Cruises, especially those offered by Royal Caribbean, are synonymous with indulgence. From lavish buffets to gourmet dining experiences, the abundance of food is a major draw for many travelers. Among the enticing culinary options, the question of whether Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is included in the cruise fare frequently arises. Let’s delve into the specifics to uncover the truth about Ben & Jerry’s and its availability on Royal Caribbean ships.
The Ice Cream Landscape on Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean offers a variety of sweet treats onboard its ships, catering to diverse palates. Understanding the landscape of available ice cream and dessert options helps to clarify the role of Ben & Jerry’s and whether it comes at an extra cost.
Complimentary Ice Cream Options
Many Royal Caribbean ships provide complimentary ice cream options as part of the cruise fare. Typically, this includes soft-serve ice cream available at designated stations, often near the pool deck. These stations usually offer a limited selection of flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, and sometimes a rotating flavor of the day. This is a fantastic option for a quick and refreshing treat without incurring additional charges. You might also find self-serve machines where you can customize your cone or cup.
Beyond soft serve, the main dining room and Windjammer buffet often feature ice cream as part of their dessert offerings. While the selection here may be more limited than at a dedicated ice cream parlor, it’s another avenue for enjoying a sweet ending to your meal without extra expenses.
Specialty Dessert Venues
Royal Caribbean ships often feature specialty dessert venues that go beyond the complimentary offerings. These venues present opportunities to indulge in more elaborate and premium desserts, often at an additional cost. These options are designed to enhance your overall cruise experience.
Johnny Rockets: A Retro Treat
While not exclusively an ice cream parlor, Johnny Rockets, a popular specialty restaurant found on many Royal Caribbean ships, offers delicious milkshakes. These thick and creamy shakes are a perfect complement to their classic American diner fare. While Johnny Rockets typically incurs a cover charge or à la carte pricing, the milkshakes are well worth considering for a satisfying dessert.
The Cupcake Cupboard: More Than Just Cupcakes
The Cupcake Cupboard is another specialty venue where you can satisfy your sweet tooth. Although cupcakes are their primary offering, they often feature other delectable treats that may complement the ice cream available elsewhere on the ship. Check their menu for current offerings and pricing.
Ben & Jerry’s: A Premium Indulgence?
Now, let’s focus on the main question: Is Ben & Jerry’s ice cream free on Royal Caribbean cruises? The answer is generally no. Ben & Jerry’s, with its distinctive flavors and premium ingredients, is usually treated as a specialty item and comes with an additional charge.
The Scoop Shops Onboard
Some Royal Caribbean ships feature dedicated Ben & Jerry’s scoop shops. These shops offer a range of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavors, sundaes, and other frozen treats, mirroring the experience you would find at a land-based Ben & Jerry’s location.
At these scoop shops, you can expect to pay à la carte prices for your ice cream. Prices typically range from a few dollars for a single scoop to more for elaborate sundaes and specialty creations. While the cost isn’t exorbitant, it’s important to factor it into your budget if you plan on indulging frequently.
Why Ben & Jerry’s Isn’t Free
The reason Ben & Jerry’s isn’t included in the base cruise fare is due to its premium nature. Ben & Jerry’s uses high-quality ingredients and follows specific production methods, which contribute to its higher cost compared to the complimentary ice cream options available onboard.
Including Ben & Jerry’s for free would significantly increase the overall cost of the cruise for all passengers, even those who don’t consume it. Therefore, Royal Caribbean offers it as an optional, add-on treat for those who specifically desire it.
Are There Ways to Save on Ben & Jerry’s?
While Ben & Jerry’s isn’t free, there might be ways to save on your ice cream indulgence:
- Look for promotions: Keep an eye out for onboard promotions or discounts that might apply to Ben & Jerry’s. Sometimes, Royal Caribbean offers special deals on certain days or during specific hours.
