One of the most common questions I see about cruise drink packages is: “If I get the Refreshment Package, does my spouse have to get it too?”

The short answer is no — but let’s break it down so you know exactly how it works and whether it’s worth it for your cruise.

---

The Rule: Only the Deluxe Package Requires Everyone

On Royal Caribbean, only the Deluxe Beverage Package (the alcohol package) requires every adult of legal drinking age in the same stateroom to purchase it if one person does. This is to prevent sharing drinks.

The Refreshment Package is different. It’s sold per person, and you can buy it for just one guest without your spouse or roommate needing to buy it too.

---

What’s Included in the Refreshment Package?

The Refreshment Package covers a lot more than soda. Here’s what you get:

• Specialty coffee and teas (like lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffee)
• Fresh-squeezed juice
• Mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails)
• Coca-Cola Freestyle machine access (unlimited soda refills)
• Bottled water (still and sparkling, in multiple sizes)

Basically, if you’re not drinking alcohol but still want premium beverages, this is the package for you.

---

Price of the Refreshment Package

Prices vary depending on your sailing, but the Refreshment Package usually runs between $29–$38 per person, per day if purchased before your cruise in the Cruise Planner. Onboard, prices may be slightly higher.

---

When It’s Worth It

The Refreshment Package can be a good value if you regularly drink:

• Two or more specialty coffees per day ($4–$6 each)
• Several bottled waters daily (especially for shore excursions)
• Mocktails or sodas at meals or by the pool

Add those up, and it’s easy to reach the daily price of the package.

---

When It’s Not Worth It

If you mostly drink:

• Complimentary water, iced tea, or lemonade in the dining room
• The occasional soda or coffee

…then buying beverages à la carte will probably be cheaper than paying for the package.

---

Pro Tips for the Refreshment Package

• Buy it before your cruise in the Cruise Planner — it’s usually 10–20 percent cheaper than onboard.
• Watch for sales — Royal often discounts packages during holiday promotions.
• Remember: you don’t need to buy it for everyone in your cabin, so you can mix and match. For example, you might get the package while your spouse pays per drink.

---

Final Answer

So, does your spouse need to buy the Refreshment Package if you get it? No. Unlike the Deluxe Beverage Package, this one is optional per person, so you can customize what works best for your family.

For many cruisers, that flexibility is exactly what makes the Refreshment Package a popular choice.

---

FAQs About the Royal Caribbean Refreshment Package

Does everyone in a cabin have to buy the Refreshment Package?
No. The Refreshment Package is sold individually, so only the person who wants it needs to purchase it. Your spouse or roommate does not have to buy it too.

Does the Refreshment Package include smoothies?
Yes. Freshly blended smoothies from places like Vitality Café are included in the Refreshment Package.

Can kids get the Refreshment Package?
Yes. The Refreshment Package is available to guests of all ages. For kids and teens, it can be a better value than paying for individual sodas, bottled waters, and smoothies.

How much does the Refreshment Package cost?
Prices vary by sailing, but typically the package runs between 29 and 38 dollars per person, per day when purchased before your cruise in the Cruise Planner. Onboard prices are usually higher.

What drinks are not included in the Refreshment Package?
Alcoholic beverages are not included. If you want cocktails, wine, or beer, you’ll need the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Does the Refreshment Package work at CocoCay or Labadee?
Yes. The Refreshment Package is valid on Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, so you can enjoy bottled water, soda, and mocktails on the island.