How Much Are Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Really? The Real Price You Need to Know! - High Altitude Science

Understanding the Context

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of drink packages included in most base fares or available for purchase upgraded at checkout. These packages typically include coffee, tea, soft drinks, alcohol (like beer, wine, and cocktails), and sometimes premium or specialty beverages like juices, smoothies, or mixers for cocktails. Some upgrades even allow up to 14 drink servings or unlimited access at select bars.

Inclusive vs. Upgraded Packages: What’s the Difference?

At booking, most drink packages fall into two categories: included in your cruise package or available as upgrades at optional cost.

• Included Drinks (Base Fare): Usually covers coffee (hot and iced), basic tea, bottled water, soft drinks, and standard beer and wine. Ideal for casual cruisers who only want a few basic beverages.
  
• Upgraded Packages: These offer unlimited servings, premium spirits, signature cocktails, or specialty drinks (like craft cocktails or premium juices). Upgrading can range from a small daily fee to a substantial portion of a cruise budget—depending on the selection.

Key Insights

Real Price Range: What Does a Drink Package Cost?

While Royal Caribbean doesn’t always publish specific drink package prices on every cruise line page, industry averages and customer reviews show that:

| Type of Package | Estimated Cost (Every 1st or Entire Cruise) | Servings Included |
|-------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|----------------------------|
| Basic Inclusive Drink Package | $20–$100 | 100–300 servings |
| Standard Upgrade (Coffee + Soft Drinks + Beer/Wine) | $60–$150 | ~500 servings |
| Premium Alcohol Package (Cocktails, Spirits, Specialty Drinks) | $150–$400+ | Up to 1,000+ servings |
| Kids’ & Family-Specific Packages | Varies by age; typically $40–$120 | Often scaled per child/adult |

Prices vary widely by cruise ship, itinerary, season (peak vs. off-season), and cabin category (suite vs. standard). Some luxury or family-focused ships may increase drink package costs slightly, but most offer strong value for the included beverages.

What’s Included in Standard Inclusive Packages?

Final Thoughts

Typically, the base drink package includes:

• Hot coffee (regular and decaf)
  
• Iced coffee and tea
  
• Bottled and sparkling water
  
• Soft drinks (soda, juice, flavored waters)
  
• Regulated beer and wine (no premium or imported bottles unless specified)

Premium packages may include champagne, mixers like tonic, bitters, and aged rum or premium tequila.

Hidden Costs & Tips to Save

• Daily Credit Bonuses: Some cruises offer drink specials or daily credits toward beverage upgrades—use these early!
  
• Bar Trinkets & Packages: Special occasions or formal bars may charge extra, so read the fine print.
  
• Family Rates: Purchasing family packages can jog savings—benefits often extend to children and sometimes offer shared deals.
  
• Avoid Overpaying: Always compare standard vs. upgraded pricing before upgrading—many guests leave cash on the table.

Final Verdict: Are Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Worth It?

When evaluated honestly, realistically priced drink packages deliver excellent value for most cruisers—especially those who enjoy coffee, tea, or casual drinks. While premium options feel costly upfront, unlimited or high-serving packages pay off on longer cruises. However, budget-conscious travelers can stick to the base fare and pay for drinks as needed.