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Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package Price 2026: Independent Planning Guide

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-07-14 · 12 min read

Two people enjoying cocktails on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship deck, overlooking the ocean, illustrating the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package

Deciphering the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package price for 2026 can be tricky, but our guide will help you decide if it's the right choice for your holiday.

This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know, from typical costs and what's included to strategies for getting the best deal and our verdict on its value. Let's dive in and see if this popular package is right for your next Royal Caribbean adventure, helping you avoid hidden costs and enjoy a truly relaxing holiday.

What Is the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package: Everything You Need to Know

The Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package, often simply called the 'Deluxe Drink Package', is the cruise line's all-inclusive alcoholic beverage offering. It's designed for guests who want to enjoy a wide variety of drinks throughout their cruise without worrying about individual costs. This package covers an extensive range of beverages, from morning coffees to evening cocktails, making your onboard experience feel truly limitless.

Not having to pay for each drink can enhance the feeling of being on holiday.

Key Things to Know About the Deluxe Drink Package

Comprehensive Coverage: Includes virtually all alcoholic beverages (cocktails, spirits, beer, wine by the glass up to $14 value, though this can vary slightly by ship/region).
Non-Alcoholic Inclusions: Also covers premium coffees (like lattes, cappuccinos), bottled water (still and sparkling), fresh-squeezed juices, and soft drinks from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines.
Daily Purchase Requirement: If one adult in a stateroom purchases the Deluxe Drink Package, all other adults of legal drinking age in the same stateroom must also purchase it. This is a crucial rule to remember.
Gratuities Included: The price of the package includes a 20% gratuity charge, so you won't be hit with extra service charges on top of your package price when ordering drinks (Royal Caribbean, checked 1 Nov 2026).
Valid on Private Destinations: The package is typically valid on Royal Caribbean's private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, which is a fantastic perk.
Exclusions: While comprehensive, it doesn't cover mini-bar items, room service, or drinks purchased in Starbucks-branded cafes (if available on your ship). Specialty souvenir cups are also usually extra.

Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package Prices 2026: What to Expect

Understanding the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package price for 2026 requires a bit of nuance. Prices are dynamic, meaning they can change based on several factors: the specific ship, the itinerary length, the time of year, and whether you purchase it pre-cruise or onboard. Generally, buying it in advance through the Cruise Planner offers the best value. For a deeper dive into general drink package costs, check out our article on Royal Caribbean Drink Package Cost 2026: Smart Strategies for UK Cruisers.

These prices include the estimated 18% gratuity. Pre-cruise sales, however, are where you can really save.

Purchase Method	Typical Price Range (per person, per day) as of June 2026	Best For	Our Rating
Onboard Purchase	£60 – £90	Last-minute decision-makers, those who missed pre-cruise sales	2.5/5 ⭐
Pre-Cruise Sale (10-20% off)	£50 – £75	Most cruisers who plan ahead, decent savings	4.0/5 ⭐
Pre-Cruise Sale (30-40% off)	£45 – £60	Savvy planners, those who wait for major sales (e.g., Black Friday)	5.0/5 ⭐

The table above illustrates the significant savings you can achieve by purchasing the package in advance. Our advice is always to monitor the Cruise Planner from the moment you book your cruise. Prices can fluctuate, and you can always cancel and rebook if you find a better deal.

Is the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package Worth It? Independent Verdict

The question of whether the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package is 'worth it' is highly personal and depends entirely on your drinking habits. For some, it's an absolute no-brainer, offering peace of mind and unlimited indulgence. For others, it can be an expensive luxury that doesn't provide true value. Our verdict is that for many UK cruisers, especially those who enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic premium drinks, it can be excellent value, but only if purchased at a discounted rate.

It's about understanding your own consumption patterns. For a more general overview, you might find our article Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It in 2026? helpful.

