Planning a Celebrity cruise? One of the first things many people wonder about is the beverage situation. After all, who wants to worry about the cost of every drink while trying to relax on vacation? That’s where the beverage packages come in, especially the premium beverage package. This post will break down everything you need to know about the premium beverage package cost on Celebrity Cruises, what’s included, and whether it’s actually worth the investment. You’ll leave here with a clear understanding of how to budget for your drinks and enjoy your cruise to the fullest!
Understanding Celebrity Cruises Beverage Packages
Celebrity Cruises offers a few different beverage packages, each catering to various drinking preferences and budgets. It’s crucial to understand the options available to choose the one that best suits your needs. Knowing the differences helps you make an informed decision about whether purchasing a package is worthwhile or if paying as you go is a better strategy for you.
Classic Package
The Classic Package is the entry-level beverage package offered by Celebrity Cruises. It includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, and non-premium bottled water. It’s suitable for those who primarily enjoy standard drinks and aren’t looking for top-shelf liquor or specialty cocktails.
- Pricing: The Classic Package is typically the most affordable option, often priced around $69 – $79 per person per day, subject to change based on the specific cruise and promotions. This makes it a good entry point for those wanting to bundle some of their beverage costs.
- Included Beverages: Expect a good selection of standard-brand beers, well liquor, and house wines. Sodas, juices, and basic coffee drinks are also included.
- Limitations: This package doesn’t include premium brands or specialty cocktails. You’ll also pay extra for drinks over a certain price point (typically around $9).
Budget-conscious cruisers often find this package appealing. By pre-paying a fixed daily rate, they gain some control over their onboard spending, avoiding potential bill shock at the end of the voyage.
This ensures that guests have access to a range of non-alcoholic options throughout their cruise. For many, the inclusion of unlimited soda and juice alone makes the package worthwhile, especially for families with children.
Guests looking for higher-end spirits or cocktails will need to upgrade to a higher tier package or pay individually for those specific drinks.
Premium Package
The Premium Package offers a wider selection of beverages, including premium spirits, wines by the glass, craft beers, specialty cocktails, and premium bottled water. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a broader range of drinks and don’t want to limit themselves to standard options. The Premium package also often includes more sophisticated coffee drinks, like lattes and cappuccinos.
- Cost Breakdown: Expect to pay somewhere in the range of $89 – $99 per person per day for the Premium Package. It’s a higher investment than the Classic Package but provides significantly more choices.
- Beverage Selection: This package covers a much wider range of drinks, including top-shelf liquor, premium wines by the glass, and craft beers. It also includes most specialty coffees and some energy drinks.
- Value Proposition: If you plan on enjoying several cocktails, glasses of wine, or premium drinks each day, this package can easily pay for itself. Consider your average daily consumption to determine if it makes financial sense.
Keep an eye out for pre-cruise sales, as Celebrity sometimes offers discounts on beverage packages purchased before sailing.
For example, you can often find premium brands like Grey Goose vodka, Bombay Sapphire gin, and single-malt scotches included in the Premium Package.
Many cruisers find that the ability to order whatever they want without constantly checking prices adds to the overall relaxation of their vacation.
Non-Alcoholic Package
For those who don’t consume alcohol, Celebrity Cruises offers a non-alcoholic package. This package includes sodas, juices, specialty coffees, premium teas, and bottled water. It’s a great option for teetotalers or those traveling with children.
- Price Point: This is the most budget-friendly of all the packages, typically priced around $30 per person per day.
- Benefits: Having access to unlimited non-alcoholic beverages means you don’t have to worry about racking up a hefty bill on sodas, juices, and coffees.
- Considerations: If you only occasionally drink sodas or juices, you might be better off paying individually for each drink. However, if you plan to enjoy several non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day, the package can be a cost-effective option.
This makes it an attractive option for those who enjoy specialty coffees, juices, and bottled water throughout the day.
It’s a particularly good value for families with children who consume a lot of sugary drinks.
Additionally, the convenience of having a package can be a significant benefit, especially when traveling with others.
How Much Is the Premium Beverage Package on Celebrity Cruises?
The cost of the premium beverage package on Celebrity Cruises varies depending on several factors. These include the length of your cruise, the specific ship you’re sailing on, and any ongoing promotions or discounts that Celebrity might be offering. It’s always a good idea to check the Celebrity Cruises website or contact a travel agent for the most up-to-date pricing.
