Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage, Suitcase with Wheels, 21-Inch Spinner with Four Spinner Wheels and Scratch-Resistant Surface, Black
$62.99 (as of November 6, 2024 14:46 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Are you planning a Royal Caribbean cruise? One common mistake many travelers make involves waiting too long to book their drink packages. Missing out on special pricing can lead to higher costs, but luckily, there’s a simple tip to avoid this mistake.
By securing your drink package as soon as you decide, you can lock in the current rate and avoid price increases. If prices drop later, you have the flexibility to cancel and rebook with no penalty. This strategy ensures you get the best possible deal, making your cruise experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
The Common Mistake with Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
Many miss out on better pricing
Hey there! Have you ever found yourself eagerly anticipating a Royal Caribbean cruise, only to realize that you missed out on securing the best possible price for your drink package? If so, you’re definitely not alone. This week, many cruisers found themselves in this exact situation. It’s a common mistake that plagues many Royal Caribbean passengers: waiting too long to book their drink packages and consequently missing out on better pricing.
Simple tip for securing better pricing
Here’s a simple but powerful tip to help you avoid this pitfall: book your drink package as early as possible! No matter when you decide to get it, securing your drink package early is key to snagging the best deals. If the price drops later, you can always cancel and rebook at the lower price, free of charge. This way, you lock in the price today and protect yourself against potential price hikes.
Avoid overpaying for the drink package
By following the simple tip above, you can avoid overpaying for your drink package. When you wait, you risk the price going up instead of down. By booking early, you safeguard yourself against any unexpected increases. It’s a win-win situation: you either get the best price or the one you originally booked, which saves you from any last-minute price shocks.
Booking Royal Caribbean Drink Packages
Common mistake: waiting to book
One of the most common mistakes passengers make is waiting to book their drink packages. You might think it’s better to wait for a sale or a special deal, but this often backfires. Prices can fluctuate, and waiting means you could miss out on the best possible price.
Importance of early booking
Booking early is crucial because it locks in the current rate and shields you from future price hikes. If a more favorable price pops up later, you can always rebook without any penalties. This ensures you’re always getting the best possible deal without the risk of paying more later on.
Reasons to Book Early
No penalty for canceling and rebooking at lower prices
One incredible advantage Royal Caribbean offers is the flexibility to cancel and rebook your drink package at a lower price if you find one. There’s no penalty for doing this, making it a wholly risk-free strategy. By booking early, you essentially hold your spot at the current rate while keeping an eye out for any price drops.
Locking in current rates before prices increase
Another significant reason to book early is to lock in the current rates. Cruise lines often adjust their prices based on demand and other factors. Waiting too long could mean you end up paying a much higher rate. By booking when you first decide to get the package, you guarantee yourself the current rate, which could save you a lot of money in the long run.
Sales vary and may not apply to all sailings
It’s important to remember that sales and discounts can greatly vary and may not apply to all sailings. Just because there was a great deal on a previous cruise doesn’t mean the same will happen for yours. Booking early ensures you don’t miss out on locking in the best available price for your particular sailing.
Examples of Price Increases
Natasha’s experience: €47 to €58 per person per day
Take Natasha, for example. When she first logged into the cruise planner, she saw that the deluxe beverage package was priced at €47 per person per day. She didn’t book immediately, thinking she might see a better offer later. Fast forward 14 days, and she decided the package was worth it. Unfortunately, the price had shot up to €58 per person per day—a significant increase that could have been avoided if she had booked it right away.
Brian’s experience: $70 to $73 per day package variation
Or consider Brian’s experience. He noticed a price jump for his drink package on the Explorer of the Seas. Initially, the standard pre-boarding price was $70 per day. He didn’t act on it, and the next special price he saw was $73 per day. By waiting, he missed out on the better deal he initially had access to and had to pay a higher rate—a situation that could have been avoided with earlier booking.
Pricing Strategy
Prices vary by ship and sailing
Drink package prices can vary significantly depending on the ship and sailing. This variability makes it all the more important to seize good prices when you see them. Don’t rely on the prices others have quoted for their cruises, as your specific sailing might have different rates.
Online prices are cheaper than onboard prices
Another key aspect of Royal Caribbean’s pricing strategy is that prices are generally cheaper online than onboard. Booking your drink package online before your cruise begins will almost always save you money compared to purchasing it once you’re on the ship.
Knowing average costs helps determine package value
Understanding the average costs of drinks onboard can help you evaluate whether a drink package is worth it for you. On average, cocktails are around $12-$13, while beers are $8-$10. Knowing these rates can aid you in deciding if the drink package will save you money based on your drinking habits.
Determining Package Value
Average cocktail: $12-$13
The average cocktail on a Royal Caribbean ship usually costs between $12 to $13. This includes popular mixed drinks like piña coladas and margaritas. Considering this cost, it’s easy to see how a few cocktails a day can quickly add up.
Beers: $8-$10
If you’re more of a beer drinker, you can expect to pay around $8 to $10 per beer. This includes a variety of domestic and imported beers, and each one can make a significant dent in your vacation budget.
Premium coffee, bottled water, juice included
Don’t forget that the deluxe beverage package doesn’t just cover alcoholic beverages. It also includes premium coffee, bottled water, and juice. If you’re a coffee lover or if you like to stay hydrated with bottled water, these inclusions add even more value to the package.
Breaking even: 4-6 alcoholic beverages per day
To break even on a deluxe beverage package, you typically need to consume about 4-6 alcoholic beverages per day. This amount can easily be reached with a couple of cocktails by the pool, a beer with lunch, and a glass of wine or two with dinner. If you’re also consuming coffee, bottled water, or juice, breaking even becomes even easier.
Final Recommendations
Book early to lock in prices
Our top recommendation is to book your drink package as early as possible. Doing so locks in the current price, offering you protection against any potential rate increases.
Consider personal drinking habits and vacation behavior
Before you book, take some time to consider your drinking habits and how you like to vacation. Are you someone who enjoys multiple cocktails by the pool, or would you rather stick to non-alcoholic beverages? Understanding your preferences can help you decide if a drink package is worth it for you.
Drink package makes expenses predictable and stress-free
Booking a drink package can make your vacation much more stress-free. You won’t have to worry about keeping track of your beverage spending throughout the cruise, making your expenses predictable and easier to manage.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Booking your Royal Caribbean drink package early can save you money and stress. Have you successfully snagged a great deal on a drink package? Got any tips or strategies that work for you? Drop a comment and let everyone know. Also, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss out on our latest videos. Happy cruising!
