Cruise & Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean Cruises Changes Drink Package Rule

Image: Royal Caribbean is closing a popular loophole related to one of its drink packages (Photo Credit: Pexels)
Image: Royal Caribbean is closing a popular loophole related to one of its drink packages (Photo Credit: Pexels)
Sarah Kuta
by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 12:00 PM ET, Wed August 6, 2025

Royal Caribbean is closing a popular loophole related to one of its drink packages.

Typically, if one guest in a stateroom wants to buy a Deluxe Beverage Package for all-inclusive alcoholic drinks, then all of the travelers staying in that stateroom must also buy one.

However, Royal Caribbean previously allowed guests to call and ask for an exception, letting them swap to the non-alcoholic Royal Refreshment package instead. 

However, as of August 1, guests can no longer be excused from purchasing the Deluxe Beverage Package if other travelers in their stateroom have purchased one. 

Cruise line officials made the change in response to an increase in requests for exceptions, which were originally intended for individuals in recovery and those with medical conditions that prevent them from drinking.

Some guests were using the loophole as a way to save money, by purchasing only one drink package and then sharing it—which is against the rules.


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