Drinks on cruise ships can easily cost hundreds or maybe even thousands of dollars during your vacation. MSC drink packages give you a budget-friendly way to handle these costs, but you need to pick the right package that works for you.
MSC Cruises has several drink package choices on their ships like MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, and MSC World Europa. Each package includes different drinks and comes with its own rules and prices that don’t match Royal Caribbean’s and Carnival Cruise’s drink packages.
This complete guide walks you through everything you need to know about MSC drink packages. You’ll learn about pricing, package differences, and smart tips to get the most value. We’ll help you pick the most budget-friendly option that fits your cruise plans perfectly.
Table of Contents
- 1 Understanding MSC’s Drink Package Lineup
- 2 Real Costs Behind MSC Drink Packages
- 3 Maximizing Your Drink Package Value
- 4 Navigating Special Situations
- 5 Making the Smart Package Choice
- 6 Here are some FAQs about the MSC drink packages:
- 6.1 How much are the drink packages on MSC?
- 6.2 What does the MSC free drink package include?
- 6.3 How much is the premium extra drink package on MSC Cruises?
- 6.4 Does the MSC drink package have a limit?
- 6.5 Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board?
- 6.6 Can I take my own drinks on MSC Cruises?
- 6.7 Can you share a drink package on MSC?
- 6.8 Does MSC give free water?
- 6.9 Does MSC charge gratuities on drinks?
- 6.10 Can two people use one drink package on a cruise?
- 6.11 Do you pay the difference on MSC drinks?
- 6.12 What is not included on MSC Cruises?
- 6.13 Does MSC have free ice cream?
- 6.14 Can you bring a reusable water bottle on an MSC cruise?
- 6.15 Do free drinks on MSC include alcohol?
Understanding MSC’s Drink Package Lineup
MSC Cruises has five different beverage packages. Each package caters to different drinking priorities and budgets. You need to understand these options to make the right choice before your cruise.
Complete breakdown of available packages
The MSC beverage packages start with the Easy Package at the entry level. They progress through Easy Plus and Premium Extra for guests who want premium choices. Non-alcohol drinkers can choose between two options: the Alcohol-Free Package and the Minors Package.
The Easy Plus Package covers drinks priced up to USD 10.00. The Premium Extra Package extends to drinks valued at USD 16.00. You can save up to 15% by buying your package before the cruise instead of waiting to purchase onboard.
What’s actually included vs. excluded
Each package comes with specific features and limits:
- Premium Extra Package has:
- Premium cocktails of all types
- Champagne by the glass
- 25% discount on wine bottles
- Premium spirits and cordials
- Easy Plus Package covers:
- Selected wines by the glass
- Draft and bottled beers
- 10% discount on wine bottles
- Simple spirits and cocktails
The packages don’t cover items from signature venues like Venchi 1878, Lavazza Coffee Ship, or Jean Philippe Chocolate. You can use all packages at Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island, but the drink selection might be smaller than onboard.
Hidden benefits and restrictions
Everyone sharing a cabin or dining table needs to buy the same package type. The good news is you only pay the difference when ordering a drink above your package’s price limit.
MSC Yacht Club bookings automatically come with the Premium Extra Package. Families traveling together should note that children aged 3-17 on European routes and 3-12 on North American and Caribbean cruises must get the Minors Package when adults choose a beverage package.
These packages are a great way to get extra value since they include gratuities in their pricing. This can save you money compared to paying for individual drinks throughout your cruise.
Real Costs Behind MSC Drink Packages
The true cost of MSC drink packages goes beyond the listed prices. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers to help you make smart choices about your beverage spending during your cruise.
Breaking down per-day pricing
MSC’s package pricing changes based on how long you cruise and when you buy. Here are the pre-cruise prices per person each day for cruises lasting seven nights or longer:
- Easy Package: USD 46.00
- Easy Plus Package: USD 61.00
- Premium Extra Package: USD 85.00
- Alcohol-Free Package: USD 28.00
- Minors Package: USD 19.00
It’s worth mentioning that onboard purchases cost more. The Premium Extra Package, for example, rises to USD 100.00 daily on longer cruises.
Package vs. pay-as-you-go comparison
These are typical drink prices to think about:
- Beers: USD 7.00-8.00
- Cocktails: USD 7.00-16.00
- Sodas: USD 3.50
- Bottled Water: USD 3.25-6.50
- Specialty Coffees: USD 3.00-5.00
From a value viewpoint, you’d need about six cocktails daily to match the Easy Plus Package cost. Your calculation should include your daily coffee, water by the pool, and sodas throughout the day.
Additional fees and gratuities explained
MSC’s pricing structure stands out because gratuities come included in package costs. This is different from other cruise lines where gratuities add extra costs to final bills. Individual drink purchases come with an 18% gratuity charge.
