The Truth About Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package

One of the most common questions about Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package is: Is there a limit to how many drinks you can order each day?

The short answer: No, there’s no daily cap on how many drinks you can order. But there are some important rules, limits, and tips you’ll want to know before you buy the package.

Let’s break it down.

How the Deluxe Beverage Package Works

The package covers most drinks onboard, including:

Cocktails, beer, wine by the glass
Fountain soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle machines
Specialty coffees and teas
Bottled still and sparkling water
Fresh juices and smoothies
Milkshakes at Johnny Rockets

It does not cover:

Full bottles of wine or champagne (though you’ll get a 40% discount)
Mini-bar items in your stateroom
Alcohol via room service
Starbucks at standalone kiosks

The “Unlimited” Part — What It Really Means

Royal Caribbean does not place a hard number limit (like 15 drinks) the way some other cruise lines do. For example:

Carnival caps at 15 alcoholic drinks per day.
Norwegian does not list a specific number, but bartenders may refuse service if you appear overserved.
Royal Caribbean allows you to keep ordering throughout the day, but only one drink at a time, per card or WOW Band.

So, yes, you can have multiple cocktails by the pool, wine at dinner, and a nightcap after the show. But you can’t swipe for two margaritas at once unless your travel partner is standing next to you with their own package.

Can You Order Shots?

Yes, shots are included.

You’ll typically only get one shot per swipe.
Some bartenders may pour a double, but that depends on the bartender and location.
Ordering a tray of shots for a group won’t work unless every person has the package and presents their card.

What About Private Islands?

The Deluxe Beverage Package works on Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, so you don’t have to worry about extra charges while sipping your Coco Loco on the beach.

Cost of the Package

The price usually ranges from $65–$105 per person, per day (before gratuities).

Booking online in advance often saves 20–30%.
An 18% gratuity is automatically added. You don’t need to tip extra, though many guests still do for great service.

Tips for Getting the Most Value

Use it all day. Grab a specialty coffee in the morning, a fresh juice mid-day, bottled water for excursions, and cocktails by the pool.
Don’t forget CocoCay and Labadee. Your package works on both islands.
Maximize non-alcohol perks. Smoothies, sodas, milkshakes, and bottled waters add up quickly.
Embarkation day counts. The package works as soon as you board. Enjoy a mimosa or piña colada while you wait for your room.

FAQs About Royal Caribbean’s Drink Package

❓ Is there a daily drink limit?
No set number. Bartenders may cut you off if you appear intoxicated, but there’s no official daily cap.

❓ Can I order two drinks at once?
No, one drink per swipe, per person. You’ll need a second card or WOW Band to get another.

❓ Can I get shots?
Yes, but only one per card per order. Doubles depend on the bartender.

❓ Does it cover Starbucks?
No, drinks from standalone Starbucks kiosks are not included. Specialty coffees from Café Promenade and other venues are.

❓ Can I share with someone who doesn’t have the package?
No. Sharing is against policy, and bartenders can cancel your package if they catch you.

❓ Can I use it for room service?
No, alcohol through room service and minibars is not included.

❓ Can under-21 guests buy it?
No. Guests under 21 (or under 18 in some regions) can purchase the Refreshment Package, which includes sodas, mocktails, coffee, and juices.

❓ What if I don’t drink alcohol?
Royal offers non-alcohol packages: the Refreshment Package (mocktails, sodas, coffee, juice) and the Soda Package.

Bottom Line

The Deluxe Beverage Package on Royal Caribbean is unlimited, with smart limits. There’s no daily cap like Carnival, but you’ll only get one drink per swipe, and bartenders can refuse service if needed. Shots, cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, and most non-alcoholic beverages are all included, making it a great value if you drink throughout the day.

Charity Bradley