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Celebrity Drinks Package Calculator and Decision Checklist 2026

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-09-24 · 12 min read

Ah, the allure of a Celebrity Cruises holiday! With their focus on modern luxury, exceptional dining, and sophisticated ambiance, it's no wonder so many of us are drawn to their ships. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the packages, their costs, and whether they're truly worth it for your next sailing.

Understanding Celebrity Cruises Drink Packages in 2026

Celebrity Cruises, known for its premium experience, offers a range of drink packages designed to enhance your holiday without the worry of a mounting bar bill. Unlike some other cruise lines, Celebrity has streamlined its offerings, often integrating drink packages into their 'All Included' fare structure. This approach simplifies the decision-making process for many, though it's crucial to understand what's actually covered.

The core of Celebrity's beverage programme revolves around two main alcoholic packages – Classic and Premium – alongside a non-alcoholic option. These packages are available for purchase both pre-cruise through the Celebrity Cruise Planner and onboard.

Key Things to Know About Celebrity Drink Packages

• All Included vs. Cruise Only: Celebrity frequently offers an 'All Included' fare which bundles the Classic Drink Package, basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities. This is often the most popular choice and can be great value. Always compare this to the 'Cruise Only' fare plus the cost of adding these items separately.
• Two Main Alcoholic Tiers: The 'Classic' and 'Premium' packages cater to different preferences and budgets, with varying price limits per drink and brand inclusions.
• Zero Proof Package: A dedicated non-alcoholic package is available for those who don't consume alcohol, covering specialty coffees, fresh juices, sodas, and mocktails.
• Stateroom Policy: Generally, all guests aged 21 and over (or 18+ depending on the itinerary) in the same stateroom must purchase the same alcoholic drink package. Exceptions for non-drinkers can sometimes be made by contacting Celebrity directly.
• Price Limits: Each alcoholic package has a price limit per drink (e.g., Classic up to £9, Premium up to £13 as of June 2026). If your drink exceeds this, you only pay the difference.
• Gratuities Included: When you purchase a drink package, the 20% gratuity on the package price is typically added at the time of purchase (Celebrity Cruises, checked 1 Nov 2026). This means no extra charges when you order drinks onboard.

Celebrity Cruise Drink Package Prices 2026: What to Expect

Understanding the pricing structure for Celebrity's drink packages in 2026 is key to deciding if they offer good value for your holiday. Remember that these prices are per person, per day, and are subject to change. Pre-booking often secures a better rate than purchasing onboard.

It's important to note that Celebrity, like many cruise lines, uses dynamic pricing. This means the price you see today might not be the price tomorrow.

Celebrity Drink Package Tiers & Typical Daily Costs (as of June 2026)

The prices listed above are general estimates as of June 2026 and can fluctuate. The 'All Included' fare often makes the Classic Drink Package effectively cheaper than buying it separately, as it's bundled with other essentials. The Water and Soda packages are niche options, often more beneficial for those who only drink those specific beverages or for children not covered by the Zero Proof package. For a deeper dive into whether these packages are right for you, check out our guide: Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It in 2026?.

Is a Celebrity Cruise Drink Package Worth It? Independent Verdict

For some, it's an absolute no-brainer, offering peace of mind and convenience. For others, it could be an unnecessary expense.

Choosing the right package depends on an honest self-assessment of how much you drink.

When a Celebrity Drink Package IS Worth It

1. You enjoy 4+ alcoholic drinks per day: This is the magic number for most packages. If you typically have 2-3 beers/wines and 2-3 cocktails, the package will almost certainly pay for itself. Remember, a single cocktail can be around £10-£12, a glass of wine £8-£10, and a beer £7-£8 as of 2026.
2. You love specialty coffees and bottled water: These add up quickly! A latte can be around £4-£5, and bottled water £3-£4. If you have a few of these daily, they contribute significantly to the package's value.
3. You prefer convenience and budget predictability: Knowing your drinks are covered upfront means no worrying about the bar bill at the end of your cruise.
4. You've booked an 'All Included' fare: As mentioned, if the 'All Included' fare is only slightly more expensive than the 'Cruise Only' fare, it's almost always worth it, as you're getting the Classic Drink Package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities for a minimal uplift.
5. You enjoy a variety of beverages: From fresh juices in the morning to mocktails by the pool and a wide selection of wines at dinner, the packages allow you to explore different options without hesitation.

