How Much Is Drink Package On Royal Caribbean? Understanding the costs, inclusions, and benefits of Royal Caribbean’s drink packages is essential for planning your cruise. HOW.EDU.VN provides you with the expert insights you need to make an informed decision. Discover how these packages can enhance your cruising experience, offering convenience and potential savings while ensuring you have access to a variety of beverages throughout your voyage and helping you with budget voyage expenses, ultimately optimizing your cruise experience.
1. Understanding Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean offers a variety of drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. These packages allow passengers to enjoy a wide range of beverages without the hassle of paying for each drink individually. From water and soda to premium coffees, cocktails, and wines, there’s a package to suit every cruiser’s needs.
1.1. Types of Drink Packages Available
Royal Caribbean provides several drink package options, each with its own set of inclusions and pricing. Understanding the specifics of each package is crucial for determining which one best fits your drinking habits and preferences.
1.1.1. Water Package
The Water Package includes 12 or 24 one-liter bottles of Evian water, delivered to your cabin on embarkation day. This package is ideal for those who prefer bottled water over tap water and want to ensure they stay hydrated throughout their cruise.
1.1.2. Classic Soft Drinks Package
The Classic Soft Drinks Package caters to soda enthusiasts. It includes a souvenir Coca-Cola cup with a chip that allows access to Coca-Cola Freestyle machines on select ships. This package offers unlimited soda refills at any restaurant or bar onboard, as well as on Royal Caribbean’s private island destinations.
1.1.3. Refreshment Package
The Refreshment Package is a comprehensive non-alcoholic option that includes still and sparkling water, sodas, mocktails, premium coffees and teas (excluding Starbucks stand-alone locations), and freshly squeezed juices. This package covers almost any non-alcoholic beverage you might want onboard.
1.1.4. Deluxe Beverage Package
The Deluxe Beverage Package is the most comprehensive option, including everything in the Refreshment Package plus cocktails, spirits, liquors, beer (bottled or canned), and wine by the glass. There are limits on brands, but the package covers a wide range of imported, domestic, and craft beers, an extensive wine list, and commonly ordered spirits.
1.1.5. Cafe Select Coffee Card
The Cafe Select Coffee Card offers 15 specialty espresso-based coffees throughout your cruise, excluding Starbucks locations. This card can be shared among anyone in your cabin.
1.2. What’s Included and Excluded
Understanding the inclusions and exclusions of each drink package is essential for making an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown:
| Package | Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Water Package | 12 or 24 bottles of Evian water | Other beverages |
| Classic Soft Drinks | Unlimited soda refills, Coca-Cola Freestyle cup | Room service, minibar |
| Refreshment Package | Still and sparkling water, sodas, mocktails, premium coffees/teas, fresh juices | Starbucks, shakes at Johnny Rockets |
| Deluxe Beverage Package | Everything in Refreshment Package, cocktails, spirits, liquors, beer, wine by the glass | Starbucks stand-alone locations, drinks in souvenir glasses |
| Cafe Select Coffee Card | 15 specialty espresso-based coffees | Starbucks locations |
1.3. Gratuities and Additional Costs
All Royal Caribbean drink packages include gratuities, but it’s important to know that the prices listed do not always include the automatic 18% gratuity applied to the coffee card and individual drinks. Factoring this into your budget ensures there are no surprises on your final bill.
2. Royal Caribbean Drink Package Costs
The cost of Royal Caribbean drink packages varies based on several factors, including the specific cruise, destination, and any ongoing promotions. The cruise line uses dynamic pricing, similar to how it prices cruise fares, meaning that prices can fluctuate.
2.1. Factors Influencing Drink Package Prices
Several factors influence the pricing of Royal Caribbean drink packages, including:
- Demand: Higher demand during peak travel times can drive up prices.
- Destination: Cruises to private islands or popular destinations might have higher prices.
- Promotions: Royal Caribbean frequently offers promotions and discounts on drink packages, which can significantly lower the cost.
2.2. Estimated Costs for Each Package
While the exact prices can vary, here are some estimated costs for Royal Caribbean drink packages:
- Water Package: $39 for 12 bottles; $69 for 24 bottles
- Classic Soft Drinks Package: $12.99 per person, per day
- Refreshment Package: $29 per person, per day
- Deluxe Beverage Package: $56 to $105 per person, per day
- Cafe Select Coffee Card: $31 per card
These prices do not include the automatic 18% gratuity.
2.3. How to Find the Best Deals
Finding the best deals on Royal Caribbean drink packages involves careful planning and monitoring. Here are some tips:
- Book Early: Purchasing your drink package as soon as you book your cruise can often secure a lower price.
