Imagine yourself lounging by the pool on a luxurious Celebrity Cruises ship, the sun warming your skin, and a refreshing cocktail in hand. But before you can fully relax, you need to figure out the costs. Knowing how much is the premium drink package on Celebrity Cruises is crucial for budgeting and making the most of your vacation. This guide will break down the costs, benefits, and considerations so you can decide if the premium drink package is right for you, ensuring you can enjoy worry-free sipping throughout your cruise.
Breaking Down the Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages
Understanding the different drink package options available on Celebrity Cruises is the first step to determining if the premium package is the best fit. Celebrity offers various packages, each with different inclusions and price points. This section will explore those packages and explain what is generally included.
Types of Drink Packages
- Classic Drink Package: This is the most basic package, including a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a good option for those who enjoy a few drinks a day and want to avoid paying for each individually. Expect to find popular brands included, but not necessarily top-shelf options. This package can be a good stepping stone if you don’t quite want to go all out for a premium experience.
For example, the Classic Drink Package will likely cover a classic margarita, but not an expertly crafted cocktail made with premium tequila.
- Premium Drink Package: This package offers a wider variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including premium liquors, wines by the glass, and specialty cocktails. It also often includes discounts on bottles of wine. The premium package is popular because it covers many of the higher-end beverages found on board.
The Premium Drink Package is ideal for those who like exploring new cocktails and enjoy higher quality spirits.
- Zero Proof Drink Package: Designed for those who don’t drink alcohol, this package offers unlimited non-alcoholic beverages like specialty coffees, premium teas, juices, and sodas.
This package is great for non-drinkers to still feel like they have a robust selection of beverage options.
What’s Included in the Premium Drink Package?
The Celebrity Cruises Premium Drink Package typically includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Understanding the specifics of what’s included will help you determine if it’s worth the investment.
- Premium Cocktails: The premium package often covers cocktails made with higher-end spirits and mixers. This means you can enjoy expertly crafted drinks without worrying about extra charges.
Imagine ordering a refreshing mojito with top-shelf rum or a sophisticated martini made with premium gin – all included in your package.
- Wines by the Glass: You’ll have access to a wider selection of wines by the glass, including some more expensive and highly-rated options.
This allows you to sample different wines without committing to an entire bottle.
- Beers: The package typically includes a variety of domestic and imported beers, covering a wide range of tastes.
This means you can enjoy your favorite brew whether it’s a popular domestic light beer or a craft import.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: You’ll have access to specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, juices, and sodas, ensuring you stay hydrated and refreshed throughout your cruise.
Stay refreshed throughout the day without constantly pulling out your wallet.
- Discounts on Bottles of Wine: Many premium packages offer discounts on full bottles of wine, making it a great option for dining in specialty restaurants.
A nice way to enhance your dining experience and save some money.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the inclusions of Classic, Premium, and Zero Proof packages.
Estimating the Cost of the Premium Drink Package
The price of the premium drink package on Celebrity Cruises varies depending on several factors. This section will cover those factors and provide an estimate of the costs involved.
Factors Influencing the Price
- Cruise Length: Longer cruises generally have higher package prices due to the increased number of days you’ll be consuming beverages.
A 7-day cruise will naturally have a lower package price than a 14-day cruise.
- Destination: Some destinations may have higher prices due to local taxes and regulations.
For example, cruises in Alaska might have slightly different pricing than Caribbean cruises.
- Promotional Offers: Celebrity often runs promotions that include drink packages as part of the fare, significantly reducing the overall cost. Keep an eye out for these deals.
Booking during a promotion can save you hundreds of dollars on your cruise vacation.
- Time of Booking: Prices can fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
Booking early can sometimes lock in a lower price, while last-minute deals might also be available.
Price Range for the Premium Drink Package
While the exact cost can vary, you can generally expect the Celebrity Cruises Premium Drink Package to fall within a certain price range. As of 2024, the daily cost usually ranges from $79 to $99 USD per person, per day.
The price can be significantly higher when bought onboard versus pre-purchasing before sailing. Checking the “cruise planner” on the Celebrity Cruises website can help provide an accurate estimate.
A 2023 study found that cruisers who purchase drink packages spend approximately 20% less on beverages overall compared to those who pay per drink.
Cost vs. Individual Drink Purchases
One way to determine if the premium drink package is worth it is to compare the cost of the package to the cost of purchasing individual drinks. Think about how much you typically drink during a day.
- Average Drink Cost: On average, a cocktail on Celebrity Cruises costs around $12-$15, while a glass of wine can be $10-$14. Specialty coffees and non-alcoholic drinks are typically priced between $5-$8.
Consider these prices when calculating your potential daily beverage spending.
- Break-Even Point: Calculate how many drinks you would need to consume each day to break even with the cost of the package. If the daily package cost is $89, you’d need to drink approximately 6-7 alcoholic beverages per day, or a combination of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, to make it worthwhile.
If you’re planning on consuming that many drinks or more, the package is likely a good investment.
Insert a table here comparing the daily cost of the package with the cost of buying drinks individually.
Is the Premium Drink Package Worth It?
Deciding whether or not to purchase the premium drink package on Celebrity Cruises depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. Consider these factors to help you make the right decision.
Consider Your Drinking Habits
Assess your typical daily beverage consumption. Are you someone who enjoys multiple cocktails, glasses of wine, or specialty coffees throughout the day? Or do you prefer just a few drinks? Your usual drinking habits will significantly influence the value you get from the package.