When a Celebrity Drink Package Is NOT Worth It

1. You're a light drinker: If you only have 1-2 alcoholic drinks a day, or primarily stick to water, tea, and basic coffee, paying à la carte will likely be cheaper.
2. You plan to spend most of your time ashore: If your itinerary is port-intensive and you'll be off the ship for most of the day, your onboard consumption will naturally be lower.
3. You prefer specific premium brands not covered: If your favourite whisky or wine is consistently above the package's price limit, you'll still be paying the difference, which can negate the savings.
4. You're travelling with children (who don't drink alcohol): While the Zero Proof package is available, if they only drink water or juice, it might not be worth it. However, if they love sodas and mocktails, it could be a good option.

How to Get the Best Deal on Celebrity Drink Packages in 2026

Securing the best price for your Celebrity Cruise drink package in 2026 can save you a significant amount of money. It's all about timing and understanding the various offers available.

1. Book the 'All Included' Fare: This is often the easiest and most cost-effective way to get the Classic Drink Package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities bundled into your fare. Compare the 'All Included' price against the 'Cruise Only' fare plus the separate cost of the package, Wi-Fi, and tips. On a 7-night cruise, this can save hundreds of pounds.
2. Look for Sales and Promotions: Celebrity frequently runs sales, especially during wave season (January-March) or Black Friday, where they offer discounts on drink packages or include upgrades to the Premium package. Keep an eye on their website and sign up for email alerts.
3. Purchase Pre-Cruise via Cruise Planner: Even if you don't book an 'All Included' fare, buying your drink package through the Celebrity Cruise Planner website before you sail is almost always cheaper than purchasing onboard.
4. Consider an Upgrade: If you have the Classic package included with 'All Included' but prefer premium spirits, you can often pay a daily upgrade fee to move to the Premium package. This upgrade fee is usually less than the difference between buying the Premium package outright.
5. Use a Cruise Drink Package Calculator: Before you even look at prices, use a calculator to estimate your daily consumption. This will give you a clear idea of your break-even point and help you decide if any package is worthwhile.
6. Check for Loyalty Programme Perks: If you're a returning Celebrity cruiser and part of their Captain's Club loyalty programme, you might receive discounts or special offers on drink packages, especially at Elite and Elite Plus tiers. Always check your loyalty benefits.
7. Travel Agent Deals: Sometimes, travel agents have access to exclusive group rates or added amenities that can include discounted drink packages. It's always worth checking with a reputable agent.

Celebrity Cruise Drink Packages vs. Other Cruise Lines: A 2026 Comparison

When considering a Celebrity Cruise drink package for 2026, it's helpful to compare their offerings and pricing with other popular cruise lines. Each line has its own philosophy and structure, which can significantly impact the overall value.

Celebrity generally positions itself as a premium line, and its drink packages reflect this with a focus on quality and a slightly higher price point than some contemporary lines. However, their 'All Included' approach often provides better overall value when you factor in Wi-Fi and gratuities.

As you can see, Celebrity's pricing sits comfortably in the premium segment, but its 'All Included' offering often makes it highly competitive, especially when compared to paying for Wi-Fi and gratuities separately on other lines. For a more detailed comparison of Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean, you can read our article: Celebrity Cruises vs Royal Caribbean: Which is Better for You?.

Understanding What's Included in Each Celebrity Package (2026)

To truly evaluate the worth of a Celebrity drink package in 2026, you need to know the specifics of what each tier covers. This is where many cruisers get confused, so let's break down the inclusions for the Classic, Premium, and Zero Proof packages.

The Classic Drink Package (2026)

This is Celebrity's most popular alcoholic beverage package, often included with the 'All Included' fare. It's a solid choice for most cruisers and covers a wide array of drinks.

• Beers: A selection of domestic and international bottled and draft beers (e.g., Budweiser, Stella Artois, Heineken).
• Wines by the Glass: House wines and a selection of red, white, and rosé wines up to £9 per glass.
• Spirits: Standard spirits like gin, vodka, rum, tequila, and whisky (e.g., Smirnoff, Gordon's, Bacardi) up to £9 per serving.
• Cocktails: A variety of classic and popular cocktails (e.g., Mojitos, Margaritas, Daiquiris) up to £9 per drink.
• Non-Alcoholic: Fountain sodas, fresh and bottled juices, premium coffees and teas (e.g., espresso, latte, cappuccino), and bottled water.

The Premium Drink Package (2026)

The Premium package is for those who enjoy a wider selection of higher-end beverages and don't mind paying a bit more for it. It offers a significant upgrade in choice and quality.

