Imagine sailing on a cruise ship where robots move alongside talented performers, help clean hard-to-reach windows, and even scrub the hull underwater. 

Royal Caribbean has found a way to use technology to add to the overall entertainment experience and improve efficiency.

"We have always been acutely focused on delivering the best possible experience using technology... We are constantly trying to innovate and improve it," says Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International, in a recent YouTube video.

Enter collaborative robots, AKA cobots. These cobots aren't tucked away in a back room like traditional industrial robots that purposely work behind the scenes. Rather, they work side by side with crew members to enhance every part of the cruise experience. 

Here's a look at how Royal Caribbean uses robots aboard its newer cruise ships. 

Cobots help create immersive and unforgettable shows

"We've been working with robots for years at Royal. Obviously, on the Quantum Class ships, we have these amazing robots on [a] gantry with these giant 7x4-foot LED screens. We thought, okay, how can we bring those into the mix again?" explains Alex Marchant, Senior Director, Entertainment Creative & Strategy at Royal Caribbean.

In addition to the impressive robots in Two70, robots have been integrated into the enclosed AquaTheaters aboard Icon Class ships. 

On Icon of the Seas, for example, there are four robots located on the three-meter upstage area that help to set the scene. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

They aren't just props or something there for street cred — though they certainly do wow the audience. Instead, they serve as a point of connection for a lot of the show's signature pieces and are just as important as the entertainers. 

"It isn't our classic AquaTheater. It is truly kind of the reboot and reimagination. And the robots being integrated into it is an amazing transformation of our AquaTheater experience," remarks Jay Schneider, Senior Vice President, Chief Product Innovation Officer at Royal Caribbean. 

In the Royal Theater, Royal Caribbean continues to evolve the entertainment experience with advanced features, such as a giant LED wall, six motorized platforms that move dynamically, and side stages with additional LED screens.

"[O]ur visual for the audience has just grown immensely. The audience is not going to know what's hit them," Marchant boasts. 

Cobots also help keep cruise ships running smoothly

Other robots help keep the ship running smoothly. This makes operations more efficient and sustainable for crew and guests. For example, aboard Star of the Seas, robotic cleaners help keep the ship clean. 

"We do not want to decrease crew members; we want to increase their productivity and their interaction with the guests. And that's the whole idea of getting the robots on board to help them... We wanted to add to the quality of our work, and [the robots] offer us that," explains Johanita Jacobs, Senior Director, Housekeeping Operations at Royal Caribbean. 

When the robots were added on board, every area of the ship was mapped and assigned a QR code, which tells the robotic cleaners — named Bob and Betsy — what duty is expected of them in different places. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

Jacobs also confirmed that robotic cleaners will be coming to all Icon Class ships, and she can see them potentially being added to new developments in the future. 

Something else innovative aboard Icon Class ships is the use of underwater hull-scrubbing robots. 

"We have our hull scrubbing vessel [robots] on board Icon Class. This underwater robot is like a drone, and it has brushes... [to] scrub the hull. Keeping the hull clean is everything to do with fuel consumption and efficiency," says Rob Hempstead, Captain of Star of the Seas. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

Harri Kulovaara, Executive Vice President, Maritime, added that keeping a hull as clean as possible is essential for the ship’s performance and sustainability. 

Since nearly half of the ship’s energy is used for propulsion — and 80% of that energy is spent overcoming friction with the water — a clean hull can significantly reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.

Read more: Technology that changed cruises: 5 of the best uses of tech on Royal Caribbean today

This year's Atlantic hurricane season is right around the corner, with experts predicting up to 16 named storms, including as many as four major hurricanes.

Tropical storms can quickly disrupt cruise itineraries and travel plans. However, staying informed and purchasing travel insurance can help cruisers navigate the season's unpredictability with greater confidence. 

AccuWeather's forecast points to a slightly near to below-average season, but still warns that anywhere from 11 to 16 named storms are predicted to develop. Additionally, three to five storms could make direct landfall in the United States.

"It's very important that everybody from South Texas all the way to Maine prepares equally for each and every hurricane season, regardless of what the official forecast is," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

"Even if it's expected to be a slightly below average hurricane season, we can still see major hits across the United States."

11 to 16 named storms in 2026, with four to seven becoming hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes, defined as Category 3 or higher

According to AccuWeather, this year's hurricane season will be shaped by a shifting climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean. 

El Niño is one phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which also includes La Niña and ENSO-neutral. The ENSO cycle plays a key role in global climate patterns and can affect everything from weather to wildfires, ecosystems, and economies. 

Last month, meteorologists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that the likelihood of an El Niño developing by mid-summer significantly increased. 

Read more: El Niño watch issued, what it means for cruise ships during hurricane season

Typically, El Niño creates stronger upper-level winds across the Atlantic, which makes it more difficult for tropical storms to develop. This could mean there are fewer named tropical storms during the most active weeks of the season compared to the first half. 

Still, the presence of El Niño doesn't guarantee a below-average hurricane season. In fact, during the most recent El Niño in the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, 20 named storms formed. 

"What made 2023 very special is it was also the warmest year on record if we take a look at the average sea surface temperatures across the Atlantic basin," DaSilva explained. 

AccuWeather's forecast predicts that the Atlantic waters will be warm throughout 2026, though not reaching the same record highs seen in 2023.

Concerned about rapid intensification

Storms draw a lot of their energy from warm water, which is why experts are worried about rapid intensification during this year's hurricane season. 

"This year we are very concerned about rapid intensification, very similar to the last couple of years," DaSilva said.

It's not just the surface temperatures that play a key role in storm development, either. Deep ocean heat content waters, which are hundreds of feet deep across most of the hurricane basin, can also intensify storms. 

"Those waters are also exceptionally, exceptionally warm. That is why once again we are very concerned about rapid intensification this upcoming hurricane season," DaSilva added. 

Another factor raising concerns is the possibility of the Atlantic hurricane season starting earlier than the official start on June 1.

AccuWeather's report says that warm weather in places where storms typically develop early in the season means that it may not take much for tropical activity to kick off. 

