Royal Caribbean offers a few different drink packages, ranging from unlimited alcohol to simple soda packages. The most popular option is the Deluxe Beverage Package, which includes cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, sodas, bottled water, juices, and specialty coffees. People who do not drink alcohol often select the Refreshment Package, which includes non alcoholic beverages such as sodas, juices, bottled water, mocktails, and specialty coffees. There is also a basic soda package for guests who mainly want soft drinks. Prices vary depending on the ship and itinerary, but the alcoholic package is typically the most expensive, sometimes costing more than $100 per person per day before gratuity.
Cruise drink package – is it worth it?
The drink package can be worth the cost for people who enjoy drinking throughout the day. Many cocktails onboard cost around $14 each. If you tend to order a few drinks by the pool, another before dinner, wine with your meal, and perhaps a nightcap, the package starts to make financial sense. Some travelers like the simplicity of having everything covered so they never worry about the drink tab at the end of the cruise. It can also feel more vacation like when you can order something without thinking about price each time.
Non-alcoholic cruise drink package
The non alcoholic package also offers good value if you regularly drink bottled water, specialty coffees, juices, or mocktails. Paying individually for these drinks can add up, and many guests underestimate how often they will want something other than water once they are at sea. A family with kids who drink soda frequently may find the basic soda package helpful and cheaper than paying for individual drinks.
The package is usually not worth it for guests who only drink one or two alcoholic beverages per day. If you prefer a beer with lunch and a glass of wine at dinner, you will probably spend less by paying as you go. Some travelers say they felt pressure to drink more than they normally would in order to justify the cost, which can make the purchase feel stressful instead of relaxing. On shorter cruises there may not be enough time to take advantage of the package unless you drink heavily every day.
When deciding whether to buy a drink package, consider your personal habits rather than what other people recommend. Think about how much you drink in a typical vacation setting, how much time you plan to spend around the pool, whether you enjoy specialty coffees, and whether you value convenience over strict cost savings. For some guests the drink package becomes part of the vacation experience. For others it is simply an expensive add on that does not fit their lifestyle.
