When you plan a vacation aboard Celebrity Cruises, one of the first add-ons you’ll be offered is a drink package. These packages promise unlimited beverages—ranging from cocktails and wine to coffee and bottled water—for a daily flat fee. But the real question travelers often ask is: Is it actually worth buying a drink package on Celebrity Cruises?
The answer depends on your drinking habits, your itinerary, and how you like to enjoy your cruise. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises’ drink packages—what they include, how much they cost, and whether they offer real value for your money.
Celebrity Cruises offers several types of drink packages designed to fit different preferences and budgets. They include non-alcoholic and alcoholic options, with each package offering different price caps and beverage selections.
Here’s an overview of the main packages you’ll find onboard:
This is the entry-level alcoholic package. It typically includes:
Beers up to around $8–$9
Spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass up to $10–$11
Specialty coffees, teas, and soft drinks
Bottled water and juices
Anything above those price limits can still be ordered, but you’ll need to pay the price difference plus gratuity.
The premium package is the most popular and comprehensive option. It includes:
All drinks in the Classic package
Premium cocktails, wines, and spirits up to around $17–$18 per glass
Craft beers, higher-end liquors, and top-shelf brands
Specialty coffees, teas, smoothies, and energy drinks
Bottled water, both still and sparkling
20% off bottles of wine
If you enjoy fine wines, martinis, or craft cocktails, the Premium package usually offers the best flexibility and value.
For those who don’t consume alcohol, this package includes:
Fresh juices and smoothies
Premium coffees and teas
Bottled water (still and sparkling)
Soft drinks and mocktails
It’s ideal for non-drinkers who still want to enjoy unlimited beverages without worrying about per-drink costs.
Prices vary slightly depending on the ship and itinerary, but as of recent estimates:
Classic Drink Package: Around $89 per person, per day (including gratuities)
Premium Drink Package: Around $109 per person, per day (including gratuities)
Zero Proof Package: Around $35 per person, per day
These prices may seem high at first glance, but the cost of drinks onboard can add up quickly. For example, a single cocktail may cost between $12 and $18, while a glass of wine can range from $10 to $20. Even bottled water and specialty coffees can run $3 to $6 each.
The key to determining if a drink package is worth it lies in how much you typically drink in a day. Let’s break down an example scenario for the Premium package.
Suppose you typically have:
2 cocktails by the pool ($16 each)
2 glasses of wine with dinner ($15 each)
1 beer or nightcap ($10)
1 specialty coffee ($6)
2 bottles of water ($4 each)
That’s roughly $86 per day without gratuity. Add the automatic 20% service charge, and you’re spending about $103 per day—which is nearly equal to the price of the Premium package. In this case, the drink package clearly makes sense because it gives you unlimited access without worrying about every purchase.
However, if you only plan to have a couple of drinks a day or prefer non-alcoholic beverages most of the time, paying for the package may not be cost-effective.
There’s more to the decision than just money. Here are some key benefits of opting for a drink package:
You don’t need to sign a bill or think twice before ordering a drink. Whether you want a morning cappuccino, a mimosa at brunch, or a cocktail at sunset, you can just ask and enjoy. That freedom enhances the vacation experience.
Cruises can add up with hidden costs—especially when drinks are charged individually. A drink package lets you prepay, so you know your total cost upfront and avoid a surprise bill at the end.
Celebrity Cruises offers high-quality spirits and wines. With a package, you can enjoy premium liquors like Grey Goose, Hendrick’s Gin, or Glenfiddich without worrying about the price difference.
If you enjoy socializing at bars, attending events, or relaxing at lounges, you’ll appreciate being able to order freely. Many passengers find it enhances their cruise experience because it removes the hesitation of paying per drink.
On certain itineraries, your drink package is valid on Celebrity’s private destinations such as Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, depending on your cruise route. That means you can sip cocktails on the beach without extra charges.
While there are plenty of advantages, drink packages are not ideal for everyone. Here are a few potential downsides:
If you’re not a frequent drinker, spending over $100 per day can be wasteful. Even if you skip drinking for one or two days (for example, during shore excursions), you’ll still be charged for the package.
Both adults in the same cabin must usually purchase the same package if one person buys it. This policy prevents sharing but can make it expensive if one partner doesn’t drink much.
Many cruisers spend long hours ashore exploring, meaning fewer opportunities to use their drink benefits that day. If your itinerary has many port stops, your per-day consumption may be lower than expected.
Even with the Premium package, ultra-premium spirits or high-end wines may exceed the limit. You’ll need to pay the price difference, which can add up if you’re a connoisseur.
Before committing to a drink package, it’s helpful to know what beverages are already included in your cruise fare. Complimentary options include:
Regular coffee and tea
Filtered water
Some juices at breakfast
Lemonade and iced tea
Basic fountain drinks during meals on select ships
If you’re content with these basics, you might not need to spend extra on a package.
If you decide to purchase a package, here are a few insider tips to make the most of it:
Buy in Advance: Drink packages are often cheaper when purchased before your cruise rather than onboard. Celebrity frequently offers discounts during pre-cruise sales.
Use It on Embarkation Day: You can start using your package as soon as you board, even before the ship sails.
Try New Drinks: Since you’ve already paid, experiment with new cocktails, wines, or spirits without worrying about the cost.
