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Royal Caribbean Drink Packages 2026: Are They Worth It?

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

Deciding on Royal Caribbean drink packages in 2026 can be tricky, but we'll guide you through the costs, benefits, and whether they're worth it for your next cruise.

A drinks package is a significant upfront cost, and nobody wants to feel like they've overspent or missed out. We'll explore who benefits most, who might be better off paying à la carte, and how to snag the best deals, ensuring your next Royal Caribbean adventure is as enjoyable and cost-effective as possible. You can also use our drink package calculator to help with your decision.

What Are Royal Caribbean Drink Packages 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Royal Caribbean offers a selection of drink packages designed to cater to various preferences, from those who enjoy a daily cocktail to those who prefer non-alcoholic options. These packages allow you to prepay for a set range of beverages, offering convenience and, potentially, significant savings compared to buying drinks individually. The idea is to enjoy your holiday without constantly worrying about the bill racking up with every sip. It's a popular choice for many, and understanding the nuances is crucial.

It truly contributes to that 'all-inclusive' feeling, even though Royal Caribbean isn't traditionally an all-inclusive cruise line. It's about knowing your budget and sticking to it.

Key Things to Know About Royal Caribbean Drink Packages

• All Adults in Stateroom Policy: If one adult (21+ in North America, 18+ in UK/Europe) purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults in the same stateroom must also purchase a drink package (either Deluxe or Refreshment). This is a strict policy to prevent sharing.
• Pre-Cruise Discounts: Always check Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner for pre-cruise discounts. These can range from 10% to 40% off the onboard price and are usually the best way to save money.
• Gratuities Included: The daily price of the drink package includes the 20% gratuity (Royal Caribbean, checked 1 Nov 2026). This means you won't be charged extra for tips on each drink, which is a nice bonus and simplifies budgeting.
• Duration: Drink packages must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise, not just select days. This is important to factor into your overall cost analysis.
• Cut-off Times: Drink packages are typically valid from the moment you board until the morning of disembarkation. Be aware that some venues might stop serving package drinks a few hours before the cruise officially ends on the last night.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Even the Deluxe Beverage Package includes a wide array of non-alcoholic drinks, such as specialty coffees, fresh juices, bottled water, and sodas. This can add significant value, even if you're not a heavy alcoholic drinker.

Royal Caribbean Drink Packages 2026: Types and Inclusions

Royal Caribbean offers three primary drink packages, each designed with different consumption habits in mind. Understanding what each package includes is paramount to making an informed decision for your 2026 cruise. Let's break them down in detail, along with typical pricing as of June 2026.

1. Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP)

This is Royal Caribbean's most comprehensive package, often referred to as the 'ultimate' or 'alcoholic' package. It includes virtually all beverages available onboard, making it a popular choice for those who want to indulge without worrying about individual drink costs.

• Alcoholic Beverages: Cocktails, spirits, liqueurs, beer, and wine by the glass (up to $13/£10-£11 per glass, though this limit can vary slightly by ship and sailing). This covers most standard options.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Specialty coffees (latte, cappuccino, espresso), specialty teas, bottled water (still and sparkling), fresh squeezed juices, fountain sodas (with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup), mocktails, and milkshakes (at Johnny Rockets where available).
• Discounts: An estimated 40% discount on bottles of wine under $100/£80, and about 20% discount on bottles of wine over $100/£80.
• Typical Price (as of June 2026): £55 - £85 per person, per day (before discounts). This price fluctuates significantly based on the ship, itinerary, and demand.

2. Refreshment Package

The Refreshment Package is an excellent option for those who don't drink alcohol but still want to enjoy a wide variety of premium non-alcoholic beverages. It's also the package that other adults in the same stateroom can purchase if one person opts for the Deluxe Beverage Package.

• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Specialty coffees, specialty teas, bottled water (still and sparkling), fresh squeezed juices, fountain sodas (with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup), mocktails, and milkshakes (at Johnny Rockets where available).
• Typical Price (as of June 2026): £25 - £35 per person, per day (before discounts).

3. Classic Soda Package

This is the most basic and affordable package, ideal for soda enthusiasts. It's a simple way to ensure you have access to unlimited soft drinks throughout your cruise.

