Is Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package Worth It?
Every time we sail with Royal Caribbean, hubby and I purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package — but is it worth it for every cruiser? This is a much debated question! While the drink package is something that is of benefit for my husband and I, it might not be the best choice for you. I’m here to break it all down and give you some insight, so you can decide for yourself what the best choice is.
A Few Important Things to Know First
- Sharing of the drink package is not allowed. When one guest wants to buy the drink package, both guests must buy the drink package.
- Everyone in the cabin age 21+ is required to purchase the package. If guest two is under 21, then the non-alcoholic Refreshment Package will be required to be purchased.
- On sailings departing out of Europe & Australia the drinking age is 18+.
For us, it’s absolutely worth it because we love trying fun, fancy, and new drinks we’d probably never order at home. And the best part? If I don’t like something, I can simply leave it and order something else at no extra cost!
Unlike some cruise lines, Royal Caribbean currently does not have a daily drink limit on its Deluxe Beverage Package.
What’s Included?
The Deluxe Beverage Package includes:
- Discounts on bottles of wine: 40% off bottles under $100 or 20% off bottles over $100
- Cocktails
- Spirits and liqueurs
- Beer
- Wine by the glass
- Unlimited soda
- Fresh-squeezed juices
- Premium coffees and teas
- Bottled still and sparkling water
- Mocktails
- Milkshakes at Johnny Rockets locations on participating ships
Drink Prices Add Up Quickly
Individual drink prices typically range from about $7.50–$14.00 USD each, plus an automatic 18% gratuity/service charge is added to each drink.
If you enjoy multiple drinks throughout the day — coffees in the morning, bottled water, cocktails by the pool, wine at dinner, and evening drinks at the shows — the package can easily pay for itself.
Your Package Works on Royal Caribbean’s Private Islands
If your sailing visits Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, your Deluxe Beverage Package works on the island too! Use your SeaPass card to enjoy your included beverages ashore, making your beach day even more relaxing and convenient.
Just keep in mind there may be an additional charge if you order drinks served in a souvenir cup.
The Lime and Coconut bar on the Navigator of the Seas Royal Amplified.
If You Decide Not to Purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package
There are a couple of other beverage packages to choose from.
- The Refreshment Package, which includes everything from the Deluxe Beverage Package minus the alcohol
- The Classic Soda Package, which includes a reusable souvenir cup to use at the freestyle soda machines
Royal Caribbean has a Drink of the Day special with a discounted price. Or in the casino, you can find happy hour from 4–6pm with a $6.00 USD house margarita. Some bars have a buy-one-get-one draft beer special at certain times. The specials vary by ship.
Who Benefits Most?
The Deluxe Beverage Package is usually worth it for cruisers who:
- Enjoy alcoholic beverages daily
- Drink specialty coffees, soda, bottled water, or mocktails
- Like trying a variety of drinks
- Spend lots of time onboard enjoying bars and lounges
The Deluxe Drink Package May Not Be Worth It If…
- You only have 1–3 alcoholic drinks per day
- You spend most days in port
- You don’t drink soda, specialty coffee, or bottled water
- You prefer to stick to basic beverages included with your cruise fare
Watch for Cruise Planner Sales
The price of the Deluxe Beverage Package varies by ship and sail date. One of the best tips I give my clients is to watch for sales in your cruise planner.
You can often score deals like:
- Buy One, Get One 50% Off the Second Guest
- 30–40% Off per person promotions
Prices and promotions can change daily, so it’s worth checking your cruise planner often after booking.
Keep in mind that an automatic 18% gratuity/service charge is added to the package price at checkout.
You can purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package through your Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner, or the Royal Caribbean App, up to 3 days before your sail date.
Insider Tip: If you purchase the package and the price drops, simply cancel and re-book your package at the lower price!
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, it really comes down to your vacation style. For us, the convenience, variety, and freedom to enjoy whatever we want without worrying about the final bill make it one of our favourite cruise splurges!
Get in touch with one of our Travel Consultants to start planning your next Royal Caribbean vacation.