Key points to remember:
- You must buy packages for every cruise day except disembarkation
- Your entire cabin needs the same package type
- Port taxes might apply during shore visits
- Package upgrades come at reduced rates with cruise promotions
Booking during promotions can save you money. Current deals might include the Easy Plus Package with up to 40% off cruise fares, plus extras like Wi-Fi and onboard credits.
Maximizing Your Drink Package Value
Smart travelers know how to get the most value from MSC drink packages. The right approach can lead to big savings on MSC Seashore or the new MSC World Europa cruises.
Practical tips to get your money’s worth
You can make the most of your beverage package investment through these proven methods:
- Get your morning coffee and water delivered to the cabin
- Make full use of the package at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
- Look at port day schedules to calculate package value
- Save more by combining internet and drink packages
- Try specialty coffee options throughout the day
Best times to purchase packages
The timing of MSC drink package purchases makes a significant difference. You can save up to 15% by booking before your cruise instead of waiting to buy onboard. A 7-night cruise’s Easy Package costs USD 46.00 per day with advance purchase. The Premium Extra Package costs USD 85.00 per day.
Current deals often bundle the Easy Plus Package with Wi-Fi and up to USD 400.00 in onboard credit per cabin. These combined packages usually give better value than buying each item separately.
How to make the most of promotions and deals
MSC runs promotions that smart cruisers can take advantage of:
The “Happy Drink” promotion cuts 30% off the Easy Package price on Mediterranean, Caribbean, and North American sailings. People who plan ahead can get the Easy Plus Package for about USD 19.00 per day when bundled with Wi-Fi.
Smart travelers can maximize promotional value by:
- Checking pre-cruise prices often
- Looking out for Black Friday events with exclusive 2-for-1 deals
- Finding package upgrade deals at lower rates before sailing
- Using MSC Voyagers Club member’s special discounts
Families need to time their package purchases carefully. Adults who buy beverage packages must get the Minors Package for all underage guests. Good timing helps families stay within their vacation budget while keeping everyone refreshed.
MSC drink packages need careful handling in special situations, especially when you have families and groups sailing together. Knowing how to handle these unique cases helps cruisers avoid complications and get the most value from their beverage package.
Group and family booking considerations
MSC’s beverage package policy has specific rules for group bookings that affect families and friends who travel together. All guests who share a cabin must buy the same type of drink package. Each region has different rules for families with children:
- European itineraries: Children aged 3-17 must have Minors Package
- North American/Caribbean cruises: Ages 3-12 require Minors Package
- Ages 13-20 on North American routes qualify for Alcohol-free Package
- Children under 3 don’t need to follow package requirements
The rules also apply to people dining together. Guests who want to share a table must match their package levels to ensure smooth service during meals.
Port day and Ocean Cay implications
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve gives package holders extra benefits. MSC lets you use your beverage package fully at Ocean Cay, unlike other cruise lines that limit usage on private islands. Here’s what you should know:
- Your drink package stays valid on the island
- The island might have fewer drink options than the ship
- Regular package price limits work on island purchases
- Easy Package holders can still get their included drinks
Package upgrade opportunities
You can boost your beverage experience through smart upgrades. MSC’s upgrade options come with cost benefits worth noting:
Pre-cruise upgrades:
- Promotional package holders get discounted rates
- You must buy before sailing to skip service charges
- Everyone in your cabin needs to upgrade together
Onboard upgrades:
- Full price applies to all guests
- A 15% service charge gets added
- Any ship bar or guest services can help you upgrade
Upgrading before your cruise saves money if you have promotional packages. Recent examples show upgrades from Easy Plus to Premium cost about $20 per person daily when bought before the cruise.
Making the Smart Package Choice
Choosing the right MSC drink package depends on your drinking habits, budget, and personal priorities. MSC’s fleet, including ships like MSC Seashore and MSC World Europa, offers multiple options. Travelers can make smart decisions using several helpful tools.
Package selection quiz
Smart choices begin when you answer these essential questions:
- Daily drink consumption patterns
- Preferred beverage types
- Port day activities
- Dining companions and cabin mates
- Length of cruise
Your decision affects everyone in your travel party because all guests in the same cabin must buy similar packages. This quiz helps you learn whether the Easy Package at USD 46.00 per day or premium choices like the Premium Extra Package at USD 85.00 per day better match your needs.
Consumption calculator tool explanation
MSC’s drink package calculator takes a analytical approach to help you choose. The digital tool analyzes:
- Daily consumption estimates
- Preferred drink types
- Cruise duration
- Package pricing with pre-cruise discounts
- Break-even analysis
The calculator shows how package costs compare to pay-as-you-go pricing, revealing potential savings or extra costs. The tool helps you determine if the Easy Package makes financial sense when ordering USD 10.00 drinks, since guests pay full price instead of just the difference for premium beverages.