- Consider a beverage package: Some Royal Caribbean beverage packages might include discounts or credits that can be used towards specialty items like Ben & Jerry’s. Carefully review the terms and conditions of each package to see if it offers any applicable savings.
- Check for loyalty benefits: Members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program may receive exclusive discounts or onboard credits that can be used towards specialty items, including Ben & Jerry’s.
Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Dining Packages
Royal Caribbean offers various dining packages that can enhance your culinary experience onboard. While these packages don’t typically cover Ben & Jerry’s specifically, understanding their benefits can help you make informed decisions about your overall food budget.
Specialty Dining Packages
Specialty dining packages allow you to pre-purchase a certain number of meals at specialty restaurants at a discounted rate. These packages can be a great value if you plan on dining at multiple specialty restaurants during your cruise. However, it’s important to note that these packages usually do not include items like Ben & Jerry’s.
The specialty dining packages offer a fixed price for access to restaurants such as Chops Grille, Jamie’s Italian, and Izumi. Each package is different and provides varying levels of access and cost savings. It is prudent to read the specifics of each package.
Beverage Packages
As mentioned earlier, some beverage packages might offer discounts or credits that could be applied towards Ben & Jerry’s. Carefully review the details of each beverage package to see if it includes any applicable benefits. Beverage packages are more common on Royal Caribbean cruises than dining packages that include all possible food costs.
Alternatives to Ben & Jerry’s Onboard
If you’re looking for delicious ice cream without the extra cost of Ben & Jerry’s, Royal Caribbean offers several appealing alternatives:
Complimentary Soft Serve
As previously mentioned, the complimentary soft-serve ice cream available near the pool deck is a readily accessible and budget-friendly option. While the flavor selection might be limited, it’s perfect for a quick and refreshing treat on a warm day.
Desserts in the Main Dining Room
The main dining room typically features ice cream as part of its dessert menu. The flavors and options may vary from night to night, but it’s a great way to enjoy a sweet ending to your meal without incurring additional charges.
The Windjammer Marketplace
The Windjammer Marketplace, Royal Caribbean’s buffet-style dining venue, also offers ice cream as part of its dessert selection. While the selection may not be as extensive as at a dedicated ice cream parlor, it’s another complimentary option to consider.
Planning Your Cruise Budget: Factoring in Treats
When planning your Royal Caribbean cruise budget, it’s essential to factor in the cost of any specialty treats you anticipate enjoying, including Ben & Jerry’s. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses and ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation.
Estimate Your Ice Cream Consumption
Consider how often you and your travel companions are likely to indulge in Ben & Jerry’s or other specialty desserts. Estimate the average cost per serving and multiply it by the number of servings you anticipate consuming throughout the cruise.
Allocate Funds Accordingly
Once you have an estimate, allocate funds in your budget specifically for these treats. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.
Explore Package Options
Before your cruise, explore the various dining and beverage packages offered by Royal Caribbean. Determine if any of these packages offer benefits that could help you save on specialty desserts or other onboard expenses.
Final Scoop: Enjoy Your Cruise!
While Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is generally not free on Royal Caribbean cruises and incurs an additional cost, there are still plenty of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth onboard. From complimentary soft-serve to specialty desserts in the main dining room, there are options to suit every budget and preference. By understanding the ice cream landscape, planning your budget accordingly, and exploring alternative options, you can ensure a delicious and enjoyable cruise experience. So, go ahead, set sail, and indulge in the many culinary delights that Royal Caribbean has to offer!
Is Ben & Jerry’s ice cream included in the price of a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Unfortunately, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is generally not included in the standard fare of a Royal Caribbean cruise. While Royal Caribbean offers a wide array of complimentary dining options, Ben & Jerry’s usually operates as a separate venue with items available for purchase. You can expect to find a menu with various ice cream flavors, sundaes, and other treats, all at an additional cost to your cruise fare.
