Picture this: you’re lounging on the deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, the sun is shining, and you’re craving a refreshing Coca-Cola. But before you reach for that ice-cold can, you might be wondering, how much do Coke cost on a Royal Caribbean cruise? This blog post will break down all the costs associated with enjoying your favorite soft drink while sailing the high seas, from individual purchases to beverage packages, so you can budget accordingly and enjoy your cruise to the fullest.
Understanding Beverage Packages on Royal Caribbean
Beverage packages are an important aspect to consider when planning your onboard spending, as they significantly impact the overall cost of drinks, including Coke products. This section provides a deep dive into the different beverage packages available on Royal Caribbean cruises, their prices, what they include, and whether they are a worthwhile investment for your cruise.
Types of Beverage Packages
Royal Caribbean offers several beverage packages to cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding these packages is crucial for determining the most cost-effective way to enjoy Coke products and other drinks.
- Classic Soda Package: This package includes unlimited fountain sodas, Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages, juices, and non-alcoholic cocktails. It’s a great option for those who primarily drink soda. It typically costs around $12.99 per person, per day, plus gratuity.
The Classic Soda Package caters specifically to soda lovers, ensuring they have unlimited access to their favorite bubbly drinks throughout the cruise. The inclusion of Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages allows for endless customization and flavor combinations.
- Refreshment Package: This package expands on the soda package by including specialty coffees and teas, bottled water, and mocktails. The typical cost is $29.99 per person, per day, plus gratuity.
The Refreshment Package is perfect for those who enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, providing a broader selection than the soda package. This package is especially appealing to coffee and tea enthusiasts.
- Deluxe Beverage Package: This is the most comprehensive package, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It features premium cocktails, beers, wines, fountain sodas, specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, and more. The price is around $85 – $95 per person, per day, plus gratuity.
The Deluxe Beverage Package is the ultimate option for those who want to enjoy both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages without worrying about individual costs. It offers unparalleled variety and convenience.
Package Pricing and Gratuities
It’s crucial to factor in gratuities when budgeting for beverage packages. Royal Caribbean automatically adds a gratuity to the cost of each package, which can significantly impact the overall price. Also, keep an eye out for pre-cruise discounts which can make the package more affordable.
- Gratuities: Royal Caribbean automatically adds an 18% gratuity to the cost of all beverage packages.
The automatic gratuity covers the service provided by the bar staff and ensures that they are adequately compensated for their work. It’s a standard practice on cruises and should be considered when calculating the overall cost.
- Pre-Cruise Discounts: Royal Caribbean often offers discounts on beverage packages when purchased online before the cruise.
Taking advantage of pre-cruise discounts can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you plan on purchasing a beverage package. Be sure to check the Royal Caribbean website for current promotions.
- Package Sharing: Royal Caribbean requires that all adults of legal drinking age in a stateroom purchase the same beverage package.
This policy prevents one person from purchasing a package and sharing the benefits with others in the stateroom. It’s important to be aware of this rule when making your decision.
Is a Beverage Package Worth It for Coke Drinkers?
To determine if a beverage package is worth it, consider how many Coke products you typically consume per day and compare that to the cost of purchasing them individually versus the cost of the package. You can generally find that purchasing a soda package is worth it if you plan on drinking 3-4 sodas daily.
For example, if the soda package costs $12.99 per day (plus 18% gratuity, making it approximately $15.33), and a can of Coke costs $3.50, you would need to drink approximately 4.38 sodas to break even. So, if you drink 4 or more sodas per day, the package is worth it. According to a 2022 survey, 70% of cruise passengers who purchased a beverage package found it to be a good value for their money.
Individual Coke Costs Onboard
If you choose not to purchase a beverage package, you can still enjoy Coke products on board by purchasing them individually. Understanding the individual pricing structure can help you make informed decisions about your beverage consumption during the cruise.
Pricing for Individual Cokes
The cost of individual Coke products can vary depending on the location and type of drink. Knowing the price range will allow you to budget accurately.
- Canned Coke: A standard can of Coke typically costs between $3.50 and $4.50.
Canned Coke is widely available at bars, restaurants, and even vending machines onboard. The price may vary slightly depending on the specific location.
- Coca-Cola Freestyle Machines: While included in beverage packages, individual drinks from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are not directly sold. If you don’t have a package, you can’t access these machines.
These machines offer a wide range of flavors and customization options, making them a popular choice for soda drinkers. However, they are exclusively available to those with a beverage package.
- Fountain Sodas: Fountain sodas are generally cheaper than canned sodas, usually priced around $3.00 to $4.00 per serving.
Fountain sodas are available at most bars and restaurants onboard. They are a more economical option for those who prefer not to purchase canned sodas.