Early in the hurricane season, "homegrown development" is most frequent, which occurs when a storm or front moving across North America stalls over the Gulf, western Caribbean, or western Atlantic. As it sits over the warm water, it could develop into a tropical depression, tropical storm, or even a hurricane.

What to know about going on a cruise during the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season

You shouldn't avoid cruises during hurricane season. In fact, with proper planning and expectation management, it can be a great time to go.

Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and may adjust itineraries to avoid storms, making it a safe option for travelers. The only caveat is that you must remain flexible. If you want to visit the Eastern Caribbean, you might be disappointed if your itinerary is changed at the last minute to call at Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatán, Honduras. 

Additionally, cruisers can take advantage of lower prices during hurricane season. As an example, a 7-night cruise on Icon of the Seas in early July 2026 starts at around $1,586 per person for an inside room. However, the price for the same itinerary in October drops to $1,393 for an interior cabin. 

Regardless, having a good travel insurance policy that covers incidentals in case a named storm impacts your vacation is key. Hurricanes, for instance, can disrupt air travel as much as cruise itineraries, which could put a damper on your vacation before it even begins!

This year, experts say the northern and northeastern Gulf Coast and the Carolinas are at the highest risk for direct impacts, making flexibility and solid preparation crucial for travelers coming to or from these areas.

Read more: Why your Caribbean cruise forecast says rain every day (and why it usually doesn’t matter)

Mariner of the Seas will no longer sail from Southampton, England, in 2027. 

Originally, the Voyager Class cruise ship was supposed to offer an impressive lineup of sailings from England. However, Royal Caribbean decided to swap the ship.

Now, Freedom of the Seas will sail from Southampton, while the updated Mariner itineraries have yet to be announced.

Royal Caribbean informed guests and travel advisors about the sudden deployment change in an email, which was shared with Royal Caribbean Blog. 

"As part of our ongoing itinerary planning process - which sometimes requires flexibility due to scheduling, port agreements, or operational needs, Mariner of the Seas will be redeployed for our Summer 2027 season. As a result, your clients' sailing has been redeployed," it begins. 

"We know how much effort goes into planning their vacation and apologize for the inconvenience. We've put together some alternative options that we hope will work for your clients and those in their party."

Passengers who were looking forward to their European adventure on Mariner of the Seas have three options:

1. Automatically move to a new sailing onboard Freedom of the Seas departing on the same day as their original reservation
2. Re-book any other Royal Caribbean International sailing
3. Receive a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare

Guests don't have to take any action if they decide to stick with the same sail date aboard Freedom of the Seas. Royal Caribbean will automatically move them to a like-for-like stateroom, and the original stateroom category price will be protected. If the booking was already paid in full, the company will refund any price difference between the two sailings. 

Additionally, Royal Caribbean will waive non-refundable deposit change fees for those who want to re-book another cruise. Guests, however, are responsible for the difference between the cruise fare and taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise fare items (such as shore excursions, specialty dining reservations, drink packages, and Wi-Fi). 

Finally, if there's no good replacement option, impacted guests can request a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare, along with non-refundable deposits and prepaid amenities. The email adds that all airfare booked through Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program will also be automatically refunded. 

If a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) was used to pay for the sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas, Royal Caribbean will refund any new funds paid above the FCC's amount and reinstate the original certificate. 

Passengers have until April 14, 2026, to let Royal Caribbean know of their decision. However, those who wish to remain on the same sailing date aboard Freedom do not need to take any action; the switch will automatically happen.

"Thank you for your understanding and support. We hope your clients find another cruise with us. Whether they are celebrating a special occasion or looking to explore, relax, and recharge - we have no doubt their time with us will be nothing short of amazing," the email concludes. 

Read more: Freedom of the Seas cruise ship redeployed to the UK in 2027 after Royal Caribbean abruptly changes plans

Last month, Royal Caribbean canceled over 20 cruises on the Freedom of the Seas cruise ship from Florida

In March, Royal Caribbean canceled the entirety of Freedom's 2027 summer schedule from Miami, impacting sailings from 5-night cruises to the Dominican Republic and Perfect Day at CocoCay to 4-night Bahamian getaways, as well as 9-night itineraries that include stops in Aruba and Curaçao.

At the time, the cruise line did not provide a specific reason for the cancellations beyond citing the line's "ongoing itinerary planning process."

A few weeks later, they revealed plans to redeploy the 3,926-passenger Freedom of the Seas to Europe, as reported by Cruise Critic. 

"The UK & Ireland is an incredibly important market for Royal Caribbean, and as a result, we’re excited to announce that we'll be upsizing our Southampton deployment in 2027 with Freedom of the Seas, following our long-standing success here with this class of ship," said Aaron Langford, Senior Sales Director UK & Ireland, Royal Caribbean.

"Freedom Class has consistently resonated strongly with British and Irish guests, and following a recent amplification, Freedom of the Seas offers a fantastic mix of scale, innovation, and guest-favourite features that deliver the ultimate family holiday," he added.

It's not really a huge surprise that Royal Caribbean decided to send one of its most popular ships to Southampton, especially with demand for Northern European cruises, particularly to destinations like Norway, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, at an all-time high. 

Freedom of the Seas measures 156,271 gross tons, is 1,111 feet long, and can accommodate 3,926 passengers at double occupancy, making her a desirable mid-sized cruise ship that offers a solid balance of amenities at a reasonable price point.

Onboard, guests will find everything from a Caribbean-themed pool deck to a kid-friendly Splashaway Bay aqua zone, Perfect Storm water slides, FlowRider surf simulator, Lime and Coconut Bar, Social 003 teen hangout, a non-smoking casino, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and Izumi Hibachi.

Read more: After 3 sailings on Freedom of the Seas, I’m convinced this ship offers the best value Royal Caribbean has to offer

Still, passengers are upset with the abrupt change 

Those who had already invested time and money into planning a European cruise on Mariner of the Seas feel cheated, especially since the new Freedom itineraries do not match what they originally booked.

