive atmosphere and specialized cocktail menus, which may translate to slightly higher prices. This premium pricing reflects the unique experience and ambiance these locations offer.
Beverage Package Options on Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises offers several beverage packages designed to cater to different drinking preferences and budgets. These packages allow you to enjoy a wide variety of drinks at a fixed daily price, potentially saving you money if you plan to consume multiple beverages each day. Understanding the available packages and their costs is crucial for making an informed decision.
Classic Package
The Classic Package typically includes a wide selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages up to a certain price point (e.g., $9 per drink). It’s a good option for those who enjoy standard drinks and want to avoid paying for each individual beverage.
- Price: Usually ranges from $59 to $69 per day, plus gratuities.
- Included Drinks: Offers a selection of standard cocktails, beers, and wines by the glass.
- Benefits: Provides a cost-effective way to enjoy a variety of drinks without individual charges.
The price varies depending on the specific cruise and length of the voyage. Always check the current pricing before purchasing, as Celebrity Cruises sometimes offers promotions or discounts.
The included cocktails usually feature house-brand liquors and commonly used mixers. It is a great way to enjoy classic drinks without having to pay extra.
For cruisers who enjoy several drinks a day, the Classic Package can provide significant savings compared to paying for each drink individually. This package also allows you to try new drinks without worrying about the cost.
Premium Package
The Premium Package offers an expanded selection of beverages, including higher-end liquors, specialty cocktails, premium beers, and wines by the glass. It’s suitable for those who prefer more sophisticated drinks and are willing to pay a higher daily price.
- Price: Typically ranges from $79 to $89 per day, plus gratuities.
- Included Drinks: Includes a wide range of premium liquors, specialty cocktails, and higher-quality wines and beers.
- Benefits: Allows you to enjoy a broader range of drinks, including premium options, without additional charges.
The price is higher than the Classic Package, but it reflects the increased selection of premium beverages included. Be sure to check the current pricing for your specific cruise before making a decision.
With the Premium Package, you can enjoy top-shelf brands like Grey Goose Vodka, Bombay Sapphire Gin, and a selection of premium wines and craft beers. This package provides more options and allows you to indulge in higher-quality drinks.
The Premium Package is a great choice for cruisers who enjoy premium beverages and want to explore a wider variety of cocktails and drinks. It offers the convenience of unlimited drinks within the package’s scope, providing better value if you regularly consume premium beverages.
Non-Alcoholic Package (Zero Proof Package)
For those who prefer not to drink alcohol, Celebrity Cruises offers a Non-Alcoholic Package. This package includes a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, such as specialty coffees, teas, juices, bottled water, and sodas.
- Price: Usually around $30 per day, plus gratuities.
- Included Drinks: Includes specialty coffees, teas, juices, sodas, bottled water, and mocktails.
- Benefits: Provides a cost-effective way to enjoy non-alcoholic beverages without individual charges.
The Non-Alcoholic Package is a cost-effective option for those who want to enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic drinks without paying for each individually. It’s a great way to stay hydrated and enjoy refreshing beverages throughout your cruise.
Enjoy a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages, from lattes and cappuccinos to freshly squeezed juices and refreshing mocktails. This package ensures you have plenty of options to quench your thirst without consuming alcohol.
The Non-Alcoholic Package is perfect for those who don’t drink alcohol but still want to enjoy a variety of beverages. It allows you to indulge in specialty coffees, teas, and mocktails without worrying about the cost of each individual drink.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
There are several strategies to save money on drinks while still enjoying your Celebrity Cruise. From taking advantage of happy hour specials to bringing your own wine (with a corkage fee), these tips can help you keep your beverage expenses under control.
Happy Hour Specials
Many bars on Celebrity Cruises offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. These specials are a great way to enjoy your favorite cocktails at a lower price. Keep an eye out for announcements or check the daily program for details.
- Check the Daily Program: The daily program will list the times and locations of happy hour specials.
- Ask Bartenders: Bartenders can inform you about any unadvertised drink specials or promotions.
- Attend Special Events: Some events, like Martini tastings, offer discounted drinks or complimentary beverages.
The daily program, which is delivered to your stateroom each evening, provides a comprehensive schedule of onboard activities and events, including happy hour specials. Make sure to review it carefully to plan your evenings accordingly.
Bartenders are often in the know about special promotions or discounts that may not be widely advertised. Don’t hesitate to ask them if there are any current deals available.
