One of our favorite cruise lines is Royal Caribbean. Like many contemporary cruise lines, the cruise fare on Royal Caribbean covers many onboard amenities, dining, and beverages. While some drinks are included in the cruise fare, many of them will cost you extra. Knowing the costs of these drinks can help you budget for your next trip. Plus, they can help you decide if a drink package is worth it. So, to help you plan accordingly, we have put together this updated look at Royal Caribbean drink prices for 2024!
Table of Contents
- Drinks Included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise
- Price of Premium Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Price of Beer on Royal Caribbean Cruises
- Price of Wine on a Royal Caribbean Cruise
- Price of Cocktails on Royal Caribbean Cruise
- Drink Package Costs
- Summary of all Drink Prices
Updated Guide to Royal Caribbean Drink Prices 2024
All of the Beverages Included in a Royal Caribbean Cruise
At the cruise line’s buffet, the Windjammer, cruisers have a wide selection of complimentary beverage options. Many of the mega-ships also have beverage stations at complimentary restaurants, like Park Café or Sorrento’s pizza, with coffee and tea available throughout the day.
Complimentary drinks on Royal Caribbean include:
- Iced water
- Iced tea
- Lemonade,
- Flavored water choices.
- Orange juice and apple juice (at breakfast)
- Coffee
- Wide selection of teas
The standard complimentary offerings have remained pretty consistent over the 15 years we have been sailing with the cruise line. Although, we have noticed on newer ships, the beverage dispenser systems have improved. This makes it easier for guests to access the included drinks from several casual restaurants across the ship.
In the main dining room, lemonade, iced tea, and hot coffee and tea are also free of charge. At breakfast, juices are complimentary as well.
However, if cruisers are looking for other premium, non-alcoholic beverages, they will need to pay for them.
Non-alcoholic Drinks Not Included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise
While a number of non-alcoholic beverages are part of the cruise fare, there are several premium offerings which will cost more. Luckily, Royal Caribbean’s drink packages include these non-alcoholic beverages. Or cruisers can pay a la carte for these offerings.
The Price of Premium Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Bottled Water $3.50
- Soda Cans $3.50
- Juice $3.50
- Energy Drinks $4.00
- Specialty Coffees and Tea $4.50 to $5.00
- Starbucks Coffees and Frappuccinos $6.00 to $7.00
- Zero-Proof Cocktails $7.00
- Smoothies and Freshly Squeezed Juices $8.25
All of these prices are before the 18% service charge which is applied to every beverage purchase.
However, Royal Caribbean does allow cruisers to bring some beverages onboard on embarkation day. Currently, Royal Caribbean allows cruisers to bring up 12 cans or bottles (no larger than 17 oz) per cabin on the first day of the cruise. If that is too much work, there are several options to purchase these drinks onboard.
However, we often pre-purchase 1 liter bottles of water before our trip at a discounted rate instead of lugging them onboard.
Heidi and I drink a lot of coffee, but we prefer espresso based drinks, So, if you like a morning latte or cappuccino in the evenings, those will be an upcharge.
Most Royal Caribbean cruise ships have a Café Promenade serving up lattes, cappuccinos, and similar drinks.
For those who are caffeine junkies, like us, you should consider a Café Select Coffee card. These coffee cards can help you save money on your cruise.
On ships that have licensed Starbucks, pricing is slightly higher than similar beverages served at the Café Promenade. But, drinks at licensed Starbucks kiosks are NOT included in the Royal Caribbean drink package. Also, the Café Select Coffee card does not work at these onboard Starbucks either.
Many bars on Royal Caribbean features a selection of zero proof cocktails as well. Further, some Royal Caribbean ships, like the new Icon of the Seas, features a Vitality Cafe. Here, cruisers can purchase freshly made juices, like the Fruit Oasis. These are tasty alternatives for those that do not consume alcohol.
How much is beer on Royal Caribbean?
There is nothing better than relaxing poolside with an iced cold brew. For the most part, bottles of beer on Royal Caribbean ships cost around $7.00 to $8.00 a serving. This pricing is also similar for beer alternatives like seltzers or ciders, which tend to be around $7.99 a serving.
Of course, these beer prices on Royal Caribbean are before the 18% gratuity. Many of these beers can be found in the bars in the ship and poolside. Plus, each restaurant will have a selection of beers by the bottle or can.