• Everything in the Classic Package, PLUS:
• Premium Beers: A broader selection of craft beers and higher-end imports.
• Premium Wines by the Glass: An expanded list of wines, including more varietals and vintages, up to £13 per glass.
• Premium Spirits: Top-shelf spirits (e.g., Grey Goose vodka, Hendricks gin, Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky) up to £13 per serving.
• Premium Cocktails: A more extensive menu of signature and craft cocktails, often with fresh ingredients, up to £13 per drink.
• Bottled Water: A wider selection of bottled still and sparkling water (e.g., Evian, Perrier).
• Specialty Coffees: All specialty coffees and teas, including more elaborate creations.
• Freshly Squeezed Juices: Unlimited freshly squeezed juices.

The Zero Proof Package (2026)

Designed for non-alcoholic drinkers, this package ensures you can enjoy a wide variety of beverages without the alcohol. It's a great option for designated drivers, children (where applicable), or anyone who simply prefers not to drink alcohol.

• Specialty Coffees & Teas: Unlimited premium coffees (e.g., espresso, latte, cappuccino) and specialty teas.
• Freshly Squeezed Juices: Unlimited freshly squeezed juices.
• Bottled Water: Unlimited bottled still and sparkling water.
• Sodas: Unlimited fountain sodas.
• Mocktails: A selection of non-alcoholic cocktails.
• Energy Drinks: Some energy drinks may be included.

A non-alcoholic package can suit non-drinkers who still want speciality coffees, juices and mocktails.

Navigating the 'All Included' vs. 'Cruise Only' Decision for 2026

One of the most significant decisions when booking a Celebrity cruise for 2026 is whether to choose the 'All Included' fare or the 'Cruise Only' fare. This choice directly impacts whether you get a drink package automatically and can significantly affect your overall holiday budget.

The 'All Included' fare bundles the Classic Drink Package, basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities into your cruise price. While it appears more expensive upfront, these are often items most cruisers would purchase anyway. For example, on a 7-night cruise, the Classic Drink Package alone could cost about £460-£530 per person, basic Wi-Fi roughly £100, and gratuities approximately £120. That's a total of £675-£745 per person for those three items. If the 'All Included' fare is only an estimated £200-£300 more than the 'Cruise Only' fare, you're looking at substantial savings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Cruise Drink Packages

Are Celebrity Cruises drink packages worth it in 2026?

Whether a Celebrity Cruises drink package is 'worth it' in 2026 largely depends on your individual drinking habits. If you typically enjoy 4-5 alcoholic drinks per day, plus specialty coffees, bottled water, and fresh juices, then a package like the Premium or Zero Proof often provides significant savings compared to paying à la carte.

What is included in the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drink Package 2026?

The Celebrity Cruises Classic Drink Package in 2026 typically includes a wide selection of beers, wines by the glass (up to £9 value), spirits, cocktails (up to £9 value), frozen drinks, sodas, fresh and bottled juices, and specialty coffees and teas. It's a comprehensive option that covers most standard preferences, though it excludes premium brands and some higher-priced cocktails.

Can I get a 'free' Celebrity Cruises drink package in 2026?

Yes, it's often possible to get a 'free' Celebrity Cruises drink package in 2026 through their 'All Included' or 'Always Included' promotions. These bundles typically include the Classic Drink Package, basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities as part of your cruise fare. While not truly 'free' as the base fare is often higher, it can offer excellent value if you planned to purchase these items anyway. Always compare the 'All Included' price against the 'Cruise Only' fare plus the cost of adding these items separately.

What is the difference between the Premium and Classic Drink Packages on Celebrity in 2026?

The main difference between the Premium and Classic Drink Packages on Celebrity in 2026 lies in the value limit per drink and the brands included. The Classic package covers drinks up to £9, while the Premium package extends this to around £13, offering a much wider selection of premium spirits, wines, and craft beers. The Premium package also includes a broader range of specialty coffees and bottled water options.

Do all guests in a stateroom have to buy a Celebrity drink package?

Yes, Celebrity Cruises generally requires all guests aged 21 and over (or 18+ in some regions like Europe) in the same stateroom to purchase the same drink package. This policy is in place to prevent sharing. However, there are exceptions; if one guest does not drink alcohol, they may be able to purchase the Zero Proof package instead, provided they contact Celebrity Cruises directly to arrange this.

Can I download a PDF of Celebrity Cruises drink package menus for 2026?

While Celebrity Cruises doesn't typically release official PDF menus for their drink packages for general download, you can often find unofficial versions shared by past cruisers on forums like Cruise Critic. These can give you a good idea of what's included, but always remember that menus and prices are subject to change. The best way to see the most up-to-date options is to check the Celebrity Cruises website directly or inquire onboard in 2026.

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