What drinks are free on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Decoding the Royal Caribbean Drinks Dilemma: What’s Free, and What’s Not?

Royal Caribbean cruises offer a dazzling array of onboard experiences, but navigating the beverage options can feel like charting uncharted waters. The simple answer to “What drinks are free?” is: it depends. Royal Caribbean’s inclusive beverage policy is far from a one-size-fits-all proposition, varying significantly based on the specific cruise, your chosen stateroom category, and even the time of year.

While some sources claim a blanket free-drinks policy, this is misleading. While you won’t find yourself completely thirsty, expecting all drinks to be included is unrealistic. The truth lies in a tiered system. Generally speaking, you can count on these beverages being complimentary:

• Water: Tap water is readily available throughout the ship, and you’ll often find water dispensers strategically placed. Bottled water is sometimes complimentary, particularly in your stateroom, but this can vary. Check your stateroom amenities upon embarkation.

• Iced Tea: This refreshing staple is usually included in the standard drink offerings, providing a thirst-quenching alternative to water. However, flavored varieties might require an additional cost.

Beyond these basics, the freebies thin out considerably. Don’t expect to quench your thirst with unlimited cocktails, fancy coffees, or premium juices without opening your wallet. Soda, juice (excluding the basic, often watered-down options), and specialty coffees are almost always extra. The same goes for alcoholic beverages – beers, wines, and cocktails will typically land you a hefty bar tab unless you’ve pre-purchased a beverage package.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Package:

This is where careful planning comes into play. Royal Caribbean offers various beverage packages designed to suit different drinking habits and budgets. These packages can significantly reduce the cost of drinks during your cruise, making them worthwhile for those who plan on enjoying a few cocktails or specialty coffees.

Before you book, thoroughly research the available beverage packages for your specific cruise and stateroom type. Factors such as the duration of your cruise and your typical consumption habits should guide your decision. It’s crucial to weigh the cost of the package against your projected drink consumption to ensure you’re getting good value.

In short: Don’t rely on unlimited free drinks on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Water and iced tea are usually your free friends. Everything else needs careful consideration and potentially a carefully chosen beverage package to avoid unexpected expenses. Doing your research upfront will ensure a smoother, and more financially predictable, sailing experience.