Choosing the right drink package for your Icon of the Seas cruise can significantly impact your vacation budget. Understanding the costs and what's included is crucial for planning a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide breaks down the drink package options, their prices, and helps you decide which one best suits your needs.
Understanding Royal Caribbean's Drink Packages
Royal Caribbean offers several drink packages, each with varying inclusions and price points. The cost of these packages can fluctuate based on the length of your cruise and the time of year you're traveling. It's always best to check the current pricing on the Royal Caribbean website or with your travel agent closer to your sailing date. However, we can provide a general overview based on past pricing trends.
What are the different drink packages available on Icon of the Seas?
Royal Caribbean typically offers a few different drink packages, though the exact names and inclusions may vary slightly. Expect to see options like:
- Refreshment Package: This generally covers soft drinks, juices, and non-alcoholic beverages. It's a good budget-friendly option for those who don't consume alcohol.
- Classic Soda Package: A more straightforward option focused solely on soft drinks.
- Deluxe Beverage Package: This is the most comprehensive package, usually including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages up to a certain price point. This is often the most popular choice.
- Premium Beverage Package: This package typically covers a wider selection of premium alcoholic beverages, such as higher-end spirits and wines, than the Deluxe package. It comes with a higher price tag to reflect this.
How much does the Deluxe Beverage Package cost on Icon of the Seas?
The cost of the Deluxe Beverage Package varies considerably. Several factors influence the price, including:
- Cruise Length: Longer cruises typically mean a higher total cost for the package.
- Time of Year: Peak seasons (holidays, school breaks) often see higher prices.
- Booking Time: Booking early sometimes offers slightly lower prices.
While an exact price cannot be provided here without knowing the specifics of your cruise, expect to pay several hundred dollars per person for the duration of a standard 7-night cruise. The Premium package will be more expensive. It's always best to check the current price directly with Royal Caribbean.
What is included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
The Deluxe Beverage Package usually includes:
- Cocktails: A wide selection of cocktails, both classic and signature drinks.
- Beer: A variety of beers on tap and in bottles/cans.
- Wine: A selection of wines by the glass.
- Soft Drinks: Unlimited soft drinks, juices, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Specialty Coffees: Often includes lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffee drinks.
Are there any drinks NOT included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
While the Deluxe Beverage Package is extensive, some items are typically excluded:
- Bottles of Wine: These are usually purchased separately.
- Mini-Bars: The drinks in your stateroom's mini-bar are usually charged separately.
- Some Premium Spirits/Wines: Extremely high-end liquors and wines may not be included.
- Room Service: Drinks ordered through room service might have extra charges. Check the details of your package.
- Certain Locations: Some specialty bars or venues might not be included in the package, requiring separate purchases.
Is it worth purchasing a drink package on Icon of the Seas?
Whether a drink package is worthwhile depends entirely on your drinking habits and preferences. Consider these points:
- Your Drinking Habits: Do you consume several drinks daily? If so, a package can save money.
- Drink Prices Onboard: Royal Caribbean's onboard drink prices are generally higher than what you'd find on land.
- Group Size: Sharing a package between multiple passengers can reduce the cost per person.
It's wise to estimate your daily drink consumption and compare the cost of purchasing drinks individually versus opting for a package. Use a cruise cost calculator and compare.
How can I purchase a drink package for my Icon of the Seas cruise?
You can typically purchase a drink package in several ways:
- During the Booking Process: This is often the easiest and potentially cheapest method.
- Through Your Travel Agent: Your travel agent can assist with purchasing the package.
- Once Onboard: You can purchase it once onboard, but prices might be slightly higher.
By carefully weighing the costs and inclusions, you can make an informed decision that fits your budget and ensures a fantastic Icon of the Seas cruise experience. Remember to check the current prices on the Royal Caribbean website for the most up-to-date information.
