How Much Is Beer on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Revealed

Beer prices on Royal Caribbean cruise lines typically range from $6 to $12 per drink, depending on the brand, location, and whether you’re purchasing by the glass or through a drink package. The cost can be significantly reduced—often to just a few dollars per beer—with the purchase of a Deluxe Beverage Package, making it a smart choice for frequent drinkers looking to maximize value while enjoying premium brews at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Beer prices start at $6: Domestic drafts cost $6–$8, higher for imports.
• Drink packages save money: Buy a package if consuming 5+ drinks daily.
• Happy Hour deals: Enjoy discounted beer during select onboard bar promotions.
• Specialty brews cost more: Craft beers range from $8–$12 per serving.
• Check port pricing: Beer is cheaper in some ports than onboard.
• Free water stations: Skip buying beer; hydrate with complimentary alternatives.

How Much Is Beer on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines? A Complete Guide

So you’ve booked your dream cruise with Royal Caribbean—sun, sea, and maybe a little too much fun. You’re picturing yourself sipping a cold beer on the deck, watching the sunset over the Caribbean. But then reality hits: how much is beer on Royal Caribbean cruise lines? It’s a question that’s probably crossed your mind (and your wallet’s). After all, no one wants to be surprised by a $15 pint when they were expecting something closer to happy hour prices.

Here’s the honest truth: beer prices on Royal Caribbean can vary—sometimes a lot. But it’s not just about the price tag. It’s about value, convenience, and how you want to enjoy your vacation. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a casual drinker, or someone who just wants to crack a cold one after a long day of shore excursions, understanding the beer pricing structure can make or break your cruise experience. And don’t worry—I’ve been there. I’ve stood at the bar, menu in hand, trying to decide between a local island brew and a domestic favorite, all while calculating how many drinks I can afford before my vacation fund starts to cry. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from average beer prices to smart ways to save, so you can enjoy your cruise without the sticker shock.

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Beer Pricing Structure

Why Beer Prices Vary Across the Ship

One of the first things you’ll notice when you step onto a Royal Caribbean ship is that not all bars are created equal. The price of a beer can differ depending on where you order it. For example, a beer at the pool bar might cost less than one at the upscale Schooner Bar or the Bionic Bar (yes, the robot bartender). Why? Location, ambiance, and service all play a role.

Pool bars and casual lounges (like the Windjammer Café’s drink station or the poolside bar on the Oasis-class ships) tend to have the most affordable options. These are quick-service spots where you grab a drink and go. On the other hand, premium lounges—think the R Bar on Anthem of the Seas or the Crown Lounge on Quantum-class ships—offer craft cocktails, imported beers, and a more refined setting. Naturally, the prices reflect that.

Domestic vs. Imported vs. Craft Beers

Another factor that affects pricing is the type of beer. Let’s break it down:

• Domestic beers (like Budweiser, Miller Lite, Coors Light) are the most common and typically the cheapest. These are available almost everywhere on the ship.
• Imported beers (such as Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois) cost a bit more due to shipping and import fees. You’ll find these at most bars, but expect a $1–$2 premium over domestic options.
• Craft and specialty beers (like local island brews, seasonal IPAs, or microbrews) are the most expensive. These are often featured at specialty bars or during themed events (e.g., Oktoberfest at sea). Prices can jump to $8–$10 or more for a single pint.

Pro tip: If you’re a craft beer fan, check out the Royal Caribbean Beer Festival events on select sailings. These limited-time experiences offer rare brews at slightly better rates, and sometimes include tastings with brewers onboard.

Time of Day and Happy Hour Deals

Timing matters. Royal Caribbean often runs happy hour specials during the late afternoon (typically 4–6 PM) at select bars. During these hours, you might find:

• $5 domestic pints (normally $7–$8)
• Buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals on select bottles
• Discounted craft beer flights

For example, on my last cruise on Symphony of the Seas, I scored a $5 Heineken at the pool bar at 5 PM—same beer would’ve been $7.50 at 9 PM. It’s not a huge difference, but over a week-long cruise, those savings add up.

Average Beer Prices: What You Can Expect to Pay

Domestic Beer Prices (2024–2025)

Let’s talk numbers. As of 2024–2025, here’s what you can expect for domestic beer on most Royal Caribbean ships:

• Bottled beer (12 oz): $7–$8
• Draft beer (16 oz pint): $7.50–$9
• Can (12 oz): $6.50–$7.50

These prices are consistent across most standard bars. For instance, a Bud Light bottle at the pool bar on Freedom of the Seas is $7.25, while the same beer at the Schooner Bar is $7.75. That extra 50 cents? That’s the “ambiance tax.”

Imported and International Beers

Imported beers start around $8 and can go up to $10 for premium options. Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Corona, Heineken, Stella Artois (bottle): $8–$9
• Guinness (draft): $8.50–$9.50
• Peroni or Estrella Damm (Mediterranean cruise): $8.75–$9.75

On Caribbean itineraries, you might also find local favorites like Red Stripe (Jamaica) or Banks Beer (Barbados) at $8.50–$9. These are great for trying something authentic to the region.

