When planning a luxury cruise vacation, few names evoke as much prestige and opulence as Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Renowned for its all-inclusive experience, Regent Seven Seas sets itself apart from most other cruise lines by bundling almost everything—gourmet dining, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and even premium beverages—into one upfront fare. This leads many first-time travelers to wonder: Is it worth buying a drink package on Regent Seven Seas Cruises?
At first glance, the idea of a drink package might seem unnecessary since Regent already promotes itself as “The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience.” Yet, subtle nuances exist between what’s included in your fare and what may still be considered an upgrade. Understanding these distinctions can help you make a financially smart and enjoyable decision for your voyage.
This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about Regent Seven Seas’ beverage inclusions, the types of drink packages available, the onboard drinking culture, and how to evaluate whether an upgrade or specialty purchase is truly worth your money.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises operates differently from mainstream cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean or Carnival, where guests are often tempted by optional packages and add-ons. Regent’s core appeal lies in its true all-inclusive concept. That means when you book a cruise, the price covers nearly every conceivable aspect of your journey—luxurious suites, fine dining, excursions, gratuities, and yes, a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
From the moment you board, champagne is poured, and your mini-bar is stocked with your preferred selections. You can enjoy drinks at any bar, lounge, or restaurant without worrying about extra charges or signing tabs. For many travelers, this seamless experience is a major reason for choosing Regent Seven Seas over other cruise lines.
However, the luxury cruise industry has evolved, and guests’ expectations have expanded. Some travelers seek ultra-premium wines, rare spirits, or vintage champagnes—options that may not be included in the standard fare. That’s where the concept of “upgraded drink selections” comes in.
To evaluate whether an additional drink package or upgraded beverage option is worthwhile, it’s important to understand what’s already included in your cruise fare.
Regent’s standard beverage inclusions are impressively comprehensive:
Unlimited Fine Wines and Premium Spirits: Guests enjoy a broad selection of wines, beers, and cocktails. Brands like Grey Goose, Bombay Sapphire, Johnnie Walker Black Label, and Belvedere Vodka are typically included. Wine lists change regularly, featuring international labels from France, Italy, California, and Australia.
Champagne and Sparkling Wines: Premium sparkling options like Moët & Chandon are often available, though ultra-high-end vintages may be offered at an additional cost.
Cocktails and Mixology: Bartenders craft an extensive array of cocktails—from martinis and mojitos to old fashioneds and tropical concoctions. Most guests find this variety sufficient without needing to upgrade.
Beer Selections: The beer menu covers both popular international and regional brands. You can enjoy Heineken, Guinness, or craft beers depending on your sailing region.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Specialty coffees, teas, mocktails, sodas, and bottled water are also included. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying afternoon tea, you’ll never be charged for a drink.
In-Suite Mini-Bar: Every suite includes a fully stocked mini-bar replenished daily with your chosen beverages—be it beer, wine, soft drinks, or spirits.
For most travelers, these inclusions are more than sufficient. The standard beverage selection already rivals or surpasses the upgraded packages found on many mainstream cruise lines.
Regent Seven Seas doesn’t technically sell “drink packages” in the same way that other cruise lines do. Instead, the cruise fare includes most beverages by default. However, the cruise line offers optional premium wine and spirits lists for guests who wish to enjoy exclusive labels or rare vintages.
Here’s how it works:
Premium Wine Selections: Certain ultra-luxury wines, typically priced from $100 to over $1000 per bottle, are available for purchase. These might include Château Margaux, Opus One, or Dom Pérignon vintages.
Top-Shelf Spirits: Some extremely rare whiskies, aged cognacs, or limited-edition rums can also carry a surcharge.
Special Wine Pairing Events: Regent occasionally hosts private wine-pairing dinners or tasting experiences. These events, featuring expert sommeliers and renowned winemakers, may come with an extra fee.
Onboard Wine Cellar Purchases: Guests can buy bottles to take to their suite or to enjoy with dinner, often from a curated collection of world-renowned vineyards.
These options are not marketed as “packages” per se, but as enhancements for those seeking a more personalized or extravagant drinking experience.