"[M]y transatlantic [cruise] is MUCH less interesting now. 12 nights instead of 17, ending in Miami instead of NOLA. Bummer. We had La Coruna, Vigo, Lisbon, Madeira, Nassau, and New Orleans. I even got a decent Royal Beach Club price. Now it's just La Coruna, Vigo, and Ponta Delgada," KristiZ shared on the Royal Caribbean Blog Discussion Forum. 

Mel added, "Our June itinerary is changed also. No Porto and no Mariner." 

"Honestly, this kind of last-minute redeployment is pretty frustrating. I specifically chose Mariner of the Seas because I wanted to try something different, especially since I’ve already sailed on Freedom of the Seas before. Even though the replacement itinerary still looks solid, the overall experience won’t feel the same," senpaistream said. 

"The lack of clarity about where Mariner is going also makes it more confusing, since it feels like we’re missing part of the picture... At this point, I’m still undecided—leaning toward rebooking just to get a new ship experience."

You will see tables filled with colorful cups on embarkation day. But what exactly are they? And how do you get one?

The Royal Caribbean soda cup is available for an extra charge and allows guests unlimited access to the ship's Freestyle Coca-Cola machines. 

The Freestyle machine is a convenient touch-screen interface that allows guests to choose from over 100 drink combinations, from classic sodas to unique flavored variations and no-sugar options. 

Royal Caribbean Freestyle cups are included with the Classic Soda Package. However, as of March 15, 2026, they are no longer included with the Royal Refreshment and Deluxe Beverage Packages. 

While soda from bars, lounges, and restaurants is still included, guests who'd like access to the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine must purchase a souvenir cup onboard for $4.99.

Freestyle machines are located in high-traffic areas, such as the Royal Promenade and Windjammer Marketplace. You may find them in other spots, too. For example, there are Coca-Cola Freestyle machines in the Surfside Neighborhood on Icon Class vessels. 

If you are worried about carrying your soda cup around, consider purchasing a convenient sling. This will keep your hands free as you navigate from deck to deck. Some drink holders also have a slot for your SeaPass card — and no, you won't get as many strange looks as you think! 

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean soda cups are programmed for your specific voyage. As such, you cannot reuse them on future sailings. Moreover, Freestyle machines are not available on Brilliance of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas.

Is the Royal Caribbean soda package worth it?

Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package is the cheapest beverage package offered by the cruise line. However, it's also the most restrictive. For example, you cannot pick up bottled water, order a specialty coffee, or indulge in premium cocktails. 

"With the Classic Soda Package, you enjoy non-stop cans of soda, fountain soft drinks, and more Coca-Cola favorite beverages, for one low price. Unlock the endless variety of Coca-Cola® Freestyle machines as you explore and pour all you want with a Coca-Cola souvenir cup to take home," reads the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner. 

Unlimited soft drinks ashore at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line's private island in The Bahamas, are also included. 

That said, while the Freestyle cup is included, there is a $4.99 charge if you misplace it on the ship. Additionally, packages cannot be shared and are non-transferable. 

So, is a Royal Caribbean soda package worth it? It depends on your drinking habits. For starters, it is the most affordable beverage package, which is an advantage for budget cruisers. 

Generally speaking, you can pre-purchase a soda package through the Cruise Planner for anywhere from $9.99 to $18.00 per person per day, plus gratuity.

Comparatively, the cost of a single soft drink aboard Royal Caribbean ships is $3.50, before the mandatory service charge. As such, if you can find a deal for about $10 per day, the package can help you save money as long as you consume at least three soft drinks each day of your sailing. 

Another perk is that the Royal Caribbean soda cup is included with the package. This means that you don't have to shell out an additional $4.99 per person for access to the Coca-Cola® Freestyle machine. 

For a family of four, this could potentially mean shelling out another $20 — on top of what was already paid for the packages.

That said, if you plan to enjoy specialty coffees, energy drinks, mocktails, and more, opting for the Royal Refreshment Package is a better choice. You don't have to buy a soda cup, after all. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean soda package review

After suddenly canceling over two dozen cruises, Royal Caribbean has revealed plans to redeploy its popular Freedom of the Seas cruise ship in 2027. 

Initially, guests booked on the canceled sailings were given a broad explanation, with the cruise line saying that the changes were part of their ongoing itinerary planning process, which can require "flexibility due to scheduling, port agreements, or operational needs."

The shift will see the 3,926-passenger vessel move away from voyages to The Bahamas and the Caribbean from Miami, and instead focus on a new lineup of European sailings, as first reported by Cruise Critic.  

This reflects a broader trend in the cruise industry, with demand for Northern European voyages to destinations such as the United Kingdom and Ireland at an all-time high. 

The move will complete a three-year rollout of all Freedom Class ships sailing from Southampton, which began with Independence of the Seas in 2025. Liberty of the Seas will sail from Southampton in 2026, followed by Freedom of the Seas taking over in 2027.

"The UK & Ireland is an incredibly important market for Royal Caribbean, and as a result, we’re excited to announce that we'll be upsizing our Southampton deployment in 2027 with Freedom of the Seas, following our long-standing success here with this class of ship," said Aaron Langford, Senior Sales Director UK & Ireland, Royal Caribbean. 

"Freedom Class has consistently resonated strongly with British and Irish guests, and following a recent amplification, Freedom of the Seas offers a fantastic mix of scale, innovation, and guest-favourite features that deliver the ultimate family holiday," he added. 

European cruises on Freedom of the Seas are not yet available for booking. As of Monday, March 30, May through September 2027 remain greyed out on the website's calendar. 

Based on this year's Liberty of the Seas schedule, itineraries are likely to visit ports of call like Hamburg, Germany; Bruges/Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium; Bilbao, Spain; Vigo, Spain; Olden, Norway; and more. 

Freedom of the Seas fast facts

Freedom of the Seas is the namesake ship of Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class. When launched in May 2006, she was the world's largest cruise ship. Today, of course, that record is held by massive Icon Class vessels. 

Freedom of the Seas measures 156,271 gross tons, is 1,111 feet long, and can accommodate 3,926 passengers at double occupancy. Overall, she's a solid mid-sized cruise ship that offers a great balance of amenities at a reasonable price point. 

