How to pay for drinks on a Regent Seven Seas Cruises?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is known for offering one of the most inclusive luxury cruise experiences at sea, where nearly every detail—suite amenities, dining, excursions, and beverages—is wrapped into the fare. Because of this ultra-inclusive model, many travelers wonder how payment for drinks actually works onboard. While the majority of beverages are already included, certain premium selections come with an additional charge, and guests should understand how payment is processed, how to track spending, and how to avoid unexpected costs. This guide provides an expert breakdown of the entire payment process with clear examples, transparent explanations, and practical tips drawn from industry-standard cruise policies.

What Drinks Are Included and When Payment Is Required

Understanding Regent’s Beverage Philosophy

Regent Seven Seas follows a fully inclusive luxury model. This means guests are not required to sign checks for standard drinks, nor do they need to purchase drink packages. However, select beverages are not part of the complimentary offering.

What You Can Enjoy Without Paying Extra

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of beverages without additional charges, including:

• House wines and champagne by the glass

• A broad selection of spirits and cocktails

• Mocktails and soft drinks

• Specialty coffees and teas

• Mineral water throughout the ship

• Drinks served in restaurants, lounges, the pool deck, and in-suite

When Payment Applies

Charges apply only when ordering premium drinks outside the inclusive list. These typically include:

• High-end vintage wines by the bottle

• Rare spirits such as aged whiskies or limited-edition cognacs

• Select reserve champagnes

• Premium minibar upgrades beyond the complimentary selection

These items vary by ship and sailing, and pricing is displayed on the menu or available upon request. Payment is seamlessly processed using your onboard account, eliminating the need for physical cash or cards.

How Regent Seven Seas Processes Drink Payments Onboard

How the Onboard Account Works

Regent automatically creates an onboard account for every guest during embarkation. All purchases—drinks, spa treatments, boutique items, and premium excursions—are charged to this account.

Methods You Can Use to Pay

During check-in, guests may link a preferred payment method:

• Credit or debit card

• Prepaid travel card backed by major card networks

• Cash deposit (less common but accepted)

Once linked, all premium drink charges are billed automatically, and the card is settled at the end of the cruise.

Step-by-Step: How a Premium Drink Charge Is Processed

1. Guest orders a premium drink not covered by the standard offerings.

2. The bartender confirms the price, ensuring transparency.

3. The drink is served and the charge appears under the guest’s onboard account.

4. Guests can review charges through the in-suite TV interface or by visiting Guest Services.

5. At the end of the cruise, the balance is automatically settled with the payment method on file.

What Happens If You Use Cash

If you set up a cash account:

• An initial deposit is collected

• Charges deduct from the deposit

• Additional funds may be required if the account runs low

• Any remaining balance is refunded at disembarkation

Ways to Control and Manage Drink Spending

Tracking Your Spending in Real Time

Regent offers several convenient ways to monitor charges:

• The interactive in-suite entertainment system

• Guest Services at any time

• Printed statements available upon request

Tips for Avoiding Unexpected Drink Charges

To maintain clarity and control:

• Ask before ordering if you’re unsure whether a drink is included

• Request the inclusive wine list offered daily with meals

• Avoid assuming specialty bottles are complimentary

• Check your account mid-cruise to catch any errors early

• Ask your butler (if you have one) to clarify in-suite beverage entitlements

The Role of the Butler in Beverage Management

In Penthouse-level suites and above, butlers can:

• Arrange for complimentary in-suite bar setups

• Confirm which beverages incur charges

• Recommend alternatives within the inclusive options

• Assist in resolving billing questions

Ordering Drinks in Specialty Restaurants

All standard beverages remain complimentary, but ordering reserve wines or premium bottles will incur charges. Staff clearly disclose pricing before serving.

Drinks in Lounges and Theatre Events

Most lounge cocktails, aperitifs, and nightcaps are included. However, ordering from limited-edition spirit lists results in additional charges.

Pool Deck Bars and Coffee Stations

All soft drinks, smoothies, coffee creations, and mocktails are part of Regent’s inclusive experience unless the item uses a premium branded ingredient.

In-Suite Beverage Delivery

Butlers and room service attendants deliver a wide variety of drinks at no charge. If you request a premium wine bottle, the cost will be added to your account.

Beverage Tastings and Educational Events

Regent sometimes hosts optional paid tasting sessions such as:

• Vintage wine flights

• Single-malt whisky tastings

• Sommelier-led premium pairing events

Participation is voluntary, and pricing is disclosed ahead of time.

Drinks Ordered Ashore on Regent-Owned Private Experiences

If a Regent excursion includes drinks, they are complimentary; local bars or restaurants not affiliated with Regent may charge independently.

Drinks Purchased for Special Occasions

Guests may order premium champagne or wine for celebrations. These are billed to the onboard account unless they fall within the inclusive list.

Practical Examples

Example 1: Ordering a Cocktail at the Lounge

A guest orders a classic mojito. Since it uses standard spirits, there is no charge.

Example 2: Asking for a 20-Year Scotch

Aged scotch is considered premium. The guest is informed of the cost, and the price is added to the onboard account.

Example 3: Choosing a Wine at Dinner

The sommelier offers multiple complimentary wines. Selecting a reserve bottle from the premium list incurs an additional charge.

Data-Based Insights From the Cruise Industry

Cruise lines using an inclusive model often report higher guest satisfaction because passengers experience lower cognitive load from fewer purchasing decisions. Industry research consistently shows that when travelers do not need to track every drink or sign receipts, their onboard experience feels more seamless and indulgent.

Well-being studies also suggest reduced “decision fatigue” contributes to smoother vacation experiences. While Regent does not publish specific data on drink spending behavior, the inclusive model aligns with consumer psychology findings that guests prefer predictable, bundled pricing to pay-as-you-go systems.

Expert Advice for a Seamless Onboard Beverage Experience

Set Expectations Before Boarding

Review the inclusive drink lists and premium menus early in your sailing to prevent surprises.

Ask for Recommendations

Crew members are trained to suggest complimentary options similar to premium offerings.

Use Your Butler Wisely

For eligible suites, your butler can arrange curated beverage selections to align with your preferences.

Double-Check Your Account

Monitoring charges once or twice during the cruise ensures accuracy and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Are all drinks free on Regent Seven Seas Cruises?

Most drinks are included, but premium wines, aged spirits, and certain reserve champagnes come with additional charges.

Do I need to buy a drink package?

No. Regent does not sell drink packages because beverages are already included.

How do I know if a drink is premium?

Menus indicate premium items, and staff can clarify pricing before serving.

Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?

Regent typically allows limited personal wine for in-suite enjoyment, though corkage fees may apply in restaurants.

How do I pay for a premium drink?

Charges are automatically added to your onboard account linked to a credit card or cash deposit.

Is tipping required for bartenders?

No. Gratuities are included in the fare.

Are minibar drinks in my suite free?

Yes, the minibar is complimentary, although premium substitutions may incur extra fees.

Can I dispute an incorrect drink charge?

Yes. Guest Services can review and correct any errors immediately.

Are drinks free during excursions?

Only if the excursion includes beverages as part of the experience; otherwise, local purchases are separate.

Is room-service alcohol included?

Standard spirits, wines, and beers are included; premium bottles cost extra.

Does Regent offer drink tastings?

Yes, but specialty tastings may have a fee depending on the selection.

Do I need to sign a receipt for drinks?

No. The process is seamless, and charges appear electronically.