Travel Agents Weigh in on Royal Caribbean’s Beverage Policy Test

Royal Caribbeans new beverage policy test on Harmony of the Seas is drawing some lively discussion from travel agents and travelers on our Facebook page. The new test policy requires guests over the age of 21 to purchase a Deluxe Beverage Package if another guest 21 years of age or older in their stateroom has also purchased that beverage package.

Some respondents to a discussion our Facebook page did not like being forced to purchase a package, even if they did not drink.

My husband drinks, I dont, said Teresa Gay Green. We only cruise RCCL. If they force this, we will no longer purchase a drink package for my husband. I will NOT be FORCED to purchase something I dont want and will not use!!!!

Its a rip off! said Victoria Wolelszo-Gardner. I only cruise when the drink pkg is offered for free. Just went to Bermuda on NCL – free drinks for our whole family.

Dont like going backwards, said Michele Mimi Targan London. Too many clients dont drink. Will turn a lot of my clients off from RCCL now, and I sell tons!

 Others, however, pointed out that the new policy could be necessary to prevent travelers from only purchasing one package for a stateroom, and then using it to get drinks for everyone traveling in that stateroom – essentially getting one package for free. Others pointed out that many other cruise lines have similar policies.

Its the best policy and all other cruise lines do this, said Susan Noel Forslund. They had to change because people are not honest and took advantage.

"This is not new, said Suzanne Desrulsseax Ramage. This is the standard on all cruise lines.

A representative of Royal Caribbean Travel Agent spoke with described the change as a pilot being applied to a small number of sailings. At this time, the line said it does not have plans to roll the policy out to other Royal Caribbean International ships.

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