Picture this: You're out on the ocean, the sun dipping low, and you've got a glass of something truly special in your hand – a pour of Pappy Van Winkle that's hard to come by even on dry land. That's the kind of upgrade Royal Caribbean is rolling out for folks who appreciate a good bourbon. The cruise line has stepped up its game by adding a handpicked lineup of rare whiskeys to the menu on some of its biggest ships, turning a regular vacation into something a bit more memorable for those who enjoy the finer side of spirits.
This new addition is happening on three Oasis Class ships: Allure of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas. These are the massive vessels known for their endless activities, from zip lines to shows, but now they've got an extra draw for anyone who likes to unwind with a quality drink. The spot to find these bourbons is The Mason Jar Southern Bar & Restaurant, a place that feels like a slice of the South right on the water. It's got live country tunes playing, hearty comfort food on the plates, and a vibe that's all about kicking back with classic cocktails inspired by Southern traditions.
What sets this apart is the selection of bourbons that Royal Caribbean says you won't find anywhere else out at sea. They're talking top-shelf stuff, the kind that bourbon fans hunt for back home. The list includes Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year and 20 Year, which are aged to perfection and carry that smooth, complex flavor profile that comes from years in the barrel. Then there's Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year, offering a rye twist with notes that linger just right. Sazerac 18 Year is another standout, known for its deep, rich character from long aging.
The collection doesn't stop there. Eagle Rare 17 Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon brings that bold Kentucky style, while William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon adds a wheated bourbon option that's soft and full-bodied. For rye lovers, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye packs a punch with its spicy edge. And rounding it out is Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon, a solid entry point into the Van Winkle family with its balanced oak and vanilla hints.
Pricing reflects the rarity – these aren't your everyday pours. A half-ounce taste runs between $55 and $115, depending on which one you pick. Go for a full ounce, and it's $105 to $220. If you want to try a few without committing too much, there's an option to sample any three with half-ounce pours for $275. It's not cheap, but for a guy who's worked hard all year and wants to treat himself on vacation, it's a way to make the trip stand out. Imagine sitting there after a day of exploring ports or hitting the ship's gym, savoring a sip while the band plays something familiar.
Royal Caribbean sees this as a way to dial up the experience for passengers who know their bourbons. "We are really excited to offer an exclusive collection of bourbons across three of our ships, giving our bourbon-loving guests an unforgettable way to elevate their vacation experience. The Mason Jar has been a fast favorite since its debut on Wonder of the Seas, and expanding our bourbon offerings allows us to create special moments onboard for guests vacationing with Royal Caribbean," Ed Eiswirth, senior director of beverage operations at Royal Caribbean International, told Parade.
The Mason Jar itself has been a hit since it first showed up on Wonder of the Seas. It's not just about the drinks – the whole setup invites you to settle in, maybe grab some fried chicken or brisket, and let the music wash over you. For men who remember road trips through the South or backyard barbecues with friends, it's a familiar comfort far from home. And with these rare bourbons now in the mix, it's like they've turned up the volume on what a cruise can offer.
This move comes at a time when cruise lines are paying more attention to spirits overall. It's not just Royal Caribbean getting in on it – Princess Cruises recently teamed up with a speakeasy in Mexico City to bring five unique cocktails to their ships. That shows the industry is listening to what travelers want: not just the basics, but options that feel special and worth the splurge.
For anyone planning a getaway, these Oasis Class ships are worth a look if bourbon is your thing. Whether you're sailing with family, buddies, or just flying solo, having access to these exclusive pours adds a layer of luxury that's hard to beat. It's about those quiet moments amid the adventure, raising a glass to the good life on the waves. If you've been thinking about booking, this might be the nudge you need – after all, when else can you chase down a Pappy Van Winkle while staring at the horizon?