Craft and Specialty Beers

This is where prices can sting. Craft beers—especially those from small breweries or limited-run releases—can cost:

• Single bottle/pint: $8.50–$11
• Beer flights (3–4 samples): $12–$16
• Brewery events or tastings: $20–$30 for a 2-hour session

I once tried a local IPA at the SeaPlex bar on Harmony of the Seas—it was delicious, but the $10.50 price tag made me pause. Still, it was worth it for the experience. If you’re into craft beer, consider saving these for special occasions or pairing them with a food event.

Specialty Venues and Premium Pricing

Some bars are in a league of their own. The Bionic Bar, where robots mix your drinks, charges $9–$11 for a craft beer. The Champagne Bar (yes, they serve beer too) might list a local brew at $10.50. These spots are fun for a one-time treat, but not ideal for daily drinking.

Bottom line: If you’re on a budget, stick to domestic bottles or cans at casual bars. Save the premium spots for date nights or celebrations.

Beer Packages and Drink Deals: Are They Worth It?

Understanding the Drink Packages

Royal Caribbean offers several beverage packages, and yes, beer is included. But are they worth it? It depends on your drinking habits. Let’s break down the options:

• Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP): Covers beer, wine, cocktails, soda, and premium coffee. Price: $70–$95 per person, per day (varies by sailing).
• Beer & Wine Package: Focused on beer and wine, no spirits. Price: $45–$60 per person, per day.
• Refreshment Package: Non-alcoholic drinks only (soda, juice, bottled water, coffee). Price: $30–$40 per person, per day.

For beer lovers, the Beer & Wine Package is the most relevant. But here’s the catch: it only covers beers up to $12. That means a $10 craft beer is included, but a $13 specialty brew? You’ll pay the difference.

Is the Package Worth It? A Real-World Example

Let’s say you’re on a 7-night cruise and plan to have 4 beers a day. Without a package:

• 4 domestic beers/day x $7.50 = $30/day
• 7 days x $30 = $210 total

With the Beer & Wine Package at $55/day:

• 7 days x $55 = $385 total
• But you also get wine, premium coffee, and non-alcoholic drinks

So you’re paying more, but getting more. The break-even point? If you drink 6–7 domestic beers a day, the package starts to make sense. If you’re a casual drinker (2–3 beers/day), it’s probably not worth it.

Smart Tips to Maximize Value

• Pre-book online: Drink packages are cheaper when purchased before your cruise (often $10–$15/day less).
• Check for sales: Royal Caribbean sometimes offers “Buy One, Get One Free” on drink packages during promotions.
• Share packages: Couples can split a DBP if one drinks more than the other—just don’t exceed the daily limit (15 drinks/day).
• Watch for exclusions: Mini-bars, room service, and specialty bars often charge extra, even with a package.

On my last cruise, I bought the Beer & Wine Package for my wife and me. We averaged 5 beers a day, plus a glass of wine at dinner. By day 5, we were ahead in value. But if we’d only had 2 beers a day, we’d have lost money.

Where to Find the Best Beer Deals on the Ship

Pool Bars: The Best Bang for Your Buck

If you’re looking for value, the pool bars are your best bet. These are open-air, casual spots where you can grab a beer in under a minute. Prices are lower, and service is fast. Plus, they’re usually right next to the pool, so you can sip while you sunbathe.

On Allure of the Seas, the pool bar offers $6.50 domestic cans during happy hour (4–6 PM). That’s $1 less than the main lounge. And yes, you can bring it to your lounge chair—just don’t spill it on your towel.

Happy Hour and Special Promotions

As mentioned earlier, happy hour is a goldmine. But there are other deals too:

• “Buy 3, Get 1 Free” on select beers (check the daily cruise planner)
• “Beer of the Day” specials—often $6 for a pint of a featured brew
• Port arrival/departure days: Some bars offer $5 beers to celebrate the start or end of the day

Pro tip: Ask your bar server about unadvertised deals. Sometimes they’ll offer a discount if you’re a repeat customer or tip well.

Onboard Events and Tastings

Royal Caribbean often hosts beer-themed events, especially on longer cruises. For example:

• Oktoberfest at Sea: German beers for $6–$7 (normally $8.50)
• Brewery Takeover: A local brewery (like Funky Buddha or Sierra Nevada) features their beers at a pop-up bar
• Beer & Burger Pairing: $20 for a flight and gourmet burger

These events are not only fun but often cheaper than ordering the same beers a la carte. Check your cruise planner or the Royal Caribbean app for the schedule.

Room Service and Mini-Bar: The Hidden Costs

Be careful here. Room service beer (delivered to your cabin) can cost $8.50–$10 for a 12 oz bottle, plus a delivery fee. The mini-bar in your room? Prices are even higher—often $9–$11 for a can.