Factors Affecting the Premium Package Price
The price isn’t always static and can fluctuate based on a few key variables. Understanding these factors can help you predict the potential cost and strategize when to book your package for the best deal.
- Cruise Length: Longer cruises typically have a slightly lower per-day cost for the beverage package compared to shorter cruises. This is because Celebrity Cruises anticipates that passengers on longer voyages will consume more drinks overall.
- Ship and Itinerary: Certain ships and itineraries might have slightly different pricing for beverage packages. This could be due to the demand for a particular cruise or the availability of certain beverages on board.
- Promotions and Discounts: Celebrity Cruises frequently offers promotions and discounts on beverage packages, especially when booked in advance. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can significantly reduce the overall cost.
For example, a 14-day cruise might have a lower per-day package cost than a 7-day cruise, even if the same package is offered.
It’s worth comparing prices across different ships and itineraries to see if there are any significant differences.
Signing up for Celebrity’s email list and following them on social media are good ways to stay informed about upcoming promotions.
Typical Price Range for the Premium Package
While the exact price varies, you can generally expect to pay between $89 and $99 per person per day for the Premium Package. This translates to roughly $623 to $693 per person for a 7-day cruise. Remember, this is just an estimate, and the actual cost might be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
- Per-Day Cost: Focusing on the per-day cost can help you compare the value of the Premium Package to your expected daily beverage consumption. If you think you’ll spend more than $90 per day on individual drinks, the package is likely a good investment.
- Total Cost for a Cruise: Calculating the total cost of the package for the entire cruise is essential for budgeting purposes. Factor in gratuities, which are usually added to the package price.
- Comparing to Other Packages: Compare the cost of the Premium Package to the Classic Package and the non-alcoholic package to determine which option best fits your drinking habits and budget.
Consider the cost of your typical drinks. Premium cocktails can easily cost $12-$15 each, while glasses of wine can range from $10-$15.
Gratuities typically add about 18%-20% to the cost of the package, so be sure to account for this when calculating the total expense.
Consider the types of drinks you typically enjoy and how frequently you consume them. This will help you make an informed decision about which package offers the best value for your needs.
How to Find the Best Deals on Beverage Packages
Securing the best price on a beverage package often requires a bit of research and strategic planning. By taking advantage of promotions, booking in advance, and working with a travel agent, you can potentially save a significant amount of money.
- Book in Advance: Celebrity Cruises often offers discounts on beverage packages purchased before your cruise. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure a lower price.
- Look for Promotions: Celebrity Cruises frequently runs promotions that include beverage packages. These promotions might be tied to specific sailings, cabin categories, or booking periods.
- Work with a Travel Agent: A travel agent can help you find the best deals on beverage packages and other cruise-related expenses. They often have access to exclusive promotions and can provide expert advice on which package is right for you.
Keep an eye out for early booking bonuses, which can include discounts on beverage packages or other onboard amenities.
Check the Celebrity Cruises website regularly for current promotions, and sign up for their email list to receive updates directly.
A good travel agent can also help you navigate the complexities of booking a cruise and ensure that you get the best possible value for your money.
Is the Premium Beverage Package Worth It?
Deciding whether the premium beverage package is worth the cost depends entirely on your personal drinking habits and preferences. Carefully consider how much you typically drink on vacation, the types of beverages you enjoy, and whether the convenience of having a pre-paid package outweighs the cost. A 2022 study by Cruise Critic found that cruisers who purchase beverage packages tend to drink more than those who pay per drink, suggesting that the perceived “unlimited” aspect encourages more consumption.
Assessing Your Drinking Habits
The first step in determining whether the Premium Package is worthwhile is to honestly assess your drinking habits. Consider how many alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages you typically consume in a day and the types of drinks you usually order.
- Daily Consumption: Calculate the average number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages you typically drink each day on vacation. Be realistic and factor in potential increases in consumption due to the relaxed atmosphere and availability of drinks.
- Beverage Preferences: Consider the types of beverages you typically enjoy. If you primarily drink premium spirits, craft beers, or specialty cocktails, the Premium Package is likely a good fit. If you prefer standard drinks, the Classic Package might be sufficient.
- Cost per Drink: Estimate the average cost per drink if you were to pay individually. Factor in the cost of cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Compare this to the per-day cost of the Premium Package to determine if it’s a good value.