• Sodas: Unlimited fountain sodas at any bar, lounge, or restaurant, typically with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup for use at Freestyle machines.
• Typical Price (as of June 2026): £10 - £15 per person, per day (before discounts).

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Prices 2026: What to Expect

The pricing for Royal Caribbean drink packages in 2026 is dynamic, meaning it can change based on several factors: the specific ship, the itinerary length, the time of year, and how far in advance you purchase. There isn't a fixed price list, which can be frustrating, but it also means there are opportunities to find better deals. Always check the Cruise Planner for your specific sailing.

This variability highlights the importance of pre-planning and monitoring prices.

As you can see from the table, purchasing your package in advance through the Cruise Planner almost always results in a better price. The 'onboard price' is generally the highest you'll pay. The discounts can be substantial, often making the difference between a package being 'worth it' or not.

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

This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? The value of the Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP) hinges entirely on your personal drinking habits and the price you pay for the package.

It's about being honest with yourself about how much you will drink, not just how much you could drink. Remember, you're paying for convenience and peace of mind as much as the drinks themselves.

When the Deluxe Beverage Package IS Worth It

1. You Drink 5-7+ Alcoholic Drinks Daily: If you typically enjoy 2-3 cocktails/beers by the pool, 1-2 glasses of wine with dinner, and a couple more drinks in the evening, you'll likely break even or save money. With cocktails costing roughly £10-£14 each, this adds up quickly.
2. You Enjoy Specialty Coffees & Bottled Water: A morning latte (approximately £4-£6) and a few bottles of water (£3-£5 each) throughout the day significantly contribute to the package's value, even before alcohol.
3. You Value Convenience & Budgeting: Not having to sign a receipt for every drink and knowing your budget is fixed can greatly enhance your relaxation.
4. You Found a Great Pre-Cruise Discount: If you manage to snag the DBP for £55-£60 per day, the break-even point is much easier to reach. Always aim for those estimated 30%+ discounts.
5. It's a Sea-Day Heavy Itinerary: On cruises with many sea days, you'll spend more time on the ship and naturally consume more beverages, making the package more valuable.

When the Deluxe Beverage Package Is NOT Worth It

1. You're a Light Drinker: If you only have 1-2 alcoholic drinks per day, or prefer water and basic juices, paying à la carte will almost certainly be cheaper. Don't feel pressured to drink more just because you have the package.
2. Many Port Days: If your itinerary is packed with port calls where you'll be off the ship for most of the day, you'll have fewer hours to utilise the package, reducing its value.
3. You Don't Drink Specialty Coffees/Bottled Water: If you're happy with complimentary tap water, iced tea, and basic coffee, a significant portion of the package's non-alcoholic value is lost.
4. You Found No Discount: Paying the full onboard price (e.g., £80+ per day) makes the break-even point much harder to achieve, requiring a very high consumption rate.

How to Get the Best Deal on Royal Caribbean Drink Packages 2026

Finding the best price for your Royal Caribbean drink package in 2026 requires a bit of strategy and patience.

1. Book Early via Cruise Planner: This is the golden rule. Royal Caribbean consistently offers the best prices and discounts on their Cruise Planner website. The onboard price is almost always higher. Aim to purchase at least 3-6 months before your sailing.
2. Monitor for Sales: Keep an eye out for major holiday sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, President's Day, or even Royal Caribbean's own 'Wow' sales. These often bring the deepest discounts, sometimes up to 40% off the onboard price.
3. Cancel and Rebook if Price Drops: If you've already purchased a package and see the price drop further in the Cruise Planner, you can cancel your existing purchase and rebook at the lower price. Just ensure you do this before the cancellation deadline, usually 48 hours before embarkation.
4. Consider the Refreshment Package for Some Adults: If you're travelling with other adults who are lighter drinkers, remember the 'all adults in stateroom' policy. They can opt for the cheaper Refreshment Package instead of the Deluxe, which can significantly reduce the overall cost for your cabin.
5. Factor in Port Days: If your itinerary has many port days, consider if you'll truly get value from the package. You'll likely be off the ship for lunch and some drinks, reducing your onboard consumption. Sometimes, paying à la carte on port-heavy itineraries is more cost-effective.
6. Look for Bundles: Occasionally, Royal Caribbean offers bundles that include a drink package along with WiFi or specialty dining. Sometimes these bundles can offer better overall value than purchasing each component separately. Always do the maths!
7. Don't Wait Until Onboard: This is a crucial mistake. The onboard prices are consistently the highest. Avoid the temptation to wait until you're on the ship to decide, as you'll almost certainly pay more.

