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Royal Caribbean Drink Package Complete Guide 2026: Is It Worth It?
Deciding on a Royal Caribbean drink package can be tricky, but this guide provides all the details you need to make an informed choice for your 2026 cruise.
For a related family planning decision, see our Grandparents taking grandchildren: UK cruise consent 2026 before finalising your plans.
For a related medical planning decision, see our Can you cruise after surgery from UK in 2026? before finalising your plans.
Ah, the age-old cruise dilemma: Royal Caribbean drink package complete guide 2026 is it worth it? It's a question that pops up in every cruise forum, and for good reason – these packages can significantly impact your holiday budget. We'll explore how to save money and ensure your cruise experience is as enjoyable and budget-friendly as possible, helping you make an informed decision before you even step foot on board. You can even use our handy drink package calculator to get a head start!
Understanding Royal Caribbean's Drink Packages for 2026
Royal Caribbean offers a variety of drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets, ensuring there's something for everyone. From unlimited soft drinks to premium cocktails and speciality coffees, these packages aim to provide a worry-free experience where you don't have to think about the cost of each individual beverage. Knowing the specifics of each package is crucial for making an informed decision, especially as prices and inclusions can sometimes see minor adjustments year-on-year. It's all about matching your drinking habits to the right package.
A package can also remove the 'bill shock' at the end of the cruise, which is a big part of feeling relaxed on holiday.
Key Things to Know About Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
- Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP): This is Royal Caribbean's all-inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic package. It includes cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, bottled water, sparkling water, fresh-squeezed juices, premium coffee and tea, and fountain sodas. It also covers drinks up to a certain price point, typically $12-$13 (£9-£10), with higher-priced items requiring an upcharge.
- Refreshment Package: A fantastic non-alcoholic option, this package covers premium coffees and teas, bottled water, sparkling water, fresh-squeezed juices, and non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails). It's perfect for those who don't drink alcohol but still want a wide variety of choices beyond basic iced tea and water.
- Classic Soda Package: The most basic package, offering unlimited fountain sodas and a complimentary Coca-Cola souvenir cup. This is ideal for soda enthusiasts and can be a good add-on for children or teenagers.
- Gratuities are Additional: All package prices are subject to a 20% gratuity, which is added automatically at the time of purchase (Royal Caribbean, checked 1 Nov 2026). This is a non-negotiable charge and should always be factored into your total cost.
- All Adults in Stateroom Policy: If one adult in a stateroom purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults (21+ in North America, 18+ in UK/Europe) in the same stateroom must also purchase a Deluxe Beverage Package or the Refreshment Package. This policy is designed to prevent sharing and is strictly enforced.
- Pre-Cruise Discounts: Royal Caribbean frequently offers discounts on drink packages when purchased through their Cruise Planner website before your sailing. These can range from 10% to 40% off the onboard price, making pre-booking almost always the better financial choice.
Royal Caribbean Drink Package Prices 2026: What to Expect
Understanding the pricing structure for Royal Caribbean's drink packages in 2026 is crucial for budgeting your cruise holiday. Prices are dynamic and can vary based on several factors, including the specific ship, itinerary length, time of year, and even the demand for that particular sailing. Remember that estimated an 18% gratuity will always be added on top of these daily rates. For more general advice on cruise costs, see our article on how to save money on a cruise.
| Package Type | Estimated Price Range (per person, per day, excluding gratuity) | Typical Inclusions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Beverage Package | £55–£85 | Alcoholic drinks (up to $13), bottled water, sparkling water, premium coffees, fresh juices, mocktails, sodas | Heavy drinkers, those who enjoy a wide variety of beverages, convenience seekers |
| Refreshment Package | £25–£35 | Bottled water, sparkling water, premium coffees, fresh juices, mocktails, sodas | Non-drinkers, children/teens, those who want variety without alcohol |
| Classic Soda Package | £10–£15 | Unlimited fountain sodas, souvenir cup | Soda enthusiasts, budget-conscious guests, children |
| Water Bottle Package | £15–£25 (for 12-24 bottles) | Case of bottled water delivered to your stateroom | Guests who prefer bottled water in their cabin, occasional drinkers |
| Café Select Coffee Card | £25–£35 (for 15 speciality coffees) | 15 speciality coffees (lattes, cappuccinos, etc.) | Coffee lovers who don't need other package benefits |
The prices in the table are estimates as of early 2026 and serve as a general guide. This variability means you should always check the Cruise Planner for your specific sailing. The 'Best For' column gives you a quick overview of who each package is most suited for, helping you narrow down your options based on your typical consumption habits.