Keep in mind that you’ll likely be drinking more on vacation than you would at home. The combination of sunshine, relaxation, and onboard entertainment can lead to increased beverage consumption.
Think about whether you are likely to want to try different cocktails and wines during your cruise, or if you tend to stick to the same few drinks.
Remember to include gratuities when calculating the cost per drink. Gratuities can add a significant amount to the overall cost of your beverages.
Comparing the Package Cost to A La Carte Prices
One of the most effective ways to determine if the Premium Package is worth it is to compare the total cost of the package to what you would likely spend if you paid for each drink individually. This requires a bit of research and estimation, but it can provide valuable insights.
- Review the Drink Menu: Before your cruise, try to find a copy of the Celebrity Cruises drink menu. This will give you an idea of the prices for different types of beverages.
- Estimate Daily Spending: Based on the drink menu prices and your estimated daily consumption, calculate how much you would likely spend on beverages each day if you paid individually.
- Compare to Package Price: Compare your estimated daily spending to the per-day cost of the Premium Package. If you would likely spend more than the package cost, the package is probably a good investment.
Many cruise review websites and online forums have copies of Celebrity Cruises drink menus that you can browse.
Factor in the cost of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as gratuities.
Consider the convenience of having a pre-paid package and not having to worry about constantly checking prices or tracking your spending.
Real-Life Examples and Scenarios
To further illustrate the value proposition of the Premium Package, let’s consider a few real-life examples and scenarios. These can help you visualize how the package might work for different types of cruisers.
- Scenario 1: The Cocktail Enthusiast: Sarah loves trying different cocktails and enjoys a few glasses of wine with dinner. She estimates that she’ll drink 3-4 cocktails, 2 glasses of wine, and a specialty coffee each day. Based on the drink menu prices, she estimates that she would spend around $120 per day on beverages if she paid individually. In this case, the Premium Package would be a worthwhile investment, saving her money and providing unlimited options.
- Scenario 2: The Moderate Drinker: John enjoys a couple of beers and a glass of wine with dinner each day. He also drinks a few sodas and bottled water. He estimates that he would spend around $60 per day on beverages if he paid individually. In this case, the Classic Package might be a better fit for John, providing access to standard beers and wines at a lower cost.
- Scenario 3: The Non-Drinker: Emily doesn’t drink alcohol but enjoys specialty coffees, juices, and bottled water. She estimates that she would spend around $40 per day on non-alcoholic beverages if she paid individually. In this case, the Non-Alcoholic Package would be the most cost-effective option for Emily.
Debunking Common Myths About Beverage Packages
There are several common myths surrounding cruise beverage packages. Understanding these myths can help you make a more informed decision about whether to purchase a package.
- Myth: You have to drink a lot to make the package worth it. While it’s true that you need to consume a certain amount of beverages to break even on the package, it’s not just about the quantity. The quality and type of drinks also matter. If you primarily drink premium spirits and specialty cocktails, you might not need to drink as much to make the package worthwhile.
- Myth: You can share your beverage package with others. Beverage packages are typically non-transferable and can only be used by the person who purchased them. Sharing your package with others can result in it being revoked.
- Myth: All drinks are included in the package. While the Premium Package covers a wide range of beverages, there are still some exceptions. Certain ultra-premium liquors, rare wines, and specialty drinks might not be included. Be sure to check the fine print of the package to understand any exclusions.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the features and price ranges of the Classic, Premium, and Non-Alcoholic packages.
Maximizing the Value of Your Premium Beverage Package
Once you’ve decided to purchase the premium beverage package on Celebrity Cruises, there are several strategies you can use to maximize its value. By taking advantage of all the included options and planning your drink consumption, you can ensure that you get the most for your money.
Exploring All Included Beverage Options
The Premium Package includes a wide variety of beverages, so take the time to explore all the options available to you. This will allow you to discover new favorites and get the most out of your package.
- Try New Cocktails: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try new cocktails. The bartenders on Celebrity Cruises are skilled mixologists and can create a wide range of delicious drinks.
- Sample Different Wines: The Premium Package includes a selection of wines by the glass. Take advantage of this opportunity to sample different varietals and find new wines that you enjoy.
- Enjoy Specialty Coffees: The Premium Package typically includes specialty coffees like lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos. Start your day with a delicious coffee or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ask the bartender for recommendations or browse the cocktail menu for inspiration.
