Are you planning a Royal Caribbean cruise and wondering, How Much Is A Royal Caribbean Drink Package? At HOW.EDU.VN, we understand the importance of making informed decisions to enhance your vacation experience. This guide offers a detailed look at Royal Caribbean’s drink packages, helping you determine if they’re worth the investment for your specific needs. Understanding the costs and benefits of these packages can transform your cruise into a seamless, enjoyable getaway.
1. Understanding Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean offers various drink packages, catering to different preferences and budgets. These packages allow you to enjoy a wide range of beverages without the worry of individual drink costs. From basic soda packages to all-inclusive options with alcoholic drinks, there’s a package to suit every cruiser. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of Royal Caribbean drink packages available.
1.1 Water Package
This package focuses on hydration, providing bottled water delivered directly to your cabin. It’s available in packs of 12 or 24 one-liter bottles of Evian water.
1.2 Classic Soft Drinks Package
Ideal for soda enthusiasts, this package offers unlimited refills of soda at any restaurant or bar onboard. On select ships, it includes a souvenir Coca-Cola cup that works with the Freestyle soda dispensing machines.
1.3 Refreshment Package
This package includes a broader range of non-alcoholic beverages such as still and sparkling water, sodas (including Freestyle options), mocktails, premium coffees and teas, and fresh-squeezed juices. It’s a great option for those who enjoy variety without alcohol.
1.4 Deluxe Beverage Package
The most comprehensive option, the Deluxe Beverage Package, includes everything in the Refreshment Package, plus alcoholic cocktails, spirits, liquors, beer, and wine by the glass. It allows you to enjoy almost any drink on board up to a certain price limit.
1.5 Cafe Select Coffee Card
Perfect for coffee lovers, this card offers 15 specialty espresso-based coffees throughout your cruise. It’s not restricted to one person and can be shared within your cabin.
2. Detailed Inclusions of Each Drink Package
Knowing what each package includes is crucial for determining its value for you. Let’s dive into the specific inclusions of each Royal Caribbean drink package.
2.1 Water Package Inclusions
The Water Package includes either 12 or 24 one-liter bottles of Evian water. These are delivered to your stateroom upon embarkation, ensuring you stay hydrated from the start of your cruise.
2.2 Classic Soft Drinks Package Inclusions
This package offers:
- Unlimited soda refills at all restaurants and bars.
- Access to Coca-Cola Freestyle machines on select ships.
- Inclusions extend to Royal Caribbean’s private island destinations (Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee).
- Convenient soda access throughout the ship.
2.3 Refreshment Package Inclusions
The Refreshment Package encompasses a wide array of non-alcoholic beverages, including:
- Still and sparkling water
- Sodas (with Coca-Cola Freestyle options)
- Mocktails
- Premium coffees and teas (excluding Starbucks stand-alone stores)
- Freshly squeezed juices
- Smoothies and protein shakes at Vitality Cafe
- Milkshakes at Johnny Rockets
2.4 Deluxe Beverage Package Inclusions
This premium package includes:
- All beverages from the Refreshment Package
- Cocktails, spirits, and liquors
- Beer (bottles and cans)
- Wine by the glass (up to a specific price limit)
- A 40% discount on bottles of wine up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles over $100
2.5 Cafe Select Coffee Card Inclusions
The Cafe Select Coffee Card provides:
- 15 specialty espresso-based coffees
- Shareable use among cabin occupants
3. Royal Caribbean Drink Package Costs
Understanding the cost of each package is essential in determining its value. Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, meaning prices can fluctuate based on demand, destination, and promotions.
3.1 Water Package Cost
- 12 bottles: $39
- 24 bottles: $69
3.2 Classic Soft Drinks Package Cost
$12.99 per person, per day
3.3 Refreshment Package Cost
$29 per person, per day
3.4 Deluxe Beverage Package Cost
$56 to $105 per person, per day (depending on the ship and itinerary)
3.5 Cafe Select Coffee Card Cost
$31 per card
Note: All listed prices do not include an automatic 18% gratuity.
4. When is the Best Time to Buy Your Drink Package?
Timing your purchase can significantly impact the price you pay. Here are some tips for when to buy your Royal Caribbean drink package.
- Book Early: Purchase your package as soon as you book your cruise to potentially secure lower rates.
- Black Friday Deals: Look out for Black Friday deals, which often offer the lowest prices of the year.
- Monitor Price Drops: Royal Caribbean frequently advertises pre-cruise purchase deals. Keep an eye on the actual price per day rather than percentage-off deals.
- Avoid Onboard Purchase: Buying onboard is almost always more expensive than purchasing in advance.
5. Factors Affecting the Price of Drink Packages
Several factors can influence the price of Royal Caribbean’s drink packages.
