Picture this: you’re relaxing on the deck of a Celebrity cruise ship, soaking up the sun, but your basic drinks package isn’t quite cutting it. You crave that premium cocktail or that top-shelf liquor. Don’t worry, you’re not stuck! This guide will walk you through exactly how do I upgrade my drinks package on Celebrity Cruises. You’ll learn about the different packages available, when and how to upgrade, and what to consider before making your decision, so you can enjoy the perfect drinks package for your cruise vacation.
Understanding Celebrity Cruises Drinks Packages
Celebrity Cruises offers several drinks packages, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Knowing the options is the first step in understanding how do I upgrade my drinks package on Celebrity Cruises. This section will cover the various packages, their inclusions, and the price differences, enabling you to choose the package that best fits your needs and upgrade effectively.
Classic Package
The Classic Package is often the entry-level option. It typically includes a selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, and non-premium coffees and teas.
- Basic Selection: The Classic Package is designed for those who prefer a smaller range of beverages. While adequate, it lacks the premium liquors and more elaborate cocktails.
For example, you might find common beers like Budweiser or Heineken included, but not craft beers or imported options.
- Cost-Effective: It’s usually the most affordable package, making it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
This package can be a great starting point, particularly if you are unsure of your drink consumption habits or are on a short cruise.
- Limited Choices: The selection of drinks is limited, potentially leading you to desire more variety during your cruise.
This is where the option to upgrade comes into play. Many passengers find the upgrade worthwhile for the expanded options.
Premium Package
The Premium Package offers a wider selection of beverages, including top-shelf liquors, premium cocktails, a more extensive wine list, and specialty coffees and teas. This is where many cruisers find the sweet spot.
- Extensive Selection: Provides a much wider variety of drinks compared to the Classic Package.
You’ll have access to higher-quality spirits, imported beers, and a greater selection of wines.
- Higher Quality: Features premium brands and ingredients, resulting in better-tasting drinks.
Imagine enjoying a top-shelf margarita made with premium tequila instead of the standard well liquor.
- Specialty Drinks: Includes specialty cocktails and drinks that are not available in the Classic Package.
This can be a significant perk if you enjoy trying different and unique cocktails during your vacation.
Non-Alcoholic Package (Zero Proof Package)
The Zero Proof Package is designed for those who don’t consume alcohol. It includes a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, such as premium coffees, teas, specialty drinks, and bottled water.
- Hydration Options: Perfect for staying hydrated with access to premium bottled water and other non-alcoholic beverages.
Staying hydrated is important, especially in warm climates, and this package makes it easy.
- Specialty Drinks: Features mocktails, smoothies, and other specialty non-alcoholic options.
Enjoying a refreshing mocktail by the pool is a great way to unwind without consuming alcohol.
- Coffee & Tea: Unlimited access to specialty coffees and teas, catering to caffeine enthusiasts.
Start your day with a premium latte or enjoy an afternoon tea without any extra charges.
Steps on How to Upgrade Your Drinks Package
Knowing how do I upgrade my drinks package on Celebrity Cruises is straightforward. You can typically upgrade before your cruise or onboard. Upgrading allows you to customize your experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process seamlessly.
Before Your Cruise
Upgrading before your cruise can be convenient and potentially more cost-effective. This gives you time to review your options.
- Check Your Booking: Log in to your Celebrity Cruises account and navigate to your booking details.
Your booking details will show the current drinks package included (if any) with your reservation.
- Explore Upgrade Options: Look for the option to “Customize Your Cruise” or “Add Enhancements.”
This section will display available upgrades, including different drinks packages.
- Select Desired Package: Choose the drinks package you want to upgrade to.
Carefully review the inclusions of each package to ensure it meets your preferences.
- Pay the Difference: Pay the difference between the original package and the upgraded package.
The system will calculate the price difference, and you can complete the payment process online.
- Confirmation: Receive a confirmation email with the updated drinks package details.
Keep this confirmation for your records and bring a copy with you when you board the ship.
Onboard the Ship
If you decide to upgrade once you’re on the ship, you can do so at various locations.
- Visit Guest Services: Head to Guest Services, usually located in the central atrium of the ship.
The staff at Guest Services can assist you with upgrading your drinks package.
- Speak to a Bartender: Approach any bartender at one of the onboard bars.
Bartenders are often knowledgeable about the different drinks packages and can guide you through the upgrade process.
- Review Options: Discuss the available drinks packages and their associated costs.
Take the time to ask questions and understand the inclusions of each package.
- Complete the Upgrade: Inform the staff of your decision to upgrade and provide your booking information.
They will process the upgrade, and the new package will be activated on your SeaPass card.
- Confirmation: Verify the upgrade details on your onboard account.
You can check your account through the Celebrity Cruises app or at Guest Services.
Important Considerations
When upgrading your drinks package, keep in mind these important factors.
- Full Cruise Duration: All adults in the same stateroom (21+ in the US, other restrictions may apply) must purchase the same drinks package.
This policy is in place to prevent sharing of drinks between guests with different packages.
- Prorated Refunds: If you upgrade mid-cruise, the cost will be prorated for the remaining days.
The prorated amount will be calculated based on the daily cost of the upgraded package.
- Package Inclusions: Carefully review the drinks included in each package to ensure they align with your preferences.
Consider the types of drinks you typically enjoy and whether the package offers those options.
