I recently went on a river cruise with Riviera Travel and was faced with the question of whether or not to purchase their drinks package. As someone who enjoys a drink or two on vacation, I wanted to weigh the options and make an informed decision.
After researching and experiencing the package firsthand, I can confidently say that it was worth the cost for me and many other types of travelers.
In this comprehensive guide to Riviera Travel’s drinks package, I will outline what is included, the cost and value, and considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether to opt for it.
Whether you’re someone who enjoys a casual beer or a connoisseur of fine wines, this guide will help you make the best decision for your river cruise experience.
So, let’s raise a glass and dive into Riviera’s drinks package guide!
- The Riviera Travel drinks package includes wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, but does not cover specialty drinks or bar purchases. It is a flat price based on the duration of the cruise and can be pre-booked or purchased on board. Most guests opt for the package as it is good value for heavy drinkers and helps budget ahead of the trip.
- Bar prices on the cruise are cheap and Riviera Plus guests receive complimentary Prosecco and daily aperitif drinks vouchers. Other river cruises may include additional drinks as part of entertainment or excursions.
- The drinks package may not be worth it for light drinkers and specific likes and dislikes may not be accommodated. The break-even point is 5 glasses of wine or 3 pints per day on a 5-day cruise. However, it provides a more relaxed atmosphere and top-notch service.
- Panache Cruises is recommended for booking luxury river cruises. They specialize in luxury river cruises and their expert Cruise Connoisseurs tailor trips to exact requirements. Their motto is ‘Nothing is too much trouble’.
What’s included
So, what’s included in Riviera’s drinks package?
Well, for a flat price based on the duration of your cruise, you can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks during lunch and dinner. The wine selection includes a variety of reds, whites, and rosés from different regions, so you can try something new with each meal.
As for the beer, they offer a selection of local and international brands, including some craft beers. And if you prefer non-alcoholic options, they have a range of soft drinks available, from sodas to fruit juices.
However, it’s important to note that this package doesn’t cover specialty drinks or bar purchases. So if you’re looking for a fancy cocktail or a bottle of champagne, you’ll have to pay extra.
But for those who enjoy wine or beer with their meals, the drinks package is a good value. Plus, it’s a great way to budget ahead of your trip and avoid a huge bar bill at the end of your cruise.
Cost and Value
I find the cost and value of the drinks package to be a crucial consideration when booking a river cruise. While the package is a good value for heavy drinkers and helps budget ahead of the trip, it may not be worth it for light drinkers who prefer specialty drinks or have specific likes and dislikes that may not be accommodated.
To help you weigh the pros and cons of the package, I’ve created a table comparing the cost of the package to the break-even point, which is 5 glasses of wine or 3 pints per day on a 5-day cruise. It’s worth noting that the package is restricted to restaurants and does not include bar purchases or specialty drinks. For those who prefer alternatives to the package, bar prices are cheap and Riviera Plus guests receive complimentary Prosecco and daily aperitif drinks vouchers. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and drinking habits.
| Cruise Duration | Package Cost | Break-Even Point |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Days | £99 | £125 |
| 8 Days | £159 | £200 |
| 11 Days | £219 | £275 |
| 15 Days | £279 | £350 |
Considerations
When considering whether to purchase a drinks package, have you thought about how it can provide a more relaxed atmosphere and help keep your bar bill under control at the end of your trip? If you’re a heavy drinker, the package can be a great value, but it may not be worth it for light drinkers. It’s important to consider your drinking habits before making a decision.
Additionally, the package is restricted to restaurants, so if you plan on spending a lot of time in the bar or enjoying specialty drinks, it may not be the best option for you. However, if you’re looking to budget ahead of your trip and avoid a monstrous bar bill at the end, the drinks package is definitely worth considering.
It’s also important to note that the package doesn’t accommodate specific likes and dislikes, so if you have particular tastes, you may want to opt for individual purchases. Finally, Riviera Travel offers a variety of accommodation options, including Riviera Plus, which includes complimentary Prosecco and daily aperitif drinks vouchers, so be sure to explore all the options before making a decision.
Panache Cruises Recommendation
Panache Cruises comes highly recommended for booking a luxurious river cruise. They offer tailored experiences with their expert Cruise Connoisseurs tailoring trips to your exact requirements. Their motto is "Nothing’s too much trouble,"and this is reflected in the level of service and attention to detail that guests receive.
If you’re looking for luxury options when it comes to river cruises, Panache Cruises should be at the top of your list. They offer a truly personalized experience, ensuring that every aspect of your trip is tailored to your preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Panache Cruises can help you create the perfect itinerary. With their exceptional service and attention to detail, you can be sure that your river cruise will be a truly unforgettable experience.
Are there any restrictions on the amount of drinks that can be consumed with the drinks package?
Yes, there are restrictions on the drinks package, but unlimited consumption is allowed during lunch and dinner. The package only covers wine, beer, and soft drinks. Specialty drinks and bar purchases are not included.
Can specialty drinks or bar purchases be added to the drinks package?
Yes, specialty drinks and bar purchases can be added to the drinks package by customizing it with options. This allows for greater flexibility and the ability to cater to specific preferences.
Is the drinks package available on all Riviera Travel river cruises?
Unlock the freedom to indulge with Riviera Travel’s Drinks Package, available on select river cruises. Enjoy unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner for a flat price based on cruise duration. Purchase in advance or onboard.
What are the options for non-heavy drinkers who don’t want to purchase the drinks package?
As a non-heavy drinker, I can opt to purchase drinks a la carte, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and water, or try the mocktail options. Customizable packages are available for those who want to personalize their drinks selection.
Are there any additional benefits for Riviera Plus guests other than the complimentary Prosecco and daily aperitif drinks vouchers?
Did you know that Riviera Plus guests get exclusive access to a range of drink options? These include premium spirits, cocktails, and wines. It’s a great perk to consider when booking your luxury river cruise.