Recommendations by traveler type
Each cruise style needs a specific package approach:
Social Cruisers
- Premium Extra Package works best for variety
- Perfect for premium spirits and wine enthusiasts
- Great value on longer cruises with multiple sea days
Casual Drinkers
- Easy Plus Package delivers balanced value
- Covers standard drinks up to USD 10.00
- You get 10% off wine bottles
Family Groups
- Children need the Minors Package
- Non-alcoholic options matter for teens
- Shared dining plans need attention
Specialty Dining Enthusiasts
- Easy Plus or Premium Extra fits best
- Packages work in specialty restaurants
- Better wine selections become available
Your cruise length and port visits should guide the final choice since packages cover the entire voyage. ‘All In’ promotion bookings come with the Easy Plus package included, and you can upgrade at special rates.
Smart travelers buy packages before the cruise to save up to 15%. The group’s package selections need coordination because everyone at the same table must have matching packages.
MSC drink packages provide real value to cruise travelers that plan ahead and know their drinking habits. Booking packages before the cruise can save 15% or more, and promotional deals might slash costs further with bundled perks and discounts.
Picking the right package becomes easier when you know your daily drinking patterns and think over factors like who you’ll dine with, days at port, and Ocean Cay visits. Casual drinkers will find the Easy Package fits their needs, while those wanting premium spirits and specialty cocktails should opt for the Premium Extra Package.
Families and groups can maximize savings by selecting their packages early. Note that everyone sharing a cabin or dining together needs matching packages. MSC’s program stands out from other cruise lines by including gratuities and Ocean Cay coverage.
The perfect drink package will revolutionize your MSC cruise from good to exceptional. You won’t have to worry about mounting beverage costs. Smart package selection, combined with well-timed booking and promotional awareness, will give cruise travelers the best value while they enjoy their time at sea.
Here are some FAQs about the MSC drink packages:
How much are the drink packages on MSC?
MSC drink packages vary depending on the type and duration of your cruise. For example, the Easy Package offers basic drinks starting around $35 per day, while the Premium Extra Drink Package costs more but includes a wider selection. Guests can enjoy drinks at venues like the MSC Champagne Bar, where the MSC Meraviglia Champagne Bar Menu, MSC Seaside Champagne Bar Menu, and others feature unique beverages.
What does the MSC free drink package include?
The MSC free drink package often includes water, soft drinks, select beers, and house wines by the glass. While this package is included in some promotional offers, it may not cover premium drinks or cocktails found in menus like the MSC Seashore Champagne Bar Menu or MSC World Europa Champagne Bar Menu.
The Premium Extra Drink Package on MSC Cruises costs approximately $70 to $80 per person per day. This package provides access to a wider range of drinks, including specialty cocktails and champagne options available on menus such as the MSC Champagne Bar Menu.
Does the MSC drink package have a limit?
MSC drink packages typically have no strict drink limits per day, but responsible consumption is expected. Certain premium options, such as selections from the MSC Meraviglia Champagne Bar Menu, may have a price cap, and drinks above this limit require guests to pay the difference.
Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board?
It is often more cost-effective to purchase drink packages in advance rather than on board. Buying pre-cruise ensures you lock in lower rates and enjoy worry-free access to venues like the MSC Seaside Champagne Bar Menu.
Can I take my own drinks on MSC Cruises?
MSC Cruises prohibits guests from bringing their own alcoholic beverages on board. However, the extensive offerings from packages and menus, such as the MSC Seashore Champagne Bar Menu, make it easy to find satisfying options.
Drink packages on MSC are assigned per guest and are non-transferable. Sharing is not allowed, but each guest in a cabin can purchase their own package to enjoy options from menus like the MSC World Europa Champagne Bar Menu.
Does MSC give free water?
MSC provides free water during meals in the main dining areas. For bottled or sparkling water outside meal times, a drink package or individual purchase may be required.
Does MSC charge gratuities on drinks?
Yes, MSC adds a gratuity fee of approximately 15% to drink purchases. This fee is often included in the cost of drink packages, such as the Premium Extra Drink Package.
Can two people use one drink package on a cruise?
No, MSC’s drink packages are individual and cannot be shared. Each guest must purchase their own package to enjoy unlimited access to options like those found in the MSC Champagne Bar Menu.
Do you pay the difference on MSC drinks?
If you choose a drink outside the coverage of your package, you only pay the price difference. This applies to premium selections, such as certain champagne options in the MSC Seashore Champagne Bar Menu.
What is not included on MSC Cruises?
Certain specialty dining experiences, premium beverages, and excursions are not included. Drinks from menus like the MSC Meraviglia Champagne Bar Menu may require an upgraded drink package.
Does MSC have free ice cream?
MSC provides free ice cream in the main dining areas, particularly soft serve during meal times. However, specialty ice cream from venues like the gelato bars incurs an additional cost.
Can you bring a reusable water bottle on an MSC cruise?
Yes, you can bring a reusable water bottle to refill at water stations. This is a sustainable way to stay hydrated during your trip.
Do free drinks on MSC include alcohol?
Free drinks on MSC, included in some packages or promotions, typically cover select alcoholic options such as house wines and draft beers. Premium cocktails and champagne from the MSC Champagne Bar Menu may require a paid upgrade.