Consider attending a wine tasting event onboard to learn more about different wines and expand your palate.
Many of the cafes onboard also offer specialty coffee drinks with flavored syrups and toppings.
Strategic Drinking Throughout the Day
Strategic drinking involves planning your beverage consumption throughout the day to maximize the value of your package. This doesn’t mean you should overindulge, but rather be mindful of when and what you’re drinking.
- Start Early: Begin enjoying your beverage package early in the day. Start with a specialty coffee in the morning, enjoy a refreshing juice by the pool, and sip on a cocktail in the afternoon.
- Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Many bars on Celebrity Cruises offer happy hour specials. Take advantage of these deals to enjoy discounted drinks and stretch your package even further.
- Stay Hydrated: Don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. The Premium Package includes premium bottled water, so take advantage of this perk.
By starting early, you can spread out your beverage consumption throughout the day and get the most out of your package.
Check the daily schedule for happy hour times and locations.
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your health and energy levels, especially in warm climates.
Utilizing the Package On and Off the Ship
The Premium Package is typically valid both on and off the ship at Celebrity Cruises’ private destinations, such as Labadee and CocoCay (if applicable to your itinerary and partnership). This can add even more value to your package.
- Beach Days: Enjoy your favorite cocktails and beverages while relaxing on the beach at Celebrity’s private destinations. The Premium Package allows you to order drinks just as you would on the ship.
- Excursions: If you’re participating in an excursion that includes drinks, check to see if the Premium Package is valid. Some excursions might offer complimentary drinks that are covered by the package.
- Pre- and Post-Cruise: In some cases, the beverage package can be extended to cover the days immediately before or after the cruise if you’re staying at a participating hotel. Check with Celebrity or your travel agent to see if this option is available.
This is a great way to enhance your beach experience and make the most of your package.
Clarify with the excursion provider whether the package is applicable to avoid any misunderstandings.
This can provide added value and convenience, especially if you’re arriving early or staying late.
FAQ
Question: How much does the Premium Beverage Package typically cost per day?
Answer: The cost of the Premium Beverage Package typically ranges from $89 to $99 per person per day. The exact price can vary depending on the length of your cruise, the specific ship, and any ongoing promotions. It’s always best to check the Celebrity Cruises website or contact a travel agent for the most up-to-date pricing.
Question: What types of drinks are included in the Premium Beverage Package?
Answer: The Premium Beverage Package includes a wide selection of beverages, including premium spirits, wines by the glass, craft beers, specialty cocktails, premium bottled water, specialty coffees, and some energy drinks. You can typically enjoy top-shelf liquor and a wider variety of options than with the Classic Package. Some very high-end or rare items might still be excluded.
Question: Is the Premium Beverage Package worth it if I only drink a few alcoholic beverages per day?
Answer: Whether the Premium Beverage Package is worth it depends on your drinking habits. If you primarily drink standard beers and wines and only have a few alcoholic beverages per day, the Classic Package might be a better value. However, if you enjoy premium spirits, craft beers, or specialty cocktails, the Premium Package could still be worthwhile, even if you don’t drink a large quantity.
Question: Can I share my Premium Beverage Package with my spouse or travel companions?
Answer: No, beverage packages on Celebrity Cruises are non-transferable and can only be used by the person who purchased them. Sharing your package with others is not allowed and can result in it being revoked. Each person who wants to enjoy the benefits of a beverage package must purchase their own.
Question: Are gratuities included in the price of the Premium Beverage Package?
Answer: No, gratuities are typically added to the price of the Premium Beverage Package. The gratuity is usually around 18%-20% of the package price. Be sure to factor this into your budget when calculating the total cost of the package.
Question: Where can I purchase the Premium Beverage Package?
Answer: You can purchase the Premium Beverage Package on the Celebrity Cruises website, through a travel agent, or onboard the ship. However, it’s generally recommended to purchase the package in advance, as this can often result in a lower price and allows you to start enjoying the benefits from the moment you board.
Final Thoughts
Deciding if the premium beverage package is right for you requires careful consideration of your individual drinking habits, beverage preferences, and budget. Hopefully, this guide provides a clear understanding of the costs, benefits, and factors to consider. Take a moment to evaluate your typical vacation beverage consumption and compare it to the package price. By making an informed decision, you can enhance your Celebrity cruise experience and enjoy a relaxing and worry-free vacation. Now you’re prepared to make the best choice for your needs!