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The No-Nonsense Guide to Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package 2026

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-07-15 · 12 min read

A vibrant cocktail being served on a Celebrity Cruises ship deck, representing the classic drinks package

Our comprehensive guide to the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package 2026 covers everything you need to know to decide if it's right for your holiday.

Planning a Celebrity cruise in 2026 and wondering if the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package 2026 is right for you? This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know – from what's included and the current pricing to whether it truly offers value for money. Let's dive in and see if this package will enhance your next cruise adventure.

What Is the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package 2026: Everything You Need to Know

The Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package is their entry-level alcoholic beverage package, designed to offer a comprehensive selection of drinks at a fixed daily price. It's incredibly popular because it allows cruisers to enjoy a wide variety of beverages without constantly worrying about individual costs, making for a more relaxed holiday experience. This package is often included as part of Celebrity's 'All Included' fare, which bundles drinks and Wi-Fi, but can also be purchased separately.

It truly enhances the feeling of an all-inclusive holiday, which is a major draw for many Celebrity guests.

Key Things to Know About the Classic Drinks Package

  • Price Cap: The package covers individual alcoholic beverages up to £7 per serving. This includes most standard beers, spirits, wines by the glass, and cocktails.
  • Included Gratuities: Unlike some other cruise lines, the price of the Classic Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises in 2026 typically includes the 20% service charge (Celebrity Cruises, checked 1 Nov 2026). This means no extra charges are added to your bill when you order a drink.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: Beyond alcohol, the package also includes premium coffees, teas, bottled water, fresh juices, and soft drinks. This is a huge benefit, as these can add up quickly if purchased individually.
  • All Guests in Cabin Rule: Generally, all guests of legal drinking age (21 in North America, 18 in Europe/UK) in the same stateroom are required to purchase a drinks package if one person does. Exceptions can be made for non-drinkers or medical reasons by contacting Celebrity directly.
  • Usage Restrictions: Drinks are for personal consumption only and cannot be shared. There's also a limit of one drink per order, although you can typically order another as soon as you finish the first.
  • Availability: The Classic Drinks Package is available on all Celebrity Cruises ships, including the Edge-class vessels like Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond, as well as the Solstice and Millennium class ships.

Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package Prices 2026: What to Expect

Understanding the pricing for the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package in 2026 is crucial for budgeting your holiday. Prices can fluctuate based on the specific itinerary, ship, and time of booking. Generally, you'll find the highest prices if you wait to purchase onboard, while pre-cruise purchases through the Celebrity Cruise Planner often come with attractive discounts. It's always worth checking the cruise drink package calculator to see if it's worth it for you.

Purchase MethodEstimated Daily Price (pp)Typical DiscountNotes
Onboard Purchase£55 - £650%Highest price, but flexible
Pre-Cruise (Cruise Planner)£45 - £5510% - 25%Best value, purchase before sailing
'All Included' FareIncludedN/ABundled with Wi-Fi, often best overall value
Flash Sale/PromotionVariableUp to 30%Keep an eye out for limited-time offers
Captain's Club PerkN/AOccasional discountsLoyalty programme benefits for elite members

As you can see from the table, purchasing the package onboard is usually the most expensive option.

Is the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package Worth It? Independent Verdict

Deciding if the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package is 'worth it' is a very personal decision that depends entirely on your drinking habits and preferences. For some, it's an absolute no-brainer, while for others, it might be an unnecessary expense. Our verdict is that it offers excellent value for many, but not for everyone. It really boils down to how many drinks you anticipate consuming daily and what types of beverages you prefer.

On a 7-night cruise, if the package costs £50 per day, you'd need to consume about £350 worth of drinks over the week to break even. Given that most cocktails are around £10-£12 and wines are roughly £8-£10, this threshold is easily met by many cruisers.

When the Classic Drinks Package Is Worth It

  1. You enjoy 4-5 alcoholic drinks daily: If your typical day involves a few beers, glasses of wine, or cocktails, the package will quickly pay for itself. For instance, two cocktails (£24), two beers (£18), and a glass of wine (£9) already total £51, nearing the daily package cost.
  2. You appreciate premium non-alcoholic options: The inclusion of speciality coffees, teas, bottled water, and fresh juices adds significant value. These items can easily cost approximately £3-£5 each, and having them covered throughout the day is a huge perk.
  3. You prefer a 'set it and forget it' approach: If you dislike constantly checking prices or signing chits, the package offers peace of mind. You can order freely without worrying about the accumulating bill, which greatly enhances the holiday experience.
  4. You're on a longer itinerary: On cruises of 7 nights or more, the package often feels more justifiable. The daily cost averages out, and you're likely to settle into a routine of enjoying more beverages over time.
  5. It's part of an 'All Included' fare: If you've booked a Celebrity 'All Included' fare, the Classic Drinks Package (and Wi-Fi) is already bundled in. In this scenario, it's definitely worth it, as you've effectively paid for it already and should make the most of it.
  6. You find a significant pre-cruise discount: If you can snag the package for 15-25% off the onboard price, the break-even point becomes much lower, making it an even more attractive proposition. Always check the Cruise Planner for deals.