The specific pricing and availability can vary depending on the ship and itinerary. Some ships might have a Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop, while others may offer Ben & Jerry’s products at a smaller ice cream counter or as part of a specialty dessert. To get the most up-to-date information regarding availability and pricing, it’s best to consult the Royal Caribbean app once onboard or check the ship’s daily schedule of events.
What are the typical costs associated with Ben & Jerry’s on Royal Caribbean?
The cost of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream on Royal Caribbean can fluctuate depending on the item you choose. A single scoop of ice cream typically ranges from $3 to $5, while more elaborate sundaes or specialty creations can cost anywhere from $6 to $10 or more. These prices are subject to change at the discretion of Royal Caribbean.
Keep in mind that sales tax or gratuity may also be added to your purchase, depending on the specific policies in place on your ship. Royal Caribbean often runs promotions or offers package deals, such as discounted ice cream with a beverage purchase, so it’s worthwhile to keep an eye out for any potential savings opportunities during your cruise.
Are there any Royal Caribbean packages that include Ben & Jerry’s?
While it’s uncommon for standard beverage or dining packages to explicitly include unlimited access to Ben & Jerry’s, some Royal Caribbean packages might offer indirect savings or discounts that can be applied. For example, a package that includes onboard credit could be used towards purchasing Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.
Furthermore, keep an eye out for special promotions or limited-time offers that might include Ben & Jerry’s as part of a bundled deal. These offers are not always consistent and can vary depending on the specific sailing and time of year, so it’s always best to check with Royal Caribbean directly or consult your travel agent for the most current information on available packages and promotions.
Can I use my Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society benefits at Ben & Jerry’s?
The applicability of Crown & Anchor Society benefits at Ben & Jerry’s locations on Royal Caribbean ships can vary. Certain loyalty tiers may offer discounts on onboard purchases, and it’s possible that these discounts could extend to Ben & Jerry’s. However, this is not always guaranteed and depends on the specific terms and conditions of your Crown & Anchor Society membership level.
The best way to determine if your Crown & Anchor Society benefits apply to Ben & Jerry’s is to check your loyalty program benefits guide or inquire with the onboard loyalty ambassador or guest services desk once you are on the ship. They will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding eligible discounts and perks.
What alternative complimentary dessert options does Royal Caribbean offer?
Royal Caribbean provides a wide range of complimentary dessert options across various dining venues. The main dining room consistently features a rotating menu of desserts each evening, including cakes, pies, mousses, and ice cream. These options are typically included in the price of your cruise.
Additionally, the Windjammer Marketplace buffet often has a dedicated dessert section with a diverse selection of sweets. Several other complimentary dining locations might also offer smaller dessert options as part of their regular menu. Exploring these complimentary choices is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without incurring additional costs.
Does the availability of Ben & Jerry’s vary by Royal Caribbean ship?
Yes, the availability of Ben & Jerry’s can indeed vary from one Royal Caribbean ship to another. Some of the larger, newer ships might feature a dedicated Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop, offering a full menu of ice cream flavors, sundaes, and shakes. These shops are typically branded with the official Ben & Jerry’s signage.
On smaller or older ships, a dedicated Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop might not be available. In these cases, you may find Ben & Jerry’s products offered at a smaller ice cream counter or as part of the dessert selection at another venue. The best way to determine if a specific ship has a full Ben & Jerry’s location is to check the ship’s deck plans or consult the Royal Caribbean website.
Can I bring my own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise?
While Royal Caribbean generally allows guests to bring certain food items onboard, it’s usually not recommended to bring your own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream due to potential storage and food safety concerns. Cruise ships have limited freezer space, and maintaining the proper temperature for ice cream throughout the journey can be challenging.
Furthermore, customs regulations and health guidelines may restrict certain food items from being brought onboard, particularly when traveling internationally. It’s always best to check with Royal Caribbean’s specific policies regarding bringing food and beverages onboard before your cruise to avoid any potential issues or confiscation of items.