- Demand: Higher demand during peak travel times can drive prices up.
- Destination: Cruises with stops at private islands may have higher package prices.
- Promotions: Special promotions and sales events can offer discounted rates.
- Ship and Itinerary: The specific ship and itinerary can affect pricing due to varying onboard offerings and regional costs.
6. Is a Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?
To determine if a drink package is worth it, consider your drinking habits and preferences. Calculate your potential daily consumption and compare it to the package cost.
6.1 Water Package Value
If you prefer bottled water over tap water, this package offers convenience and is cost-effective. However, if you’re fine with tap water or water from dispensers, you may not need this package.
6.2 Classic Soft Drinks Package Value
To make this package worthwhile, you need to drink at least four sodas per day. If you’re a serious soda drinker, it can be a good value.
6.3 Refreshment Package Value
This package is worth considering if you enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic beverages such as premium coffees, mocktails, and smoothies. Calculate your typical daily consumption to see if it exceeds the package cost.
6.4 Deluxe Beverage Package Value
To justify the Deluxe Beverage Package, you need to factor in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. If you plan to enjoy several cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine daily, along with premium coffees and other non-alcoholic beverages, this package can be a great value.
6.5 Cafe Select Coffee Card Value
If you are a coffee lover, this card offers significant savings compared to purchasing individual specialty coffees.
7. How to Maximize the Value of Your Drink Package
To get the most out of your Royal Caribbean drink package, consider these tips.
- Utilize All Inclusions: Take full advantage of all the beverages included in your package, from premium coffees to mocktails.
- Drink Frequently: Stay hydrated and enjoy your favorite drinks throughout the day.
- Consider the Itinerary: On sea days and port days with warmer climates, you’re likely to drink more, maximizing your package’s value.
- Take Advantage of Discounts: Use any discounts on bottles of wine or other beverages included in your package.
8. Royal Caribbean Drink Package Rules and Restrictions
Understanding the rules and restrictions of drink packages is essential.
- Gratuities: An 18% gratuity is automatically added to the cost of all drink packages.
- Mandatory Purchase: If one person in a cabin purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all adults of legal drinking age in the cabin must also purchase it.
- Exclusions: Drink packages typically exclude room service, minibar items, and beverages from stand-alone Starbucks locations.
- Souvenir Glasses: Drinks served in souvenir glasses may not be included in the package.
9. Alternatives to Purchasing a Drink Package
If you’re unsure about purchasing a drink package, consider these alternatives.
- Pay-as-You-Go: Purchase drinks individually and pay for each beverage as you consume it.
- Bring Your Own Beverages: Royal Caribbean allows you to bring a limited number of non-alcoholic beverages onboard.
- Utilize Loyalty Perks: Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Crown & Anchor members receive complimentary drinks daily.
- Casino Royale Perks: Players with Prime status or higher can enjoy free drinks at the casino bar.
10. Combining Packages and Strategies for Savings
Combining certain packages or utilizing specific strategies can help you save money.
- Combine Coffee Card and Soda Package: Purchase the Cafe Select Coffee Card and the Classic Soft Drinks Package for a more budget-friendly alternative to the Refreshment Package.
- Share a Coffee Card: If you’re traveling with a partner, share one Cafe Select Coffee Card to save on costs.
- Monitor Your Spending: Set a daily drink budget and track your expenses using the Royal Caribbean app or interactive TV.
11. Royal Caribbean Loyalty Program and Drink Packages
Your Crown & Anchor Society loyalty status can affect the value of purchasing a drink package.
- Diamond Members: Receive four free drinks daily, which can offset the need for a full drink package.
- Diamond Plus Members: Get five free drinks daily.
- Pinnacle Members: Enjoy six free drinks daily.
- Onboard Discounts: Diamond Plus members receive a 30% discount on Deluxe Beverage Packages purchased onboard.
12. Royal Caribbean’s Private Island Destinations and Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean’s drink packages extend to their private island destinations, Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee. This inclusion can significantly enhance the value of your package, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time on these islands.
13. How to Calculate if a Drink Package is Worth It for You
To accurately assess the value of a drink package, follow these steps.
- Estimate Daily Consumption: List all the drinks you typically consume in a day, including water, soda, coffee, mocktails, and alcoholic beverages.
- Calculate Individual Costs: Research the prices of each drink onboard.
- Compare to Package Cost: Compare the total cost of individual drinks to the price of the drink package.
- Consider Additional Benefits: Factor in the convenience and all-inclusive feel of the package.
14. Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
Let’s consider some real-life examples to illustrate the value of drink packages.
- Case Study 1: A cruiser who enjoys four cocktails, two premium coffees, and several sodas daily would likely save money with the Deluxe Beverage Package.
