How Much Is a Beer on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Revealed

Beer prices on Royal Caribbean cruise lines typically range from $6 to $10 per draft or bottle, depending on the ship, location, and brand—domestic options like Budweiser are usually on the lower end, while craft and imported beers cost more. Drink packages, such as the Deluxe Beverage Package, can offer significant savings for frequent beer drinkers, making it a smart choice for those planning to enjoy multiple drinks daily.

Key Takeaways

• Beer prices range $6–$12 depending on type and location onboard.
• Buy drink packages to save if consuming 5+ beers daily.
• Happy hour deals offer discounted beers at select bars daily.
• Specialty brews cost more—imports and craft beers exceed $10.
• Refillable mugs aren’t for beer, only soda, tea, and coffee.
• Check the daily schedule for free tastings or promotions.

How Much Is a Beer on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Revealed

Imagine standing on the deck of a massive cruise ship, the sun dipping below the horizon, a gentle breeze in your hair, and a cold beer in your hand. That’s the dream, right? But here’s the thing—before you raise that glass, you might be wondering: how much is a beer on Royal Caribbean cruise lines? It’s a question that crosses every cruiser’s mind, especially if you’re the type who likes to enjoy a cold one with your ocean views. I’ve been there—staring at the drink menu on my first cruise, doing mental math and wondering if I’d need a second mortgage just to enjoy a few pints.

Beer pricing on Royal Caribbean isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on where you buy it, the type of beer, whether you’re on a drink package, and even the ship you’re on. But don’t worry—this guide is your backstage pass to understanding beer costs, avoiding sticker shock, and making smart choices without sacrificing your vacation vibe. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a casual drinker, or someone who just wants to know if that $12 lager is worth it, we’ll break it all down in a way that feels like a chat over—well—a cold beer.

Understanding the Basics: Beer Pricing on Royal Caribbean

Let’s start with the fundamentals. Beer on Royal Caribbean cruise lines isn’t cheap, but it’s also not outrageously priced—once you understand the system. Unlike all-inclusive resorts, most Royal Caribbean cruises operate on a pay-as-you-go model for alcohol. That means you’ll be paying for each beer individually unless you opt for a drink package. But even then, knowing the baseline prices helps you decide if the package is worth it.

Standard Beer Prices Across the Fleet

On average, a domestic beer (think Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Lite) will cost you $8.50 to $9.50 at most onboard bars. Imported beers like Heineken, Corona, or Guinness range from $9.00 to $10.50. Craft and specialty beers—those local or limited-edition brews you might find at a bar like The Bamboo Room on Symphony of the Seas—can go up to $11 to $14 per pint. These prices are consistent across most ships in the fleet, with slight variations depending on the vessel and location.

For example, on the Harmony of the Seas, a standard 12-oz domestic beer at the Schooner Bar costs $8.75, while a 16-oz craft IPA at the Schooner Craft Beer Bar runs $12.50. On the newer Wonder of the Seas, prices are slightly higher due to premium positioning—domestic beers start at $9.00, and craft options can reach $13.00.

Why Prices Vary by Location

Not all bars are created equal—and neither are their prices. Here’s what affects the cost:

• Bar Type: Casual poolside bars (like the Wipeout Café) often have lower prices than themed lounges or specialty bars. A beer at the pool deck might be $8.75, while the same brand at the Champagne Bar could be $10.00.
• Beer Size: Most standard beers are served in 12-oz or 16-oz glasses. Larger pints or “tall” options cost more—sometimes as much as $1.50 extra.
• Time of Day: Happy hour deals (usually 3–5 PM) can knock $1–2 off per beer. More on that later.
• Ship Age & Size: Newer, larger ships (like Icon-class vessels) may have slightly higher prices due to premium amenities and branding.

Pro tip: Always check the drink menu at each bar. Some have QR codes or printed menus, while others display prices on digital screens. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender—“What’s the price on that IPA?”—before ordering.

Beer Types and Where to Find Them

Royal Caribbean offers a surprisingly diverse beer selection, from mass-market lagers to craft brews and international favorites. Knowing what’s available—and where—can help you stretch your budget and discover something new.

Domestic Beers: The Reliable Favorites

These are the go-to choices for most cruisers. Brands like Bud Light, Coors Light, Michelob Ultra, and Miller Lite are available at nearly every bar, including poolside spots, sports bars, and main lounges. They’re consistent, widely liked, and usually the cheapest option. A 12-oz domestic beer typically costs $8.50 to $9.00.

Where to find them: Wipeout Café, Schooner Bar, R Bar, and most pool bars.

Imported Beers: A Taste of Abroad

If you’re craving a taste of Europe or Mexico, Royal Caribbean stocks popular imports like Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois, Guinness, and Dos Equis. These are slightly more expensive—usually $9.00 to $10.50—but worth it for the flavor and novelty. Corona with a lime by the pool? Yes, please.

