Late nights and early mornings mean that the Princess and I need our regular doses of coffee while on vacation. This of course means that we frequently visit the ships’ onboard cafes.  After more than a dozen sailings, we have sampled plenty of good (and not so good) cups from coffee shops on a cruise.

Good thing for us, cruise lines have upped their game when it comes to brewing a cup of joe. While you can still get American coffee for free throughout the ship, these specialty coffee shops on a cruise offer more than just decaf and regular. We need something with a little more zip to get us through the long cruise days!

Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship – Coffee Shop on Anthem of the Seas

Wondering where you should go for your next brew? Here are our picks for the five best cruise ship coffee shops. This post is sure to perk you up and get your heart racing…to book a cruise.

Our Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship

Caffe Italia on MSC Divina

We got to experience the rich flavors of some of the best coffee at sea onboard MSC Divina. Located on Deck 7 mid-ship, this Italian inspired brew house is a popular meeting place. At Caffe Italia, all of the classic specialty coffees are available- lattes, cappuccinos, and more. What sets this spot apart from others are the unique coffee concoctions. Featuring items like the marocchino with hints of cocoa and hazelnut and iced coffee mixed with “a dash of Baileys Irish crème”, this coffee shop at sea is a one of a kind.

Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship- Iced Coffee at Caffee italia

JavaBlue Cafe

We are really looking forward to our cruise on Carnival Vista. One spot we will be sure to frequent while onboard is the JavaBlue Café (also found on Carnival Sunshine). Now that Carnival Cruise Line has enhanced the Cheers Program, the freshly brewed hot, iced, and “spiked coffee” drinks are all covered in the drink package. Whether you are looking for an espresso or chai tea latte to start your day, or a Mexican coffee as an after dinner drink, this spot on Deck 5 aft will serve up your caffeine fix in style.

Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship – Carnival Vista

Café al Bacio & Gelataria

Café al Bacio and Gelataria is a staple on nine Celebrity ships. It was our regular rendezvous when preparing to head ashore in Alaska on Celebrity Solstice.  With an extensive collection of premium teas, coffee, iced beverages, and espresso drinks, this coffee shop offers cruisers plenty of variety.  For an out of this world experience, sample the White Chocolate Mocha or a creamy Caramel Macchiato. Drinks here are included on the Premium Beverage package as well. While sipping, cruisers can also indulge in a sweet treat, which are some of the best complimentary coffee shop pastries that we have ever had.

Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship – Treats from Cafe al Bacio on Celebrity Solstice

Cove Cafe

This Disney Cruise Line establishment is nestled away where the little ones won’t find you. This cozy cove is an adults only retreat where you can sit back and relax with one of the many hand-crafted drinks. With indoor and outdoor seating, grown-up cruisers can enjoy coffee drinks, including the velvety caramel hazelnut mocha, or a signature iced tea. If you are looking for something a bit more adult, you can sample from some cognacs and ports or other specialty drinks like an espresso martini.

Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship – Cafe Cove, Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Starbucks on Oasis Class

No list of coffee shops at sea would be complete without the Seattle-based juggernaut of coffee, Starbucks. Officially licensed Starbucks stores can be found on the three largest ships in the world, the Oasis class on Royal Caribbean. Not covered in any of the drink packages, your nonfat iced caramel macchiato or passion tea lemonade will cost you more at these onboard kiosks. With a full line of seasonal drinks and frozen frappuccinos, these stores deliver the consistency and quality that you would expect from your local SB down the street. Just be sure to know the lingo when ordering.

Top Five Coffee Shops on a Cruise Ship – Starbucks on Oasis of the Seas

Comments

Did we leave out your favorite cruise ship coffee shop? Where do you go to get your caffeine fix while cruising? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite place to grab a freshly brewed cup of joe on a cruise.