Highlights include a Caribbean-themed pool deck, Perfect Storm water slides, Splashaway Bay, FlowRider surf simulator, a non-smoking casino, Lime and Coconut bar, Social003 teens-only hangout, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and Izumi Hibachi.

Following her 2027 seasonal stint in Europe, Freedom of the Seas is expected to return to Miami in October and offer various itineraries, including:

• 4-Night Western Caribbean Holiday to Costa Maya, Mexico
• 5-Night Perfect Day & Caribbean Cruise to CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti
• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise to Labadee, Haiti; Samaná, Dominican Republic; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
• 9-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise to Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic; Nassau, Bahamas

Read more: After 3 sailings on Freedom of the Seas, I’m convinced this ship offers the best value Royal Caribbean has to offer

Miami is considering building a train from the Miami International Airport (MIA) to PortMiami to help with the frustrating traffic problems. 

Miami-Dade County officials are reviewing recommendations for a non-stop train between the two popular transportation hubs, a spokesperson for the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization confirmed. 

According to the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization (MDTPO) 2050 Master Plan, published in September 2025, a train line could address the need for "safe, convenient, efficient, fast, and reliable connection" from MIA to PortMiami. 

The cruise terminal, which is one of the busiest in the world, experiences heavy congestion, especially on peak travel days. In fact, Royal Caribbean Blog previously reported that Royal Caribbean was offering complimentary bus transfers from PortMiami to MIA and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). 

The project would not be cheap, though, with the report claiming that the new rail line could cost anywhere from $600 million to $800 million for capital expenses. Additionally, it would cost between $9 million and $15 million to annually operate. 

PortMiami currently has a freight train bridge, but adding a passenger rail line would require an alternative. The initial report included eight public transportation solutions. However, according to a recent CBS News article, the MDTPO is now only considering two. 

The first is a 9-mile extension of the MetroMover people mover track, which could use either the existing Port Bridge or the Miami River Bridge. The downside to this option is that the MetroMover cars have a limited capacity of 50 people and an average speed of 9 miles per hour (mph).

A higher-capacity alternative would involve expanding the Metrorail system, requiring the construction of approximately 10 miles of new track. This option would also require building a new bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway. 

Read more: Best Ways to Get From the Miami Airport to Cruise Port

The Miami cruise port is busier than ever

PortMiami set passenger records for fiscal year 2025, which ran from Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025, Miami officials said. This reflects higher cruise demand than ever. 

The Miami cruise port welcomed 8,564,225 cruise passengers, which is a 4.02% increase in cruise passenger totals compared with 2024's record of 8,233,056. 

This isn't a huge surprise, though, as Miami is home to some of the world's newest and largest cruise ships — think Icon of the Seas, MSC World America, and Carnival Celebration. 

These vessels offer weeklong cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. However, there are many ships that have quick turnaround times, sailing 3- and 4-night getaways to The Bahamas. 

As such, it's not uncommon to see upward of seven or eight ships in port at the same time, meaning thousands of guests are simultaneously trying to disembark and embark. 

For example, on March 1, 2026, eight ships were docked at PortMiami, according to Cruise Mapper: Symphony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Brilliant Lady, Norwegian Aqua, MSC Divina, Celebrity Beyond, Carnival Magic, and Carnival Celebration. 

The sheer number of vessels in port often translates into gridlock, with many reporting sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic for extended periods. 

"Went out of Port of Miami on a Sunday in January. Massive traffic. I am no longer taking any cruises departing from Miami," wrote one Redditor. 

Another added, "I [spent] 4 hours in... traffic chaos yesterday, February 22nd, 2026. Traffic was not moving at all and all the [U-turns] were closed obligating everybody to go to the end of the road to make a turn and create traffic on other cruises you didn't need to go by."

"People were walking through the highway in a hot and sunny day carrying kids [and] luggage 🧳 over barricades to be able to cross the bridge. I still can not find a valid reason for what... happened there yesterday. Total embarrassment for the port and the city."

"We cruised out of Miami for the first time earlier this month, and getting in and out of PortMiami was way more chaotic than we expected. For embarkation, six ships were sailing that day. Our hotel was less than a mile away, so the ride itself was quick, but traffic around the port was completely gridlocked," said someone else. 

"Our Uber driver couldn’t reach the designated drop-off area and ended up pulling into what looked like a parking garage entrance and stopping in the driveway. He pointed us toward an alternate way to walk to the terminal."

Read more: Royal Caribbean breaks ground on new Miami cruise terminal

Days before the war in Iran reached the one-month mark, the U.S. Department of State issued a "worldwide caution" alert for American travelers. 

"The Department of State advises Americans worldwide, and especially in the Middle East, to exercise increased caution. Americans abroad should follow the guidance in security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate," reads the recent security alert. 

"U.S. diplomatic facilities, including outside the Middle East, have been targeted. Groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or locations associated with the United States and/or Americans throughout the world," the department added. 

Recently, the Trump administration began considering deploying thousands of additional U.S. troops to the Middle East. Two anonymous sources told Reuters that the troops would be coming from the U.S. Army's elite 82nd Airborne Division. The soldiers are stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Additionally, Iran dismissed a U.S. ceasefire plan and made a counterproposal demanding reparations, as reported by NPR. These conditions include safeguards against future attacks on Iran, the payment of war reparations to the country, and full recognition of Iran's sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

The situation remains very fluid, and it's important to research your destination's specific advisories before setting sail. High-risk areas are dangerous, and by visiting, you could be putting yourself at risk. There's also a chance that the U.S. will have limited ability to help in an emergency. 

That said, the new alert isn't banning U.S. citizens from traveling. Rather, it urges heightened vigilance and monitoring of local conditions. 

Six Cruise Ships Remain Stuck in the Arabian Gulf

After the U.S.-Israel attacks, Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz. This important waterway connects the Arabian Gulf to the rest of the world. Consequently, the closure greatly disrupted maritime traffic, including cruise itineraries. 

On an average day, around 138 vessels travel through the Strait of Hormuz. However, on March 24, the Joint Maritime Information Center reported there were just four transits on March 22 and six on March 23. 

