Royal Caribbean is making a noticeable change to its beverage packages — and it’s already stirring conversation among cruisers.
Effective March 15, 2026, the popular souvenir Coca-Cola Freestyle cup will no longer be included with the Deluxe Beverage Package or the Refreshment Package.
Let’s break down what this means for your next sailing.
🚫 What’s Changing?
Starting March 15, 2026:
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The souvenir Coca-Cola Freestyle tumbler will NOT be included with drink packages.
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Access to Coca-Cola Freestyle machines will no longer be automatic with your package.
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If you want Freestyle access, you’ll need to purchase the souvenir cup as an optional add-on for $4.99.
Yes — the cup that used to come with your package now costs extra.
🥤 What’s Still Included?
Good news:
Soda is still included in both the Deluxe and Refreshment packages.
However, without the souvenir cup:
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You’ll be limited to canned soda
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Or fountain soda served at bars, lounges, and dining venues
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❌ No access to the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines and their expanded flavor options
And if you lose your cup?
That’s another $4.99 for a replacement.
⏳ There’s a Silver Lining
If you purchase your drink package on or before March 15, 2026, you’ll be grandfathered in under the current policy — meaning you’ll still receive the souvenir cup and Freestyle access included.
So if you already have a cruise booked, this might be a good time to lock in your beverage package early.
💭 Is This Smart Business — or Nickel and Diming?
Royal Caribbean says this change helps streamline offerings and give guests more flexibility. After all, not everyone uses the Freestyle machines.
But for many cruisers, the Freestyle machines — with their endless flavor combinations — were a fun and convenient perk included in the package price.
Now the big question is:
Is $4.99 reasonable for optional access?
Or should it still be included as part of the overall drink package experience?
We’d love to hear from you 👇
💬 Is this a fair adjustment?
💬 Would you pay the $4.99 for Freestyle access?
💬 Or does this feel like another add-on fee creeping into cruise pricing?
Drop your thoughts below!