What is the best cruise ship cafe? I spill the tea on the best cups of joe at sea

Cruise ship cafes are not just places to grab a quick cup of coffee. They are an essential part of the cruising experience, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where passengers can relax, enjoy a drink, and take in the stunning views of the open sea. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a quick pick-me-up, cruise ship cafes have something for everyone.

No cruise is complete without a few drinks, but that doesn’t have to mean alcohol. For many travelers, early morning shore excursions would be nearly impossible without some coffee beforehand, and a midday snack is often a welcome treat between meals. That’s where cruise ship cafes come in. Most vessels offer at least one place where passengers can grab free pastries for breakfast and finger sandwiches later in the day, as well as coffee and tea for an added fee.

Below are some of the best cruise cafes for coffee:

Venchi Coffee Bar and Jean Philippe Cafe, MSC Cruises
Where to find it: MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape (Venchi); MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Virtuosa and MSC World Europa (Jean Philippe).
Cost: From $3.50 for an espresso; additional charges for flavored syrups, whipped cream, and non-dairy milk alternatives. Spiked coffees are $14 each.
TPG take: The specialty coffee bars on MSC Cruises’ newest vessels offer a variety of coffee options, including macchiatos, Americanos, cappuccinos, and mochas. The cozy atmosphere and high-quality beverages make these cafes a must-visit for coffee lovers.

Grounds Club, Virgin Voyages
Where to find it: All Virgin Voyages ships.
Cost: From $3 for an espresso or macchiato to $13 for an espresso martini. Additional $6 for a shot of alcohol.
TPG take: Grounds Club on Virgin Voyages offers coffee made with Intelligentsia brand coffees, including cruiser favorite Black Cat. The menu may not be fancy, but the drinks are delicious and include a variety of options for coffee lovers.

Cafe Promenade, Royal Caribbean
Where to find it: Royal Caribbean’s Cafe Promenade is available on all Voyager, Freedom, Oasis, and Quantum Class ships (except Spectrum of the Seas).
Cost: Food, drip coffee, and basic tea are free. Specialty coffee drinks cost extra but are covered by the basic beverage package.
TPG take: Cafe Promenade is a fantastic spot to grab tea, coffee, and light bites throughout the day. The lively atmosphere and central location make it a popular choice for passengers looking for a quick caffeine fix.

International Cafe, Princess Cruises
Where to find it: Various Princess Cruises ships.
Cost: Coffee beverages range from $2 for a regular brewed coffee to $4.50 for specialty iced beverages. Tea and hot chocolate are also available.
TPG take: The International Cafe’s central location on Princess ships makes it a convenient spot to grab a coffee or snack at any time. The cafe offers a variety of drinks and small bites, making it a popular choice for cruisers looking for a quick pick-me-up.

Grand Dutch Cafe, Holland America Line
Where to find it: Holland America’s Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Rotterdam ships.
Cost: All food at the Grand Dutch Cafe is complimentary. Drinks range from $2.25 for Dutch drip coffee to $3.50 for a cafe latte.
TPG take: The Grand Dutch Cafe on Holland America’s newest ships offers some of the best free food at sea. The cafe also serves Tazo tea and specialty coffee drinks, making it a top choice for coffee lovers.

Cafe al Bacio, Celebrity Cruises
Where to find it: All Celebrity Cruises ships (excluding expedition vessels).
Cost: Prices range from $4 for a single shot of espresso to $12 for coffee cocktails. Snacks at Cafe al Bacio are free.
TPG take: Cafe al Bacio is a staple cafe on Celebrity ships, offering a variety of tea and coffee drinks, as well as light bites. The welcoming atmosphere and central location make it a popular spot for passengers looking to relax with a hot beverage.

JavaBlue Cafe, Carnival Cruise Line
Where to find it: Various Carnival Cruise Line ships.
Cost: Prices start at $2.75 for a small drip coffee. Specialty coffee drinks range from $3.50 to $4. You can also add flavored syrups for an additional charge.
TPG take: JavaBlue Cafe on Carnival Cruise Line ships offers a variety of coffee options, including specialty drinks and cold brew. The cozy atmosphere and delicious drinks make it a top choice for coffee enthusiasts.

In conclusion, cruise ship cafes are an essential part of the cruising experience, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where passengers can relax, enjoy a drink, and take in the stunning views of the open sea. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a quick pick-me-up, cruise ship cafes have something for everyone. Next time you’re on a cruise, be sure to check out one of these top cafes for a delicious cup of coffee.

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