Planning a cruise on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas? Understanding the drink prices is crucial for budgeting your vacation. While prices can fluctuate slightly based on promotions and the specific bar, this guide provides a realistic overview of what you can expect to pay for various beverages. Remember that prices are in US dollars and are subject to change.
What's Included in My Cruise Fare?
Before diving into the specifics of drink prices, let's clarify what's included in your cruise fare. Generally, your cruise fare covers water (from self-service stations), iced tea, and sometimes coffee. However, most alcoholic and specialty beverages, juices, sodas, and bottled water will incur extra charges.
Alcoholic Beverages:
Prices for alcoholic drinks on Independence of the Seas vary greatly depending on the type of drink. Expect to pay:
- Beer: $6-$10 per bottle or draft beer. Domestic beers tend to be on the lower end of this range.
- Wine: A glass of wine typically costs between $8 and $15, while a bottle can range from $30 to $80 or more depending on the vintage and type.
- Cocktails: Mixed drinks, including margaritas, mojitos, and other popular cocktails, usually cost between $10 and $15. Premium cocktails may be significantly more expensive.
- Liquor: Prices for liquor vary widely based on brand and type. Expect to pay a premium for top-shelf spirits.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
While water is generally free from self-service stations, other non-alcoholic drinks are not included in your cruise fare:
- Soda: Individual sodas will be charged per can or bottle. To save money, consider purchasing a soda package for unlimited refills.
- Juice: Freshly squeezed juices are generally more expensive than those from concentrate. Expect to pay around $4-$6 for a glass.
- Bottled Water: While tap water is available, many prefer bottled water. Individual bottles can cost anywhere from $3-$5.
Drink Packages:
To save money, consider purchasing one of Royal Caribbean's drink packages. These packages offer unlimited drinks for a set price. The specific details of these packages (and their price) vary, so check Royal Caribbean's website or your cruise documents for the most up-to-date information.
Do Royal Caribbean drink packages include tips?
Yes, most Royal Caribbean drink packages include gratuities. This means you don't have to worry about adding tips to your drinks bill. However, always check the fine print of the specific package you select to be certain.
What drinks are included in the Royal Caribbean drink packages?
The specific drinks included can vary depending on the package. Typically, packages cover cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and sometimes even bottled water and specialty coffee drinks. Check the details of your chosen package before purchase.
Are there any age restrictions for purchasing drinks on Independence of the Seas?
Yes, you must be of legal drinking age (21 in most cases) to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Valid photo identification will be required.
How can I pay for drinks on the ship?
You can typically charge drinks to your Sail & Sign account, a convenient method for tracking your expenses during the cruise. Cash is usually accepted as well, but using your Sail & Sign account is easier.
Remember to check Royal Caribbean's official website or contact their customer service for the most current and accurate pricing information. Enjoy your cruise!