Where to Buy Coke Onboard
Coke products are available in numerous locations throughout the ship. Knowing where to find them can save you time and effort.
- Bars and Lounges: All bars and lounges on Royal Caribbean ships offer Coke products.
Bars and lounges are convenient places to purchase Coke, especially if you’re already there enjoying the atmosphere.
- Restaurants: Coke products are available at all main dining rooms and specialty restaurants.
Restaurants are a great option for enjoying Coke with your meals. You can easily order a soda along with your food.
- Room Service: You can order Coke through room service, but there may be an additional service charge.
Room service offers the convenience of having Coke delivered directly to your stateroom. However, be aware of any additional fees that may apply.
Comparing Individual Costs vs. Package Costs
A comparative analysis helps determine if purchasing individual Cokes is more cost-effective than a beverage package. This depends heavily on your consumption habits and preferences.
Let’s consider a scenario: You are on a 7-day cruise and estimate that you’ll drink 3 cans of Coke per day. At $4.00 per can, that’s $12.00 per day, totaling $84.00 for the entire cruise. The Classic Soda Package costs approximately $15.33 per day (including gratuity), totaling $107.31 for the cruise. In this case, buying individual cans is slightly more economical. However, if you also enjoy bottled water or other non-alcoholic beverages, the Refreshment Package might be a better value, even if you don’t drink alcohol.
Strategies for Saving Money on Drinks
There are several strategies to reduce the cost of drinks on a Royal Caribbean cruise without sacrificing enjoyment. These tips can help you make the most of your budget and still enjoy your favorite beverages.
Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages (if allowed)
Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. This can significantly reduce your drink costs.
- Allowance: Guests are typically allowed to bring up to 12 standard (17 oz.) cans, bottles, or cartons of non-alcoholic beverages per stateroom.
Taking advantage of this allowance can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you prefer specific brands or flavors of soda.
- Restrictions: This allowance applies only to embarkation day; you cannot bring beverages onboard at ports of call.
It’s important to adhere to this restriction to avoid having your beverages confiscated. Plan accordingly and bring enough for the initial days of the cruise.
- Savings: Bringing your own Coke can save you upwards of $50 per person for a 7-day cruise.
This strategy is especially beneficial for families or groups traveling together, as the savings can quickly add up.
Utilize Free Beverage Options
Royal Caribbean offers several free beverage options that can help you stay hydrated without spending extra money. Knowing these options can significantly reduce your reliance on purchased drinks.
- Water: Complimentary water is available at various locations throughout the ship, including the Windjammer Marketplace and main dining room.
Taking advantage of free water is a great way to stay hydrated without incurring any costs. Bring a reusable water bottle to easily access water throughout the day.
- Coffee and Tea: Basic coffee and tea are typically available free of charge in the Windjammer Marketplace.
If you enjoy coffee or tea, this is a great way to save money, especially if you don’t require specialty drinks.
- Juice at Breakfast: Juices are usually available for free during breakfast in the main dining room and Windjammer Marketplace.
Taking advantage of free juice during breakfast can help you reduce your overall beverage costs.
Look for Drink Specials and Promotions
Royal Caribbean occasionally offers drink specials and promotions that can help you save money on beverages. Keeping an eye out for these deals can lead to significant savings.
- Happy Hour: Many bars onboard offer happy hour specials with discounted drink prices.
Taking advantage of happy hour specials is a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks at a reduced cost.
- Drink of the Day: Royal Caribbean often features a “Drink of the Day” at a discounted price.
Trying the “Drink of the Day” can be a fun way to explore new beverages while saving money.
- Casino Royale: Some guests report getting free drinks in the Casino Royale while actively gambling.
If you plan on spending time in the casino, you may be able to receive complimentary drinks while you play.
Debunking Common Cruise Drink Myths
Many misconceptions circulate about beverage costs on cruises. Clarifying these myths can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Myth: All Drinks Are Included on a Cruise
This is a common misconception. While basic beverages like water, coffee, and tea are typically free, most other drinks, including soda, alcohol, and specialty coffees, are not included in the base cruise fare.
It is critical to understand the beverage policies of Royal Caribbean before embarking on your cruise. Relying on the assumption that all drinks are free can lead to unexpected costs and disappointment. Always confirm what is included in your cruise fare and what is not.
Myth: You Can Sneak Drinks Onboard
Attempting to sneak alcohol or excessive amounts of non-alcoholic beverages onboard is against Royal Caribbean’s policy and can result in confiscation of the items and potential penalties.
Royal Caribbean has strict policies against bringing prohibited items onboard. Trying to circumvent these policies is not worth the risk. Instead, consider purchasing a beverage package or utilizing the allowance for non-alcoholic beverages.