Stay Hydrated: Use your package for bottled water throughout the day, especially on hot sea days or excursions.
Enjoy Specialty Coffees and Smoothies: Many people forget these are included in the Premium and Zero Proof packages, adding hidden value.
Split the Difference on Port Days: If your cruise has many days at sea, the package might make more sense because you’ll have more opportunities to enjoy drinks onboard.
If you decide not to purchase a drink package, you can still buy beverages à la carte. Your room key serves as your onboard charge card, and each purchase is automatically billed to your account.
The good news is that Celebrity Cruises doesn’t pressure guests to buy a package. You can always order individual drinks and even add a package mid-cruise if you change your mind (though it’s usually priced per remaining days).
To make your decision easier, let’s compare the two most popular alcoholic packages side by side:
FeatureClassic Drink PackagePremium Drink Package
Price per Day (approx.)$89$109
Alcohol LimitUp to $10–$11 per drinkUp to $17–$18 per drink
Beer SelectionBasic brandsCraft and premium brands
Wine by the GlassHouse winesExpanded list including premium wines
SpiritsStandardTop-shelf
Specialty Coffee/TeaIncludedIncluded
Bottled WaterIncludedPremium sparkling and still
Discounts on Bottles of Wine15%20%
Access to Specialty BarsLimitedFull access
If you’re not picky about brands and mostly drink basic cocktails or beer, the Classic package should suffice. But if you prefer high-end liquors, craft cocktails, or specialty wines, the Premium package is the clear winner.
You Drink Several Alcoholic Beverages Daily:If you typically have 5–7 drinks a day (including water and coffee), the package easily pays for itself.
You Want a Hassle-Free Vacation:If you don’t want to track spending or sign receipts, a package provides total convenience.
You Plan to Stay Onboard Often:Cruises with more sea days allow you to maximize your drink package value.
You Enjoy Variety:If you like to try different cocktails, wines, or beers, you’ll appreciate the flexibility.
You Rarely Drink Alcohol:Even two cocktails a day don’t justify the high daily rate.
You Have Many Port Days:If your itinerary includes multiple long port stops, you’ll likely spend less time drinking onboard.
You’re Cruising with a Non-Drinker:Since both guests in the same cabin must buy the same package, it could double your cost unnecessarily.
You Prefer Bringing Your Own Wine:Celebrity allows you to bring two bottles of wine per stateroom at embarkation. If you enjoy those casually, a package may be overkill.
If you don’t drink alcohol but still want convenience, the Zero Proof package can be worth it. Specialty coffees, smoothies, and bottled water quickly add up, especially on hot days. Even without alcohol, you can easily spend $25–$30 daily, making the non-alcoholic package a reasonable choice.
Alternatively, you can skip all packages and pay per item if you only need the occasional latte or soda.
Yes. If you start with the Classic package and decide you want access to premium brands or better wine, you can upgrade to the Premium package by paying the difference in cost for the remaining days. However, downgrades (from Premium to Classic) aren’t typically allowed, so choose wisely.
Compared to competitors like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises’ drink packages tend to be slightly more expensive. However, the quality of the beverages is also higher, and the bar service is often more personalized.
While Royal Caribbean may cater to a party crowd with frozen cocktails and beer buckets, Celebrity’s atmosphere is more refined, with premium wines, crafted martinis, and upscale lounges. So even though you’re paying a little more, the experience aligns with Celebrity’s luxury branding.
Many past Celebrity passengers report that the Premium package offers excellent value for those who enjoy quality drinks. They appreciate the freedom of ordering what they want without worrying about price differences.
Others, especially light drinkers, feel the package is unnecessary and instead choose to pay per drink. A common sentiment is that having more than three or four alcoholic beverages per day makes the package worthwhile.
Ultimately, satisfaction depends on personal habits and expectations.
If you’re unsure about committing to a full drink package, consider these strategies:
Use onboard drink specials: Daily happy hours and “Drink of the Day” promotions often offer discounts.
Buy a bottle of wine: A single bottle at dinner can be more economical than paying for multiple glasses.
Take advantage of included perks: Some Celebrity fares already include a Classic drink package as part of promotions like “Always Included.”
Bring your own wine: As mentioned, two bottles per stateroom are allowed at embarkation.
By combining these strategies, you can enjoy drinks onboard without paying for an unlimited plan.
The answer is: It depends on your drinking habits and priorities.
Yes, it’s worth it if you drink several alcoholic beverages daily, enjoy premium brands, and value convenience.
No, it’s not worth it if you’re a light drinker, have many port days, or prefer to control your spending.
The Premium package offers the best experience for those who love fine wines, cocktails, and the freedom of choice. But if you’re more casual about drinking or prefer water, coffee, and juice, paying à la carte is the smarter financial move.
Celebrity Cruises offers one of the most sophisticated beverage programs at sea, with top-quality selections and world-class bartenders. A drink package can elevate your cruise experience—transforming every sunset toast, poolside cocktail, and dinner wine into effortless enjoyment.
However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The key is to be honest about your drinking habits and calculate your expected consumption before sailing. Whether you choose the Classic, Premium, or Zero Proof package, make sure it aligns with your lifestyle and enhances your time at sea.
In short, if sipping martinis under the stars and savoring fine wines without worrying about the tab sounds like your idea of a perfect vacation, then yes, the Celebrity Cruises drink package is absolutely worth it.
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