- Case Study 2: A cruiser who only drinks a couple of glasses of wine at dinner might find the Refreshment Package or pay-as-you-go option more economical.
- Case Study 3: A family traveling with teenagers who enjoy soda and mocktails could benefit from the Refreshment Package.
15. Potential Hidden Costs and How to Avoid Them
Be aware of potential hidden costs associated with drink packages.
- Gratuities: Remember that gratuities are added to the cost of all drink packages.
- Exclusions: Know what beverages are not included in your package to avoid unexpected charges.
- Sharing: Drink packages are for individual use only and cannot be shared.
16. The Impact of Itinerary on Drink Package Value
Your cruise itinerary can significantly impact the value of a drink package.
- Sea Days: Cruises with multiple sea days offer more opportunities to utilize your drink package.
- Port-Intensive Cruises: On port-intensive cruises, you may spend less time onboard, reducing the value of the package.
- Warm Climates: Cruises in warm climates often lead to increased beverage consumption.
17. How to Purchase a Royal Caribbean Drink Package
You can purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package through several channels.
- Online Cruise Planner: Log in to your Royal Caribbean account and navigate to the Cruise Planner section.
- Royal Caribbean App: Use the Royal Caribbean app to purchase your package.
- Onboard: Purchase your package onboard, but be aware that prices may be higher.
18. Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing Online
Here’s how to purchase a drink package through the online Cruise Planner.
- Log In: Log in to your Royal Caribbean account.
- Navigate to Cruise Planner: Find the Cruise Planner section.
- Select Drink Packages: Choose the “Drink Packages” option.
- Select Package: Select the desired drink package.
- Add to Cart: Add the package to your cart.
- Checkout: Complete the checkout process.
19. What to Do If You Change Your Mind After Purchasing
If you change your mind after purchasing a drink package, you can typically cancel it for a refund up to a certain point before your cruise. Check Royal Caribbean’s cancellation policy for specific details.
20. Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Drink Package Policy
Familiarize yourself with Royal Caribbean’s drink package policy.
- Age Restrictions: All guests consuming alcohol must be of legal drinking age.
- Sharing Policy: Drink packages are for individual use only and cannot be shared.
- Locations: Drink packages can be used at most bars and restaurants onboard, as well as at private island destinations.
21. How to Complain About a Drink Package Issue
If you encounter any issues with your drink package, address them promptly.
- Onboard: Speak with guest services to resolve any issues during your cruise.
- After Cruise: Contact Royal Caribbean’s customer service department after your cruise to address unresolved concerns.
22. Tips for First-Time Cruisers Considering a Drink Package
For first-time cruisers, consider these tips.
- Research: Thoroughly research the different drink packages and their inclusions.
- Assess Your Drinking Habits: Honestly assess your drinking habits and preferences.
- Set a Budget: Set a budget for your onboard spending, including drinks.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask Royal Caribbean representatives any questions you may have.
23. Drink Package Scenarios Based on Different Travel Styles
Consider these scenarios based on different travel styles.
- Family Vacation: A family with teenagers might benefit from the Refreshment Package for the kids and the Deluxe Beverage Package for the adults.
- Couples Getaway: A couple who enjoys cocktails and wine might find the Deluxe Beverage Package worthwhile.
- Solo Traveler: A solo traveler who enjoys coffee and occasional drinks might prefer the Cafe Select Coffee Card and pay-as-you-go option.
24. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
Here are some frequently asked questions about Royal Caribbean drink packages.
- What is included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
The Deluxe Beverage Package includes cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, sodas, premium coffees, and more. - Can I share my drink package with someone else?
No, drink packages are for individual use only and cannot be shared. - Are gratuities included in the price of the drink package?
No, an 18% gratuity is automatically added to the cost of all drink packages. - Can I use my drink package on Royal Caribbean’s private islands?
Yes, drink packages extend to Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee. - What happens if I don’t drink enough to make the package worth it?
If you don’t drink enough to break even, you may have been better off paying for drinks individually. - Can I cancel my drink package after purchasing it?
You can typically cancel your drink package for a refund up to a certain point before your cruise. - Do all adults in the cabin have to purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package if one person does?
Yes, if one person in a cabin purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all adults of legal drinking age in the cabin must also purchase it. - Are there any restrictions on the types of drinks I can order with the Deluxe Beverage Package?
There may be some restrictions on premium brands and drinks over a certain price limit. - Can I use my drink package at Starbucks onboard?
Drink packages typically exclude beverages from stand-alone Starbucks locations. - How do I purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package?
You can purchase a drink package through the online Cruise Planner, the Royal Caribbean app, or onboard.
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