Fun fact: Some ships feature “Beer of the Month” promotions, often highlighting a regional or seasonal import. On a recent sailing, Independence of the Seas featured a German Oktoberfest brew for $10.00, complete with a themed happy hour.

Craft and Specialty Beers: For the Enthusiasts

Royal Caribbean has been expanding its craft beer offerings in recent years. Ships like Symphony, Harmony, and Wonder have dedicated craft beer bars (e.g., The Bamboo Room, Schooner Craft Beer Bar) with rotating taps. These feature:

• Local Florida brews (e.g., Funky Buddha, J. Wakefield)
• Regional specialties (e.g., Sierra Nevada, New Belgium)
• Seasonal and limited-edition IPAs, stouts, and lagers

Prices here range from $10.50 to $14.00 for a 16-oz pour. Some bars even offer beer flights (3–4 small samples) for $12–$16—great for tasting without overpaying.

Non-Alcoholic and Low-Alcohol Options

Not everyone wants a full-strength beer. Royal Caribbean offers non-alcoholic options like Heineken 0.0 and Budweiser Zero, priced around $7.50 to $8.50. These are perfect for designated drivers, health-conscious cruisers, or those taking a break. Some ships also have low-ABV craft options, though availability varies.

Tip: Ask about “dry” or “light” beers—they’re often cheaper and less filling, so you can enjoy more without the buzz (or the cost).

Drink Packages: Are They Worth It for Beer Lovers?

This is the million-dollar question (okay, maybe not that much, but close). Royal Caribbean offers several drink packages, and for beer drinkers, the Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP) is usually the most relevant. But is it worth the price?

What the Deluxe Beverage Package Includes

The DBP costs around $89–$99 per person, per day (prices vary by itinerary and booking time). It covers:

• All beer (domestic, import, craft, non-alcoholic)
• Wine by the glass (up to $15)
• Cocktails, spirits, and premium non-alcoholic drinks
• Fountain sodas and specialty coffees

For beer lovers, the key benefit is unlimited access to any beer on board, including craft pints that would normally cost $12–$14. No limits, no extra fees (except for super-premium bottles, which are rare).

When the DBP Pays Off

Let’s do the math. If you drink:

• 3 domestic beers per day at $8.75 = $26.25
• 2 craft beers at $12.00 = $24.00
• 1 imported beer at $9.50 = $9.50

Total per day: $59.75. That’s already close to the DBP cost. If you drink more than 6–7 beers a day, or enjoy craft/imported options, the package pays for itself—and then some.

But here’s the catch: You need to drink consistently. If you skip days, have non-alcoholic days, or only drink 1–2 beers a day, you’re likely better off paying à la carte.

Alternatives and Add-Ons

Royal Caribbean also offers:

• Refreshment Package ($30–$35/day): Covers non-alcoholic drinks and beer (but only up to $8.50 per beer). So if you order a $12 craft beer, you pay the difference. Good for light drinkers.
• Beer-Specific Packages: Rare, but sometimes offered during promotions (e.g., “Buy 5, get 1 free”). Check the app or onboard promotions.
• Happy Hour Deals: Not a package, but a great way to save. More on this below.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling with a partner, consider splitting a DBP. One person uses it for beer, the other for cocktails. Just make sure you’re both drinking enough to justify the cost.

Smart Ways to Save on Beer (Without Feeling Cheap)

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a cold one at sea. With a few smart strategies, you can sip your way through the Caribbean (or Mediterranean, or Alaska) without draining your wallet.

Happy Hour: Your Best Friend

Royal Caribbean runs daily happy hours, usually from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, at select bars. During this time, you’ll get:

• $1–$2 off per beer
• Buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals on select brands
• Free appetizers or snacks (on some ships)

For example, at the Schooner Bar on Freedom of the Seas, a $9.00 domestic beer drops to $7.50 during happy hour. That’s a 17% savings—and it adds up fast.

Tip: Download the Royal Caribbean app. It lists daily happy hour times and locations. Some bars (like the Schooner Craft Beer Bar) have extended happy hours on sea days.

Use the Drink Menu Strategically

Not all beers are priced the same. At many bars, you’ll see a “value” or “premium” section. Stick to value options when you want to save. For instance:

• At the Wipeout Café, a 12-oz domestic is $8.50, but a 20-oz “tall” version is $10.50. Skip the tall unless you’re really thirsty.
• At the R Bar, a craft IPA is $12.00, but a domestic lager is $8.75. Save the craft for special occasions.