- High Consumption: If you typically enjoy several alcoholic drinks each day, plus specialty coffees and bottled water, the premium package is likely a worthwhile investment.
This allows you to indulge in your favorite beverages without worrying about the running tab.
- Moderate Consumption: If you only have a few drinks per day, it might be more cost-effective to pay for individual beverages.
In this case, carefully calculate your expected daily spending before committing to the package.
- Non-Drinkers: If you don’t drink alcohol, the Zero Proof Drink Package might be a better option, providing unlimited non-alcoholic beverages at a lower cost.
This ensures you can enjoy specialty coffees, teas, and juices without paying extra.
Assess Your Preferences
Consider the types of beverages you enjoy. If you prefer premium liquors, wines, and cocktails, the premium package offers access to a wider range of options compared to the classic package.
If you’re happy with standard brands, the Classic package may suffice.
- Premium Drinkers: If you appreciate high-quality spirits and expertly crafted cocktails, the premium package is a good choice.
This allows you to enjoy top-shelf beverages without incurring extra charges.
- Budget-Conscious Drinkers: If you’re primarily concerned with cost, consider the Classic package or paying per drink.
These options might be more economical if you don’t need the premium selections.
Debunking Common Myths
Several misconceptions surround drink packages. Understanding the truth can help you make a more informed decision.
- Myth: Everyone in the cabin must purchase the package.
Reality: While it’s often required that all adults in a cabin purchase a drink package, this isn’t always the case, especially when one person doesn’t drink alcohol. Contact Celebrity Cruises to clarify the policy on your specific sailing.
- Myth: The drink package covers everything.
Reality: While the premium package covers a wide range of beverages, there may be some exceptions, such as very high-end wines or certain rare liquors. Review the package details carefully to understand any exclusions.
- Myth: You can share your drink package with others.
Reality: Drink packages are non-transferable and intended for individual use. Sharing your package with others can result in it being revoked.
Tips for Maximizing Your Drink Package Value
If you decide to purchase the premium drink package on Celebrity Cruises, there are several ways to maximize its value.
Take Advantage of Included Beverages
Don’t limit yourself to just alcoholic drinks. Take advantage of the included specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, and juices to stay hydrated and refreshed throughout your cruise.
These beverages can help you save money while enjoying the perks of the package.
- Specialty Coffees: Enjoy cappuccinos, lattes, and other specialty coffees at the onboard cafes.
This can be a great way to start your day or enjoy a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- Premium Teas: Sample a variety of premium teas, both hot and iced.
This is a refreshing and sophisticated way to stay hydrated.
- Bottled Water: Stay hydrated by grabbing bottled water whenever you need it.
This is especially important in warm climates or during active excursions.
Explore Specialty Cocktails
Use the premium package as an opportunity to try new and exciting cocktails. Ask the bartenders for recommendations and explore different flavor combinations.
Expand your palate and discover new favorites.
- Bartender Recommendations: Ask the bartenders for their favorite cocktails or unique creations.
They can often suggest drinks that you might not find on the menu.
- Cocktail Menus: Browse the cocktail menus at different bars on the ship to find unique and interesting options.
Each bar may have its own specialty drinks.
Utilize Wine Discounts
If you plan on dining in specialty restaurants, take advantage of the discounts on bottles of wine offered with the premium package. This can significantly reduce the cost of your wine pairings.
Enjoy a bottle of wine without paying full price.
- Dining Reservations: Plan ahead and make reservations at the specialty restaurants you want to try.
This ensures you have the opportunity to use your wine discounts.
- Wine Selection: Ask the sommelier for recommendations on wines that pair well with your meal.
They can help you choose the perfect bottle to complement your dining experience.
FAQ
Question: What happens if I don’t use all of my drink package allowance each day?
Answer: Drink packages on Celebrity Cruises are typically unlimited within the inclusions of the package, so there is no “allowance” to use up. You can enjoy as many beverages as you like, within the package guidelines, each day of your cruise. Because of this, it is up to each individual to make the decision on whether it is financially feasible to take on the drink package or pay per drink.
Question: Can I upgrade from the Classic to the Premium drink package after purchasing the Classic package?
Answer: Yes, it is generally possible to upgrade from the Classic to the Premium drink package after purchasing the Classic package. Contact Guest Services onboard or the cruise line directly before your sailing to inquire about upgrade options and pricing. The cost to upgrade will likely be the difference in price between the two packages for the remaining days of your cruise.
Question: Does the Premium drink package include drinks from room service?
Answer: Whether the Premium drink package includes drinks from room service depends on the specific inclusions of the package at the time of your sailing. Some packages may include certain beverages from room service, while others may not. Check the details of your package or contact Celebrity Cruises to confirm if room service drinks are covered.
Question: Are gratuities included in the price of the Premium drink package?
Answer: Yes, gratuities are typically included in the price of the Premium drink package on Celebrity Cruises. This means you won’t need to tip extra for each drink you order. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the specific terms of your package to ensure that gratuities are indeed included.
Question: Does the Premium drink package cover mini-bar purchases?
Answer: Generally, the Premium drink package does not cover mini-bar purchases. The beverages in the mini-bar are usually charged separately and are not included in any of the drink packages. Be sure to check the pricing of mini-bar items before consuming them to avoid unexpected charges on your bill.
Final Thoughts
Determining how much is the premium drink package on Celebrity Cruises involves more than just looking at the price tag. It’s about understanding your personal drinking habits, beverage preferences, and the value you place on convenience. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that enhances your cruise experience and fits your budget. So, research, calculate, and set sail with the confidence of knowing you’ve made the right choice for your vacation.