To understand the true value of Regent’s beverage offering, it helps to compare it with other major cruise lines:
Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises: On these ships, passengers pay separately for alcoholic beverages unless they purchase a drink package that can cost anywhere from $70 to $100 per person per day.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers a “Free at Sea” promotion that includes drinks, but taxes and premium selections still incur costs.
Seabourn and Silversea: These luxury competitors also offer all-inclusive drinks, but Regent’s inclusivity extends even further, covering more premium brands and shore excursions.
So, while passengers on other ships must calculate whether a package suits their drinking habits, Regent guests don’t face this dilemma because the standard offering already includes premium beverages.
The decision to purchase premium wines or attend specialty beverage events ultimately depends on your drinking preferences and expectations.
1. Wine Connoisseurs and Collectors: If you are passionate about fine wines and enjoy rare vintages or limited releases, then upgrading could enhance your cruise experience significantly. Regent’s sommeliers curate exceptional lists, and you may have access to bottles that are difficult to find elsewhere. The markup at sea is typically reasonable compared to luxury restaurants on land.
2. Casual Drinkers: If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a cocktail at sunset, or champagne during celebrations, you likely won’t need to spend an extra cent. The inclusive beverage selection already exceeds most travelers’ expectations.
3. Spirits Enthusiasts: Whisky lovers, for instance, may find joy in sampling high-end single malts like Macallan 25 or Glenfiddich 30, which are not part of the standard bar list. For such connoisseurs, paying a premium for a once-in-a-lifetime tasting might be worth it.
4. Social and Occasional Drinkers: For guests who only drink occasionally or prefer non-alcoholic options, the inclusivity of Regent’s beverages is more than adequate. There is no financial benefit to purchasing any upgrades.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises fosters an elegant, relaxed atmosphere rather than a party-centric one. Unlike large ocean liners where bars can be lively and crowded, Regent’s lounges and pool decks exude a refined tranquility.
The social drinking culture aboard revolves around sophistication and camaraderie. Guests gather for pre-dinner cocktails in the Observation Lounge, enjoy after-dinner cognacs at the Connoisseur Club, or sip vintage wines with live music in the Meridian Lounge. Each venue offers a curated ambiance, enhancing the overall luxury experience.
Because of the inclusive nature of Regent’s pricing, there’s no pressure to drink “enough to get your money’s worth,” a mindset often seen on other cruises with separate drink packages. Instead, passengers savor their beverages slowly, appreciating the quality and service.
Regent Seven Seas offers exceptional culinary experiences that seamlessly integrate with its beverage program. Specialty restaurants like Prime 7, Compass Rose, and Chartreuse serve exquisite multi-course meals paired with complementary wines and cocktails.
In most cases, these pairings are included in your fare. However, some exclusive dinners, such as “Connoisseur Wine Pairing Events” or “Chef’s Table Experiences,” may feature rare vintages or limited-release spirits available at an additional cost.
These events are ideal for those who appreciate fine dining artistry and wish to indulge in an elevated experience. The extra cost, though optional, often reflects the exclusivity of the beverages and the expertise behind the pairing.
Before deciding to purchase any additional beverages on Regent Seven Seas Cruises, consider the following:
Check the Standard Wine List: You may find that the included options already satisfy your palate.
Ask About Tastings: Regent frequently offers complimentary tastings of select wines and spirits during sea days or events. These provide a great way to explore without extra spending.
Personal Preference: If your primary goal is to relax rather than indulge in rare labels, upgrading may not add substantial value.
Voyage Duration: On shorter cruises, guests rarely feel the need for beverage upgrades. Longer voyages with special occasions might justify a splurge.
Budget: Regent cruises are already a premium investment. If your travel budget is fixed, remember that there’s no need for extras to enjoy a first-class experience.
Frequent Regent cruisers consistently praise the inclusivity of the beverage offerings. Reviews often highlight the attentiveness of bartenders and the high quality of wines served. Many passengers comment that they never felt limited by the included selections and found no reason to buy premium bottles.
Some wine enthusiasts mention that the optional upgrades add an extra layer of indulgence, particularly for milestone celebrations like anniversaries or birthdays. However, even those guests acknowledge that the baseline inclusions are outstanding.