- Cost Analysis: Determine whether the upgrade is financially worthwhile based on your expected consumption.
Calculate the potential cost of purchasing individual drinks versus the cost of the upgraded package.
Factors to Consider Before Upgrading
Before deciding to upgrade, assess your drinking habits and preferences. Evaluating these aspects ensures that upgrading is truly beneficial for your vacation. Let’s consider some factors that influence your upgrade decision.
Your Drinking Habits
Understanding your drinking habits is crucial in determining if an upgrade is worth the cost.
- Frequency of Consumption: If you plan to have multiple drinks per day, an upgrade is likely beneficial.
Consider the number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages you typically consume throughout the day.
- Type of Drinks: If you prefer premium liquors, specialty cocktails, or extensive wine selections, the Premium Package is a good fit.
These higher-end options are typically not included in the Classic Package.
- Social Aspects: If you plan on socializing at the bars and enjoying drinks with friends, the upgrade can enhance your experience.
Having access to a wider range of drinks can make socializing more enjoyable.
Cost vs. Benefits Analysis
Perform a cost-benefit analysis to determine if the upgrade provides sufficient value.
- Daily Cost: Calculate the daily cost of the upgraded package.
Divide the total cost of the upgrade by the number of days in your cruise.
- Drink Prices: Research the prices of individual drinks onboard.
Compare the cost of individual drinks to the daily cost of the upgraded package.
- Break-Even Point: Determine how many drinks you need to consume daily to justify the upgrade.
Calculate the number of drinks required to reach the break-even point where the cost of individual drinks equals the cost of the upgraded package.
Cruise Duration and Itinerary
The length of your cruise and the itinerary can influence your decision to upgrade.
- Longer Cruises: On longer cruises, the upgrade becomes more appealing due to the increased opportunity to enjoy the benefits.
A longer cruise allows you to maximize the value of the upgraded package.
- Port Days: If your cruise has many port days where you plan to explore local bars and restaurants, the upgrade might not be as necessary.
On port days, you might spend less time onboard and consume fewer drinks on the ship.
- Sea Days: On sea days, you’ll likely spend more time onboard, making the upgrade more valuable.
Sea days provide ample opportunities to enjoy the drinks package and take advantage of its inclusions.
Example Scenario: Imagine a 7-day cruise where the Premium Package upgrade costs $350. This equates to $50 per day. If individual premium cocktails cost $15 each, you would need to consume approximately 3.3 cocktails per day to break even. If you typically enjoy 3-4 cocktails, plus other beverages, the upgrade would be financially beneficial.
Debunking Common Myths About Drinks Packages
Misconceptions about drinks packages can prevent cruisers from making informed decisions. Let’s address some common myths surrounding Celebrity Cruises drinks packages.
Myth: You Have to Drink a Lot to Make it Worthwhile
While heavy drinkers benefit greatly, moderate drinkers can also find value in the upgrade. A 2023 study by Cruise Critic found that moderate drinkers who consumed 2-3 alcoholic beverages per day, along with specialty coffees and bottled water, often saved money with a drinks package.
Myth: Drinks Packages Only Cover Alcoholic Beverages
Many drinks packages, including the Zero Proof Package, offer a wide range of non-alcoholic options such as premium coffees, teas, juices, and specialty drinks. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, you can still enjoy the benefits of a drinks package.
Myth: Upgrading Onboard is Always More Expensive
While it can sometimes be the case, upgrading onboard might be necessary if you didn’t initially purchase a drinks package. Pricing can fluctuate, so checking both pre-cruise and onboard options is wise. Promotions may also become available while on the cruise.
FAQ
Can I upgrade from the Classic to the Premium Package once I’m on board?
Yes, you can usually upgrade your drinks package once you’re on board. You can visit Guest Services or speak to a bartender to inquire about upgrading. Keep in mind that the cost will be prorated for the remaining days of your cruise.
What happens if I don’t use all the drinks included in my package?
Unfortunately, any unused drinks within your package are non-refundable. The drinks package is designed for unlimited consumption of included beverages throughout the cruise, but there are no refunds for any drinks that you do not consume.
Do all adults in the cabin need to purchase the same drinks package?
Yes, typically all adults (above the legal drinking age) in the same stateroom must purchase the same drinks package. This policy is in place to prevent sharing of drinks between guests with different packages. However, exceptions may be made for medical reasons, so it’s best to check with Celebrity Cruises directly.
Is it possible to downgrade my drinks package after purchasing it?
Downgrading your drinks package after purchase is generally not possible, especially once the cruise has commenced. However, you can inquire with Celebrity Cruises before your cruise begins to see if any exceptions can be made.
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, inform the staff at Guest Services or your bartender. They can provide you with a list of drinks that are safe for you to consume and can accommodate your needs. Celebrity Cruises aims to ensure all guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Are gratuities included in the drinks package price?
Yes, gratuities are typically included in the price of the drinks package on Celebrity Cruises. This means that you don’t have to worry about tipping bartenders or servers for each drink you order. However, it’s always appreciated if you choose to provide additional gratuities for exceptional service.
Final Thoughts
Deciding how do I upgrade my drinks package on Celebrity Cruises depends on your individual preferences and drinking habits. Weigh the cost against the benefits, consider the cruise duration, and assess the types of drinks you enjoy. By understanding your needs and the available options, you can make an informed decision that enhances your cruise experience and ensures you have a fantastic time on board. Bon voyage!