When the Deluxe Drink Package Is Worth It

You enjoy 6+ alcoholic drinks per day: This is the general break-even point. If you typically have 3-4 cocktails (approx. £10-£12 each) and 2-3 beers/wines (usually £7-£9 each) daily, you're likely to exceed the package cost.
You love specialty coffees and bottled water: These add up quickly. A daily latte (around £4-£5) and a few bottles of water (£3-£4 each) can easily add an estimated £15-£20 to your daily spend, pushing the package closer to value.
You want a truly all-inclusive feel: For many, the mental freedom of not having to check prices or sign receipts for every drink is invaluable. It allows for a more relaxed and indulgent holiday experience.
You've found a significant pre-cruise discount: If you can snag the package for £45-£55 per day, the break-even point becomes much easier to reach, often requiring only 4-5 alcoholic drinks plus non-alcoholic options.
Your itinerary includes sea days and private islands: More time on the ship or at private destinations like CocoCay means more opportunities to utilise the package without additional port expenses.

When the Deluxe Drink Package Is NOT Worth It

You only drink 1-3 alcoholic beverages per day: In this scenario, paying à la carte will almost certainly be cheaper. A couple of beers or glasses of wine will be far less than the daily package cost.
You prefer basic non-alcoholic drinks: If you're happy with complimentary tap water, basic coffee, tea, and juice available at breakfast, the added cost for premium non-alcoholic options in the package won't be justified.
Your itinerary is port-intensive: If you're off the ship for most of the day exploring destinations, you'll have fewer hours to consume drinks onboard, reducing the package's value.
You're travelling with children or non-drinkers: Remember the 'all adults in the stateroom' rule. If you're the only drinker in your cabin, the package becomes significantly more expensive as you're paying for others who won't use it to its full potential.

How to Get the Best Deal on Your Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package

Securing the best Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package price in 2026 is all about timing and strategy. Never pay the onboard price if you can avoid it!

Book Early and Monitor: Purchase your package as soon as you see a decent discount (e.g., somewhere around 20-25% off). Then, keep checking the Cruise Planner. If the price drops further, you can cancel your existing package and rebook at the lower rate. This is completely free and easy to do.
Look for Sales Events: Royal Caribbean frequently runs sales around major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, New Year's, and even random 'flash sales'. These are often the times you'll see the deepest discounts, sometimes up to 40% off.
Consider Your Itinerary: Prices can vary by sailing. Shorter cruises or those during off-peak seasons might see slightly lower prices. Also, cruises departing from the UK (e.g., Southampton) sometimes have different pricing structures than those from the US.
Bundle with Other Offers: Occasionally, Royal Caribbean will offer promotions where the drink package is included or heavily discounted as part of a cruise fare. While less common for the Deluxe Package specifically, it's worth looking out for.
Use a Travel Agent: A good cruise travel agent can often alert you to price drops or special promotions you might miss. They can also help manage the cancellation and rebooking process for you.
Don't Wait Until Embarkation Day: The onboard price is almost always the highest. Avoid the temptation to wait and see; you'll likely pay significantly more.
Factor in Gratuities: Remember that the price you see for the package already includes the 20% gratuity. This means no surprises when you're onboard, which is a nice bonus.

Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package Comparison: How It Stacks Up

While this article focuses on the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package price 2026, it's helpful to see how it compares to other cruise lines' offerings. This can give you a better perspective on its value and what to expect if you cruise with different brands. Each line has its own nuances, price points, and inclusions. For a broader look at drink packages, you can also check out our Cruise Drink Package Complete Guide 2026.

Cruise Line	Package Name	Typical Price (per person, per day) as of June 2026	Key Inclusions	Verdict
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage Package	£45 – £90	Cocktails, spirits, beer, wine (up to $14), premium coffee, bottled water, fresh juice, soda.	Excellent variety, good value with discounts, but 'all adults' rule can be a drawback.
Carnival Cruise Line	CHEERS! Package	£42 – £60	Alcoholic beverages (up to $20), soda, specialty coffee, bottled water. Limit of 15 alcoholic drinks/day.	More affordable, higher drink value limit, but daily drink cap can be restrictive for some.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)	Premium Plus Beverage Package	£90 – £120	Top-shelf spirits, premium wines, bottled water, specialty coffee, energy drinks, some room service.	Very comprehensive, includes higher-end options, but significantly more expensive. Often part of 'Free at Sea'.
Celebrity Cruises	Premium Drink Package	£65 – £95	Unlimited classic cocktails, spirits, beer, wine by the glass (up to $15), specialty coffees, bottled water.	Similar to Royal Caribbean, slightly more premium feel, often included with 'All Included' fares.
MSC Cruises	Drinks On Us / Easy Plus / Premium Extra	£30 – £80	Varies greatly by package. Easy Plus is basic, Premium Extra is comprehensive with higher value drinks.	Multiple tiers can be confusing, some packages have limited options. Check inclusions carefully.
P&O Cruises	Ultimate Drinks Package	£40 – £60	Wide range of spirits, cocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks, and specialty coffees. Max £7 per drink.	Good value for UK market, clear price limit, but may not cover all premium options.

