How many drinks can you get a day with a MSC Cruises drink package?

How many drinks can you get a day with a MSC Cruises drink package?

Planning an MSC cruise and wondering whether the drink package is worth the cost? One of the most common questions travelers ask is:

The answer is straightforward but includes important details that many cruisers overlook.

As of MSC Cruises' current beverage policy, guests with eligible alcoholic drink packages can receive up to 15 alcoholic beverages per day, while most non-alcoholic beverages included in the package remain unlimited. This policy applies across much of the MSC fleet and is part of the cruise line’s responsible alcohol service program.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:

• MSC's current drink limits
• What counts toward the daily limit
• Which drinks are unlimited
• Differences between MSC drink packages
• Whether the package is worth the money
• Tips for maximizing value
• Frequently asked questions from real cruisers

Understanding MSC Cruises Drink Packages

MSC Cruises offers several beverage packages designed for different types of travelers.

The primary packages include:

Package	Alcohol Included?	Daily Alcohol Limit
Easy Package	Yes	15 alcoholic drinks
Premium Extra Package	Yes	15 alcoholic drinks
Alcohol-Free Package	No	Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages
Minors Package	No	Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages

 

According to MSC Cruises' official beverage package terms, guests using the Easy and Premium Extra packages may consume up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day. Non-alcoholic beverages included in the package generally remain unlimited.

The Short Answer: How Many Drinks Per Day?

Alcoholic Drinks

MSC currently allows:

15 alcoholic beverages per guest per day

This applies to:

• Beer
• Wine by the glass
• Cocktails
• Mixed drinks
• Spirits
• Liqueurs

Once the 15-drink threshold is reached, additional alcoholic beverages are typically charged at menu price.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

For guests with qualifying packages, non-alcoholic beverages generally remain unlimited.

Examples include:

• Bottled water
• Sparkling water
• Soda
• Specialty coffee
• Tea
• Energy drinks
• Mocktails
• Smoothies (on applicable packages)
• Fresh juices

MSC specifically notes that drink package holders can enjoy unlimited AQUA by MSC water.

What Counts Toward the 15-Drink Limit?

Many first-time MSC passengers assume every beverage counts.

That's not how the policy works.

The 15-drink cap applies specifically to alcoholic beverages.

Drinks That Count

• Beer
• Cocktails
• Margaritas
• Mojitos
• Wine
• Champagne by the glass
• Whiskey
• Vodka drinks
• Rum drinks
• Gin drinks

Drinks That Do Not Count

• Water
• Soda
• Coffee
• Cappuccino
• Espresso
• Tea
• Mocktails
• Non-alcoholic beer
• Non-alcoholic wine
• Smoothies

MSC's beverage package FAQ and numerous passenger reports indicate that non-alcoholic beverages remain outside the daily alcohol limit.

Why Did MSC Introduce a Drink Limit?

Historically, some MSC packages were marketed as effectively unlimited.

However, cruise lines worldwide have increasingly implemented drink limits to encourage responsible alcohol consumption.

The move aligns with broader hospitality industry trends and responsible-service practices recommended by health organizations.

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that excessive alcohol consumption is associated with increased risks of accidents, injuries, and health complications. Cruise operators therefore have strong incentives to implement consumption controls while still providing generous beverage benefits.

MSC's 15-drink policy balances passenger enjoyment with responsible service standards.

MSC Drink Package Comparison

Easy Package

The Easy Package is MSC's entry-level alcoholic beverage package.

Included beverages generally include:

• House wines
• Selected beers
• Basic cocktails
• Soft drinks
• Water
• Coffee and tea

Guests may enjoy:

Up to 15 alcoholic beverages daily.

Best For

• Casual drinkers
• Travelers who enjoy a few cocktails daily
• Budget-conscious cruisers

Premium Extra Package

The Premium Extra Package is MSC's most comprehensive beverage option.

It includes:

• Premium spirits
• Higher-end cocktails
• Premium wines
• Specialty coffee
• Energy drinks
• Fresh juices
• Smoothies

MSC states that guests may also enjoy:

Up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day.

Best For

• Cocktail enthusiasts
• Wine drinkers
• Specialty coffee lovers
• Frequent cruisers

Alcohol-Free Package

This package contains:

• Soft drinks
• Specialty coffees
• Tea
• Mocktails
• Juices
• Water

Because alcohol is not included, the 15-drink alcohol limit does not apply.

Best For

• Non-drinkers
• Families
• Health-conscious travelers

Minors Package

Designed for younger guests, this package includes:

• Soda
• Juice
• Water
• Mocktails
• Hot beverages

Alcohol is excluded.

Is 15 Drinks Per Day Enough?

For most travelers, absolutely.

Let's look at a realistic cruise day.

Time	Beverage
Breakfast	Latte
Pool Time	2 beers
Lunch	Glass of wine
Afternoon	Cocktail
Sail Away	Cocktail
Dinner	2 glasses of wine
Show	Martini
Nightcap	Whiskey

 

Total alcoholic drinks:

8 drinks

Even fairly active social drinkers rarely exceed 15 alcoholic beverages in a single day.

What Happens After You Reach 15 Alcoholic Drinks?

Once you hit the daily allowance:

1. Your package remains active.
2. Non-alcoholic drinks continue to be covered.
3. Additional alcoholic drinks are charged individually.

Passengers report that bar staff track purchases electronically through cruise cards or wearable devices.

Can You Share Your Drink Package?

No.

MSC clearly prohibits sharing beverage packages.

Each drink package is:

• Personal
• Non-transferable
• Linked to your cruise card

Furthermore, MSC requires all guests in the same cabin to purchase a beverage package if one guest purchases an alcoholic package, although minors receive the appropriate minors package instead.