When the Classic Drinks Package Is NOT Worth It

  1. You only drink occasionally: If you only have one or two alcoholic drinks per day, or primarily stick to water and basic soft drinks, purchasing individual beverages will be cheaper.
  2. You prefer only very high-end drinks: If your preference is for premium wines over £7 a glass or top-shelf spirits not covered by the Classic Package, you might find yourself paying extra for upgrades, making the Premium Package a better fit or just buying à la carte.
  3. You're a light drinker: Some people simply don't drink much alcohol, or they might be happy with complimentary water, tea, and coffee. For them, the daily cost of the package would be an unnecessary expense.
  4. You plan to drink mostly on shore: If your itinerary involves many port days where you plan to enjoy local beverages ashore, your onboard consumption might be too low to justify the package.

How to Get the Best Deal on Your Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package

Securing the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package at the best possible price can significantly enhance its value. Timing and knowing where to look are key to unlocking those savings, similar to finding the best time to book a cruise.

  1. Book an 'All Included' Fare: This is often the simplest and best value. Celebrity frequently offers 'All Included' fares that bundle the Classic Drinks Package and basic Wi-Fi into your cruise price. If you were planning on buying both anyway, this fare usually works out cheaper than purchasing them separately.
  2. Purchase Pre-Cruise via Cruise Planner: As soon as you've booked your cruise, regularly check the 'Cruise Planner' section on Celebrity's website. They often offer discounts of 10-25% on drink packages when purchased in advance. Prices can fluctuate, so if you see a good deal, grab it! You can usually cancel and rebook if the price drops further.
  3. Look for Flash Sales: Keep an eye out for Celebrity's promotional emails and website banners. They occasionally run limited-time flash sales that offer even deeper discounts on drink packages, sometimes up to 30% off. These are typically short-lived, so act fast.
  4. Consider a Travel Agent: A good travel agent, especially one specialising in cruises, might have access to exclusive group rates or promotions that include drinks packages. They can also advise you on the best time to buy and monitor price drops for you.
  5. Check for Loyalty Programme Perks: If you're a member of Celebrity's Captain's Club loyalty programme, you might receive special offers or discounts on drink packages as you ascend the tiers. Always check your member benefits before purchasing.
  6. Avoid Onboard Purchase if Possible: Unless you absolutely need the flexibility, try to avoid buying the package onboard. This is almost always the most expensive option, and you'll miss out on potential pre-cruise savings. The price difference can be substantial over a 7-night cruise.
  7. Factor in Currency Exchange Rates: For UK cruisers, consider the exchange rate if the package is priced in USD. While Celebrity often displays prices in GBP, if you're booking through a US site or paying in USD, a favourable exchange rate could offer slight savings.

Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package Comparison: How It Stacks Up

It's helpful to compare the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package with offerings from other popular cruise lines to gauge its relative value and inclusions. While each line has its own nuances, understanding the general landscape can help you decide if Celebrity's package aligns with your expectations.

Cruise LinePackage NameTypical Daily Price (2026)Key Inclusions/LimitsVerdict
Celebrity CruisesClassic Drinks Package£45-£65Drinks up to £7, premium coffee, bottled water, gratuities includedExcellent value for mid-range drinkers, good non-alcoholic options.
Royal CaribbeanRefreshment Package (non-alc)£20-£30Soft drinks, premium coffee, fresh juice, bottled waterGood for non-drinkers, but alcohol is separate. See Royal Caribbean drink package guide.
Royal CaribbeanDeluxe Beverage Package£65-£85Drinks up to $13, premium coffee, bottled water, fresh juice, 20% gratuity addedHigher price point, but wider selection and higher limit. Gratuities added on top.
P&O CruisesClassic Drinks Package£40-£50Drinks up to £6.95, selected coffees, soft drinks, gratuities includedSlightly lower price and limit, good for UK market. See P&O Cruises drink package.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)Unlimited Open Bar (UOB)Often 'Free at Sea' perkDrinks up to $15, soft drinks, juices. 20% gratuity added to 'free' packageGreat value if included, but mandatory gratuity on the 'free' package can be a surprise. See NCL Free at Sea.
MSC CruisesEasy Package£30-£40Selected beers, house wines, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks. Gratuities included.Most affordable entry-level, but more restrictive selection and brands. See MSC drink package.

When comparing, Celebrity's Classic Drinks Package sits comfortably in the mid-range. It offers a more premium selection than MSC's Easy package but is generally more affordable than Royal Caribbean's Deluxe, especially with gratuities already included. For UK cruisers, it's often a step up in terms of included brands and overall experience compared to P&O's offering, making it a strong contender for those seeking a touch more luxury without committing to the highest tier.

Understanding the 'All Included' Option: Is It Better Value?

Celebrity Cruises often promotes what they call 'All Included' fares. This isn't a separate drinks package, but rather a bundled fare that includes the Classic Drinks Package and basic Wi-Fi as standard. For many cruisers, this is the most straightforward and often the best value way to get the Classic Drinks Package.

