Important Update for Cruise Geeks: Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package Policy
Ahoy, fellow cruise geeks! We’ve got some important news for those of you who love to kick back with a refreshing cocktail (or several!) on your Royal Caribbean cruise. The cruise line has made a notable change to its policy regarding the Deluxe Beverage Package, and it’s something you need to be aware of before your next sailing.
For a long time, the unwritten rule for Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package (DBP) was that if one adult in a stateroom wanted to purchase the package, all other adults of legal drinking age in that same stateroom also had to buy a package. This was to prevent sharing, which, let’s be honest, we all know happens. However, there was a workaround: guests could call Royal Caribbean and request an exception, allowing a non-drinker in the stateroom to purchase the less expensive Refreshment Package instead. This was a great option for couples where one person drinks and the other doesn’t, or for those with medical reasons that prevent them from consuming alcohol.
But as of August 1, 2025, that exception is no more.
The New Policy in a Nutshell
Royal Caribbean has officially updated its policy, stating that they will no longer be able to grant exceptions to the “all adults in the stateroom must purchase a beverage package” rule. This means if you are of legal drinking age and sharing a stateroom with someone who buys the Deluxe Beverage Package, you must also purchase either the DBP or the Refreshment Package.
While the policy itself isn’t entirely new (the “all adults in the same stateroom must purchase a package” rule has been in place for a while), the key change is the removal of the exception process. The cruise line has cited an increase in the abuse of this exception as the reason for the policy shift. In short, too many people were taking advantage of the system and sharing drinks, leading Royal Caribbean to tighten its rules.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a couple where both of you enjoy alcoholic beverages, this change won’t affect you much. However, if you are traveling with a partner, family member, or friend who doesn’t drink, this is a significant change to your planning and budget. Here are a few things to consider:
- Cost: The cost of a Deluxe Beverage Package can be a substantial part of your cruise budget. The Refreshment Package is considerably cheaper and includes premium coffee, bottled water, fresh juices, and mocktails. Now, a non-drinker will be required to purchase at least the Refreshment Package.
- Booking Process: You will no longer be able to get around this rule by calling a representative. If you’re booking the Deluxe Beverage Package, be prepared to purchase a package for every adult in your stateroom.
- The “All or Nothing” Rule: The core of the policy remains: if one adult in a stateroom wants the Deluxe Beverage Package, all adults in that stateroom must buy a beverage package of some kind (either the DBP or the Refreshment Package).
A Reminder About the Packages
Even with this policy change, it’s worth remembering what each package includes and doing the math to see if it’s right for you. The Deluxe Beverage Package includes:
- Unlimited alcoholic beverages (up to a certain price point, typically around $14)
- Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty coffees, bottled water, sodas, and fresh-squeezed juices.
- Discounts on bottled wine.
The Refreshment Package is a great alternative for non-drinkers, including:
- Unlimited non-alcoholic cocktails
- Sodas
- Bottled water
- Specialty coffees and teas
- Fresh-squeezed juices
Final Thoughts
This policy change from Royal Caribbean is a move to standardize their beverage package rules and curb sharing. While it may be disappointing news for some, it’s important to be in the know as you plan your next cruise. Always check the fine print and do the math to make sure you’re getting the best value for your vacation.