Do Specialty Coffees Count?

No.

Specialty coffees generally do not count toward the alcohol limit.

Examples include:

• Cappuccino
• Latte
• Espresso
• Americano
• Macchiato

These beverages remain available under qualifying packages.

Does Bottled Water Count?

No.

MSC specifically states that drink package holders can enjoy unlimited AQUA by MSC water where available.

This is one reason many cruisers find beverage packages valuable even when they consume only moderate amounts of alcohol.

Does the Limit Apply in the MSC Yacht Club?

Guests staying in the MSC Yacht Club receive enhanced beverage benefits.

However, MSC's FAQ notes that the daily limit of 15 alcoholic beverages per guest still applies as part of responsible drinking policies.

Are Drink Limits the Same on Every Sailing?

Policies can evolve.

MSC periodically updates package rules based on:

• Region
• Ship
• Itinerary
• Operational requirements

Always verify details directly with MSC before departure.

If a future policy changes, rely on MSC's official beverage package page rather than third-party sources.

Is an MSC Drink Package Worth It?

The answer depends on your drinking habits.

Likely Worth It If You Consume Daily:

• 4–6 cocktails
• Several coffees
• Bottled water
• Soft drinks
• Wine with dinner

The savings can add up quickly because cruise drink prices often range from approximately $8–$16 per alcoholic beverage depending on the ship and itinerary.

May Not Be Worth It If You Only Have:

• One beer at dinner
• Occasional coffee
• Mostly complimentary beverages

In these cases, paying per drink could cost less.

How to Calculate Your Break-Even Point

Follow these steps.

1.Estimate daily consumption.

Example:

• 3 cocktails
• 2 glasses wine
• 2 specialty coffees
• 4 bottled waters

2.Check average onboard prices.

3.Multiply by cruise length.

4.Compare the total to the package cost.

If package cost is lower than expected spending, purchasing the package may make financial sense.

Health Considerations When Drinking on a Cruise

Cruise vacations often encourage indulgence, but moderation remains important.

According to the World Health Organization, alcohol use increases the risk of:

• Injuries
• Falls
• Impaired judgment
• Dehydration

Cruise environments can amplify these risks due to:

• Sun exposure
• Heat
• Physical activity
• Motion at sea

Practical recommendations include:

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water.
• Eat before drinking heavily.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid excessive consumption before shore excursions.

These habits improve safety and enjoyment throughout the voyage.

Expert Tips to Maximize Your MSC Drink Package

1. Buy Before Boarding

MSC frequently offers discounted pre-cruise package pricing.

Many travelers save compared with onboard purchases.

2. Use Specialty Coffee Benefits

Premium packages often include specialty coffee drinks that can significantly increase package value.

3. Stay Hydrated

Take advantage of included bottled or packaged water throughout the cruise.

4. Enjoy Fresh Juices and Smoothies

Premium packages include beverages that can otherwise be relatively expensive.

5. Understand Package Limits

Knowing exactly what counts toward the 15-drink limit prevents surprises.

Common Misconceptions About MSC Drink Packages

1: The Package Is Unlimited

Not for alcohol.

MSC currently limits alcoholic beverages to 15 per day.

2: Coffee Counts Toward the Limit

False.

Coffee generally remains unlimited under qualifying packages.

3: Water Counts Toward the Limit

False.

Water remains included separately from the alcohol cap.

4: Yacht Club Guests Have No Alcohol Limit

False.

MSC's responsible-drinking policy still applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many alcoholic drinks can I have per day on MSC Cruises?

MSC currently allows up to 15 alcoholic beverages per guest per day on qualifying alcoholic beverage packages.

2. Are non-alcoholic drinks unlimited?

Yes. Most included non-alcoholic beverages remain unlimited under applicable packages.

3. Do sodas count toward the 15-drink limit?

No. Soda is generally considered a non-alcoholic beverage and does not count toward the alcohol limit.

4. Does bottled water count toward the limit?

No. MSC indicates that drink package holders may enjoy unlimited included water options.

5. Can I buy drinks after reaching 15 alcoholic beverages?

Yes. Additional alcoholic beverages can usually be purchased individually at menu price.

6. Can I share my drink package with another guest?

No. Drink packages are non-transferable and sharing is prohibited.

7. Does the limit reset each day?

Yes. The daily alcoholic beverage allowance resets according to MSC's onboard system. Passenger reports indicate tracking occurs electronically.

8. Are specialty coffees included?

Many specialty coffees are included in qualifying beverage packages, particularly Premium Extra.

9. Do MSC Yacht Club guests receive unlimited alcohol?

No. MSC states that the 15-alcoholic-drink daily limit still applies.

10. Is the drink package worth it?

For travelers who regularly purchase cocktails, wine, coffee, bottled water, and soft drinks throughout the day, the package often provides strong value. Those who drink only occasionally may spend less by purchasing beverages individually.

Final Verdict

So, how many drinks can you get a day with an MSC Cruises drink package?

The current MSC policy allows up to 15 alcoholic beverages per guest per day, while non-alcoholic drinks included in the package generally remain unlimited.

For most cruisers, 15 alcoholic drinks is more than sufficient, especially when combined with unlimited water, soda, specialty coffee, mocktails, and other non-alcoholic options. Understanding exactly what counts toward the limit helps you choose the right package and avoid unexpected charges onboard.

If your vacation style includes cocktails by the pool, wine at dinner, specialty coffees in the morning, and plenty of bottled water throughout the day, an MSC drink package can offer both convenience and substantial value while simplifying your onboard spending.