Understanding Royal Caribbean Drink Pricing: What You Need to Know Before You Sail

When planning your next cruise holiday, understanding the cost of beverages on Royal Caribbean can make a real difference to your budget and onboard experience. From cocktails by the pool to a morning cappuccino or a simple can of soda, drinks on board are not included in your base fare unless you opt for a beverage package.

This article breaks down Royal Caribbean drink prices, compares the value of beverage packages, and helps you decide whether it's better to pay per drink or go all-in with a package.

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How Much Do Drinks Cost on Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean drink prices vary depending on the type of beverage and ship, but most costs are consistent fleet-wide. Here’s what you can expect when buying drinks à la carte:

Alcoholic Beverages

• Cocktails & Mixed Drinks: $12–$14
  Popular options include Mai Tais, Margaritas, Piña Coladas, and signature drinks like the "Coconut Mojito" or "Love Connection."

• Beer: $7–$8 per bottle
  A mix of domestic and imported options including Heineken, Bud Light, Corona, and local craft selections.

• Wine by the Glass: $9–$15
  Includes red, white, and sparkling options. Royal Caribbean also offers curated wine lists for different restaurants.

• Liquor & Spirits: Starting from $10
  Vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and whisky are available as shots, mixed, or neat. Premium labels cost more.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

• Soda (Coca-Cola products): ~$3.25 per can

• Specialty Coffees: $4–$6
  Includes lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, and iced coffee from onboard cafés such as Café Promenade.

• Fresh-Squeezed Juices & Bottled Water: $3–$4

💡 A bottle of water before an excursion may not seem like much, but over 7 days, those little charges can add up fast.

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Beverage Packages: Are They Worth It?

Royal Caribbean offers three main drink packages, each suited to different preferences and budgets. If you plan to enjoy multiple beverages daily, these packages can provide both value and convenience.

1. Deluxe Beverage Package

The most comprehensive option available. Includes unlimited:

• Cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, and beer

• Premium coffee and teas

• Bottled still and sparkling water

• Fresh-squeezed juices and soda

• 40% off wine bottles under $100, 20% off bottles over $100

Cost: $63–$89 per person, per day (before gratuities)
This package is ideal for adults who plan to enjoy alcohol throughout their cruise.

2. Refreshment Package

Focused on non-alcoholic choices, including:

• Premium coffee and tea

• Bottled water and juices

• Soda and non-alcoholic cocktails

Cost: $29–$38 per person, per day
Best suited for teens, non-drinkers, or adults looking to skip the booze but still enjoy a range of premium drinks.

3. Classic Soda Package

Unlimited fountain soda refills and use of Coca-Cola Freestyle machines.

Cost: Around $12.99 per person, per day
This is great for kids or casual soda drinkers who want to stay refreshed without paying per drink.

🔍 Look out for pre-cruise discounts, especially during holidays or Black Friday. You can often save 30–40% when booking packages in advance through the Cruise Planner.

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Drink Package vs. Pay-As-You-Go: Real Scenario

Let’s run through a typical day:

• 2 cocktails ($13 x 2 = $26)

• 1 glass of wine ($12)

• 2 sodas ($3.25 x 2 = $6.50)

• 1 cappuccino ($5)

Total without a package: $49.50
With 18% gratuity: $58.41

Now compare that to a discounted Deluxe Beverage Package at $69/day (inclusive of gratuity on sale). For just a little more, you gain unlimited access — meaning you can grab another cocktail, enjoy drinks at lunch and dinner, and never worry about counting your bill.

For light drinkers who may only have 1–2 beverages a day, however, pay-as-you-go may be more economical.

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Gratuities and Taxes: What’s Included?

It’s important to note that an automatic 18% gratuity is added to both individual drinks and beverage packages. This can sneak up on you if you're not paying attention, especially when you see your final folio bill.

You do not need to tip again unless you receive exceptional service and choose to do so.

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Can You Share a Beverage Package?

No. Royal Caribbean has a strict policy against sharing drink packages. If one adult in a stateroom purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults in that cabin are required to purchase the same package.

This policy prevents package abuse and ensures compliance with alcohol-serving laws.

If you’re travelling with someone who doesn’t drink alcohol, you may be able to call Royal Caribbean and request an exemption — in which they purchase the Refreshment Package instead. This is not guaranteed and may vary by sailing.

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Legal Drinking Age and Regional Rules

The legal drinking age on board varies based on your cruise region:

• North America (Caribbean, Alaska): 21+

• Europe, Asia, Australia, South America: 18+

Royal Caribbean enforces these regulations strictly and uses ID checks regularly when serving alcohol. Age is also verified during online check-in and onboard registration.

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Visual Guide: Package Comparison

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Final Tips for Drink Planning

• Water is available for free at all dining venues and bars — don’t feel forced to buy bottled every time.

• Specialty coffees are included in dining packages only if you have a drink package.

• If you like smoothies or protein shakes, you’ll need the Refreshment or Deluxe Package.

• Drinks from your minibar or room service are not always covered in your drink package — check the fine print.

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Plan Ahead and Sip Smart

Whether you’re eyeing tropical cocktails or just want unlimited soda for the kids, knowing the Royal Caribbean drink pricing helps you plan smarter. While the Deluxe Beverage Package offers the most flexibility, it only makes sense if you’re consistently drinking throughout the day.

By comparing your expected consumption with package prices, factoring in gratuities, and staying alert for deals, you can choose what best suits your cruise style.