How Much is a Beverage Package on Royal Caribbean?

Planning a Royal Caribbean cruise is an exciting experience, but it also requires careful budgeting. From luxurious staterooms and world-class dining to thrilling entertainment and exotic shore excursions, there are many factors to consider. One aspect that can significantly impact your budget is onboard beverages. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of beverage packages, allowing guests to enjoy drinks conveniently without worrying about individual prices. However, many first-time cruisers often ask: how much is a beverage package on Royal Caribbean?

This comprehensive guide will explore all aspects of Royal Caribbean beverage packages, including types, pricing, inclusions, tips to save money, and real-world examples of how to maximize value. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of whether a beverage package is worth it for your cruise.

Understanding Royal Caribbean Beverage Packages

Royal Caribbean provides multiple beverage package options to cater to different needs, from adults who enjoy cocktails to families who prefer soft drinks. Beverage packages are prepaid plans that allow you unlimited access to specific types of drinks throughout your cruise. This simplifies your experience and often offers better value than paying for drinks individually.

The main beverage packages include:

1. Deluxe Beverage Package

2. Refreshment Package

3. Classic Soda Package

Each package is designed to serve a specific type of traveler. Selecting the right one depends on your preferences, budget, and onboard habits.

Deluxe Beverage Package

The Deluxe Beverage Package is the most comprehensive package offered by Royal Caribbean. It is designed for adults who want access to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Whether you enjoy a cocktail by the pool, a glass of wine with dinner, or a specialty coffee in the morning, this package provides convenience and variety.

Inclusions:

• Cocktails and mixed drinks

• Wine by the glass (up to $13 per glass)

• Beer (domestic and select international brands)

• Specialty coffees, including lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso

• Smoothies and fresh-squeezed juices

• Premium bottled water

• Non-alcoholic beverages, including soda

Pricing:The cost of the Deluxe Beverage Package can vary depending on your cruise duration, ship, and season. On average, expect:

• $63 to $89 per person per day

• Gratuities of approximately 18% apply

This package is ideal for travelers who plan to enjoy several drinks daily, including alcoholic beverages, as the per-drink cost can quickly exceed the package price.

Refreshment Package

For guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the Refreshment Package is an excellent option. It covers specialty coffees, fresh juices, smoothies, fountain drinks, and bottled water. This package is particularly popular among families, non-drinkers, and those who enjoy premium drinks without alcohol.

Inclusions:

• Specialty coffees (cappuccinos, lattes, espresso)

• Smoothies and fresh juices

• Fountain sodas and iced teas

• Premium bottled water

• Energy drinks

• Non-alcoholic cocktails

Pricing:

• $29 to $39 per person per day

• Additional gratuities of around 18%

The Refreshment Package is a cost-effective solution if you enjoy multiple non-alcoholic drinks daily, such as morning coffee, mid-day smoothies, and soda with meals.

Classic Soda Package

The Classic Soda Package is the most basic and affordable option. It includes unlimited fountain soda throughout your cruise. While limited in variety, it is ideal for families with children or guests who primarily drink soft drinks.

Inclusions:

• Unlimited fountain soda

• Iced tea and lemonade

Pricing:

• $12 to $15 per person per day

• Gratuities of approximately 18%

This package provides excellent value for soft drink enthusiasts but does not cover specialty coffees, smoothies, or alcoholic beverages.

Additional Beverage Options

Royal Caribbean also offers add-on beverage options beyond the main packages:

1. Wine Packages: Pre-selected wine options by the bottle for the duration of the cruise. Prices vary by wine selection.

2. Beer Packages: Bundles of draft or bottled beer for those who primarily enjoy beer.

3. Non-Alcoholic Add-Ons: Bottled water or specialty drinks can be purchased separately if a full package isn’t desired.

Day-to-Day Value Analysis

To illustrate how much value a beverage package provides, consider this example for a 7-day cruise:

• Deluxe Beverage Package: $80 per day x 7 days = $560 per adult

• Individual drink cost without a package: Average cocktail $12, wine glass $8, specialty coffee $5, soda $3

A guest enjoying:

• 2 cocktails per day ($24)

• 1 specialty coffee ($5)

• 2 sodas ($6)

Daily total without package = $35, which is less than the package cost. However, guests who enjoy 4+ cocktails or specialty drinks daily quickly exceed $80/day, making the package worth it.

For non-drinkers:

• Refreshment Package $35/day x 7 = $245

• Individual specialty coffee $5 x 2/day + soda $3 x 3/day = $19/day

Here, the package saves money for those who consume multiple drinks daily.

Tips to Maximize Beverage Package Value

1. Calculate Your Drink Consumption: Estimate how many drinks you realistically consume. A package is worth it if your daily total exceeds the package price.

2. Take Advantage of Specialty Drinks: For the Deluxe Beverage Package, enjoy cocktails, wine, smoothies, and specialty coffees to maximize value.

3. Book in Advance: Purchasing packages before your cruise may offer discounts and ensures availability.

4. Share Packages Strategically: Some adults traveling together may find that sharing or alternating between package use and a la carte purchases reduces costs.

5. Combine Packages: Families can mix packages—for example, adults purchase Deluxe Beverage Packages while children enjoy the Classic Soda Package.

Comparing Beverage Packages Across Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean offers different ships with varying onboard experiences. Some ships have premium bars, specialty coffee shops, or cocktail lounges. Pricing for beverage packages may differ slightly by ship due to these amenities.

• Oasis-class ships: These ships often have higher-priced packages due to specialty bars and premium drinks.

• Quantum-class ships: Known for high-tech features and onboard bars, packages are priced mid-range.

• Freedom and Voyager-class ships: Packages tend to be consistent, with standard inclusions for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Tips for Families and Non-Drinkers

For families and non-drinkers, the beverage package still offers value:

• Kids can enjoy the Classic Soda Package to avoid buying soda repeatedly.

• Adults who do not drink alcohol can benefit from the Refreshment Package, which covers coffee, smoothies, and juices.

• Combining packages allows families to control costs while ensuring everyone gets their preferred drinks.

FAQs

Can I mix beverage packages?Yes, family members or groups can purchase different packages according to their preferences. For example, adults can select the Deluxe Beverage Package while children use the Classic Soda Package.

Are gratuities included?No. An automatic gratuity of around 18% is added to your package cost, so factor this into your budget.

Can I buy a package onboard?Yes, but prices may be slightly higher, and packages can sell out during peak cruises. Buying in advance is often cheaper.

Do beverage packages include room service?Yes, the Deluxe and Refreshment Packages generally include beverages delivered via room service, though some restrictions may apply for specialty cocktails.

Are unlimited drinks truly unlimited?Royal Caribbean encourages responsible drinking. While the packages provide unlimited drinks, staff may monitor excessive consumption, particularly for alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion

The cost of a beverage package on Royal Caribbean varies by type, cruise duration, and onboard offerings. On average:

• Deluxe Beverage Package: $63–$89/day per adult

• Refreshment Package: $29–$39/day per adult

• Classic Soda Package: $12–$15/day per person

For guests who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily, especially alcoholic beverages or specialty coffee and smoothies, purchasing a beverage package can offer both convenience and cost savings. Careful planning, understanding your consumption habits, and taking advantage of promotions can help you maximize the value of your beverage package and enjoy a more relaxing, indulgent cruise experience.

In the end, Royal Caribbean beverage packages allow you to enjoy unlimited drinks, skip the stress of individual pricing, and focus on the fun, relaxation, and luxury of your cruise. With proper planning and smart choices, your beverage package can enhance your entire vacation experience.