"The overall maritime threat environment remains at a critical level due to recent attack patterns, continued navigation interference, and persistent operational disruption, to include port facilities, across the region," the report adds.

As of March 25, six cruise ships remain stuck in Gulf Arab countries due to the closure, including MSC Euribia, Mein Schiff 4, Mein Schiff 5, Celestyal Discovery, Celestyal Journey, and Aroya. 

The Strait's closure has also greatly affected travel and daily life globally. For example, the Strait of Hormuz regularly sees 20% of global oil shipments. With oil tankers not being able to make their way to other ports, the price of oil has risen around the world.

Fortune reported that the cost of Brent oil, the main global oil benchmark, traded at $99.75 per barrel on March 25, 2026. One month ago, the price was just $71.49 per barrel. 

Read more: Multiple Cruise Ships Remain Stuck in the Arabian Gulf

The best way to experience The Last Frontier is on an Alaska Inside Passage cruise. Not only do you benefit from the conveniences of a cruise vacation, but you also get front-row views of some of the most stunning scenery and wildlife on the planet.

The term “Inside Passage” refers to the coastal route of protected waterways that runs from southeastern Alaska through British Columbia. It stretches roughly 1,000 miles in total and offers some of the most scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities from a cruise ship. 

An Inside Passage cruise also stops in some of Alaska’s most iconic destinations, such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. These ports give cruisers the chance to visit historic gold rush towns, learn about Native Alaskan culture, enjoy scenic hikes, try local seafood, and more. 

However, the towering landscapes are what set an Alaska Inside Passage sailing apart from voyages to The Bahamas, Caribbean, and Europe. From snow-capped mountains to massive glaciers and cascading waterfalls, the scenery is what draws many travelers to Alaska. 

Of course, I'd be remiss not to mention the wildlife, which is another highlight of taking an Alaska Inside Passage cruise. You might be lucky enough to spot humpback whales breaching in the distance, bald eagles soaring overhead, or a brown bear hunting for its next meal. 

Alaska cruises typically run from May through September, though some cruise lines may begin and end their seasons earlier or later. Early planning is recommended to give yourself time to select the best itinerary, ship, cruise room, and shore excursions to match your interests before they sell out. 

Here's everything you need to know about taking a cruise through the famous Alaska Inside Passage. 

Glaciers in Alaska's Inside Passage

A cruise is a great way to see some of Alaska's beautiful glaciers. Most Inside Passage cruises include a scenic day sailing through fjords, where you can view calving glaciers from the comfort of your vessel. 

Popular spots include Tracy Arm Fjord (for the twin Sawyer Glaciers), Endicott Arm (for Dawes Glacier), and Glacier Bay National Park, which is home to over 1,000 glaciers. That said, most cruise itineraries only visit six glaciers: Margerie Glacier, Grand Pacific Glacier, Red Glacier, Lamplugh Glacier, Johns Hopkins Glacier, and Gilman Glacier.

Mendenhall Glacier is a popular tourist attraction in Juneau. However, it is not accessible by cruise ship. It can be easily viewed through short hikes or once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tours for aerial views. 

Hubbard Glacier is another renowned glacier located in eastern Alaska near the border with Canada. While it is not in Alaska's Inside Passage, it’s still one of the state’s most impressive glaciers and the largest tidewater glacier in North America.

Read more: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: which glacier is better to see on a cruise?

Alaska's Tongass National Forest

Inside Passage cruises also give you the chance to visit the vast Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. 

Spanning nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest blankets the southeast Alaska portion of the Inside Passage and is filled with Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red cedar trees.

It's home to a lot of wildlife, too, ranging from bears to bald eagles and salmon during the summer months, populating its rivers and streams. 

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise Ports

Alaska's Inside Passage isn't just known for its breathtaking scenery. The ports of call offer a solid mix of native culture, history, and local adventure. 

In Skagway, for example, you can learn more about the state's Gold Rush history on a scenic ride on the iconic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, while Juneau is known for the famous Mendenhall Glacier and whale-watching opportunities. 

Here's a breakdown of all the Inside Passage cruise ports:

• Sitka —The former capital of Russian Alaska, Sitka was originally founded by the Tlingit people over 10,000 years ago. The port offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. Downtown, visitors can explore the famous St. Michael Orthodox Cathedral, browse local shops, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the restaurants. The 113-acre Sitka National Historic Park is a must for nature-lovers.
• Juneau — Juneau is the capital of Alaska, with the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and wildlife viewing opportunities making it one of the most popular tourist spots in the state. Here, you'll find everything from whale-watching tours to stunning hikes and fresh seafood. The 13-mile Mendenhall Glacier is a highlight, too.
• Ketchikan — Ketchikan, a small town at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage, is best known for its idyllic scenery and Native culture. It's also called the "Salmon Capital of the World," which is fitting since it's a fishing hub. Creek Street should be on every visitor's list. The boardwalk, built on wooden pilings, is lined with shops, homes, and galleries.

• Icy Strait Point — This private port was opened to cruise passengers by the Huna Tlingit Native Alaskans in 2004. While many prefer to enjoy the port area's attractions, ranging from the ZipRider to convenient restaurants and shopping, it's close to Hoonah, the largest Tlingit village in Alaska. Icy Strait Point is also one of the best cruise ports for whale-watching thanks to its proximity to Point Adolphus.
• Skagway — Skagway is a small town that's famous for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, much of the historic downtown area feels like a step back in time. One of the port's most popular attractions is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, a scenic railway climbing 2,885 feet to the summit of the White Pass. Active travelers will love the easy access to hiking trails, too.
• Haines — Finally, Haines is one of the most quaint ports found on any Alaska cruise itinerary. Activities include sea kayaking, rafting, cycling, and ATV tours. However, don't overlook the local restaurants and shops, where you might find a hidden gem. 

If you are going on a round-trip Inside Passage cruise from Seattle, your ship will likely stop at Victoria, British Columbia. This is to satisfy the Passenger Vessel Services Act's requirement that all foreign-flagged ships must visit at least one foreign country. 