Instead, grab a six-pack from a bar and keep it in your room fridge. Just remember: if you take it from the bar, you’ll be charged. But if you buy it and take it back, it’s yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Tips to Save Money on Beer Without Sacrificing Fun

Buy in Bulk (Smartly)

Some bars offer six-packs or growlers at a slight discount. For example, a six-pack of domestic beer might cost $40 (vs. $45 if bought individually). This is perfect if you’re traveling with a group or want to stock your cabin.

Just be aware: open containers aren’t allowed on public decks, so you’ll need to enjoy them in your room or at a designated area.

Use the Royal Caribbean App to Track Spending

The Royal Caribbean app lets you monitor your onboard spending in real time. If you see your beer tab creeping up, you can adjust your habits. Set a daily budget (e.g., $30/day) and stick to it.

Bonus: The app also shows happy hour times and special events, so you’ll never miss a deal.

Bring Your Own (With Limits)

Royal Caribbean allows you to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard, but no beer or spirits. However, you can buy beer in port and bring it back—just don’t open it until you’re in international waters (usually after the first port).

For example, in Nassau, you can buy a 12-pack of Kalik (Bahamian beer) for $15. That’s $1.25 per can—less than half the ship price. Just store it in your cabin fridge and enjoy it during sea days.

Choose Your Itinerary Wisely

Beer prices can vary by region. On a Mediterranean cruise, you might find local craft beers at $7–$8, while on a Caribbean cruise, imported options dominate and cost more. If you love craft beer, consider a sailing that includes stops in craft-friendly ports (like Portland, Oregon, or Asheville, North Carolina).

Be Social—Join Beer Events

Many cruisers miss out on free or low-cost beer events because they don’t check the daily planner. Look for:

• “Meet the Brewer” sessions (free samples)
• Beer trivia nights (prizes include free drinks)
• Cruise Critic meetups (often sponsored with drink specials)

These are not only fun but can save you money and help you discover new favorites.

Data Table: Royal Caribbean Beer Prices (2024–2025)

Type of Beer	Format	Average Price (USD)	Where to Find	Best Deal
Domestic (Bud, Miller)	Bottle/Can	$7.00–$8.00	Pool bars, Windjammer	$6.50 (Happy Hour)
Imported (Heineken, Corona)	Bottle	$8.00–$9.00	Main lounges, specialty bars	$7.50 (BOGO deal)
Craft/Specialty	Draft/Bottle	$8.50–$11.00	Bionic Bar, R Bar, events	$9.00 (Beer Festival)
Local Island Beer	Bottle	$8.50–$9.50	Port bars, onboard events	$6.00 (Buy in port)
Beer Flight	3–4 Samples	$12.00–$16.00	Brewery events	$10.00 (Happy Hour)

Remember: prices can vary by ship and itinerary, but this table gives you a solid baseline. Always check the onboard menu or app for the latest deals.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Beer, Not the Bill

So, how much is beer on Royal Caribbean cruise lines? The short answer: anywhere from $6.50 to $11, depending on where, when, and what you order. But the real answer? It’s about how you manage it.

You don’t need to skip the beer to save money. With a little planning—happy hours, smart package choices, and knowing where to look for deals—you can enjoy a cold one without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cracking a domestic can by the pool or sipping a craft IPA at a brewery event, the goal is to have fun, not stress over the price.

And hey, if you do go a little over budget? That’s okay. It’s vacation. Just make sure you’re doing it with a smile—and a cold drink in hand. After all, you’re on a cruise. The ocean’s your happy hour, and the sunset’s your free refill.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is beer on Royal Caribbean cruise lines?

Beer prices on Royal Caribbean typically range from $6 to $10 per draft or bottle, depending on the brand and location onboard (e.g., pool bars vs. specialty lounges). Premium craft beers or imports may cost slightly more.

Does Royal Caribbean offer all-inclusive beer packages?

Yes, Royal Caribbean sells beverage packages like the Deluxe Drink Package, which includes unlimited beer (up to $15 per drink), cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks for a flat daily rate. This is ideal for frequent drinkers.

Are there happy hour deals for beer on Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean often features happy hour specials, such as discounted draft beers or “buy one, get one free” promotions, especially during sea days or in popular bars like the Schooner Bar.

How much is a domestic vs. imported beer on Royal Caribbean?

Domestic beers (e.g., Budweiser, Miller Lite) usually cost $6–$8, while imported or craft beers (e.g., Heineken, local Caribbean brews) range from $8–$10. Prices vary by bar and cruise itinerary.

Can I bring my own beer on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

No, Royal Caribbean prohibits guests from bringing beer onboard, with rare exceptions for dietary/religious reasons. Sealed drinks are confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.

Is beer cheaper on Royal Caribbean compared to other cruise lines?

Beer prices are generally comparable to other major cruise lines like Carnival or Norwegian, but Royal Caribbean’s drink packages and promotions can offer better value for frequent beer drinkers.