Embarking on a Royal Caribbean cruise promises stunning views, world-class entertainment, and delicious food and drinks. But if you’re wondering, how much are drinks on Royal Caribbean?, you’re not alone. Whether you’re planning to sip cocktails by the pool, enjoy a glass of wine at dinner, or just keep hydrated with soda, understanding the cost of beverages on Royal Caribbean is essential for budgeting your cruise vacation. Royal Caribbean Drink Prices
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean drink prices, from alcoholic beverages and beer to soda, specialty coffees, and bottled water.
Overview of Royal Caribbean’s Beverage Options
Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of drinks, including:
- Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails)
- Non-alcoholic beverages (soda, mocktails, juices)
- Specialty drinks (premium coffees, smoothies)
- Bottled water and sparkling water
- Drink packages (for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic preferences)
You can pay for drinks individually (à la carte) or opt for a drink package to cover all your beverage needs upfront. Each approach has pros and cons, depending on your drinking habits.
Alcohol Prices on Royal Caribbean Cruises
If you’re planning to enjoy alcoholic drinks during your cruise, here’s what you can expect to pay onboard:
1. Cocktails and Mixed Drinks
- Standard cocktails (rum punch, mojitos, margaritas): $10 – $14
- Frozen drinks (piña coladas, daiquiris): $12 – $14
- Specialty cocktails (offered at themed bars): $13 – $15
These prices usually include an automatic 18–20% gratuity, added to your bill.
2. Wine and Champagne
- House wine (glass): $9 – $13
- Premium wine (glass): $13 – $18
- Wine by the bottle: $30 – $100+
- Champagne and sparkling wine (glass): $12 – $18
- Champagne by the bottle: Starts around $45 and goes well over $150 depending on brand
Wine selections vary by ship, but Royal Caribbean offers solid options for casual and fine dining.
3. Beer Prices on Royal Caribbean
- Domestic beer (Budweiser, Miller Lite, Coors Light): $7 – $8
- Imported beer (Corona, Heineken, Guinness, Stella Artois): $8 – $9
- Craft beers (available on select ships): $8 – $10
You can also purchase beer buckets (usually 5 beers) for around $35–$45, offering a small discount.
4. Liquor and Spirits
- Standard spirits (rum, vodka, gin, tequila, whiskey): $8 – $12
- Top-shelf and premium brands: $12 – $18
Popular bars onboard may offer whiskey or tequila flights as well.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Prices on Royal Caribbean
You don’t have to drink alcohol to enjoy the ship’s beverage offerings. There are plenty of options for non-drinkers, kids, and families.
1. Soda
- Coca-Cola products: $3.50 – $4.00 per can
- Fountain soda (with souvenir cup): covered by the Soda Package
- Soda Package: approx. $13 – $15 per person/day
2. Juices
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice: $5 – $6
- Canned juices (apple, cranberry, tomato): $3 – $4
- Juice blends or smoothies: $6 – $8
Some juices are available free at breakfast, but freshly squeezed or specialty options cost extra.
3. Bottled Water
- Small bottled water (16 oz): $2.50 – $3.50
- Large bottled water (1L Evian or Smartwater): $4.50 – $5.50
- Bottled water packages (12-pack or 24-pack): available pre-cruise for a discount
4. Specialty Coffees and Teas
- Espresso: $2.50 – $3.00
- Cappuccino / Latte: $4.00 – $5.00
- Iced coffee drinks (mocha, frappes): $5 – $6.50
- Hot teas and herbal infusions: $2.50 – $4.00
Royal Caribbean uses Starbucks® on many of its ships, where prices match those on land.
Drink Packages: Cost vs. Value
If you plan to drink more than a few beverages each day, drink packages can offer major savings and convenience.
1. Deluxe Beverage Package (Alcohol Included)
- Price: $65 – $105 per person/day (varies by cruise and promotional rates)
- Includes:
- All alcoholic drinks up to $14 value (beer, wine, cocktails, liquor)
- Soda
- Specialty coffees and teas
- Bottled still and sparkling water
- Fresh juices and mocktails
2. Refreshment Package (Non-Alcoholic)
- Price: $29 – $39 per person/day
- Includes:
- Unlimited soda
- Premium coffees and teas
- Fresh juices
- Bottled water
- Non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails)
3. Classic Soda Package
- Price: $13 – $15 per person/day
- Includes:
- Unlimited Coca-Cola fountain drinks
- Refillable souvenir Coca-Cola cup
Drink packages must be purchased for the entire length of the cruise, and each adult in the same cabin usually must buy the same alcohol-inclusive package if one person does.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Want to enjoy drinks on a budget? Here are some savvy strategies:
1. Look for Happy Hour Specials
Some bars may offer limited-time promotions, especially during embarkation or themed events.
2. Bring Your Own Wine
Royal Caribbean allows 2 bottles of wine per stateroom (750ml each), which can be enjoyed in your cabin or with dinner (with a corkage fee of around $15 if brought to the dining room).
3. Purchase Drink Packages Early
Drink package prices are often cheaper when purchased pre-cruise online. Look out for sales during holiday weekends or Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise Planner” promotions.
4. Complimentary Drinks
Don’t forget the free beverages:
- Tap water
- Basic coffee and tea
- Select juices at breakfast
- Iced tea and lemonade in Windjammer Café
These can help you stay hydrated without racking up a large drink bill.
Royal Caribbean Bar Highlights by Ship
Different ships have themed bars and drink experiences you won’t want to miss:
1. Bionic Bar
- Robots mix your cocktails
- Signature experience on Quantum and Oasis-class ships
- Drinks from $12+
2. Schooner Bar
- Nautical-themed piano bar with classic cocktails and live music
3. The Lime & Coconut
- Caribbean-inspired drinks
- Multiple levels on pool deck (on newer ships)
- Rum-based cocktails around $12–$14
4. Vintages Wine Bar
- Wide selection of wines by the glass
- Sommelier tastings and pairings
Hidden Drink Gems: What Not to Miss
Some unique offerings you might want to try:
- Drink of the Day: Usually around $9–$10, a featured cocktail with a small discount.
- Frozen cocktails in pineapples: Available on Caribbean sailings at pool bars.
- Rum Runners and Miami Vices: Cruise classics that taste like vacation in a glass.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Beverage Budget on Royal Caribbean
Cruising with Royal Caribbean is a wonderful way to relax, indulge, and explore — and having a few drinks along the way is part of the fun. But the costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Here’s a quick recap to help you plan:
| Beverage Type | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Cocktails | $10 – $15 |
| Beer | $7 – $10 |
| Wine (glass) | $9 – $18 |
| Liquor/Spirits | $8 – $18 |
| Soda (can) | $3.50 – $4 |
| Bottled Water | $2.50 – $5.50 |
| Coffee (Specialty) | $3 – $6.50 |
| Juice | $3 – $6 |
Deciding between paying per drink or opting for a drink package depends on your preferences. If you plan to have more than 4-5 alcoholic drinks per day, a package may be worth it. Otherwise, enjoy a few à la carte beverages and stick to complimentary options in between.
Conclusion: Toasting to a Smooth Cruise Experience
From casual sodas to top-shelf spirits, Royal Caribbean’s drink pricing offers something for every taste and budget. With smart planning and awareness of your habits, you can enjoy your beverages while keeping spending under control.
So whether you’re clinking glasses on formal night or sipping soda by the pool, here’s to smooth sailing and great drinks! Royal Caribbean Galveston Parking