Still, the downtown area is well worth exploring, with stunning Victorian buildings, local pubs, and boutiques lining the harbor. 

Read more: Alaska cruise ports guide

What Royal Caribbean ships visit the Alaska Inside Passage?

During the Alaska cruise 2026 season, four Royal Caribbean ships will visit The Last Frontier: Anthem of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas. 

Two vessels — Ovation and Serenade — will offer one-way voyages from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, Canada, and vice versa. 

In addition to a scenic day of cruising in the Hubbard Glacier area, these sailings will also call at ports within the Inside Passage, like Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka. 

The round-trip cruises on Anthem and Voyager of the Seas are ideal for cruisers who want an easier time planning travel logistics, as they begin and end in Seattle, Washington. 

Read more: 50 Alaska Cruise Tips for Your Royal Caribbean Cruise

How much does an Alaska cruise cost?

If you plan it right, taking an Inside Passage cruise doesn't have to break the bank. Prices for an Alaska cruise vary depending on the ship, itinerary, time of year, and stateroom type. 

For example, a cruise departing in July will be more expensive than one in May. Additionally, balcony rooms will cost more than windowless inside staterooms. 

To help you gauge costs, we priced out a few 2026 and 2027 Alaska cruises in inside and balcony rooms. Keep in mind that add-ons, including shore excursions, specialty restaurants, transportation, and gratuities, will increase the price. These prices were accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change without warning.

Serenade of the Seas: 7-night Alaska Inside Passage Cruise from Vancouver, Canada — June 21, 2026

• Interior: $889 per person
• Balcony: $1,821 per person

Serenade of the Seas: 7-night Alaska Inside Passage Cruise from Vancouver, Canada — September 13, 2026

• Interior: $786 per person
• Balcony: $1,157 per person

Anthem of the Seas: 7-night Alaska Adventure Cruise from Seattle, Washington — May 18, 2026

• Interior: $1,200 per person
• Balcony: $1,801 per person

Anthem of the Seas: 7-night Alaska Adventure Cruise from Seattle, Washington — August 10, 2026

• Interior: $1,381 per person
• Balcony: $1,973 per person

Voyager of the Seas: 7-night Alaska Adventure Cruise from Seattle, Washington — June 11, 2027

• Interior: $867 per person
• Balcony: $1,700 per person

Voyager of the Seas: 7-night Alaska Adventure Cruise from Seattle, Washington — September 10, 2027

• Interior: $728 per person
• Balcony: $1,231 per person

Anthem of the Seas: 7-night Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier from Seward, Alaska — June 4, 2027

• Interior: $884 per person
• Balcony: $1,597 per person

Anthem of the Seas: 7-night Southbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier from Seward, Alaska — September 10, 2026: 

• Interior: $824 per person
• Balcony: $1,376 per person

It's recommended to book an Alaska cruise as soon as you decide you want to visit the Inside Passage. Waiting for a cheap last-minute fare usually does not pay off, as fares tend to get higher closer to the sail date.

Read more: How much does an Alaska cruise cost?

A passenger injured while sailing on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit seeking damages of more than $75,000. 

Jaimie Lewis, of California, was a fare-paying guest vacationing aboard Harmony of the Seas when she slipped on a walkway in Central Park and fell backward onto the hard deck in November 2024, as reported by Holzberg Legal.

The outdoor neighborhood was wet due to the rain, with Lewis asserting that passengers could not reasonably perceive how slippery it was. The lawsuit, which was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, further alleges that Royal Caribbean breached its duty of reasonable care by failing to maintain the Central Park deck in a safe condition for guests. 

According to the complaint, there were no visible wet-floor warning signs or anti-slip applications on the floor, despite the ship's crew being aware of the hazard. As such, the lack of signage, warning cones, or verbal warnings left Lewis unaware of the danger, which directly led to her accident. 

Lewis's legal team, Gerson & Schwartz, P.A, claims that she sustained severe physical and emotional damage, including a concussion, neck injuries, and a puncture wound. 

Her lawsuit seeks compensation for past and future medical expenses, physical impairment, disability, and the aggravation of pre-existing conditions, along with damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish (i.e., shame and humiliation), and the loss of capacity to enjoy life — all of which exceed $75,000. 

Lewis asserts that her injuries are permanent and continuing in nature. Moreover, she was not the first guest to allegedly slip and fall on a wet Central Park walkway to file a lawsuit.

(Credit: Jeanne Grubbs / Facebook)

Between 2020 and 2024, there were over ten specific cases involving guests who suffered similar accidents. For example, on November 8, 2024, another passenger fell on a slippery Central Park walkway on Allure of the Seas (Hill v. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Case No. 1:25-cv25669). 

Similarly, on May 23, 2023, a guest on Oasis of the Seas slipped and fell on a wet Central Park walkway (Shipe v. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Case No. 1:24-cv-20645).

Earlier, on January 2, 2020, a passenger identified only by the initials A.S. experienced a similar fall on a wet and slippery walkway aboard Symphony of the Seas (Selwood v. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Case No. 1:20-cv-24513).

Lewis's legal team argues that these prior incidents demonstrate a pattern of hazardous conditions that have not been adequately addressed by Royal Caribbean on its Oasis Class vessels.

Most recently, the court issued an update stating that Lewis must file proof of service on the defendant by April 22, 2026. The order further states that failure to do so will result in dismissal of the case without notice. The directive was signed by Judge David S. Leibowitz on March 23, 2026.

Lewis hopes to hold Royal Caribbean accountable for the alleged negligence that disrupted her vacation on the Harmony of the Seas cruise ship and impacted her long-term health.

Which Royal Caribbean Ships Have Central Park?

The Central Park neighborhood debuted on Oasis of the Seas. Since then, the outdoor neighborhood has become a defining feature of Oasis and Icon Class ships. 

Following its debut on Oasis of the Seas, the Central Park concept has been incorporated into all Oasis Class ships, including Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas. 