Is the Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It? Independent Verdict
Deciding if a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it boils down to your personal drinking habits, your budget, and how much you value convenience. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and anyone who tells you otherwise isn't giving you the full picture. For some, that peace of mind is priceless, while for others, it's an unnecessary expense.
Where the rules allow different packages in one cabin, each person can match their package to how much they actually drink, without feeling pressured to 'drink their money's worth.' This flexibility is key, especially if you're travelling with different drinking styles within your group.
When the Royal Caribbean Drink Package IS Worth It
- You Enjoy 5+ Alcoholic Drinks Daily: If you typically consume 5-7 alcoholic beverages (cocktails, beers, wines) each day, plus a few speciality coffees, bottled waters, or sodas, the Deluxe Beverage Package will almost certainly save you money. Each cocktail typically costs £10-£14, so it adds up quickly.
- You Love Speciality Coffees and Fresh Juices: Beyond alcohol, the DBP and Refreshment Package include unlimited premium coffees (like lattes and cappuccinos), fresh-squeezed juices, and bottled water. These can cost roughly £3-£6 each à la carte, significantly boosting the package's value.
- You Value Convenience and Budget Control: The biggest benefit for many is the freedom from worrying about the bar bill. You can order whatever you like, whenever you like, without checking prices. This creates a truly all-inclusive feel to your holiday, which is a major draw for many cruisers.
- You're on a Longer Itinerary: On longer cruises (7+ nights), the daily cost of a package can sometimes be slightly lower, and you have more days to maximise its value. The cumulative savings over a longer trip can be substantial compared to paying à la carte.
- You've Found a Great Pre-Cruise Discount: If you manage to snag a 30-40% discount on the Deluxe Beverage Package through the Cruise Planner, the break-even point drops considerably. This is often the best scenario for making the package worthwhile, turning a 'maybe' into a 'yes'.
When the Royal Caribbean Drink Package Is NOT Worth It
- You're a Light Drinker: If you only have 1-2 alcoholic drinks per day, or only drink alcohol during dinner, paying à la carte will almost always be cheaper than purchasing the Deluxe Beverage Package. Consider a smaller package or individual purchases.
- You Prefer Water, Tea, or Basic Coffee: Complimentary beverages like tap water, basic coffee, hot tea, and some juices are always available. If these satisfy your thirst, a package might be an unnecessary expense.
- Your Itinerary has Many Port Days: On port-intensive cruises, you'll spend much of your day off the ship, potentially buying drinks ashore. This reduces your time onboard to utilise the package, making it harder to get your money's worth.
- You're Bringing Your Own Wine: Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring two bottles of wine or champagne (750ml each) per stateroom on embarkation day. If you plan to enjoy these in your cabin or pay a corkage fee in the dining room, it might reduce your need for a package.
How to Get the Best Deal on Your Royal Caribbean Drink Package
Securing a good deal on your Royal Caribbean drink package can make a significant difference to your overall cruise budget. It's all about timing, vigilance, and knowing where to look for those elusive discounts. Don't just accept the first price you see; a little effort can go a long way in reducing your holiday expenses. For more general money-saving tips, check out our article on how to save money on a cruise.
- Book Pre-Cruise via the Cruise Planner: This is hands down the most effective way to save. Royal Caribbean almost always offers discounts on drink packages when purchased through their Cruise Planner website before your sailing. These discounts can range from 10% to a generous 40% off the onboard price.
- Monitor for Sales and Promotions: Keep a close eye on the Cruise Planner in the months leading up to your cruise. Royal Caribbean frequently runs sales during key holidays (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, President's Day, etc.) or even random 'Flash Sales.' Prices can change daily, so check back often.
- Re-price if the Price Drops: If you've already purchased a drink package and then see it advertised at a lower price in the Cruise Planner, you can cancel your existing purchase and re-purchase it at the new, lower rate. Royal Caribbean's system allows for this flexibility, ensuring you always get the best available price.