Royal Caribbean Drink Package Comparison: How It Stacks Up Against Other Lines

It's helpful to compare Royal Caribbean's drink packages with those offered by other popular cruise lines, especially for UK cruisers who might be considering various options. Each line has its own approach, pricing, and inclusions, which can influence your decision.

When comparing, Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package sits comfortably in the mid-to-upper range price-wise, but its comprehensive inclusions (especially specialty coffees and bottled water) add significant value. In our view, the 'all adults in stateroom' policy is the biggest hurdle, but if you can navigate that, it's a solid choice. NCL and Celebrity often bundle their packages, which can be a better deal if the base fare is competitive. P&O Cruises, being a UK-focused line, often has very attractive drink package pricing for British cruisers, making it a strong contender for value.

Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Caribbean Drink Packages 2026

What are the main Royal Caribbean drink packages available in 2026?

In 2026, Royal Caribbean primarily offers three main drink packages: the Refreshment Package (non-alcoholic), the Classic Soda Package (soda only), and the Deluxe Beverage Package (alcoholic and non-alcoholic). The Deluxe Beverage Package is their most comprehensive option, covering virtually all beverages from cocktails and wines to specialty coffees and bottled water. Each package is designed to cater to different preferences and consumption habits, so understanding what each includes is key to making the right choice for your holiday.

How much do Royal Caribbean drink packages cost in 2026?

As of June 2026, Royal Caribbean drink package prices vary significantly based on the ship, itinerary, and time of booking. The Deluxe Beverage Package typically ranges from £55 to £85 per person per day, while the Refreshment Package is usually between £25 and £35 per person per day. The Classic Soda Package is the most affordable, costing around £10 to £15 per person per day. These prices are often discounted when purchased pre-cruise through Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner, so always check for deals before boarding.

Is the Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package worth it for a UK cruiser in 2026?

For many UK cruisers, the Deluxe Beverage Package can absolutely be worth it in 2026, especially if you enjoy 5-7 alcoholic drinks daily, plus specialty coffees, bottled water, and fresh juices. Based on average drink prices on board (cocktails £10-£14, wine £8-£12, specialty coffee £4-£6), you'd need to consume a fair amount to break even. For example, if the package costs around £65 per day, you'd need to spend that much on individual drinks, which is easily achievable for those who enjoy a few cocktails by the pool, wine with dinner, and a morning latte. However, if you're a light drinker, it might not offer the best value.

Can I share a Royal Caribbean drink package with another person in 2026?

No, Royal Caribbean's policy in 2026 explicitly states that drink packages cannot be shared. If one adult in a stateroom purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults (aged 21 and over for cruises from North America, or 18 and over for cruises from the UK/Europe) in the same stateroom are generally required to purchase a drink package as well, though it doesn't have to be the Deluxe package; they can opt for the Refreshment Package. This policy is in place to prevent sharing and ensure fair usage, and it's something they enforce quite strictly.

When is the best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages for 2026?

The best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages for 2026 is almost always pre-cruise through the Cruise Planner website. Royal Caribbean frequently offers discounts of around 10% to 30% off the onboard price when purchased in advance. Keep an eye out for holiday sales (like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or even seasonal promotions) as these often bring the deepest discounts.

What happens if I don't buy a Royal Caribbean drink package in 2026?

If you choose not to purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package in 2026, you will simply pay for all your beverages à la carte. This means you'll be charged per drink to your SeaPass card, and a 20% gratuity will automatically be added to each purchase. While this can be more expensive if you drink a lot, it's often the more economical choice for light drinkers or those who prefer to enjoy drinks only occasionally. Complimentary beverages like tap water, iced tea, basic coffee, and some juices are always available in the main dining rooms and Windjammer buffet, regardless of whether you have a package.

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