Cruising with Royal Caribbean promises luxury, adventure, and entertainment—and for many, that includes enjoying a cocktail by the pool or sipping a beer at sunset. If you're planning a cruise and wondering about the cost of drinks on Royal Caribbean, this detailed guide will walk you through everything from beer prices to alcohol costs, soda options, and drink packages. Whether you're a casual drinker or a cocktail connoisseur, knowing how much drinks cost on a Royal Caribbean cruise can help you budget wisely.
Why Drink Prices Matter on a Cruise
When booking a cruise, most people focus on cabin types, excursions, or specialty dining, often overlooking the cost of beverages. Drinks are typically not included in your base fare, except for basic options like water, tea, or coffee at select locations. Understanding Royal Caribbean drink prices is crucial if you plan to enjoy alcohol, soda, bottled water, or specialty coffees during your cruise.
Types of Drinks Available on Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic:
- Alcoholic Beverages: Cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, champagne
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, mocktails, juices, energy drinks
- Complimentary Drinks: Tap water, iced tea, basic coffee, some juices at breakfast
Let’s break down the costs.
Alcohol Prices on Royal Caribbean (2025)
How much is alcohol on a Royal Caribbean cruise? That depends on the type of drink. Here’s an overview:
Cocktails & Mixed Drinks
- Standard Cocktails: $13–$15 USD
- Premium Cocktails (Top-shelf spirits): $15–$17 USD
- Frozen Drinks (Daiquiris, Piña Coladas): $13–$16 USD
Most cocktails are served in generous portions, and bartenders often allow customization based on your preferences.
Spirits and Liquor
- Vodka, Rum, Tequila, Gin, Whiskey: $10–$14 USD per shot
- Top-shelf Liquors (e.g., Grey Goose, Patrón, Glenfiddich): $14–$18 USD
Shots are typically 1.5 oz and served neat or on the rocks.
Wine by the Glass
- House Wine: $9–$11 USD
- Premium Wine: $13–$17 USD
- Champagne/Sparkling Wine: $14–$20 USD per glass
Royal Caribbean has a decent selection of international wines. A wine list is available at most bars and restaurants.
Beer Prices on Royal Caribbean
Beer lovers will find a good selection, from mainstream lagers to craft and imported options:
- Domestic Beers (Bud Light, Coors, Miller Lite): $7.50–$8.50 USD
- Imported Beers (Heineken, Stella, Corona): $8.50–$9.50 USD
- Craft Beers (Goose Island, Lagunitas, etc.): $9–$10.50 USD
How much is a beer on Royal Caribbean? Expect to pay around $8–$10 on average, plus an automatic 18% gratuity.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Prices on Royal Caribbean
How Much Is a Soda on Royal Caribbean?
- Coca-Cola Products (Coke, Sprite, Fanta): $3.50–$4 USD per can
- Soda from Freestyle Machines (with cup purchase): Included in soda package
- Energy Drinks (Red Bull, Monster): $5.50–$6 USD
Sodas are not included in your cruise fare, but they’re covered by the Soda Package (more on that below).
Coffee and Specialty Drinks
- Regular Brewed Coffee: Complimentary
- Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte: $3–$6 USD
- Iced Coffees & Frappes: $4–$7 USD
If you enjoy your morning latte or an afternoon cold brew, these can add up quickly unless you get a beverage package.
Juices and Other Non-Alcoholic Options
- Fresh-Squeezed Juice: $4–$5 USD
- Bottled Water (500ml): $3.25 USD
- Vitamin Water, Gatorade: $4.50–$5 USD
- Mocktails: $6–$8 USD
Some juices at breakfast are complimentary, but fresh-pressed and bottled drinks are chargeable.
Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
If you’re wondering whether to go à la carte or purchase a drink package, here’s a breakdown.
The Deluxe Beverage Package (Alcohol Included)
- Cost: $63–$100 USD per person per day (varies by ship and sailing)
- Includes: All alcoholic drinks up to $14, soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, juices, mocktails
This is best for guests who plan to have 5+ alcoholic drinks daily or like variety.
The Refreshment Package
- Cost: $29–$38 USD per person per day
- Includes: Unlimited soda, bottled water, fresh juices, specialty coffee, mocktails
Perfect for non-drinkers or families.
The Classic Soda Package
- Cost: $12.99–$15 USD per person per day
- Includes: Unlimited Coca-Cola products from bars and Freestyle machines
Budget-friendly and ideal for kids and soda lovers.
Tips for Saving on Drink Costs
Want to enjoy beverages without breaking the bank? Here are some tips:
1. Buy a Drink Package Pre-Cruise
Royal Caribbean often offers pre-cruise discounts on drink packages—sometimes up to 30% off.
2. Use Your Crown & Anchor Society Perks
Loyal cruisers in Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society often receive free drinks or BOGO coupons.
3. Look for Daily Drink Specials
Most bars feature daily specials on select cocktails or beers. Ask your bartender or check the Cruise Compass.
4. Bring Limited Alcohol Onboard
Royal Caribbean allows one bottle of wine per adult (750ml) on embarkation day. Great for a quiet evening in your cabin.
5. Happy Hour Promotions
Some specialty restaurants or bars (especially on embarkation day) run limited-time drink promos.
Can You Bring Drinks Onboard Royal Caribbean?
Royal Caribbean has strict rules on bringing drinks:
- Wine: One 750ml bottle per adult (21+), no corkage fee if consumed in the cabin
- Liquor/Beer: Not allowed to be brought onboard
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Up to 12 cans or bottles of non-alcoholic drinks per stateroom (e.g., soda, juice)
Any undeclared alcohol will be confiscated at boarding.
Drink Policies You Should Know
- Gratuity: An automatic 18% gratuity is added to all beverage purchases
- Sharing Not Allowed: Packages are per person; sharing with others is prohibited
- ID Required: Must be 21+ to drink alcohol (18+ in some regions like Europe or Australia)
Is the Drink Package Worth It?
Here’s a quick calculator to help you decide:
Drink TypeAverage Price (USD)Daily Total (5 drinks)2 Cocktails$14 x 2 = $282 Beers$9 x 2 = $181 Espresso$5Total$51
If you're likely to spend $50+ per day on beverages, the Deluxe Package may save you money and offer convenience.
Final Thoughts: How Much Are Drinks on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?
The cost of drinks on Royal Caribbean can vary depending on what and how much you drink. Expect to pay $7–$18 USD for alcohol and $3–$7 USD for non-alcoholic options. Whether you go à la carte or purchase a Royal Caribbean drink package, having a sense of pricing ensures a more relaxing, stress-free cruise.
By understanding Royal Caribbean alcohol prices, beer prices, and soda costs, you can plan ahead and make smart choices that suit your travel style and budget.
Bon voyage—and cheers to smooth sailing!
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