As you prepare for your upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s the perfect time to review the optional packages that can make your cruise even more enjoyable. Below, I’ve laid out everything you need to know about:
Beverage (Drink) Packages
Wi-Fi (VOOM Internet) Packages
Specialty Dining Packages
My goal is to help you make informed decisions—no pressure, just helpful insight.
Please note: All pricing is approximate and may fluctuate depending on your sailing date, ship, and any promotional discounts. To get accurate pricing, log in to your cruise planner.
🍹 Drink Packages Overview
Royal Caribbean offers three tiers of drink packages that provide unlimited beverages for a daily flat rate:
1. Classic Soda Package
Includes unlimited fountain soda, Coca-Cola Freestyle machines, and a souvenir cup.
Cost: $12.99/day + 18% gratuity ($90 total on a 7-night cruise)
Best for: Soda lovers and kids
2. Refreshment Package
Includes everything in the Soda Package plus bottled still/sparkling water, specialty coffees & teas, fresh juices, mocktails, and milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.
Cost: $29–$38/day + gratuity ($247 total on a 7-night cruise)
Best for: Those who enjoy a mix of non-alcoholic premium drinks throughout the day
3. Deluxe Beverage Package
Includes all drinks—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—plus discounts on wine bottles.
Cost: Varies widely (~$56–$105/day before gratuity). Most commonly ~$75–$85/day pre-cruise sale
Best for: Guests who plan to enjoy 5–6+ alcoholic beverages per day
💭 Is a Drink Package Worth It?
It all comes down to your drinking habits and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Deluxe Beverage Package (Alcohol Included) Most cocktails onboard are priced around $13 each (beer ~$8, soda ~$3). To make this package worth it, you’d typically need to enjoy 5–6 alcoholic drinks per day, or a similar mix of premium non-alcoholic beverages like bottled water and specialty coffees.
Refreshment Package (Non-Alcoholic) If you’re someone who enjoys multiple lattes, mocktails, fresh juices, and bottled water throughout the day, this package can easily save you money. Just a few of these items a la carte could total $30+ daily.
Classic Soda Package Best for guests who consistently drink 4 or more sodas a day. At roughly $3 per soda onboard, this package offers solid value for soda lovers.
💡 Bottom Line: These packages aren’t just about saving money—they offer convenience and peace of mind. No bar tab surprises. No second-guessing if you should try that new drink. However, if you only plan to have a few beverages per day, it may be more cost-effective to pay as you go.
Royal Caribbean Policy: If one adult in the stateroom purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other legal-age guests in that cabin must also purchase it. Exceptions may be requested by calling RC Customer Service at 1-800-398-9819.
🍷 Bringing Your Own Beverages
You may bring:
One (1) sealed 750 ml bottle of wine or champagne per adult. Boxed wine and other containers are prohibited.
Up to 12 non-alcoholic drinks (17 oz. cans, bottles, or cartons) per stateroom
Milk and distilled water for infant, dietary, or medical needs
📌 Alcoholic beverages beyond the allowed quantity, purchase of alcohol bottles onboard, or in a port-of-call, will be stored and returned at the end of the cruise. However, alcoholic beverages (beer, seltzer, or hard liquor) seized on embarkation day will not be returned.
Flash sales (check your Cruise Planner regularly!)
If you’d like help reviewing which packages make the most sense for your trip—or want me to add any to your booking—just reply to this email. I’m happy to take care of it for you.