Take Advantage of Free Beer Events

Royal Caribbean hosts occasional free beer tastings, especially during themed sailings (e.g., Oktoberfest, Craft Beer Cruises). These are announced in the daily planner or via the app. You might get 2–3 free samples, plus discounts on full pours.

Buy a Souvenir Mug (Sometimes)

Some ships offer a “Souvenir Beer Mug” for around $20–$25. It comes with one free beer, and refills are discounted (e.g., $6 instead of $9). Only worth it if you plan to drink 5+ beers during the trip. Otherwise, it’s just a cool keepsake.

Skip the Pool Deck for Happy Hour

Poolside bars are convenient but often more expensive. A beer at the pool might be $9.00, while the same brand at an indoor bar during happy hour is $7.50. A short walk can save you $1.50 per beer—and $15 over a week.

Real-World Examples: Beer Costs on Popular Itineraries

To help you plan, here’s a breakdown of beer prices on some of Royal Caribbean’s most popular routes. Prices are based on 2023–2024 sailings and may vary slightly.

Ship	Itinerary	Domestic Beer (12-oz)	Imported Beer (12-oz)	Craft Beer (16-oz)	Happy Hour Deal
Harmony of the Seas	Eastern Caribbean (7-night)	$8.75	$9.50	$12.50	BOGO on domestic, 3–5 PM
Symphony of the Seas	Western Caribbean (7-night)	$9.00	$10.00	$13.00	$1 off all beers, 3–5 PM
Independence of the Seas	Bahamas (4-night)	$8.50	$9.25	$11.50	Free appetizer with 2 beers, 4–6 PM
Wonder of the Seas	Eastern Mediterranean (7-night)	$9.25	$10.50	$13.50	BOGO on select imports, 3–5 PM
Oasis of the Seas	Canada/New England (7-night)	$8.75	$9.75	$12.00	$2 off craft beers, sea days only

As you can see, prices are fairly consistent, with slight increases on newer or longer voyages. The real savings come from timing and location—not the ship itself.

One cruiser on Harmony reported spending $140 on beer over 7 days (about 2 beers/day). With happy hour and a mix of domestic/craft, they saved nearly $30 compared to paying full price. Another couple on Wonder used the DBP and drank 10+ beers/day—saving over $200 compared to à la carte.

Final Tips: Making the Most of Your Beer Budget

So, how much is a beer on Royal Caribbean cruise lines? The answer: it depends—but now you know exactly what to expect and how to manage it. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a craft beer aficionado, the key is planning, timing, and knowing your options.

Here’s a quick recap of the best ways to enjoy beer without overspending:

• Track your consumption: If you’re drinking more than 5–6 beers a day, the Deluxe Beverage Package is likely worth it.
• Hit happy hour: Save $1–2 per beer and enjoy a relaxed pre-dinner vibe.
• Mix it up: Alternate between craft, domestic, and non-alcoholic to save money and stay balanced.
• Use the app: Check daily deals, happy hour times, and drink menus before heading out.
• Ask questions: Bartenders are happy to explain prices, suggest value options, or even offer samples.

And remember—this is your vacation. You don’t need to drink 10 beers a day to have fun. Sometimes, the best memories come from a quiet moment on deck, a cold beer in hand, and the sound of the waves. Whether you pay $8.50 or use a drink package, what matters is the experience.

So raise your glass—not to the price, but to the journey. The sea, the sun, the laughter. That’s what a cruise is really about. And now, you’re ready to enjoy it—one (reasonably priced) beer at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a beer on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines?

On average, a domestic beer on Royal Caribbean costs $6–$9, while imported or craft beers range from $8–$12. Prices vary by ship, venue, and time of day, with premium options available at specialty bars.

Are there any discounts or packages for beer on Royal Caribbean?

Yes, Royal Caribbean offers drink packages like the Deluxe Beverage Package (starting around $89/day), which includes beer, cocktails, and more. Happy Hour deals and daily specials also provide savings on select beers.

Is beer included in Royal Caribbean’s base cruise fare?

No, beer is not included in the base fare unless you book a special promotion or package. Most guests purchase drinks individually or via a beverage package to enjoy beer during their cruise.

How much is a beer on Royal Caribbean compared to other cruise lines?

Royal Caribbean’s beer prices are similar to competitors like Carnival and Norwegian, with domestic beers averaging $6–$9. However, their drink packages and happy hour deals often make them a better value.

Do Royal Caribbean ships have free beer at any time?

While beer isn’t free, some onboard events (like sail-away parties) may offer complimentary drinks, including beer. Check your cruise planner for daily promotions or loyalty perks for free drink opportunities.

What’s the cheapest way to buy beer on Royal Caribbean?

The cheapest options include buying during Happy Hour ($4–$6 per beer), purchasing a drink package if you plan to drink multiple beverages daily, or opting for non-imported domestic beers at main bars.