- Monitor Promotions: Keep an eye on Royal Caribbean’s website and email newsletters for special offers.
- Black Friday Deals: Black Friday often brings the lowest prices of the year on drink packages.
- Compare Prices: Look at the actual price per person, per day, rather than just the percentage off or BOGO deals.
2.4. Dynamic Pricing Explained
Royal Caribbean employs dynamic pricing, meaning that the cost of drink packages can change based on demand, time of year, and other factors. Prices are higher during peak travel times and on cruises with stops at private islands. Buying ahead of time is typically cheaper than purchasing onboard.
3. Is a Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?
Determining whether a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth the investment requires a careful assessment of your drinking habits, preferences, and overall cruise plans.
3.1. Assessing Your Drinking Habits
Consider the types of beverages you typically consume on vacation. Do you enjoy cocktails, premium coffees, or primarily stick to water and soda? Understanding your drinking habits will help you determine which package, if any, offers the best value.
3.2. Calculating Break-Even Points
To determine if a drink package is worth it, calculate the break-even point for each package. This involves estimating how many drinks you would need to consume daily to offset the cost of the package.
3.2.1. Water Package
The 1-liter bottles in the Water Package cost roughly the same as a 12-ounce bottle from a bar. This package is a good deal if you prefer bottled water and want the convenience of having it delivered to your cabin.
3.2.2. Classic Soft Drinks Package
Individual sodas on the ship cost just over $4 with the tip. To make the Classic Soft Drinks Package worthwhile at just over $15 per person, per day (with gratuity), you would need to drink at least four sodas a day.
3.2.3. Refreshment Package
Mocktails and protein shakes cost around $7, lattes at non-Starbucks locations cost $5, and smoothies cost close to $9 (before gratuity). If you consume a latte in the morning ($6 with gratuity), water for your excursion ($3.84), a soda at lunch ($4), a couple of mocktails in the afternoon ($8.25 each), another soda with dinner ($4), and a mocktail for the show ($8.25), you would reach over $40 for the day. The Refreshment Package, at $34 (with tip) per person, per day, becomes a good deal.
3.2.4. Deluxe Beverage Package
Beers and hard ciders average $7 to $9, wine by the glass ranges from $9 to $25, and cocktails cost $10 to $14 (before gratuity). The value of non-alcoholic drinks can add up to $25 or more per day. If you can purchase the package at the lowest price, almost anyone who drinks a combination of non-alcoholic drinks and a couple of cocktails daily would break even. At a mid-range purchase price, you would need to consume a minimum of $55 per day beyond the average non-alcoholic beverages to break even, which equals six beers or four to five glasses of wine or cocktails.
3.3. Considering Your Itinerary
Your cruise itinerary can significantly impact the value of a drink package. A Caribbean cruise with sea days and a stop at CocoCay will likely lead to more drinking opportunities than a port-intensive cruise in Europe, where you might be off the ship for long hours sampling local beverages.
3.4. Loyalty Status and Casino Perks
Your Crown & Anchor loyalty status and Casino Royale player status can also affect the value of a drink package. Diamond members get four free drinks per day, Diamond Plus members get five, and Pinnacle members get six. Casino Prime members and higher can drink free from the casino bar anytime it is open. These perks might influence which package you choose or whether you opt to buy a package at all.
4. Making the Most of Your Royal Caribbean Drink Package
If you decide to purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package, there are several strategies you can use to maximize its value and enhance your cruising experience.
4.1. Tips for Maximizing Value
- Utilize All Inclusions: Take advantage of all the beverages included in your package, such as premium coffees, mocktails, and bottled water.
- Drink Strategically: Pace your drinks throughout the day to maximize the value of your package without overindulging.
- Explore Different Venues: Try out different bars and restaurants onboard to discover new favorite drinks and experiences.
- Take Advantage of Discounts: Use any available discounts on bottles of wine or other beverages not fully covered by your package.
4.2. Navigating Package Restrictions
Be aware of any restrictions that may apply to your drink package, such as exclusions for certain brands or locations. Plan accordingly and be prepared to make alternative choices if necessary.
4.3. Alternative Options: Pay-as-You-Go vs. Packages
If a drink package doesn’t seem like the right fit, consider the pay-as-you-go option. Set a daily drink budget and track your spending using the Royal Caribbean app or the interactive TV in your cabin. Some people even bring cash to pay their drink balance daily at guest services.
4.4. Combined Packages: Coffee Card and Soda Package
If you primarily drink specialty coffees and sodas, consider combining the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package to save money. This can be more cost-effective than purchasing the Refreshment Package.