- Consider a Smaller Package: If the Deluxe Beverage Package seems too expensive, evaluate the Refreshment Package or even the Classic Soda Package. These are significantly cheaper and might cover most of your non-alcoholic beverage needs, allowing you to pay à la carte for the occasional alcoholic drink.
- Utilise Onboard Credits (OBC): If you have any onboard credit from your travel agent or as a booking incentive, you can use it to offset the cost of your drink package. This effectively reduces your out-of-pocket expense.
- Factor in Port Days: If your itinerary is port-intensive, you might spend less time on the ship utilising your package. Consider if the daily cost is still justified when you're off the ship for half the cruise. Sometimes, paying à la carte on sea days and buying drinks ashore is more economical.
- Bring Your Own Wine: Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom on embarkation day. You can enjoy these in your cabin without a corkage fee, or pay an estimated £15-£25 corkage fee to drink them in the main dining room or speciality restaurants. This can cut down on your wine expenses significantly.
Royal Caribbean Drink Package Comparison: How It Stacks Up Against Other Lines
While this guide focuses on Royal Caribbean, it's helpful to understand how their drink packages compare to those offered by other popular cruise lines, especially if you're still deciding which line to sail with. Each cruise line has its own philosophy when it comes to drink packages, with varying inclusions, pricing structures, and policies. For a broader comparison, check out our article on are cruise drink packages worth it 2026.
| Cruise Line | Typical Offering | Price Range (per person, per day, excluding gratuity) | Key Differences/Best For | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | Deluxe Beverage Package | £55-£85 | Strong focus on premium coffees, fresh juices. Strict 'all adults in cabin' policy. | 4.5/5 - Great variety, but can be pricey. |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Cheers! Package | £45-£65 | Limited to 15 alcoholic drinks per day. Includes sodas, some speciality coffees, bottled water. | 4.0/5 - Good value for moderate drinkers, but the limit can be a drawback. |
| Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) | Free at Sea (Ultimate Beverage Package) | Often included as a 'free' perk, otherwise £80-£100 | Often bundled with 'Free at Sea' promotions, making it seem free (but gratuities still apply). | 4.5/5 - Excellent value if included, otherwise very expensive. |
| Celebrity Cruises | Classic or Premium Drinks Package | £50-£75 | Often included in 'Always Included' fares. More premium alcohol options in Premium package. | 4.5/5 - Good value if bundled, caters to a more sophisticated palate. |
| MSC Cruises | Easy, Easy Plus, Premium Extra | £30-£70 | Tiered options to suit different budgets. Easy package has limited selection. | 3.5/5 - Good for budget-conscious, but higher tiers needed for full variety. |
| P&O Cruises | Ultimate Drinks Package | £40-£55 | Includes most drinks up to £6.95. Excludes some premium spirits and wines. | 4.0/5 - Good value for UK market, but price cap can be restrictive for some. |
As you can see from the table, Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package sits in the mid-to-high range in terms of pricing, but it offers a very comprehensive selection without a daily alcoholic drink limit like Carnival's Cheers! package. Celebrity's 'Always Included' fares also make their packages feel like a great deal. Ultimately, the 'best' package depends on your individual preferences and whether you prefer an all-inclusive upfront cost or more flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
Can I buy the drink package for just one day?
No, Royal Caribbean drink packages, including the Deluxe Beverage Package, must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise. You cannot buy them for individual days or only for sea days. This is a common policy across most cruise lines to simplify billing and prevent guests from sharing packages. So, if you're on a 7-night cruise, you'll pay for 7 days, even if you don't drink every day.
What is the age limit for Royal Caribbean drink packages?
For alcoholic drink packages (Deluxe Beverage Package), the legal drinking age is 21 on cruises departing from North America and 18 on cruises departing from the UK, Europe, South America, Asia, and Australia. For non-alcoholic packages like the Refreshment Package, there is no age limit, but children and teenagers are often encouraged to purchase it if they want unlimited sodas, mocktails, and fresh juices. This policy is strictly enforced, and IDs are often checked.
Are gratuities included in the Royal Caribbean drink package price?
No, gratuities are not included in the advertised daily price of Royal Caribbean drink packages. An additional 20% service charge (gratuity) is automatically added to the total cost of the package at the time of purchase. This means if a package is advertised at £60 per day, your actual cost will be £60 + (£60 * 0.18) = £70.80 per day. Always factor this into your budget calculations.