More often than not, the difference in price between the two is less than the cost of buying the Classic Drinks Package and Wi-Fi separately. For example, if the Classic Drinks Package is £50 per day and Wi-Fi is £20 per day, that's £70 per person per day. If the 'All Included' fare is only somewhere around £40-£50 more per person per day than the 'cruise only' fare, it's a clear winner.

Benefits of the 'All Included' Fare

  • Simplicity: No need to purchase separate add-ons; everything is bundled into one price.
  • Cost Savings: Often cheaper than buying the Classic Drinks Package and Wi-Fi separately.
  • Automatic Gratuities: The Classic Drinks Package within 'All Included' still includes gratuities on drinks.
  • Enhanced Experience: You get both drinks and connectivity, making your cruise feel truly all-inclusive from the start.

Considerations for 'All Included'

  • Not Always the Cheapest Upfront: The initial sticker price for 'All Included' will be higher than 'cruise only,' so ensure you genuinely want both the drinks package and Wi-Fi.
  • Upgrade Costs: If you want to upgrade to the Premium Drinks Package or a faster Wi-Fi package, you'll pay the difference from the Classic/basic Wi-Fi included in 'All Included'.
  • Non-Drinkers: If one person in your cabin doesn't drink, the 'All Included' fare still applies to them, which might not be cost-effective unless an exemption is granted.

Our advice is to always compare the 'cruise only' price with the 'All Included' price for your specific sailing in 2026. Use the cruise drink package calculator to see if the value proposition works for your individual needs.

Maximising Your Celebrity Classic Drinks Package Experience

Once you've decided to purchase the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package, there are a few ways to ensure you get the most out of it and truly enhance your cruise holiday. It's not just about drinking more; it's about enjoying the convenience and variety it offers.

  • Explore the Menus: Don't stick to just one or two drinks. Take some time to look at the bar menus in different venues. You might discover a new favourite cocktail or a different brand of beer that's included.
  • Utilise Premium Coffees: Start your day with a delicious latte or cappuccino from Cafe al Bacio. These are included and are a significant upgrade from standard filter coffee.
  • Stay Hydrated: Use your package to get bottled water throughout the day, especially on hot port days or after a workout. You can often grab a bottle from any bar or even from your stateroom attendant.
  • Try Different Bars: Each bar on a Celebrity ship often has a slightly different vibe and sometimes even unique cocktails.
  • Don't Forget Fresh Juices: Enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice with breakfast or a refreshing fruit smoothie by the pool. These are a healthy and tasty inclusion.
  • Consider a Mocktail: Even if you're drinking alcohol, sometimes a refreshing mocktail is just what you need. Many bartenders are happy to whip up something delicious without the alcohol, and these are covered.
  • Know Your Limits: While the package offers unlimited drinks, it's important to drink responsibly. Pace yourself and enjoy the variety without overdoing it.

Making the most of your package is all about embracing the freedom it provides. It truly adds to the luxury experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package 2026

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

The Classic Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises in 2026 includes a wide selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, wines by the glass (up to £7 per serving), and non-alcoholic options like premium coffees, teas, and bottled water. It's designed to cover most standard alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, offering good value for those who enjoy a few drinks daily without breaking the bank. Soft drinks and fresh juices are also part of the package.

How much does the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package cost in 2026?

As of June 2026, the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package typically costs between £55 and £65 per person, per day, when purchased onboard. However, you can often find pre-cruise discounts, sometimes up to 20-25% off, by purchasing it through the Celebrity Cruise Planner before your sailing. The price can vary slightly depending on the itinerary and the specific ship, so always check the exact cost for your booking.

Is the Classic Drinks Package worth it for a 7-night Celebrity cruise in 2026?

For many cruisers, especially those who enjoy 4-5 alcoholic drinks per day plus some premium coffees or bottled water, the Classic Drinks Package offers excellent value on a 7-night Celebrity cruise in 2026. If you're paying around £55 per day, you'd need to consume about 4-5 drinks priced at £10-£12 each to break even.

Can I upgrade from the Classic to the Premium Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises?

Yes, you can absolutely upgrade from the Classic Drinks Package to the Premium Drinks Package on Celebrity Cruises. This can be done either pre-cruise through the Cruise Planner or once onboard. You'll simply pay the difference in price between the two packages for the duration of your cruise.

What happens if one person in my cabin wants the Classic Drinks Package and the other doesn't?

Celebrity Cruises, like many lines, generally requires all guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom to purchase a drinks package if one person does. However, they do offer exceptions for non-drinkers or those with medical conditions. You would need to contact Celebrity Cruises directly to request an exemption, which is usually granted on a case-by-case basis. This policy is in place to prevent sharing of packages, ensuring fairness for all guests.

Are gratuities included with the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package in 2026?

Yes, gratuities are typically included in the price of the Celebrity Cruises Classic Drinks Package in 2026. This means you won't be charged an additional service charge on top of the daily package price when you order a drink.

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