As you can see, the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package is competitive, especially when purchased at a discount. Its comprehensive nature and inclusion of premium non-alcoholic options make it a strong contender. However, the 'all adults in the cabin' rule is a significant differentiator compared to some other lines like Carnival, where only one adult can purchase the package if others opt out.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package

Can I use my drink package on embarkation day?

Absolutely! Your Deluxe Drink Package is active from the moment you board the ship on embarkation day. This is a fantastic perk, as you can start enjoying drinks as soon as you step on board, even before your stateroom is ready.

What is the drink value limit for alcoholic beverages?

The standard drink value limit for alcoholic beverages included in the Deluxe Drink Package is typically $14 (USD) per drink as of 2026. This covers the vast majority of cocktails, spirits, beers, and wines by the glass. If you order a drink that exceeds this limit, you'll only pay the difference, which is usually just a few dollars for very high-end options. Always check your specific Cruise Planner for the exact limit on your sailing, as it can occasionally vary.

Does the Deluxe Drink Package work at specialty restaurants?

Yes, your Deluxe Drink Package is valid at all bars, lounges, and specialty restaurants onboard. This means you can enjoy a glass of wine with your meal at Chops Grille or a cocktail at Wonderland without any additional cost for the beverage itself. It's a great way to enhance your dining experience across the ship, making those specialty dining nights even more enjoyable.

What happens if I don't buy the package for everyone in my cabin?

Royal Caribbean has a strict policy: if one adult in a stateroom purchases the Deluxe Drink Package, all other adults (aged 18 or 21, depending on sailing region) in that same stateroom must also purchase either the Deluxe Drink Package or the Refreshment Package. There are very few exceptions, typically only for medical reasons with a doctor's note. This rule is in place to prevent sharing and is enforced by the cruise line.

Can I get a refund if I don't use the package enough?

Unfortunately, no. Once the cruise has departed, drink packages are non-refundable, even if you feel you haven't used it enough to justify the cost. This is why it's so important to carefully consider your drinking habits and use a drink package calculator before purchasing. The only way to get a refund is to cancel it before your embarkation day, which you can do via the Cruise Planner.

Are fresh-squeezed juices included?

Yes, fresh-squeezed juices are a fantastic inclusion in the Deluxe Drink Package. This means you can enjoy fresh orange juice, grapefruit juice, or other options, often found at breakfast buffets or specific juice bars, without extra charge. It's a small but significant perk for those who appreciate quality non-alcoholic options beyond basic fountain sodas.

Does the package include drinks from the mini-bar?

No, drinks from your stateroom mini-bar are not included in the Deluxe Drink Package. These items are always charged separately to your onboard account. If you want bottled water for your cabin, it's best to grab it from a bar or lounge where your package is valid, or bring your own reusable bottle to fill up.

Can I use my drink package on shore excursions?

Generally, no. The Deluxe Drink Package is only valid onboard the ship and at Royal Caribbean's private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee. Once you step off the ship in a port of call, any drinks purchased ashore will be at your own expense. This is another factor to consider if your itinerary is very port-heavy.

Is there a daily limit on drinks with the Deluxe Package?

Unlike some other cruise lines (e.g., Carnival's 15-drink limit), Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Drink Package does not have a stated daily limit on the number of alcoholic beverages you can consume. However, responsible service policies are always in effect, and the crew can refuse service if they believe a guest is intoxicated. For non-alcoholic drinks, there is no limit whatsoever.

Can I upgrade from a different drink package onboard?

Yes, you can typically upgrade from a lower-tier package (like the Refreshment Package or Soda Package) to the Deluxe Drink Package onboard. You will pay the difference in price for the remaining days of your cruise. However, you cannot downgrade a package once purchased. It's always best to start with the package you think you'll need, ideally purchased at a pre-cruise discount.