Icon Class ships — Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and the upcoming Legend of the Seas — feature an evolved Central Park design. For example, the open-air neighborhood is home to the Izumi specialty restaurant, along with innovative infinite verandahs that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Read more: Icon of the Seas Central Park: What to expect

Aboard Oasis Class ships, the Central Park area is located on Deck 8 and offers passengers an array of retail and dining options, ranging from Chops Grille to Park Café, Hublot, the beloved Trellis Bar, 150 Central Park, and more. 

Because Central Park is not fully enclosed, its walkways are exposed to the elements, including rain, humidity, and condensation, which can occasionally make surfaces slick under certain weather conditions.

However, Royal Caribbean generally takes precautions to mitigate risks, including placing visible wet-floor warning signs throughout the outdoor neighborhood.

Harmony of the Seas Royal Caribbean Facts

Harmony of the Seas is an Oasis Class ship that set sail in May 2016. She measures 226,963 gross tons and is 1,188 feet long, according to the cruise line. 

At double occupancy, the Harmony of the Seas cruise ship can accommodate 5,479 guests, in addition to the 2,200 international crew members who help the vessel run smoothly. 

Highlights include the AquaTheater, zip line, FlowRider surf simulators, mini-golf course, Perfect Storm water slides, ice skating rink, Rising Tide Bar, escape room, adult-only Solarium, and more. 

Harmony of the Seas is set to undergo a major refurbishment in April and May 2026. As part of the ship's Royal Amplification, she will receive brand-new cabins, an expanded casino, Pesky Parrot Bar, Playmaker's Sports Bar & Arcade, Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, Caribbean-inspired pool deck, an upgraded Crown Lounge, and more. 

Following the dry dock, Harmony of the Seas will spend the summer of 2026 in Europe, offering bucket-list cruises to destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Barcelona, Spain; Seville (Cádiz), Spain; and more. 

She will return to Florida in August 2026. Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, will be Harmony's homeport through at least April 2028. 

While you might feel inclined to book a Celebrity drink package to “save money,” the reality is that not every cruiser drinks enough to make the cost worth it.

Upfront, Celebrity Cruises’ drink package might seem like a good value, giving you access to unlimited beverages for one set daily price.

And for many, the package is worth the pricey investment. However, the true answer depends on your personal drinking habits and what you’re willing to pay for convenience. While drink packages help you budget your beverage costs in advance, saving money is not always a guarantee.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises’ drink packages — from what they include to the cost, tips, tricks, and expert reviews.

Celebrity Cruises Drink Package Overview

Before deciding which unlimited package is right for your cruise, it helps to understand how each option works. This Celebrity drink package comparison breaks down the main packages offered by Celebrity Cruises, so you can determine which meets your budget and drinking preferences.

The Celebrity Classic beverage package is the lowest-tier alcoholic package. Celebrity's drink packages are dynamically priced based on the ship, itinerary, and sail date. That said, you can expect the Classic package to start at around $65 per person, per day. 

This basic beverage package allows you to choose from select beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, and wines by the glass up to $12 per serving. You will also get 15% off all wines by the bottle. If you order a beverage that is over $12, you will be charged the difference. If, for instance, you were to order a $19 martini, you would see a $9 + 20% gratuity charge reflected on your onboard account.

To at least "break even," you would need to drink about eight $12 beverages per day. One important thing to note is that this package does include the same non-alcoholic beverage options as the Non-Alcoholic Package. We’ll get more into that later.

The Celebrity Premium Drink Package is more inclusive than the Classic Package. With that, however, comes a higher price. You can expect the Premium Package to start at around $80 per person, per day.

Each guest who purchases this package will get specialty coffees and teas, craft and artisanal beers, spirits, cocktails, frozen drinks, Coca-Cola products, premium bottled water, and wines by the glass up to $19 per serving. Instead of a 15% discount on all wines by the bottle, the package includes a higher 20% discount.

Just like the Classic Package, if you would like to order a drink over $19, you will be charged the difference plus gratuity. You would have to consume at least six $19 drinks per day to break even, compared to eight $12 drinks with the Classic Package.

Moving on, Celebrity only offers one non-alcoholic package — the Zero Proof Drink Package — which costs around $45 per person, per day and includes premium bottled water, specialty coffees and organic teas, Vitamin Water, Red Bull, bottled iced teas, frozen smoothies, zero-proof cocktails, and Coca-Cola products, as well as offerings from The Spa Cafe.

Regardless of which package you choose, it’s important to understand the restrictions. For example, all packages are sold on a per-cruise basis and do not include beverages sold in gift shops, mini-bars, or room service.

Here's a full list of what Celebrity's drink packages include in a convenient chart: 

How much is the drink package on Celebrity Cruises?

Unlike other cruise lines (i.e., Carnival, Princess, etc.), Celebrity's unlimited drink packages don't have a set price. Rather, the cost of the drink package on Celebrity Cruises is determined by the ship, itinerary, and sail date, among other factors. 

Generally speaking, you can save money on your Celebrity drink package by purchasing it in advance through the Cruise Planner. Like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity offers lucrative pre-cruise sales that can save you hundreds of dollars off the onboard pricing of popular add-ons — ranging from drink packages to shore excursions and specialty meals. 

Below is the pricing, along with the current pre-cruise sale discount, of Celebrity's drink packages on the April 12, 2026, cruise aboard Celebrity Beyond:

• Premium Drinks Package: $125 onboard, $92.99 pre-cruise
• Classic Drinks Package: $100 onboard, $84.99 pre-cruise
• Non-Alcoholic Drink Package: $45 onboard, $39.99 pre-cruise 

Comparatively, the cost of Celebrity's drink packages on the April 20, 2026, cruise on Celebrity Ascent in Europe is pretty different:

• Premium Drinks Package: $80 onboard, $59.99 pre-cruise
• Classic Drinks Package: $65 onboard, $54.99 pre-cruise
• Non-Alcoholic Drink Package: $45 onboard, $39.99 pre-cruise 

These prices do not include Celebrity's mandatory 20% service charge, which is automatically applied to all beverages and beverage packages, specialty dining and specialty dining packages, room service, and mini-bar purchases. 

What is All Included on Celebrity Cruises?

