Planning a cruise on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas? One of the first things many cruisers consider is the drink package. Choosing the right one can significantly enhance your vacation experience, but the options can be confusing. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the choices and decide which Symphony of the Seas drink package is best for you.
What Drink Packages are Available on Symphony of the Seas?
Royal Caribbean offers several drink packages, each catering to different drinking habits and budgets. The most popular options include:
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Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package: This is the most comprehensive package, including most cocktails, wines by the glass, beers, sodas, juices, and bottled water. It's a great choice if you plan on enjoying a wide variety of beverages throughout your cruise.
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Royal Caribbean's Refreshment Package: This package is a more budget-friendly option, primarily covering sodas, juices, and bottled water. It's ideal for families with children or individuals who primarily consume non-alcoholic beverages.
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Classic Soda Package: This covers unlimited sodas during your cruise. A good choice for soda lovers.
It's important to note that these packages usually have exclusions, such as premium brand liquors or specialty coffees. Always check the fine print before purchasing! Specific prices and inclusions vary depending on the time of year and the length of your cruise, so it’s best to confirm details on the Royal Caribbean website or by contacting their customer service.
What Drinks are Included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
The Deluxe Beverage Package is a favorite among cruisers, but it’s crucial to understand its inclusions and limitations. Generally, it includes:
- Cocktails: A wide selection of classic and signature cocktails is typically covered.
- Wine by the Glass: Many wines are included, but top-shelf vintages usually incur extra charges.
- Beer: A good selection of domestic and imported beers is typically available.
- Non-alcoholic Beverages: This includes sodas, juices, bottled water, and sometimes specialty coffee drinks.
What Drinks are NOT Included in the Deluxe Beverage Package?
While comprehensive, the Deluxe Beverage Package does exclude certain items:
- Mini-bar items: Beverages in your stateroom's mini-bar are sold separately.
- Premium brands: Top-shelf liquors and premium wines often have an upcharge.
- Bottles of wine: While wine by the glass is usually included, purchasing an entire bottle of wine typically involves an additional fee.
- Specialty coffees: Some specialty coffee drinks might fall outside the package. This varies depending on the ship and bar.
Is the Drink Package Worth It on Symphony of the Seas?
Whether a drink package is worth the cost depends entirely on your drinking habits and preferences. To help you decide, consider these factors:
- How much do you typically drink? If you plan on consuming multiple alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks per day, a package could save you money.
- What types of drinks do you prefer? If you're a connoisseur of premium liquors or wines, the additional charges for those items might negate any savings.
- What is the price of the package versus your estimated daily drink costs? Calculate the potential cost of your drinks without the package and compare it to the price of the package to determine which is more economical.
How to Purchase a Drink Package on Symphony of the Seas
You can typically purchase a drink package:
- Before your cruise: This is often the easiest method, allowing you to secure your preferred package and avoid potential lines onboard.
- Onboard the ship: You can purchase a package at guest services or various bars throughout the ship. However, it’s worth noting that prices may fluctuate based on availability.
Can I Share My Drink Package?
No, drink packages are non-transferable. Each package is linked to a specific cruise card and cannot be shared with other passengers.
What if I only want a soda package?
Royal Caribbean offers a separate Classic Soda Package, designed for those who primarily consume sodas throughout their vacation. This is a budget-friendly option for families and soda enthusiasts.
This detailed guide should help you make an informed decision about which drink package best suits your needs on your Symphony of the Seas cruise. Remember to always verify pricing and inclusions with Royal Caribbean directly before your voyage to ensure accuracy.