Domestic Beer Prices
- Bud Light $7.49
- Budweiser $7.49
- Coors Light $.749
- Miller Lite $7.49
- Amstel Light $7.99
- Samuel Adams $7.99
- Juicy Haze IPA $7.99
- Sierra Nevada $7.99
- Stone IPA $7.99
- Terrapin Lula Krunkles $7.99
- Blue Moon $7.99
- Angry Orchard $7.99
- Truly Hard Seltzer $7.49
- White Claw Hard Seltzer $7.49
Foreign Beer Prices
- Carib $7.99
- Corona Extra $7.99
- Dos Equis $7.99
- Estrella Damm $7 99
- Heineken $7 99
- Red Stripe Jamaica $8.25
- Groisch $8.25
- Pilsner Urquell $8.25
- Paulaner Weissbler $7 99
- Guinness $7.99
- Newcastle $7.99
- Paulaner Salvator Douo1e Bock $7.99
- BELGIAN SPIRIT
- Leffe Blonde $7.99
- Stella Artois $7.99
- Daura Damm $7.99
- Strongbow $7.99
- Heineken 0.0 $7.99
Royal Caribbean cruise ships do have an English pub that has an extensive beer list. But, most of these beers are under $8, except for one or two rare beers that are $8.25 a glass.
How much does wine cost on Royal Caribbean ships?
After a long day ashore or on the pool deck, it is nice to settle into one of your ship’s main dining rooms. There you can enjoy a three-course dinner. Along with dinner you will probably want a glass, or two, of wine to enhance the meal. Or, perhaps after dinner you would like to enjoy a few glasses of vino while enjoying the views of Central Park
One adult libation that varies greatly in price on Royal Caribbean is wine.
For a glass of wine, the range is from $8 for a Beringer White Zinfandel to $22 for a glass of Moet & Chandon champagne.
Still, most glasses of wine are around $11 a serving, which is well within the drink package allotments.
Prices for Wine by the Glass on Royal Caribbean Ships
- Proseco $8.00
- Sparkling Rose $8.00
- White Zinfandel $8.00
- Pinot Grigio $10.00
- Rose $13.00
- Champagne $22.00
- Sauvignon Blanc $10.00
- Chardonnay $11.00
- White Blend $16.00
- Whispering Angel $14.00
- Pinot Noir $12.00
- Merlot $12.00
- Cabernet Sauvignon $12.00
- Malbec $14.00
On Royal Caribbean ships, there are often wine bars, from Vintages on ships like Oasis of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas to Giovanni’s Wine Bar on Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas. These wine-specific venues will have a greater selection of wines. However, many of them will have higher price tags.
None of the Royal Caribbean drink packages cover bottles of wine. Though, guests who purchase the Deluxe drink package will receive a 40% discount on bottled wines priced up to $100, and 20% discount on wine prices above $100.
As one would expect, bottles of wine vary greatly depending on the label, brand, and vintage. Most bottles of wine are priced around $50 to $60. Of course, you can find some selections in the $40 range, or you can splurge for a $231 bottle of Dom Perignon while on vacation.
Note, cruisers are allowed to bring two bottles of wine, per cabin, onboard in their carry-on luggage.
Although, Royal Caribbean does have a corkage fee.
What are the costs of cocktails and mixed drinks on Royal Caribbean?
One of our favorite additions to the pool deck on many Royal Caribbean ships is the Lime & Coconut bars. Along with the namesake signature cocktail, this bar is home to many fruity cocktails and classic Caribbean-inspired drinks. Among our favorites are the Passion Spritz and the Pineapple Guava Sangria. All of these signature drinks cost $14.00, which is the maximum drink price in the Royal Caribbean drink package.
Royal Caribbean Poolside Cocktail Prices
- Lime & Coconut $14.00
- Planter’s Punch $14.00
- The Painkiller $14.00
- Goombay Smash $14.00
- Papa Jac $14.00
- Watermelon’ Rita $14.00
- Rum Punch $14.00
- Carribbean Mule $14.00
- Pineapple Guava Sangria $14.00
- Passion Spritz $14.00
Heidi is a fan of cocktails. So, you’ll probably find us at the ship’s martini bar in the evenings. Some of our favorite lounges on a Royal Caribbean ship include the Schooner Bar and the new Lobby 1400 on Icon of the Seas. Many of these bars feature signature cocktails. For the most part, these cocktails are between $12 to $14. This is true at other bars, like the Music Hall, Boleros, or On Air.
