Royal Caribbean Drink Package: Everything You Need to Know (Is It Worth It?)

One of the most common questions cruisers ask before sailing with Royal Caribbean is: “Should I buy the drink package?”

The answer?
It depends on your drinking habits, your itinerary, and your budget. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean drink packages, including what’s included, how much they cost, and whether they’re really worth it.

🍹 Types of Royal Caribbean Drink Packages

Royal Caribbean currently offers several drink package options to fit different needs:

1. Deluxe Beverage Package

Includes: Cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, non-alcoholic drinks (soda, fresh juices, bottled water, specialty coffee, milkshakes, mocktails). Essentially “all-inclusive.”

Price: Around $60–$90 per person, per day (varies by sailing and sales).

2. Refreshment Package

Includes: Premium coffees, teas, fresh-squeezed juices, bottled water, mocktails, milkshakes, soda. No alcohol.

Price: Around $30–$40 per person, per day.

3. Classic Soda Package

Includes: Unlimited fountain soda + Coca-Cola Freestyle machines.

Price: Around $13–$15 per person, per day.

👉 Tip: Royal Caribbean often runs sales in the Cruise Planner (sometimes up to 40% off). Buy early if you see a price you’re comfortable with—you can always cancel and rebook if the price drops.

💲 How Much Do Drinks Cost Without a Package?

Here’s what you can expect to pay onboard if you purchase drinks individually:

Cocktails & Mixed Drinks: $12–$15 each
Beer: $7–$9 each
Glass of Wine: $9–$13 (higher for premium selections)
Premium Coffee (latte, cappuccino, etc.): $4–$6
Soda: $3.50 each
Bottled Water: $3–$4
Smoothies / Milkshakes: $5–$7
Mocktails: $6–$8

👉 At these prices, just a few cocktails + water/coffee/sodas per day can quickly add up to $60–$80—right in line with the drink package cost.

🤖 The Cost of Drinks at the Bionic Bar

One of Royal Caribbean’s most iconic features is the Bionic Bar, where robotic bartenders mix your drinks. It’s a fun experience and always a crowd-pleaser.

Cocktails at the Bionic Bar: $13–$15 each (plus gratuity).
Mocktails at the Bionic Bar: $7–$9 each.

✅ If you have the Deluxe Beverage Package, these drinks are included! This makes the package extra appealing if you plan to enjoy several “robot-made” cocktails during your cruise.

✅ What’s Included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?

Cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass (up to $14 per drink, with discounts on higher-priced options).
All non-alcoholic beverages (soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, juices).
Premium bottled water (Evian, Perrier).
Milkshakes (at Johnny Rockets).
Mocktails and smoothies.

Basically, if it’s a drink, it’s covered—except souvenir cups and drinks above the price limit.

🤔 Is the Royal Caribbean Drink Package Worth It?

It depends! Let’s do some math.

A typical day without the package might look like:

Morning latte: $5
Bottled water: $3
Poolside cocktail: $12
Glass of wine at dinner: $10
Evening cocktail: $12

That’s already $42 in drinks—and if you have more cocktails, wine with lunch, or a soda or two, you could easily hit $70+ per day.

The drink package may be worth it if:

You drink 5–6 alcoholic beverages per day (plus coffee, bottled water, and sodas).
You want the convenience of not worrying about your bill.
You plan to spend a lot of time at the pool, on sea days, or at private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay.

It may NOT be worth it if:

You don’t drink much alcohol.
You plan to spend more time in ports than on the ship.
You’re fine with the free options onboard (like basic coffee, iced tea, lemonade, and tap water).

🏝 Can You Use the Drink Package on Perfect Day at CocoCay?

Yes! Your Royal Caribbean drink package works at CocoCay, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas. This adds extra value since drinks there can be pricey otherwise.

✨ Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Drink Package

Buy early in the Cruise Planner—prices fluctuate.
One package per adult: If one adult in the cabin buys the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults must purchase it too.
Use it for more than alcohol: Specialty coffees, bottled water, and juices count toward making it worth it.
Check for sales—you can cancel and repurchase if the price drops.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Royal Caribbean drink package can be an incredible value—if you’ll use it. For cruisers who enjoy several cocktails, wine at meals, or specialty coffee throughout the day, it’s a no-brainer. For light drinkers, the Refreshment Package may be a better fit.

At the end of the day, it’s about convenience, value, and how you like to cruise. And if nothing else, it’s nice knowing you can order that poolside piña colada without worrying about the tab. 🍹✨