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How much is a beverage package on MSC Cruises?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 10 June 2026

How much is a beverage package on MSC Cruises?

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:

  • Current MSC beverage package pricing
  • What's included in each package
  • How package costs vary by region
  • Whether drink packages save money
  • Real-world cost calculations
  • Expert tips for maximizing value
  • Frequently asked questions

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.

Understanding MSC Cruises Beverage Packages

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:

  • Cocktails
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Spirits
  • Specialty coffee
  • Soft drinks
  • Bottled water
  • Mocktails
  • Smoothies
  • Energy drinks

MSC periodically updates its beverage program, and package availability can vary by market and itinerary.

How Much Does an MSC Beverage Package Cost?

Estimated 2026 Beverage Package Prices

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.

Estimated Cost for a 7-Day Cruise

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.

What Is Included in Each MSC Beverage Package?

Easy Package

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

Included

  • House wines by the glass
  • Selected beers
  • Classic cocktails
  • House spirits
  • Soft drinks
  • Juices
  • Coffee and tea
  • Bottled or refillable water
  • Mocktails

Gratuities are included in the package price. Guests can consume up to 15 alcoholic beverages per day.

Best For

The Easy Package works well for travelers who:

  • Drink 3–6 alcoholic beverages daily
  • Prefer house brands
  • Enjoy occasional cocktails
  • Want predictable vacation expenses

Easy Plus Package

The Easy Plus Package expands beverage options significantly.

Included

  • Everything in Easy Package

  • Higher-priced cocktails
  • Premium beers
  • Sparkling wines
  • Specialty coffees
  • Additional wine selections

MSC states that Easy Plus generally covers beverages up to specified menu-value limits depending on the sailing region.

Best For

  • Cocktail enthusiasts
  • Guests who enjoy premium spirits
  • Travelers who drink throughout the day

Premium Extra Package

The Premium Extra Package is MSC's highest-tier beverage package.

Included

  • Premium cocktails
  • Top-shelf spirits
  • Champagne by the glass
  • Extensive wine selection
  • Specialty coffees
  • Smoothies
  • Protein shakes
  • Energy drinks
  • Premium beers
  • Bottled water

The package also includes discounts on certain wine bottle purchases. Beverage gratuities are included.

Best For

  • Wine lovers
  • Frequent cocktail drinkers
  • Luxury travelers
  • Guests spending significant time onboard

Alcohol-Free Package

Not everyone wants alcohol on vacation.

The Alcohol-Free Package includes:

  • Soft drinks
  • Mocktails
  • Specialty coffees
  • Bottled water
  • Smoothies
  • Energy drinks
  • Juices

This package can provide substantial savings compared with purchasing drinks individually.

MSC's 15-Alcoholic-Drink Daily Limit

One of the biggest changes to MSC beverage packages is the implementation of a daily alcohol limit.

According to MSC's beverage package policy:

  • Guests may consume up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day.
  • The limit applies only to alcoholic beverages.
  • Non-alcoholic drinks remain available within package terms.
  • Additional alcoholic drinks may be purchased separately at menu prices.

This policy aligns MSC with several other major cruise lines that have adopted responsible alcohol service measures.

Is an MSC Beverage Package Worth It?

The answer depends entirely on your drinking habits.

1: Casual Drinker

Daily consumption:

  • 2 beers (€7 each)
  • 1 glass of wine (€8)
  • 2 bottled waters (€3 each)

Daily total:

€28

An Easy Package costing around €47 daily would not provide value.

2: Moderate Drinker

Daily consumption:

  • 3 cocktails (€11 each)
  • 2 beers (€7 each)
  • 1 specialty coffee (€5)
  • 2 bottled waters (€3 each)

Daily total:

€58

In this case, the Easy Package or Easy Plus Package may be worthwhile.

3: Heavy Vacation Drinker

Daily consumption:

  • 5 cocktails (€11 each)
  • 3 beers (€7 each)
  • 2 specialty coffees (€5 each)
  • Bottled water and soft drinks (€10)

Daily total:

€96

The Premium Extra Package could generate significant savings.

