Planning an MSC cruise and wondering whether a beverage package is worth the cost? One of the most common questions travelers ask before sailing is: “How much is a beverage package on MSC Cruises?”
The answer depends on several factors, including the cruise itinerary, departure region, sailing date, package type, and whether you purchase the package before boarding or onboard the ship. MSC offers several beverage package options ranging from alcohol-free plans to premium all-inclusive packages.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:
This guide is based on publicly available information from official MSC Cruises resources and industry sources. Pricing can change without notice and may vary by sailing. Always verify the latest rates directly with MSC before booking.
MSC Cruises offers beverage packages that allow passengers to pay a fixed daily rate for drinks rather than purchasing beverages individually throughout the cruise.
Depending on the package selected, guests can enjoy:
MSC periodically updates its beverage program, and package availability can vary by market and itinerary.
The following table reflects publicly reported pricing and official MSC package structures. Actual prices may vary based on itinerary and booking channel.
| Beverage Package | Typical Price Per Person Per Day | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free Package | €29–€35 | Non-drinkers, families |
| Easy Package | €47–€55 | Casual drinkers |
| Easy Plus Package* | €63–€70 | Moderate drinkers |
| Premium Extra Package | €87–€100+ | Frequent cocktail and wine drinkers |
| Minors Package | €20–€25 | Children and teens |
Availability varies by market and sailing. Some regions have reduced Easy Plus availability.
Here is what a typical 7-night cruise might cost per passenger:
| Package | Daily Cost | 7-Day Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | €29 | €203 |
| Easy | €47 | €329 |
| Easy Plus | €63 | €441 |
| Premium Extra | €87 | €609 |
| Minors | €20 | €140 |
Remember that MSC beverage packages are generally sold for the entire cruise rather than individual days.
The Easy Package is MSC's entry-level alcoholic beverage plan.
Gratuities are included in the package price. Guests can consume up to 15 alcoholic beverages per day.
The Easy Package works well for travelers who:
The Easy Plus Package expands beverage options significantly.
Everything in Easy Package
MSC states that Easy Plus generally covers beverages up to specified menu-value limits depending on the sailing region.
The Premium Extra Package is MSC's highest-tier beverage package.
The package also includes discounts on certain wine bottle purchases. Beverage gratuities are included.
Not everyone wants alcohol on vacation.
The Alcohol-Free Package includes:
This package can provide substantial savings compared with purchasing drinks individually.
One of the biggest changes to MSC beverage packages is the implementation of a daily alcohol limit.
According to MSC's beverage package policy:
This policy aligns MSC with several other major cruise lines that have adopted responsible alcohol service measures.
The answer depends entirely on your drinking habits.
Daily consumption:
Daily total:
€28
An Easy Package costing around €47 daily would not provide value.
Daily consumption:
Daily total:
€58
In this case, the Easy Package or Easy Plus Package may be worthwhile.
Daily consumption:
Daily total:
€96
The Premium Extra Package could generate significant savings.
Many travelers appreciate knowing drink expenses upfront.
MSC includes beverage gratuities in package pricing.
No need to sign receipts or track spending constantly.
Passengers often try more drinks when costs are prepaid.
If you consume only a few drinks daily, individual purchases are often cheaper.
No commitment to drinking enough to justify package costs.
Passengers spending long periods ashore may not consume enough onboard beverages to recover package costs.
MSC frequently offers discounts for advance beverage package purchases.
Online pricing may be lower than onboard pricing.
Review:
Many guests overestimate their actual beverage spending.
On cruises with many port days:
MSC often bundles drink packages into cruise promotions.
These packages can be significantly cheaper than standalone purchases.
Paying for Premium Extra may not make sense if you mainly drink:
In such cases, the Easy Package often provides better value.
Before purchasing, understand these rules:
MSC generally requires all adults in the same cabin to purchase the same beverage package if one adult purchases an alcoholic package. Exceptions may apply.
Packages cannot be shared.
Packages are typically purchased for the entire cruise.
Once activated onboard, packages generally cannot be canceled or refunded.
Responsible drinking remains important during cruises.
The World Health Organization notes that alcohol consumption carries health risks, including dehydration and impaired judgment. Cruise passengers should:
Travelers with medical conditions should consult healthcare professionals before consuming alcohol regularly during vacations.
Calculate:
Estimate your total beverage spending.
Compare projected spending against package prices.
Subtract time spent off the ship.
Some travelers value convenience even if savings are modest.
Premium Extra typically costs approximately €87–€100+ per person per day depending on itinerary, region, and booking date.
The Easy Package generally ranges from approximately €47–€55 per person per day, though pricing varies by sailing.
Yes. MSC states that beverage gratuities are included in package pricing.
Generally no. MSC sells beverage packages for the duration of the cruise rather than individual days.
Yes. Bottled water or MSC's AQUA water program is included in eligible beverage packages.
Guests may continue ordering alcoholic beverages but must pay full menu prices for drinks exceeding the daily package limit.
Specialty coffee is included in higher-tier packages and many non-alcoholic packages. Coverage depends on the package selected.
No. Beverage packages are non-transferable and intended for individual use only.
Children traveling with adults who purchase beverage packages may need a corresponding minors package depending on booking terms and itinerary.
In many cases, yes. MSC frequently offers discounted pre-cruise beverage package pricing compared with onboard purchases.
For most 2026 sailings, MSC beverage package prices generally fall into these ranges:
| Package | Typical Daily Cost |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | €29–€35 |
| Easy | €47–€55 |
| Easy Plus | €63–€70 |
| Premium Extra | €87–€100+ |
| Minors | €20–€25 |
The best value depends on your onboard drinking habits. Light drinkers usually save money by paying individually, while guests consuming multiple cocktails, coffees, bottled waters, and alcoholic beverages each day often find beverage packages worthwhile.
For maximum savings, purchase your package before embarkation, compare package tiers carefully, and estimate your actual beverage consumption realistically. By doing so, you can determine whether an MSC beverage package enhances your cruise experience—or whether paying as you go is the smarter financial choice.
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