I know that we are able to take some soft drinks aboard but I need to know if they must be packed in a suitcase or can we carry them in our hands with us as we board?  How particular are they about this?

I think most people put them in a carry on.  I would be real leary of packing them in my suitcase.  The baggage folks handle 1000's of bags per cruise and they aren't real careful with them.  I would hate for one to "explode" and ruin everything in the bag.  You can take a soft sided cooler with you and your cabin steward will keep it iced for you.  Just be sure to tip him/her a little extra.

It's better to carry on board with you.