Is it worth buying a drink package on Royal Caribbean?

When planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, one of the most common decisions passengers face is whether or not to purchase a drink package. These packages are designed to make onboard life easier by offering unlimited access to a variety of beverages, ranging from soda and coffee to wine, cocktails, and premium spirits. But the big question remains: Is it worth buying a drink package on Royal Caribbean?

The answer depends on your drinking habits, budget, and travel style. For some cruisers, a drink package is a fantastic value that saves money and offers convenience. For others, paying per drink makes more sense. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Royal Caribbean’s drink packages, what they include, how much they cost, and whether they’re the right choice for you.

1. Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Drink Packages

Royal Caribbean offers three main drink packages:

Deluxe Beverage Package – Includes almost all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Refreshment Package – Covers premium non-alcoholic beverages like specialty coffee, juices, mocktails, and soda.
Classic Soda Package – Unlimited soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle machine access.

Each package is charged per person, per day and must be purchased for the entire length of the cruise.

2. The Cost of Drink Packages

While prices vary by ship, itinerary, and promotions, here’s the general range:

Deluxe Beverage Package: 65 to 89 USD per person, per day.
Refreshment Package: 29 to 38 USD per person, per day.
Classic Soda Package: 12 to 15 USD per person, per day.

On top of this, Royal Caribbean adds an automatic 18–20% gratuity, which increases the total cost.

For example, on a 7-night cruise at 75 USD per day for the Deluxe Package:

75 × 7 = 525 USD base price.
With gratuity (20%), the total comes to about 630 USD per person.

3. What’s Included in Each Package

Deluxe Beverage Package

Beer, wine by the glass, and cocktails (usually up to 14–15 USD each).
Premium spirits and liquors with mixers.
Specialty coffee, lattes, and cappuccinos.
Bottled still and sparkling water.
Fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies, mocktails.
Unlimited soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle machine access.
Discounts on wine bottles.

Refreshment Package

Unlimited soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle machine access.
Premium coffees and teas.
Fresh juices, bottled water, and sparkling water.
Mocktails and smoothies.

Classic Soda Package

Unlimited fountain soda.
Coca-Cola Freestyle machine access.
Souvenir refillable cup.

4. Why People Buy Drink Packages

Convenience: No need to sign a receipt every time you order a drink.
Peace of mind: You can enjoy beverages without worrying about overspending.
Variety: Try different cocktails, wines, or specialty coffees without second-guessing.
Unlimited hydration: Bottled water and sodas are easily accessible throughout the day.
Value on private islands: Packages also work at Royal Caribbean’s private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee.

5. When a Drink Package Is Worth It

A drink package is usually worth the price if:

You drink multiple alcoholic beverages daily – For example, if you enjoy three cocktails, a glass of wine with dinner, and a specialty coffee each day, the package pays for itself.
You like variety – Sampling different cocktails, frozen drinks, or non-alcoholic options can quickly add up if paid individually.
You spend time onboard – If you plan to enjoy the pool deck, bars, restaurants, and shows instead of being off the ship all day, you’ll get more value.
You want convenience – No need to keep track of your bill or make cost-based decisions for every drink.

6. When It Might Not Be Worth It

The package may not be cost-effective if:

You only drink 1–2 alcoholic beverages daily.
You prefer basic beverages like tap water, complimentary iced tea, or lemonade (all included in cruise fare).
You plan to spend most of your time off the ship in ports where packages don’t apply (except Royal Caribbean’s private islands).
You don’t drink alcohol and only want the occasional soda.

7. Real Price Comparison – Package vs. Individual Drinks

Let’s calculate an average day without a package:

2 cocktails at 14 USD each = 28 USD
2 beers at 8 USD each = 16 USD
1 glass of wine at dinner = 12 USD
1 specialty coffee = 5 USD
2 bottles of water = 8 USDTotal: 69 USD

If the Deluxe Beverage Package is priced at 75 USD per day, the cost is nearly the same. With one or two extra drinks, you’re already saving money.

8. The Value of Non-Alcoholic Packages

For non-drinkers, the Refreshment Package can also be a smart choice. Specialty coffee, bottled water, and mocktails add up quickly if bought individually.

For kids and soda lovers, the Classic Soda Package is the most affordable option. Instead of paying 3–4 USD per soda, unlimited access at 13 USD per day provides convenience.

9. Rules to Know Before Buying

All adults in a cabin must purchase the Deluxe Package if one person does. This rule prevents sharing.
Packages are non-transferable.
They must be purchased for the entire cruise duration—you can’t buy them for select days.
Gratuities are added upfront.

10. Promotions and Discounts

Royal Caribbean frequently offers discounts on drink packages through its Cruise Planner. Savings can range from 20% to 40% compared to onboard prices. Buying early, especially during holiday sales, often gives you the best deal.

11. Tips for Maximizing Value

Buy early: Prices are usually lower before boarding.
Stay hydrated smartly: Even bottled water counts, so use the package for hydration as well as cocktails.
Mix it up: Try premium coffees in the morning, smoothies in the afternoon, and cocktails at night.
Use it on private islands: Make sure to enjoy included beverages at CocoCay or Labadee.

12. The Convenience Factor

Even if you don’t break even financially, many cruisers find the package worth it for the freedom and convenience. Not having to track receipts or second-guess ordering a drink adds to the overall vacation experience.

13. Families and Drink Packages

Adults can opt for the Deluxe or Refreshment Package.
Teens often benefit from the Refreshment Package for mocktails and smoothies.
Younger children may only need the Soda Package.Families can mix and match packages to suit individual needs.

14. Alternatives to Drink Packages

If you decide against a package, you can still save money by:

Bringing your own wine (Royal Caribbean allows two bottles per stateroom).
Taking advantage of daily specials such as the “Drink of the Day.”
Earning loyalty perks with Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, which sometimes includes free drinks.

15. Frequently Asked Questions

Do drink packages work on embarkation day?

Yes, they’re active as soon as you board the ship.

Can kids buy drink packages?

Yes, but only the Refreshment or Soda Package—not alcohol-inclusive options.

Do packages cover drinks in specialty restaurants?

Yes, drinks at specialty dining venues are included as long as they fall within the package limits.

16. Final Verdict – Is It Worth Buying?

So, is it worth buying a drink package on Royal Caribbean?

Yes, if you enjoy multiple daily drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The Deluxe Beverage Package pays off quickly and provides a stress-free experience.
Yes, for families and non-drinkers, the Refreshment and Soda Packages add convenience and variety without breaking the bank.
No, if you are a light drinker who only wants one or two beverages each day—you’ll save more by paying per drink.

Ultimately, the worth of a drink package depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and personal preferences. For many cruisers, the convenience and peace of mind alone make the purchase worthwhile.

Conclusion

Royal Caribbean drink packages are designed to enhance your vacation by removing the stress of tracking beverage costs. While they represent a significant upfront investment, they can deliver excellent value for moderate to heavy drinkers and those who enjoy a mix of beverages throughout the day. If you drink sparingly, it may be more economical to pay per drink and take advantage of specials.

The bottom line: For most cruisers who enjoy multiple drinks daily, the Royal Caribbean drink package is absolutely worth it. For others, it’s a matter of convenience rather than cost savings.