Is it worth buying a drink package on Regent Seven Seas Cruises?

Evaluating the Value of a Drink Package on Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is known for its ultra-luxury, fully inclusive approach, setting it apart from most cruise lines where beverage packages are a major add-on. Many travelers ask whether it is worth purchasing an extra drink package on a line that already includes premium beverages. Determining value depends on personal preferences, consumption habits, itinerary style, and expectations around convenience. This detailed guide breaks down what is included, what is not, and when upgrading may offer genuine benefits based on real-world cruise experiences and expert-level evaluation.

What Regent Seven Seas Includes in Its Standard Beverage Offering

Regent’s pricing model is designed to reduce decision fatigue, streamline onboard spending, and offer travelers a sense of freedom. For most guests, the existing beverage inclusions feel more than adequate. However, because guests have different tastes and indulgence levels, understanding the baseline is essential before exploring optional packages.

Key Elements of Regent’s Inclusive Beverage Program

Regent includes a wide range of beverages throughout the ship, from lounges to specialty restaurants. The inclusions typically cover:

• Premium spirits

• A curated wine list

• International beers

• Sparkling wines and certain Champagne labels

• Fresh juices, coffees, and non-alcoholic mocktails

• In-suite minibars replenished daily

• Beverages during excursions

Where the Limitations Start to Appear

Although the standard offering is generous, travelers who prefer ultra-premium labels may encounter categories requiring a surcharge. These include:

• Top-shelf single-malt whiskies

• Vintage Champagnes

• Reserve wines

• Rare rums or niche spirits

Travelers who consistently order luxury beverages may find that the included list feels restrictive, which is where an enhanced beverage option becomes relevant.

When an Additional Drink Package May Be Worth Buying

Regent does not push drink packages aggressively, because its business model is built around all-inclusive luxury. However, an optional beverage upgrade—often focused on connoisseur-level wines and spirits—may suit certain travelers. The decision ultimately rests on whether the incremental cost matches one’s consumption habits.

Understanding Your Drinking Patterns

Before deciding, travelers should reflect on their usual habits:

• Do you often order premium wine priced significantly higher than the ship’s included offerings?

• Are you someone who prefers high-end liquor brands exclusively?

• Do your evening dining choices typically include pairings requiring upgraded bottles?

• Are you celebrating a milestone event that might increase alcoholic consumption during the voyage?

Comparing Standard vs. Premium Beverage Options

The table below illustrates a general comparison of Regent’s inclusive offerings versus the type of enhanced options sometimes available as an add-on.

CategoryIncluded BeveragesEnhanced / Upgraded Options

WinesDiverse global selection, rotating by regionReserve labels, vintage selections, boutique vineyards

SpiritsPremium brands of rum, vodka, gin, tequilaPrestige brands, aged whiskies, luxury cognacs

ChampagneSelect sparkling wines and certain Champagne typesTop-tier Champagne, vintage or rare bottles

CocktailsFreshly made cocktails, mocktailsUltra-premium spirit bases, specialty mixology options

In-suiteDaily minibar refillHigher-end bottles upon request (varies by sailing)

Specific Traveler Profiles Who Benefit Most

Wine Enthusiasts Who Prefer Rare Bottles

Travelers who appreciate unique terroir profiles, aged varietals, or boutique estate labels are the top beneficiaries of an upgraded beverage package. Although the core wine rotation is strong, collectors and connoisseurs may desire a deeper selection.

Guests Celebrating Special Occasions

Anniversary, milestone birthdays, or professional achievements often inspire indulgent choices. Access to rare Champagnes or premium spirits may enhance the celebration experience.

Travelers Who Spend Extended Time Onboard

Longer voyages make drinking patterns more predictable. If you are sailing 14 to 30 nights, an enhancement may offer meaningful value compared to purchasing premium drinks à la carte.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deciding Whether to Upgrade

To make an informed decision, follow this structured assessment:

Step 1: Review the Cruise Documents

Before departure, Regent provides a list of included wines and spirits. Compare it with your preferences.

Step 2: Estimate Your Premium Drink Consumption

Think about how many ultra-premium drinks you might consume per day. Multiply estimated consumption across the voyage length.

Step 3: Compare à la Carte Prices with Package Cost

If each premium drink is priced individually, calculate whether the package will be cheaper.

Step 4: Consider Your Itinerary’s Port Intensity

Port-heavy voyages reduce onboard time, and therefore alcohol consumption, lowering package value.

Step 5: Analyze Your Travel Style

Some travelers value convenience more than cost. If ordering without thinking is appealing, the upgrade may suit you even if financial savings are marginal.

Real-World Examples of When the Package Is and Isn’t Worth It

When It Makes Sense Financially and Experientially

Example 1: Whisky Enthusiasts

Travelers who enjoy aged or rare whiskies may find the standard offerings unsuitable. If you normally order labels above the mid-range price point at home, the premium package becomes attractive.

Example 2: Extended Grand Voyages

World cruises or multi-week itineraries dramatically change the value equation. Over time, à la carte premium drinks can add up significantly.

Example 3: Food and Beverage Pairing Travelers

If you enjoy pairing fine wines with gourmet dining, having a reserve bottle selection improves the overall dining experience.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

Example 1: Casual Drinkers

If you prefer occasional cocktails, basic wines, or standard spirits, the inclusive program delivers more than enough variety.

Example 2: Port-Intensive Routes

Mediterranean or Alaska itineraries with full-day excursions reduce onboard drinking opportunities.

Example 3: Families or Health-Conscious Travelers

Non-drinkers or travelers focused on wellness programs will not benefit from any beverage upgrade.

Tips for Maximizing Value Without Buying a Package

Ask Bartenders for Recommendations

Regent’s staff often have access to off-menu items within the inclusive tier that meet guest preferences.

Explore Lounge Rotations

Different bars emphasize different spirits. What is not available in one venue may be complimentary in another.

Attend Wine Tastings

Many sailings offer complimentary or low-cost tasting sessions that allow guests to explore premium labels without purchasing a full package.

Use In-Suite Minibar Flexibility

Minibar items can often be customized to suit personal preferences.

Try the Daily Wine Pairings in Restaurants

Several venues rotate wine pairings that vary from night to night, offering diversity without additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Is a drink package necessary on Regent Seven Seas?

For most passengers, no. Regent includes a wide selection of premium beverages, making additional drink packages optional rather than essential.

Does Regent charge for top-shelf liquor?

Yes, certain ultra-premium brands, aged spirits, or rare labels may require an extra fee or package upgrade.

Are all wines included in Regent’s standard offering?

A large rotating list is included, but reserve or vintage wines fall outside the complimentary tier.

Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?

Based on publicly available information, policies may vary by sailing, and guests should verify with the line before departure.

Does the in-suite minibar include liquor?

Yes, minibars are replenished daily, and travelers can request preferred items within the inclusive tier.

Is premium Champagne included?

Some Champagne labels are included, but luxury or vintage bottles may carry additional cost.

Are drink packages available on every Regent ship?

Availability may differ by itinerary and ship; not all sailings emphasize upgraded beverage programs.

Is coffee included on Regent?

Yes, specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages are part of the inclusive program.

Are beverages included during shore excursions?

Yes, many excursions include water and sometimes soft drinks or wine, depending on the experience.

Do dining venues offer unique beverage selections?

Yes, different specialty restaurants may feature unique wine pairings or cocktails within the inclusive list.

Can I upgrade for a single night only?

Most beverage upgrades apply per voyage and not per day, though policies may vary.

Do I need a package to enjoy premium cocktails?

The inclusive cocktail menu contains many high-end ingredients; only ultra-luxury spirits are excluded.