5. Royal Caribbean Drink Package FAQs
To help you make an informed decision, here are some frequently asked questions about Royal Caribbean drink packages:
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What is the legal drinking age on Royal Caribbean cruises?
- The legal drinking age is 21, and this is strictly enforced.
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Can I share my drink package with someone else?
- No, drink packages are non-transferable and intended for individual use only.
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What happens if I don’t finish all the drinks on my coffee card?
- Unused punches on the Cafe Select Coffee Card are non-refundable and cannot be carried over to future cruises.
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Are there any limits on the number of drinks I can order at once with the Deluxe Beverage Package?
- While there is no official limit, bartenders may exercise discretion to prevent over-intoxication.
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Can I bring my own drinks onboard?
- Yes, you can bring up to 12 cans of soda or bottles (up to 17 ounces) per person in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship.
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Do drink packages work on Royal Caribbean’s private islands?
- Yes, drink packages are valid at Royal Caribbean’s private island destinations, such as Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee.
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Can I upgrade my drink package after purchasing it?
- Yes, you can usually upgrade to a more comprehensive package, but you may not be able to downgrade.
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What if one person in my cabin doesn’t drink alcohol?
- If one person in a cabin buys the Deluxe Beverage Package, everyone of legal drinking age in the cabin must buy the same package. However, you can call customer service and request to downgrade non-drinking adults to a Refreshment Package.
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Are gratuities included in the price of the drink package?
- Yes, gratuities are included in the price of the drink packages.
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How can I purchase a drink package?
- You can purchase a beverage package as soon as you book your cruise through Royal Caribbean’s website or by calling their customer service.
6. Expert Advice from HOW.EDU.VN
At HOW.EDU.VN, our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing you with expert advice and insights to help you make informed decisions about your cruise experience.
6.1. Personalized Recommendations
We understand that every traveler is unique, and we offer personalized recommendations based on your individual preferences, budget, and travel style. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, our experts can help you navigate the complexities of Royal Caribbean drink packages and find the perfect option for your needs.
6.2. Cost-Benefit Analysis
Our experts can conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to help you determine whether a drink package is the right investment for your cruise. We take into account your drinking habits, itinerary, and any available discounts or promotions to provide you with a clear and objective assessment.
6.3. Insider Tips and Tricks
Benefit from our insider knowledge and discover valuable tips and tricks for maximizing the value of your Royal Caribbean drink package. From hidden gems onboard to strategies for saving money, our experts can help you make the most of your cruise experience.
6.4. Access to a Network of Experts
HOW.EDU.VN connects you with a network of over 100 renowned PhDs from around the world, offering unparalleled expertise and insights on a wide range of topics. Whether you have questions about cruise planning, travel logistics, or any other aspect of your vacation, our experts are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need.
7. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right drink package on Royal Caribbean involves careful consideration of your preferences, drinking habits, and budget. While the Deluxe Beverage Package offers the most comprehensive option, it may not be the most cost-effective for everyone. By assessing your needs and understanding the inclusions and exclusions of each package, you can make an informed decision that enhances your cruise experience.
7.1. Summarizing the Key Considerations
- Assess Your Drinking Habits: Determine the types and quantities of beverages you typically consume on vacation.
- Calculate Break-Even Points: Estimate how many drinks you need to consume daily to offset the cost of each package.
- Consider Your Itinerary: Factor in the number of sea days and port days on your cruise.
- Factor in Loyalty Status and Casino Perks: Take advantage of any free drinks or discounts you may be entitled to.
- Explore Alternative Options: Consider the pay-as-you-go option or combined packages if a full drink package doesn’t seem worthwhile.
7.2. Emphasizing the Value of Expert Consultation
Navigating the complexities of Royal Caribbean drink packages can be challenging, but with the expert advice and personalized recommendations from HOW.EDU.VN, you can make an informed decision that enhances your cruise experience.
7.3. Final Thoughts on Enjoying Your Cruise
Whether you choose to purchase a drink package or pay as you go, the most important thing is to relax, have fun, and enjoy your cruise vacation. With careful planning and the right information, you can make the most of your time at sea and create unforgettable memories.
Are you ready to elevate your cruise experience with expert guidance? Contact HOW.EDU.VN today and let our team of renowned PhDs help you make the most of your vacation. Our services provide personalized advice, clear cost-benefit analysis, and insider tips tailored to your unique preferences. Don’t navigate the complexities of cruise planning alone. Reach out to us now at 456 Expertise Plaza, Consult City, CA 90210, United States, or WhatsApp us at +1 (310) 555-1212. Visit our website at how.edu.vn to discover how we can transform your travel plans into unforgettable experiences. Your dream vacation awaits—connect with our experts and start planning today.
