Previously, many members appreciated being able to take unopened drinks back to their staterooms to enjoy later. However, as of December 6, 2024, on Freedom of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, crew members began requiring all drinks redeemed with loyalty vouchers to be opened at the bar. This change sparked dissatisfaction among guests, who viewed it as unfair given the cost of achieving elite status and speculated it was an effort to encourage drink package purchases.
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GLORoyal Caribbean has adjusted a key benefit in its Crown & Anchor loyalty program, which provides elite members with daily drink vouchers. Top-tier Pinnacle members receive six free drinks per day (valued up to $14 each), Diamond Plus members get five, and Diamond members are allotted four.
Previously, many members appreciated being able to take unopened drinks, such as soft drinks or beer, back to their staterooms to enjoy later. However, as of December 6, 2024, on Freedom of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, crew members began requiring all drinks redeemed with loyalty vouchers to be opened at the bar. This change sparked dissatisfaction among guests, who viewed it as unfair given the cost of achieving elite status and speculated it was an effort to encourage drink package purchases.
Initially, the policy applied to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but as of December 8, 2024, it was scaled back to apply only to alcoholic drinks. Loyalty members can once again take unopened sodas or water to their rooms, except when purchased through the Deluxe Beverage Package.
A response from Royal Caribbean’s Executive Office confirmed the updated policy, citing safety and responsibility as the primary reasons. The email clarified that canned or bottled alcoholic beverages must now be opened before leaving the bar, while non-alcoholic beverages remain exempt unless tied to a specific beverage package.
Royal Caribbean has not provided a detailed explanation for the change, but it is believed to be part of efforts to monitor alcohol consumption more closely for safety reasons. Excess alcohol in cabins might obscure the crew’s ability to assess passengers’ alcohol intake, which could compromise onboard safety protocols. This approach aligns with similar practices by competitors like Carnival Cruise Line, which monitors alcohol consumption through a collaborative effort involving bar staff, waiters, and security teams.
The policy adjustment reflects Royal Caribbean’s commitment to safety but has left some loyalty members feeling frustrated and undervalued.
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