For many travelers, the day simply doesn’t start without their favorite Starbucks drink. Whether you crave a caramel macchiato, a strong Americano, or a refreshing iced cold brew, having Starbucks onboard can make a cruise feel even more like home. So the big question people ask before sailing is: Does Royal Caribbean have Starbucks onboard Royal Caribbean?
If you are planning your cruise and want to know where you can get real Starbucks drinks, how much they cost, which ships have Starbucks cafés, whether your drink package works there, and what alternatives exist, this guide covers everything in an easy, interactive, and very detailed way.
Let’s dive into the world of coffee at sea!
If you’re wondering about Starbucks on Royal Caribbean ships, the answer isn't a simple yes or no. Some ships offer a full Starbucks store, while others only serve Starbucks beverages. And a few ships don’t carry Starbucks at all. Knowing the difference can help you plan better—especially if you can't live without your daily latte.
Royal Caribbean has two types of Starbucks setups across its fleet. Understanding these will help you know exactly what to expect onboard.
Some Royal Caribbean ships feature a licensed, full-service Starbucks shop, similar to what you'd find on land. These locations serve:
Frappuccinos
Cold Brew
Espresso shots
Specialty iced drinks
Refreshers
Bakery items
Seasonal drinks
These Starbucks cafés look and feel authentic, with the same décor, menu layout, and drinks.
Other ships don't have an official Starbucks store but serve Starbucks branded drinks such as:
Starbucks brewed coffee
Espresso beverages
Tea-based drinks
These do not include specialty Frappuccinos or full menus. The selection is smaller, but still better than standard ship coffee.
Cruisers love knowing exactly which ships offer the real Starbucks experience. While availability can change, the following ships typically feature a full Starbucks store:
Oasis of the Seas
Allure of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas
These ships have Starbucks in the Royal Promenade area, easily accessible and open early.
Quantum of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas
Spectrum of the Seas
Odyssey of the Seas
These also feature Starbucks onboard, but the exact placement varies by ship.
This list covers most major ships that coffee lovers adore.
Now that we know ships do offer Starbucks, let’s explore how it works onboard. The experience feels familiar to visiting Starbucks on land, but several rules differ.
This is the number one question passengers ask:Does Royal Caribbean’s drink package include Starbucks?
The short answer: No, Starbucks drinks are NOT included in any Royal Caribbean drink package.
Deluxe Beverage Package
Refreshment Package
Soda Package
Kids’ Drink Package
Even though the Refreshment Package includes espresso drinks at other venues, it does not cover Starbucks-branded beverages made in a Starbucks-branded location.
On some ships where Starbucks is served at Café Promenade (but not a full Starbucks store), certain espresso drinks may be included with the Refreshment Package.However—Frappuccinos, seasonal drinks, cold brews, and specialty items are always excluded.
Unlike bars and restaurants where your SeaPass card covers drinks under packages, Starbucks beverages must be purchased à la carte.
You pay via:
SeaPass card (charged to your onboard account)
Starbucks gift cards (NOT accepted)
Starbucks Rewards (NOT applicable)
Important point:You do not earn or redeem Starbucks stars onboard.
Prices are usually slightly higher than land-based stores. Expect to pay:
$4–$8 for hot drinks
$5–$8 for iced coffee
$6–$10 for Frappuccinos
$3–$6 for pastries
Seasonal drinks like Pumpkin Spice or holiday specials may be available depending on the ship.
Many ships offer:
Tall
Grande
Venti
However, not all ships serve Trenta size.
Starbucks isn’t just about coffee—it’s about comfort, routine, and familiarity. Here’s why cruisers love having Starbucks onboard.
For travelers who prefer consistent, predictable coffee, Starbucks is a lifesaver. Ship coffee is often weaker or more basic, making Starbucks a luxury many appreciate.
Starbucks onboard often opens earlier than other cafés—sometimes as early as 6:00 a.m. This is ideal for:
Early risers
Guests preparing for shore excursions
Fitness center visitors
Starting the day with your go-to drink at sea can feel incredibly refreshing.
Parents often grab:
Hot chocolate
Refreshers
Frappuccinos
Kids enjoy the sweet options, and teens treat Starbucks as a social hangout.
Royal Caribbean’s regular beverage venues have limited iced options. But Starbucks offers:
Iced lattes
Iced macchiatos
Cold brew
Teavana iced teas
This makes it a major perk.
Starbucks menus vary slightly depending on the ship and region. However, most locations offer the following lineup.
Including:
From vanilla and caramel to seasonal blends.
Strong and smooth, with thick foam.
Caramel macchiato is among the most popular.
Perfect choice for strong-coffee lovers.
Starbucks iced beverages are especially popular on sunny sea days.
Customizable with syrups.
Low-calorie and refreshing.
Usually available, but some ships may run out.
Available on ships with full Starbucks stores.
Mocha, Java Chip, Caramel, and more.
Great for kids or non-coffee drinkers.
Mint, Earl Grey, Green tea, etc.
Refreshing and lightly sweetened.
Depending on the ship’s inventory:
Pumpkin Spice
Peppermint Mocha
Caramel Brulée
Chestnut Praline
These drinks may run out during long sailings.
Even if the ship doesn’t have Starbucks, don’t worry—Royal Caribbean offers several great coffee options.
Available on most ships, Café Promenade serves:
Specialty espresso drinks
Mochas
Lattes
Hot teas
These may be included in the Refreshment Package.
Found on Radiance-class ships, this is a strong alternative to Starbucks.
Good option for quick coffee with breakfast.
Complimentary coffee, although not strong.
Coffee delivered but quality varies.
Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas have premium cafés with better-quality espresso machines.
Some coffee lovers do! The decision depends on:
You drink specialty coffee multiple times a day
You are a Starbucks loyalist
You love Frappuccinos
You enjoy consistent flavor
You’re fine with café drinks included in the Refreshment Package
You rarely drink coffee
You want to maximize drink package value
If you want to enjoy Starbucks efficiently and affordably, use these insider ideas.
Lines can be long from 7:30 to 10:00 a.m.
They often run out by Day 3 or 4.
Some ships allow iced drinks to be served in your reusable tumbler.
Currently, Starbucks mobile app features do not work onboard.
These are typically:
Afternoon
Pre-show hours
Right before excursions
To wrap it up clearly:
Mostly Oasis-class and Quantum-class ships.
Select cafés serve Starbucks beverages.
All Starbucks items must be purchased separately.
Expect slightly elevated costs.
If coffee is important to you, choose a ship that offers Starbucks for the best experience.
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