A common sentiment among returning travelers is that Regent’s beverage service feels genuinely “luxury without limits.” Unlike cruise lines where drink orders are tracked or restricted by package type, Regent’s seamless approach enhances relaxation and satisfaction.
If you’re still curious about potential expenses, here’s a general breakdown of the costs associated with upgraded beverages:
Premium Wine Bottles: $100–$1,500+ depending on the label and vintage.
Ultra-Premium Spirits: $20–$100 per glass for rare whiskies or cognacs.
Specialty Tasting Events: $75–$250 per person for curated pairing dinners or exclusive tastings.
While these prices may seem steep, they’re typically in line with fine-dining establishments on land. Considering the luxury setting and service level, they can represent fair value for enthusiasts.
If you decide not to buy any premium drinks, you can still make your experience truly memorable by exploring the ship’s various bars and lounges. Each venue has its own signature cocktails and atmosphere:
Observation Lounge: Perfect for sunset cocktails with panoramic views.
Connoisseur Club: Ideal for enjoying fine cognac and cigars.
Meridian Lounge: Offers a chic setting with live music and a wide cocktail list.
Pool Bar: Serves refreshing tropical drinks and mocktails.
Don’t hesitate to ask bartenders for custom creations. Regent’s staff are trained mixologists who take pride in crafting personalized beverages.
Part of what makes Regent Seven Seas Cruises stand out is the psychological luxury of not worrying about additional costs. Guests often describe a sense of freedom knowing that they can order what they want, when they want, without signing receipts or checking bills.
This peace of mind is central to the Regent experience. Even if you don’t consume alcohol frequently, the inclusivity eliminates the nickel-and-dime atmosphere found on other ships. The absence of pressure or calculation adds intangible value to your journey.
There are a few scenarios where paying for an upgraded beverage or event could make sense:
Celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or milestone birthday.
Hosting a private dinner or gathering with friends onboard.
Being a collector or connoisseur of vintage wines or rare whiskies.
Wanting to explore limited-edition drinks exclusive to Regent’s cellar.
In such cases, the experience transcends mere consumption—it becomes a memory.
For most guests, however, buying additional drink upgrades doesn’t add significant value. The standard inclusions already feature premium brands and unlimited service. If you’re satisfied with recognizable spirits and a robust wine list, there’s no financial or experiential reason to spend more.
The all-inclusive fare covers every bar, every lounge, and every mealtime beverage. You’ll never encounter a scenario where you feel deprived or restricted in your choices.
One of Regent’s underrated luxuries is the ability to personalize your in-suite mini-bar. Before your cruise, you can specify your beverage preferences—whether that’s a certain wine, beer, or spirit. The crew ensures it’s replenished daily, free of charge.
If you have a favorite cocktail or brand not listed, the staff will often accommodate reasonable requests. This flexibility further diminishes the need for paid upgrades.
The short answer: No, it’s generally not worth buying an additional drink package or premium upgrade on Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Here’s why:
True All-Inclusivity: Regent already includes premium wines, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages in your fare.
High Quality: The included selections are top-shelf and satisfy even discerning palates.
No Hidden Fees: There are no surprise charges, drink caps, or package restrictions.
Tailored Service: Personalized mini-bar options and attentive bartenders make every drink feel custom-made.
Luxury Without Limits: The psychological comfort of knowing everything is covered enhances relaxation.
Unless you have very specific tastes in ultra-rare vintages or limited-edition spirits, the included beverages offer exceptional value.
In the world of luxury cruising, Regent Seven Seas stands as a benchmark for all-inclusive opulence. While other cruise lines tempt guests with optional upgrades, Regent’s philosophy is to deliver a truly seamless experience where indulgence knows no bounds.
For most travelers, purchasing a drink package or paying extra for premium beverages is unnecessary. The extensive selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails already embodies the essence of luxury. Each sip, whether enjoyed at sea under the stars or during a fine dining experience, reflects Regent’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
Ultimately, the worth of any cruise upgrade lies in personal preference. But on Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the beauty of the journey is that luxury comes standard. You don’t need to buy it—you’re already living it.
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