Beverage Package vs Paying As You Go

Beverage Package Advantages

Budget Predictability

Many travelers appreciate knowing drink expenses upfront.

Included Gratuities

MSC includes beverage gratuities in package pricing.

Convenience

No need to sign receipts or track spending constantly.

Greater Beverage Variety

Passengers often try more drinks when costs are prepaid.

Pay-As-You-Go Advantages

Lower Cost for Light Drinkers

If you consume only a few drinks daily, individual purchases are often cheaper.

More Flexibility

No commitment to drinking enough to justify package costs.

Better Value on Port Days

Passengers spending long periods ashore may not consume enough onboard beverages to recover package costs.

How to Save Money on MSC Beverage Packages

1. Buy Before the Cruise

MSC frequently offers discounts for advance beverage package purchases.

Online pricing may be lower than onboard pricing.

2. Analyze Your Drinking Habits

Review:

  • Coffee consumption
  • Alcohol intake
  • Water purchases
  • Soft drink purchases

Many guests overestimate their actual beverage spending.

3. Consider Port-Intensive Itineraries

On cruises with many port days:

  • You spend fewer hours onboard.
  • Beverage package value decreases.

4. Watch for Promotions

MSC often bundles drink packages into cruise promotions.

These packages can be significantly cheaper than standalone purchases.

5. Compare Package Levels Carefully

Paying for Premium Extra may not make sense if you mainly drink:

  • House wine
  • Domestic beer
  • Standard cocktails

In such cases, the Easy Package often provides better value.

Important MSC Beverage Package Rules

Before purchasing, understand these rules:

Entire Cabin Participation

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.

Non-Transferable

Packages cannot be shared.

Cruise-Length Purchase

Packages are typically purchased for the entire cruise.

No Refunds After Activation

Once activated onboard, packages generally cannot be canceled or refunded.

Health Considerations for Alcohol Consumption

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:

  • Alternate alcoholic beverages with water
  • Stay hydrated in warm climates
  • Monitor alcohol intake
  • Follow ship safety guidelines

Travelers with medical conditions should consult healthcare professionals before consuming alcohol regularly during vacations.

Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Right MSC Beverage Package

1: Estimate Daily Drink Consumption

Calculate:

  • Cocktails
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Coffee
  • Water
  • Soft drinks

 2: Multiply by Cruise Length

Estimate your total beverage spending.

3: Compare With Package Cost

Compare projected spending against package prices.

 4: Consider Port Days

Subtract time spent off the ship.

 5: Evaluate Convenience

Some travelers value convenience even if savings are modest.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much is the Premium Extra Package on MSC Cruises?

Premium Extra typically costs approximately €87–€100+ per person per day depending on itinerary, region, and booking date.

2. How much is the Easy Package on MSC Cruises?

The Easy Package generally ranges from approximately €47–€55 per person per day, though pricing varies by sailing.

3. Are gratuities included in MSC beverage packages?

Yes. MSC states that beverage gratuities are included in package pricing.

4. Can I buy a beverage package for only one day?

Generally no. MSC sells beverage packages for the duration of the cruise rather than individual days.

5. Is bottled water included?

Yes. Bottled water or MSC's AQUA water program is included in eligible beverage packages.

6. What happens after 15 alcoholic drinks?

Guests may continue ordering alcoholic beverages but must pay full menu prices for drinks exceeding the daily package limit.

7. Is specialty coffee included?

Specialty coffee is included in higher-tier packages and many non-alcoholic packages. Coverage depends on the package selected.

8. Can two people share one package?

No. Beverage packages are non-transferable and intended for individual use only.

9. Do children need a beverage package?

Children traveling with adults who purchase beverage packages may need a corresponding minors package depending on booking terms and itinerary.

10. Is buying before embarkation cheaper?

In many cases, yes. MSC frequently offers discounted pre-cruise beverage package pricing compared with onboard purchases.

Final Verdict: How Much Is a Beverage Package on MSC Cruises?

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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