Matt's thoughts on Royal Caribbean removing soda cups from drink packages
Key Moments
Editorial Summary
The creator discusses a recent policy change from Royal Caribbean regarding beverage packages. Starting March 15, 2026, the deluxe beverage package and the royal refreshing package will no longer automatically include the Coca-Cola Freestyle souvenir cup or access to the freestyle machines. Guests who wish to retain these benefits must pay a $4.99 surcharge for the duration of their sailing. The creator characterizes this move as a cutback and speculates on the underlying motivations. Potential reasons mentioned include reducing waste, preventing guest abuse of the RFID-enabled cups, and overall cost savings for the cruise line. While the creator notes that the soda package remains unaffected, they express concern that the change impacts the value of the refreshing package, which is heavily utilized by non-drinkers. The video also addresses various listener questions regarding Icon class ships, managing minor passengers in connecting rooms, onboard cash accounts, and the location of the ship's resident dog.
Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.
How This Review Compares
This review is more critical than the all-time creator consensus.
Source: Our analysis of the creator's lived experience, based on what they said in this video.
Creator's Key Takeaways
It's a cutback. It's not a good look and I'm not here to defend them what they're doing.
I'm really surprised by the refreshing package. Okay, the deluxe beverage package, you want to make the argument that if you're buying the alcohol package, you're probably mostly using it for alcohol. Fine.
Will it stop how I buy a drink package? No. Because I personally don't ever look at a soda cup at or the Cocoa Freestyle machines as anywhere in the equation as to why I buy a deluxe beverage package.
It's a game changer. You know, when I recorded that episode uh back in 2014, as you mentioned, you know, I was excited when a cruise ship had a nursery on board.
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