Pre-purchasing your drink package is an easy way to save money on a Celebrity cruise. However, there's another option. When you go to book your cruise, you can elect to bundle your cruise fare with a Classic Drinks Package and Basic Wi-Fi. This effectively eliminates the need to purchase add-ons separately and keep a watchful eye on the Cruise Planner. 

The All Included rate applies to nearly all of Celebrity's cruises, minus those in the Galapagos, in interior, ocean-view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass cabins. Suites within The Retreat come with a Premium beverage package and Wi-Fi. 

When pricing out an upcoming 7-night Caribbean cruise on Celebrity Apex in Nov. 2026, the standard cruise fare started at around $713 per person for an interior room and increased to $1,308 for the All Included rate. This breaks down to $85 per night. 

You can pay to upgrade from the Classic to the Premium Drinks Package, as well as from the Basic to the Premium Wi-Fi Package. You will save money if you do this pre-cruise through the online planning portal. However, you may also upgrade on the ship. 

Unfortunately, Celebrity's All Included rate no longer includes gratuities. Below are the current gratuity rates as of February 2026: 

• $18.00 USD per person, per day for Inside, Ocean View, and Veranda staterooms
• $19.00 USD per person, per day for Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms
• $23.00 USD per person, per day for guests of The Retreat.

How much are drinks on Celebrity Cruises?

Whether you’re planning to purchase a drink package or still deciding if it’s worth the cost, some prospective cruisers may be wondering about the à la carte drink prices on Celebrity Cruises. 

Generally speaking, on the low end, wines by the glass come in at around $12 but can cost as much as $40 for premium selections, depending on the label. There are some cheaper cocktails, too. However, most fall between $14 and $19. 

When it comes to beer, you'll find most cost around $10 to $14. A Corona Extra, for example, is $10, while a Terrapin Luau IPA is $14. 

Pros and cons of getting the Celebrity drink package

Value

If you are looking to splurge while on your vacation, you might save a lot of money by purchasing a drink package, rather than paying for each drink individually. The catch is that you have to be someone who enjoys indulging in a lot of drinks (i.e., at least a half-dozen per day). 

On the flip side, if you are a more casual drinker who enjoys two or three beverages per day, you might save money by buying each drink individually. There is no point in buying a drink package if you know that you will not be drinking enough to at least break even.

Additionally, depending on your preferred drinks, you might get more value out of the Premium Drinks Package than the Classic. It is not worth it to pay for the cheaper package if you will not be able to get your favorite drinks or be constantly charged the difference for higher-priced beverages.

Convenience

One of the biggest advantages of a cruise drink package is the convenience. You don't have to worry about racking up any large sums while on the ship, or think about whether you actually want to spend the money on a drink at that specific moment.

You also have the freedom to order an unfamiliar drink. If you don't walk away with a new favorite libation, you can order something else without feeling as though you wasted $12+.

Helps establish your cruise budget

Pre-purchasing a drink package via the Cruise Planner, or once you get on board, means you know exactly how much you'll spend on beverages during your vacation. 

This can help you appropriately budget for your vacation, rather than leaving you guessing about how much your final bill will end up being.

Drink fatigue

"Drink fatigue" happens when guests consume more than they normally do just for the sake of making the most of the drink package. If you have a package, it is important to ask yourself if you really want a drink or if you are getting one because you can. 

If you're on a shorter cruise, a drink package might make more sense than on a longer cruise, as having six or more beverages for three or four days is easier than maintaining that pace for an entire week when also waking up early for shore excursions, spending all day in the heat, etc. 

Celebrity Elite Happy Hour

Whereas Royal Caribbean rewards top-tier loyalty members with complimentary daily drinks, Celebrity Cruises offers Elite members and higher a daily happy hour with beverages from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (excluding embarkation day). 

However, it's important to note that the available drinks are limited compared to Celebrity's overall bar menus. For example, you can't order a Lychee Martini or an Old Fashioned. Still, you may find that a drink package is not as valuable with these loyalty benefits. 

You may be able to take advantage of the free happy hour even if you have never sailed on a Celebrity ship — thanks to Royal Caribbean's status matching program, which allows Crown & Anchor Society members to receive equivalent tier recognition in Celebrity’s Captain’s Club and Silversea’s Venetian Society. 

Itinerary

If you have more port days than sea days, a drink package may not make sense for your chosen itinerary. In many places, it is more cost-effective to enjoy beverages in port, where local establishments often offer lower prices than the cruise ship bars. 

Moreover, certain destinations — like Europe — tend to be more physically exhausting, with long days spent ashore touring culturally rich cities. As such, you may discover that you are less likely to take full advantage of a pricey beverage package than you would on Caribbean or Bahamian voyages. 

Can you use your drink package at Cococay?

Yes! Celebrity's drink packages allow guests to get unlimited drinks at just about every restaurant or bar on the cruise ship or private destination, including Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti.

Note that the beverage packages do not work at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Instead, guests purchase the bundle that most meets their needs, whether an all-you-can-drink option that includes unlimited alcoholic beverages or the more affordable non-alcoholic pass. 

Is the drink package worth it on a cruise?

Over the past few years, I've tried both of Celebrity Cruises' alcoholic drink packages to determine which offers the best value for cruisers. Although it's more expensive, I discovered that I prefer the Premium Package, which offers a more extensive selection of beverages — both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

For example, Celebrity's Classic Package felt restrictive. I was stuck ordering basic well beverages that I'd get at a local bar back home, rather than enjoying craft cocktails made with top-shelf spirits and higher-end wines by the glass. 

When I had the opportunity to splurge on the Premium Package, the difference in offerings was extremely noticeable, and I didn't feel nickel-and-dimed for better beverages. 

For example, I sampled exclusive cocktails only available on Celebrity ships, including the World Class Bar's Celebrity No. 10, the Magic Carpet's Magic Spritz, and Café al Bacio's Salted Caramel Martini — all of which would have cost extra with the Classic Package. 

That said, the Classic Package is still a solid choice for cruisers who only want an occasional drink and don't care about the premium cocktails and wine, especially if they plan on kickstarting their day with a specialty latte at Café al Bacio. 

Read more: Is Celebrity's drink package worth it? I tried both to see which was better