I find that the
DCL drink prices are reasonable, and you do have free soda at the self service machines.
To me I like to relax on a cruise and do the effort to me to bring on drink and carry it on and lug it round to your room is too much.
Against the cost of a cruise bring thousands, the cost of a drink served directly and cool to you is worth it.
I get a wine package and balance free drinks and paid drinks without a bill shocker at the end of the cruise.