Myth: Kids Drink Packages Are Unnecessary
For families with children who consume a lot of soda or specialty drinks, a kids’ drink package can often be more cost-effective than purchasing individual beverages, especially considering the availability of Coca-Cola Freestyle machines.
Assess your children’s drinking habits before dismissing the idea of a kids’ drink package. Calculate the potential cost of individual beverages and compare it to the price of the package to determine the best option for your family. The Classic Soda Package is usually the best for children and teens. A 2021 study showed families save on average 15% when they buy the soda package for their children.
How to Plan Your Beverage Budget
Creating a well-thought-out beverage budget is essential for managing your onboard spending and enjoying your cruise without financial stress. This section provides practical tips and tools to help you estimate and control your drink expenses.
Estimating Your Daily Drink Consumption
Accurately estimating your daily drink consumption is the first step in creating an effective beverage budget. Consider your typical drinking habits and factor in any special occasions or activities during the cruise.
- Track Your Current Consumption: For a week before your cruise, track how many sodas, specialty coffees, or alcoholic beverages you consume daily.
This will provide a baseline for estimating your consumption on the cruise.
- Factor in Cruise Activities: Consider any activities or events on the cruise that may increase your drink consumption, such as pool days, excursions, or formal dinners.
Plan for these events and adjust your estimated consumption accordingly.
- Account for Others: If you are traveling with family or friends, consider their drinking habits as well and factor them into your overall budget.
Coordinate with your travel companions to determine the best beverage options for the group.
Choosing the Right Beverage Option
Based on your estimated consumption and preferences, determine whether purchasing individual drinks, a beverage package, or a combination of both is the most cost-effective option. A spreadsheet can be very helpful for this.
- Calculate Individual Costs: Estimate the total cost of purchasing individual drinks based on your daily consumption and the average prices onboard.
This will provide a baseline for comparing the cost of a beverage package.
- Evaluate Beverage Packages: Research the different beverage packages offered by Royal Caribbean and compare their prices and inclusions to your estimated consumption.
Consider the value of each package based on your preferences and drinking habits.
- Consider a Hybrid Approach: A combination of bringing your own beverages, utilizing free options, and purchasing individual drinks may be the most economical approach for some cruisers.
Experiment with different strategies to find the best balance for your needs.
Tracking Your Spending Onboard
Once you’re on the cruise, actively track your beverage spending to ensure you stay within your budget. Utilizing Royal Caribbean’s app and monitoring your account regularly can help prevent overspending.
- Use the Royal Caribbean App: The Royal Caribbean app allows you to track your onboard spending in real-time.
This is a convenient way to monitor your beverage costs and ensure you stay within your budget.
- Set a Daily Limit: Establish a daily spending limit for beverages and stick to it.
This will help you avoid overspending and stay on track with your budget.
- Review Your Account Regularly: Review your onboard account regularly to identify any discrepancies and address them promptly.
This will help you avoid any surprises when you receive your final bill.
Insert a table comparing the costs of different options here.
FAQ
How much does a can of Coke cost on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
A standard can of Coke on a Royal Caribbean cruise typically costs between $3.50 and $4.50, depending on the specific bar or restaurant where you purchase it. Prices can vary slightly, so it’s a good idea to check the menu or ask a crew member for the exact price.
Is the soda package worth it on Royal Caribbean?
Whether the soda package is worth it depends on how many sodas you plan to drink each day. If you typically consume 3-4 sodas daily, the soda package is likely a good value. Consider your usual consumption habits and compare the cost of the package to the cost of buying individual sodas.
Can I bring my own Coke onto a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Yes, Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages on board, typically up to 12 standard (17 oz.) cans, bottles, or cartons per stateroom on embarkation day. This can be a great way to save money on drinks.
Are there free sodas available on Royal Caribbean cruises?
While fountain sodas are not generally free, Royal Caribbean offers complimentary water, coffee, and tea in various locations, such as the Windjammer Marketplace and main dining room. Juice is often available for free during breakfast as well.
What is the price of the Classic Soda Package on Royal Caribbean?
The Classic Soda Package typically costs around $12.99 per person, per day, plus an 18% gratuity. This package includes unlimited fountain sodas, Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages, juices, and non-alcoholic cocktails, making it a popular choice for soda lovers.
Does Royal Caribbean offer discounts on beverage packages?
Yes, Royal Caribbean often offers discounts on beverage packages when purchased online before the cruise. Keep an eye out for pre-cruise deals and promotions to save money. Booking in advance can often result in significant savings compared to purchasing the package on board.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the costs associated with enjoying Coke and other beverages on a Royal Caribbean cruise is vital for budgeting and maximizing your experience. By weighing your options, planning ahead, and taking advantage of available savings, you can ensure that you enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. Bon voyage and happy sipping!