When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is whether meals are included in the ticket price. Dining is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s an essential part of the cruise experience. Guests often look forward to tasting global cuisines, enjoying fine dining, and having the freedom to indulge without constantly worrying about extra costs.

MSC Cruises, one of the world’s leading cruise lines, is known for its Mediterranean heritage and international flair. Its dining experiences are designed to bring passengers a blend of classic flavors, modern culinary styles, and family-friendly meal options. But how much of this is included in your fare?

The good news is that yes, meals are included on MSC Cruises ships. From casual buffets to elegant main dining rooms, most of your dining needs are covered in the cruise price. However, there are also specialty restaurants and premium experiences that require an additional fee.

This article will provide a complete breakdown of what dining options are included on MSC Cruises, what costs extra, and how to maximize your onboard culinary experience.

1. What’s Included in MSC Cruises Meals

When you book an MSC cruise, your ticket includes a wide range of dining options. You won’t go hungry, as meals are available almost all day.

1.1 Main Dining Rooms

The main dining rooms are at the heart of the cruise dining experience. These elegant venues serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with multi-course menus.

• Breakfast: Options like eggs, pancakes, fruit, cereal, and pastries.

• Lunch: Salads, soups, grilled items, pastas, and daily chef specials.

• Dinner: Multi-course meals featuring appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

Menus often reflect MSC’s international flair, with Mediterranean dishes, vegetarian options, and some regional specialties depending on the itinerary.

1.2 Buffet Restaurants

The buffet is a popular choice for those who want casual dining with variety and flexibility.

• Open for extended hours

• Wide range of options: pizza, pasta, salads, meats, seafood, desserts, and snacks

• Ideal for families and travelers on the go

1.3 Snacks and Light Meals

Beyond main meals, MSC offers:

• Afternoon tea service with pastries

• Late-night snacks and small bites

• Pizza and casual fare at select venues

1.4 Kids’ Meals

Children’s menus are available in both the buffet and main dining rooms. These menus typically include kid-friendly items such as pasta, chicken, fries, and desserts. Parents can rest assured that little ones are well taken care of at mealtime.

2. Specialty Dining – What Costs Extra

While your cruise ticket includes plenty of food, MSC also offers specialty dining restaurants that come at an additional cost. These are optional and cater to guests looking for unique experiences.

Examples include:

• Steakhouse – Premium cuts of meat and seafood.

• Sushi and Teppanyaki – Japanese cuisine with live cooking shows.

• Seafood Restaurants – Fresh fish, lobster, and Mediterranean-style dishes.

• French and Italian Fine Dining – Upscale menus and wine pairings.

• Cirque-style Dinner Shows – Entertainment with dining (on select ships).

Guests can book specialty restaurants individually or purchase dining packages for discounted prices.

3. Beverages – What’s Included and What’s Not

Meals are included, but beverages are a little different.

3.1 Drinks Included in the Fare

• Tap water

• Coffee and tea (basic varieties)

• Juices at breakfast

• Milk

3.2 Drinks Not Included

• Soft drinks (Coke, Sprite, bottled juices)

• Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, cocktails, spirits)

• Specialty coffees (cappuccino, espresso, lattes)

• Bottled water

Passengers can purchase drinks individually or buy beverage packages that provide better value.

4. Dietary Needs and Special Requests

MSC Cruises accommodates various dietary preferences and requirements. With advance notice, guests can request:

• Vegetarian meals

• Gluten-free options

• Lactose-free dishes

• Kosher and halal meals (when requested in advance)

This ensures that all passengers can enjoy inclusive dining, regardless of their dietary restrictions.

5. Dining Times and Flexibility

MSC Cruises offers both traditional dining and flexible dining options.

• Traditional dining: Assigned dining times in the main dining room, either early or late seating.

• Flexible dining: Guests can choose when to dine, depending on availability.

• Buffet: Open for extended hours, giving freedom for casual meals.

This flexibility is especially helpful for families, groups, or those who prefer to plan each day at their own pace.

6. Differences by Ship and Itinerary

While the overall dining concept is the same across MSC’s fleet, the exact restaurants and menus may vary depending on the ship and itinerary. Larger ships often have more specialty restaurants, additional snack venues, and expanded buffet areas.

Mediterranean itineraries may feature more regional dishes like pasta, seafood, and olive-based cuisine, while Caribbean sailings might offer more tropical flavors and seafood options.

7. Dining for Families

MSC is family-friendly, and this extends to dining. Kids’ clubs may offer meal times for younger passengers, and parents can enjoy adult dining while children are supervised. Family-style dining options at the buffet make mealtimes easier for larger groups.

8. How to Get the Most Out of Meals on MSC Cruises

• Try the main dining room every night – Menus change daily, and the variety is impressive.

• Visit the buffet for casual meals – Perfect for quick snacks and relaxed dining.

• Book specialty dining in advance – For those special nights when you want something different.

• Consider beverage packages – If you plan to enjoy wine, cocktails, or soda regularly.

• Inform staff about dietary restrictions early – To ensure meals are prepared to your needs.

9. What’s Not Included in Meals

To set expectations, here are things that are not part of the standard fare:

• Premium dining venues (steakhouse, sushi, fine dining)

• Drinks beyond water, tea, coffee, and basic juices

• Room service on some ships (may incur a small delivery fee)

• Cooking classes or wine tastings

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are all meals included on MSC Cruises?

Yes, meals in the buffet and main dining rooms are included. Specialty dining restaurants cost extra.

Q2. Are drinks included with meals?

Basic drinks like water, tea, coffee, and juice at breakfast are included. Soda, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are extra.

Q3. Are kids’ meals free?

Yes, children’s meals in the buffet and dining rooms are included in the fare.

Q4. Can I get vegetarian or gluten-free meals?

Yes, MSC accommodates special diets, but it’s best to inform the cruise line before your trip.

Q5. Do I have to pay extra for room service?

On some MSC ships, basic room service is included, but others may charge a delivery fee. Specialty items may carry an extra cost.

Conclusion

So, are meals included on MSC Cruises ships? Absolutely. Your ticket covers breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and kids’ meals in both the main dining rooms and buffet restaurants. From casual bites to multi-course dinners, the included options are plentiful and diverse.

What’s not included are specialty restaurants, premium dining experiences, and most beverages. However, these are optional extras that enhance your cruise experience if you choose to indulge.

MSC Cruises ensures that food is not only included but also a highlight of your journey. By balancing the included options with optional specialty dining, passengers can create the perfect blend of value and indulgence. Whether you’re a foodie eager to try new flavors or a family looking for convenient meals, MSC has you covered.