Royal Caribbean also updated its standard drink menu in 2021. With this update, the cruise line launched several new signature cocktails. These new favorites can be found at almost any bar in the RCI fleet. 
The Royal Caribbean drink prices for these specialty cocktails are $14.
Royal Caribbean Specialty Cocktail Menu
- Dark ‘N’ Stormy $14.00
- Planter’s Punch $14.00
- The Painkiller $14.00
- Goombay Smash $14.00
- Papa Jac $14.00
- Rum Punch $14.00
- Pineapple Guava Sangria $14.00
- Strawberry Blonde $14.00
- Scarlett’s Tropical Sangria $14.00
- Cozumel Sunrise $14.00
- Thyme for Gin $14.00
- Mint Berry Delight $14.00
- Caribbean Mule $14.00
- Cool as a Cucumber $14.00
- Handcrafted Margarita $14.00
- Passion Spritz $14.00
- Rum Old Fashioned $14.00
- Rol and Rye $14.00
- Mezcal Mule $14.00
- Kentucky Summer $14.00
Royal Caribbean also offers a wide selection of spirts, liquors and aperitifs. For the most part, one serving of these libations is between $10.99 to $13.99. Selections vary from ship to ship. So, it is best to check with a bar manager early in the cruise to see if that vessel stocks your preferred spirits.
So, for the most part, unless you are looking for a super premium brand, the mixed drinks and cocktails on Royal Caribbean ships will cost between $11 and $14.
What are the prices of Royal Caribbean drink packages?
For the past couple of years, we have been tracking drink prices on Royal Caribbean ships. Thankfully, we have found that the prices have not increased substantially. Although, we have found that the prices of Royal Caribbean’s drink packages have gone up quite a bit the last two years.
Royal Caribbean drink packages have dynamic pricing. This means that the price will vary based on ship, time of year, and itinerary.
Historically, the onboard price of the Deluxe Beverage Package ranges from $63 to $98 a day (plus gratuity). However, in 2024, the Deluxe Drink Package can start at a price as high as $115 a person, per day.
This package covers all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine by the glass, and cocktails up to $14.
Prices for the non-alcoholic drink packages are obviously much cheaper.
Royal Refreshment Drink Package: $29-38 per person, per day
Classic Soda Package: $12.99-$15 per person, per day
Café Select Coffee Card: $31 for 15 drinks
Keep in mind that the Royal Caribbean Drink packages are “unlimited” for the duration of the cruise, unlike Carnival Cruise Line which limits guests to 15 drinks.
Also, we tend to find that Royal Caribbean runs discounts pre-cruise. These deals can range from 25% to 50% off some of these offerings. We always suggest that if you see a deal on a package, you should buy it. There is always the ability to cancel later if you find a better price, or decide the drink package isn’t worth it.
Should You Purchase a Royal Caribbean Drink Package?
Now that you know the Royal Caribbean drink prices, you can calculate whether purchasing a drink package is right for you when cruising in 2024.
In our experiences, it’s usually not too difficult to realize a cost savings with these packages, especially if you consume specialty coffee drinks, soda, and bottled water in addition to alcoholic beverages. Of course, it really depends though just how much the drink package costs for your particular sailing.
| Category | Price |
| Bottled Water (500 ml) | $3.50 |
| Soda | $3.50 |
| Energy Drinks | $4.00 |
| Specialty Coffees | $4.50 |
| Other Non-Alcoholic Drinks | $7.00 |
| Beers | $7.49 |
| Wine | $11.00 |
| Mixed Drinks | $11.00 |
| Specialty Cocktails | $14.00 |
To summarize, we have listed all of the Royal Caribbean Drink Prices 2024 in this handy chart. Knowing how many drinks from each category you typically consume, you can determine if a drink package is worth it for your next Royal Caribbean cruise vacation.
Comments
Do you cruise with Royal Caribbean? Do you think the drink prices on Royal Caribbean are fair? Drop us an anchor below with your thoughts on these cruise add-ons.
18 comments
fauve fleurant
hey im guessing these prices re all American 🙁
Don Bucolo
Yes, all of the prices quoted are USD.
Susan
We’ve cruised RC a number of times without the drink package. Last time we splurged for it and I swear I’ll never cruise without it again. I tried many cocktails I’d never had and enjoyed specialty coffees and soda. The freedom to have wine with dinner or an espresso martini after dinner without making a financial decision each time enhanced my trip!
