Royal Caribbean has reduced the number of drinks packages from seven to just four, causing anger among some cruise passengers.
There is now only one alcohol beverage package in the new options, which came into effect from September 6.
The new alcohol package includes wine, beer, sodas and cocktails which has caused some furor among passengers who don’t drink mixed drinks.
On online forums, one passenger, Larry Hanlon said: “Makes me rethink my cruising. I used the Beer & wine package and it was a good suit for me (I don’t drink mixed drinks. Basically by paying for the new Deluxe package I’m paying for someone else’s drinks. RC needs to rethink this one.”
Another forum user, Todd Roman, said: “I preferred the beer & wine package as I don’t really drink mixed beverages/cocktails. Guess I’m not getting the package anymore.”
The only package that hasn’t changed is the Classic Soda Package which includes unlimited refills of sodas at any venue onboard.
The line said in a statement that the change was based on “guest feedback” and is meant to make choosing a package simpler.
The Deluxe Beverage package, which costs US$55 a day offers guests cocktails, spirits, wines and beers priced at up to US$12.
Under the old package system, Royal Caribbean offered its guests three alcoholic beverage packages – the Select, Premium and Ultimate Package.
The Select Package included basic wine, beer and soda and cost US$42 a day. The Premium Package offered beer, wine, soda, cocktails and bottled water for US$57 while the Ultimate Package included beer, wine, soda, cocktails, bottled water as well as a 40% discount off wines under $100 and 20% off wines over $100.
The only package that hasn’t changed is the Classic Soda Package which includes unlimited refills of sodas at any venue onboard.
The Refreshment Package, which costs US$26 a day includes premium coffees and teas, bottled still and sparkling water, fresh squeezed orange juice, non-alcoholic cocktails and all sodas.