Can I use my drink package on Royal Caribbean's private islands, like CocoCay?
Yes! Your Royal Caribbean drink package is valid on both Labadee (Haiti) and Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas). This is a fantastic perk, as it means you can enjoy all the included beverages, from frozen cocktails to bottled water, without opening your wallet while relaxing on the beach or by the pool. This significantly enhances the value of the package on itineraries that include these private destinations, making your day ashore truly all-inclusive.
What if only one person in my cabin wants the Deluxe Beverage Package?
Royal Caribbean has a strict 'all adults in the same stateroom' policy for the Deluxe Beverage Package. If one adult (of legal drinking age) purchases the DBP, all other adults (of legal drinking age) in the same stateroom must also purchase either the Deluxe Beverage Package or the Refreshment Package. This policy is in place to prevent sharing of the package. If you have specific dietary or health reasons preventing one adult from drinking alcohol, you may be able to get an exception by contacting Royal Caribbean directly, but it's not guaranteed.
What drinks are NOT included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
While the Deluxe Beverage Package is very comprehensive, it does have a few exclusions. It typically covers drinks up to a certain price point, usually $12-$13 (£9-£10). Any drinks exceeding this price will incur an upcharge for the difference. It also generally excludes drinks from the mini-bar in your stateroom, fresh-pressed juices from Vitality Cafe (unless specifically stated), and souvenir glasses. Premium wines by the bottle and some top-shelf spirits may also be excluded or require an additional charge.
For the wider Royal Caribbean rules, see our Royal Caribbean drink-package guide before comparing a quote.
For a UK-specific decision, read our Royal Caribbean drink package value guide.
What are the main Royal Caribbean drink packages available in 2026?
In 2026, Royal Caribbean typically offers three main drink packages: the Refreshment Package (non-alcoholic), the Classic Soda Package, and the Deluxe Beverage Package (alcoholic and non-alcoholic). The Deluxe Beverage Package is their most comprehensive option, covering everything from speciality coffees to cocktails, while the Refreshment Package is great for those who prefer mocktails, fresh juices, and bottled water. Always check the Royal Caribbean website for the most up-to-date offerings and inclusions for your specific sailing, as these can sometimes vary by ship or itinerary.
How much does the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package cost in 2026?
As of early 2026, the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package can range from £55 to £85 per person, per day, depending on the sailing, ship, and time of booking. These prices do not include the 20% gratuity, which is added automatically. Booking pre-cruise through the Cruise Planner often secures a better deal than purchasing onboard.
Is the Deluxe Beverage Package worth it if I only drink a few alcoholic beverages a day?
Generally, if you only plan to have 2-3 alcoholic drinks per day, the Deluxe Beverage Package might not be worth the cost. A typical cocktail or glass of wine costs around £10-£14, so you'd need to consume 5-7 drinks daily just to break even on a £60-£80 package. However, if you also enjoy speciality coffees, fresh juices, bottled water, and soft drinks throughout the day, these add-ons can quickly increase your daily spend and make the package more appealing. Consider your total consumption of all included beverages, not just alcohol.
Can I share a Royal Caribbean drink package with another person?
No, Royal Caribbean's policy explicitly states that drink packages cannot be shared. Each adult of legal drinking age in the same stateroom must purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package if one person does. This policy is strictly enforced, and you could lose your package privileges if caught sharing. However, children in the same stateroom are not required to purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package, but they may need to purchase a non-alcoholic package if they are over a certain age.
What is the best time to buy a Royal Caribbean drink package?
The best time to buy a Royal Caribbean drink package is almost always pre-cruise through the Cruise Planner website. Royal Caribbean frequently offers discounts of around 10-40% off the onboard price when purchased in advance.
What is included in the Royal Caribbean Refreshment Package?
The Royal Caribbean Refreshment Package includes an unlimited supply of premium coffees and teas, bottled water, sparkling water, fresh-squeezed juices, non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails), and fountain sodas. It's an excellent option for those who don't drink alcohol but still want to enjoy a wide variety of refreshing beverages throughout their cruise without worrying about the bill. This package typically costs around £25-£35 per person, per day, plus gratuity, and offers great value for non-alcoholic drinkers.
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