Elle
No, prices are not fair! We paid $1,420.44 which included a discount for buy one/get one 50% off ($101 per person/per day). If historically, prices ranged from $63 – $98, this is no deal at all.
Sherry Callihan
Can you bring your own soda and water on board?
Laura
Yes each person can bring 1 12 pack of soda on board
Joeblow
Yes
Richard
Drinks package ×2,,,,No,,,,,,you are pricing me out…..we will be getting off on port days !
Jen
Johnny rocket milkshakes are included in the refreshment package
Zee
I keep hearing that Johnny Rocket shakes are included in the package yet the restaurant itself lunch and dinner is a specialty restaurant. If you have the drink package, is this true? And are you able to order only a shake a la carte? How much would that usually be? Thanks.
Jerry
We sailed symphony of the seas in sept 2022 and Johnny rockets shakes were included in the deluxe drink package. Food was extra.
Mary Ann Frey
We are signed up for Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas cruise on August 5, 2023. Can you send me cost of alcohol drink package. Any specials going on for this cruise.
scott
After you book your cruise, what is the current discounted price of the Deluxe Beverage Package ?
And are they still doing the Buy 1 get and 1 for 50% off ?
Mary Ann Frey
We are signed up for Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas cruise on August 5, 2023. Can you send me cost of alcohol drink package. Any specials going on for this cruise.
Cheryl Celea
my husband an I have been loyal to Royal Caribbean for many years and we are Diamond plus Crown and Anchor members.
I read what the drink packages are worth on cruises out of the US but when it comes to cruises out of Australia the amount per day is much higher. As our dollar is value lower than the $US it makes no sense to charge us more in Australian dollars as all our expenses on board are converted to $US dollars so you get you money back three times over. Have a little consideration for those outside the US who remain loyal to your Company. The new drink system you brought in where we get 5 drinks a day doesn’t cut it for Crown and Anchor members. By the time we have a fresh juice in the morning along with a decent coffee and a bottle of water …we have 2 drinks left for the day- its not such a great package when you look at it closely, hence the reason we always purchase a deluxe drink package. Perhaps around $90 per day based on the tier you are on, would be considerable if you people really care about loyalty.
S.
Not complain too much on the cost I have to pay in Canadian dollars so add 35% to the cost
And still worth it. 2 specialty coffees every day plus the copious amounts of bottled water and the cocktails well. We are diamond members I just give mopey free drinks to crew buy the red bulls or what ever they want. You all know what you are getting into when you cruise and drink. That’s a lot like going to a hockey game and complaining about the price of a beer.
Joeblow
You can pay for juice, coffee, soda and save your vouchers for the more expensive alcohol. Just tell the server not to use the voucher
Nick T.
Really Lady?
You want to gripe and complain that you ONLY get 5 complimentary beverages per person/ per day?!?
Oh, the Horror!!
I’m Crown & Anchor Emerald, not Diamond or Diamond Plus (Yet), so I don’t receive your (rather generous) Daily 5 Complimentary Beverages benefit. For my upcoming 9 night sailing to Hawaii, the Unlimited Beverage Package is USD$90 per-person/per-day (Pp/Pd). I figure on average my Fiancé and I will each consume; 2 bottled h20 ($3.50ea.), 2 Sodas ($3.50ea.) 1-2 Specialty Coffees ($4.50ea.) a glass of Wine with Dinner ($11.00ea.) and 3-4 Cocktails ($14.00ea.) every day of the cruise. That’s a whole lotta booze and beverages for one person in a day, and the package price comes to approximately what we’d pay for those quantities without it. So at 2 people sailing for 9 nights at USD$90 Pp/Pd, that comes to USD$1620 for the cruise (not including gratuity).
IF I had your VERY GENEROUS benefit that you’re here complaining about, I could use said benefit for the Booze (most expensive part of the beverage tab) and pay out-of-pocket for the rest. In my scenario, that’s a savings of USD$67 Pp/Pd, or USD$1206 for the entire sailing.
Now maybe only 3-4 Boozy Beverages a day is a joke to you, and if so, kudos to your Aussie livers -that’s impressive!
My point is, a benefit that can save you well over USD$1K is nothing to sneer at, and we (Crown & Anchor Members) are lucky Royal Caribbean hasn’t scaled it back, reserved it for only the highest echelon (Pinnacle) or outright eliminated it! Be happy with what you (so deservingly) have earned, and have fun -you’re on vacation!