Celebrity Cruises often hosts special events, such as Martini tastings or wine and cheese parties, where you can sample a variety of drinks and snacks at a discounted price or even for free. These events are a fun and budget-friendly way to try new things.
Bring Your Own Wine
Celebrity Cruises allows passengers to bring their own wine onboard, subject to a corkage fee. This can be a cost-effective option if you have a favorite wine you’d like to enjoy during your cruise.
- Corkage Fee: Celebrity charges a corkage fee for each bottle of wine consumed in the dining room or other public areas.
- Enjoy in Your Stateroom: You can enjoy your wine in your stateroom without incurring a corkage fee.
- Consider a Wine Package: If you plan to drink wine frequently, a wine package might be a better value.
The corkage fee typically ranges from $20 to $25 per bottle. Even with the fee, bringing your own wine can be more economical than purchasing bottles from the ship’s wine list, especially if you have a preferred wine that’s not offered onboard.
If you prefer to enjoy your wine in the privacy of your stateroom, you won’t be charged a corkage fee. This is a great option for a quiet evening on your balcony or before heading out for dinner.
Celebrity Cruises also offers wine packages that provide a selection of wines at a fixed price. If you plan to consume several bottles of wine during your cruise, a wine package may be a more cost-effective option than paying individual corkage fees.
Avoid Bottled Water Purchases
Bottled water can add up quickly on a cruise. Consider bringing your own reusable water bottle and refilling it at water fountains or requesting tap water at meals.
- Bring a Reusable Bottle: This helps you avoid purchasing bottled water and reduces plastic waste.
- Request Tap Water: Tap water is safe to drink and is available at no charge in dining rooms and bars.
- Consider a Water Package: If you prefer bottled water, a water package might be more economical.
Bringing your own reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to stay hydrated. You can easily refill your bottle at water fountains or in your stateroom.
Tap water on Celebrity Cruises is safe to drink and is readily available in dining rooms and bars. Don’t hesitate to request tap water instead of bottled water to save money.
If you prefer the taste and convenience of bottled water, consider purchasing a water package. These packages typically offer a set number of bottles at a discounted price compared to buying them individually.
Comparing Drink Prices to Other Cruise Lines
Understanding how Celebrity Cruises’ drink prices compare to those of other cruise lines can help you determine if their beverage packages and individual drink costs align with your preferences and budget. Each cruise line has its own pricing structure and package offerings.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its more budget-friendly pricing. Their drink prices are generally lower than those on Celebrity Cruises. Their “Cheers!” beverage package offers unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for a fixed daily price.
- Average Cocktail Price: Typically ranges from $8 to $12.
- “Cheers!” Beverage Package: Offers unlimited drinks, but it has some restrictions, such as a daily limit and only one drink at a time.
- Target Audience: Carnival caters to a more general audience looking for affordable cruise options.
Carnival’s cocktail prices are generally lower than Celebrity’s, making it a more budget-friendly option for casual drinkers. The difference in price reflects Carnival’s emphasis on affordability.
Carnival’s “Cheers!” package offers great value if you plan to drink frequently, but it’s important to be aware of the restrictions. The package typically costs around $55 to $65 per day, depending on the length of the cruise.
Carnival’s focus on affordability and family-friendly activities makes it a popular choice for a wide range of travelers, including families and budget-conscious cruisers.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean offers a similar range of drink prices as Celebrity Cruises. They also have a beverage package program called “Deluxe Beverage Package,” which includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Average Cocktail Price: Typically ranges from $12 to $16.
- “Deluxe Beverage Package”: Offers unlimited drinks, including premium options, but it’s one of the more expensive packages on the market.
- Target Audience: Royal Caribbean appeals to a broad demographic with a focus on innovation and onboard activities.
Royal Caribbean’s cocktail prices are slightly higher than Carnival’s but similar to Celebrity’s. The price difference reflects Royal Caribbean’s emphasis on a wide variety of onboard amenities and entertainment.
Royal Caribbean’s “Deluxe Beverage Package” offers a wide range of drink options, including premium liquors and specialty cocktails. However, it typically costs around $70 to $90 per day, making it one of the more expensive beverage packages available.
Royal Caribbean’s focus on innovative onboard amenities, such as rock climbing walls and ice-skating rinks, attracts a diverse demographic, including families, couples, and adventure-seekers.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises generally has slightly lower drink prices than Celebrity Cruises. Their beverage packages are also more moderately priced, making them a good option for those looking for a balance between cost and value.