Does the package include frozen drinks like daiquiris and piña coladas?

Yes, the Deluxe Drink Package includes a wide array of frozen cocktails, as long as they fall within the per-drink value limit (typically $14). So, feel free to enjoy those refreshing daiquiris, piña coladas, and margaritas by the pool without worrying about the cost. These are often very popular choices, especially on Caribbean itineraries.

What about specialty teas and hot chocolate?

Beyond premium coffees, the Deluxe Drink Package also covers specialty teas (like those found at places like Cafe Promenade or La Patisserie) and hot chocolate.

No, the Deluxe Drink Package must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise. You cannot buy it for just a few days or specific segments of your voyage. This is standard policy across most cruise lines for their comprehensive drink packages, ensuring consistent pricing and preventing guests from picking and choosing days based on consumption.

Are energy drinks included in the Deluxe Package?

Yes, popular energy drinks like Red Bull are typically included in the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package. This is a great perk for those who need an extra boost, especially after a late night or before a busy day of activities on board. You can usually find these at most bars and lounges around the ship.

What is the difference between the Deluxe and Refreshment packages?

The main difference is alcohol. The Deluxe Drink Package includes all alcoholic beverages (up to the value limit) plus premium coffees, bottled water, fresh juices, and sodas. The Refreshment Package includes all the non-alcoholic benefits of the Deluxe Package (premium coffees, bottled water, fresh juices, sodas) but does NOT include any alcoholic drinks. It's a great option for non-drinkers or those who only want premium non-alcoholic options.

Can I use my drink package on a future cruise credit?

Yes, if you have Future Cruise Credit (FCC) from a cancelled sailing, you can typically use it towards the purchase of a drink package in the Cruise Planner. This can be a fantastic way to utilise your FCC and reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for your next Royal Caribbean holiday in 2026.

What is the typical Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package price in 2026?

The Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package price in 2026 typically ranges from £60 to £90 per person, per day, when purchased onboard. However, you can often find pre-cruise discounts of 10-40% off, bringing the price down to around £45-£75 per day. Prices fluctuate based on the itinerary, ship, and time of year, so checking the Cruise Planner regularly is key for the best deals.

What is included in the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package?

The Deluxe Drink Package is Royal Caribbean's most comprehensive offering. It includes virtually all alcoholic beverages (cocktails, spirits, beer, wine by the glass up to $14 value), as well as premium coffee, bottled water, fresh-squeezed juices, and soft drinks. This means you can enjoy everything from a morning latte to an evening martini without worrying about individual costs, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a variety of drinks.

How many drinks do I need to consume for the Deluxe Drink Package to be worth it?

To break even on the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package, you generally need to consume 6-8 alcoholic drinks per day, plus a few non-alcoholic beverages like specialty coffees or bottled water. For example, if the package costs around £60, and a cocktail is about £10, you'd need 6 cocktails. If you also enjoy a few premium coffees (£4 each) and bottled waters (£3 each), your break-even point comes even faster, often roughly 5-6 alcoholic drinks.

Can I share the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package with someone else?

No, Royal Caribbean's policy explicitly states that drink packages cannot be shared. Each adult of legal drinking age (18 for Europe, 21 for North America) in the same stateroom must purchase the Deluxe Drink Package if one person opts for it. This rule is strictly enforced, and attempting to share can lead to the package being revoked without a refund, so it's important to understand this before purchasing.

When is the best time to buy the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package in 2026?

The best time to buy the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package in 2026 is almost always before your cruise through the Cruise Planner website. Royal Caribbean frequently offers pre-cruise discounts, often ranging from 10% to 40% off the onboard price. Keep an eye out during sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or even random flash sales, as these can offer the deepest discounts.

Are there any alternatives to the Deluxe Drink Package if I don't drink much alcohol?

Yes, if the Deluxe Drink Package isn't right for you, Royal Caribbean offers other options. The Refreshment Package includes premium coffees, teas, bottled water, fresh-squeezed juices, and soft drinks, but no alcohol. The Soda Package covers unlimited fountain sodas. You can also simply pay for drinks à la carte, which is often the most cost-effective option if you only plan to have a couple of alcoholic beverages per day and don't consume many specialty non-alcoholic drinks.