- Average Cocktail Price: Typically ranges from $10 to $14.
- Beverage Packages: Offers several packages, including a Premier Beverage Package that includes premium drinks and a Classic Soda Package for non-alcoholic beverages.
- Target Audience: Princess Cruises tends to attract a more mature audience looking for a relaxed and refined cruise experience.
Princess Cruises offers slightly lower cocktail prices compared to Celebrity, making it a good option for those seeking value. This lower price point is consistent with Princess’s overall approach to affordable luxury.
Princess Cruises offers a variety of beverage packages to suit different preferences and budgets. The Premier Beverage Package includes premium drinks and is priced competitively, while the Classic Soda Package is perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Princess Cruises focuses on providing a relaxed and refined cruise experience, attracting a more mature audience seeking cultural enrichment and elegant surroundings.
Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Drink Prices
There are several misconceptions about drink prices on cruise ships. Separating fact from fiction can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses during your cruise.
Myth: All Drinks are Overpriced on Cruises
Fact: While some drinks might seem expensive, beverage packages can offer significant savings for those who plan to drink regularly. Comparing the cost of individual drinks to the daily package price can help you determine if a package is worthwhile. Additionally, utilizing happy hour specials and other promotions can help reduce the cost of individual drinks.
Myth: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard Easily
Fact: Cruise lines have strict policies against bringing alcohol onboard, and security measures are in place to prevent it. Trying to sneak alcohol onboard can result in confiscation and potential penalties. It’s best to adhere to the cruise line’s policies and take advantage of available beverage options.
Myth: Only Alcoholic Drinks Cost Extra
Fact: Many non-alcoholic beverages, such as specialty coffees, teas, and bottled water, can also incur additional charges. Understanding which drinks are included in your cruise fare and which require extra payment can help you manage your expenses. Opting for tap water and utilizing included beverage options can help you avoid unnecessary costs.
FAQ
How much is a typical cocktail on Celebrity Cruises?
A typical cocktail on Celebrity Cruises ranges from $10 to $15 USD, excluding gratuities. The price can vary based on the specific drink, ingredients, and the bar where you purchase it. Remember to factor in the automatic gratuity (usually around 20%) added to each drink.
Are there beverage packages available on Celebrity Cruises?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises offers several beverage packages. These include the Classic Package, which offers a selection of standard cocktails, beers, and wines; the Premium Package, which includes higher-end liquors and specialty cocktails; and the Non-Alcoholic Package, which offers specialty coffees, teas, and juices. These packages can save you money if you plan to consume multiple beverages daily.
Can I bring my own alcohol onboard Celebrity Cruises?
Celebrity Cruises allows passengers to bring their own wine onboard, subject to a corkage fee. The corkage fee typically ranges from $20 to $25 per bottle if consumed in the dining room or other public areas. You can enjoy your wine in your stateroom without incurring a corkage fee. However, bringing other types of alcohol is generally prohibited.
How can I save money on drinks on Celebrity Cruises?
There are several ways to save money on drinks. Take advantage of happy hour specials, which offer discounted drinks at certain times. Consider purchasing a beverage package if you plan to drink regularly. Bring your own reusable water bottle to avoid buying bottled water, and request tap water at meals, which is free and safe to drink.
Are gratuities included in the price of drinks on Celebrity Cruises?
No, gratuities are not typically included in the advertised price of drinks. Celebrity Cruises automatically adds a gratuity of around 20% to each drink purchase. This is important to factor into your budget when calculating the total cost of beverages.
What non-alcoholic beverages are available on Celebrity Cruises?
Celebrity Cruises offers a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages, including sodas, juices, specialty coffees, teas, and mocktails. The Non-Alcoholic Package includes many of these options, allowing you to enjoy a variety of drinks without paying for each one individually. You can also request tap water, which is available at no charge.
Are drink prices the same at all bars on Celebrity Cruises?
Drink prices are generally consistent across most bars on Celebrity Cruises. However, some specialty bars or higher-end lounges may have slightly higher prices due to the exclusive atmosphere or specialized cocktail menus. It’s always a good idea to check the menu at each location to confirm the prices before ordering.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much is a cocktail on Celebrity Cruises, along with the available beverage package options and money-saving tips, can significantly enhance your cruise experience. By carefully planning your beverage consumption and making informed decisions, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. Whether you opt for a beverage package, take advantage of happy hour specials, or simply enjoy tap water, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a memorable and budget-friendly vacation.