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One of the most common questions travelers ask before sailing with MSC Cruises is: “Is it worth buying a drink package?”
The answer depends on several factors, including your drinking habits, cruise length, itinerary, and whether you prefer alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, soft drinks, or bottled water. For some passengers, an MSC drink package can save hundreds of dollars over the course of a voyage. For others, paying as you go may be the smarter financial decision.
MSC Cruises offers multiple beverage package options designed to accommodate different travel styles. While the convenience of unlimited drinks is appealing, purchasing a package without understanding the costs and limitations can result in unnecessary spending.
This comprehensive guide examines MSC Cruises drink packages, compares package options, analyzes real-world scenarios, and helps travelers determine whether a beverage package delivers genuine value.
MSC Cruises offers beverage packages that allow guests to consume selected drinks throughout their voyage for a fixed upfront cost.
These packages generally include combinations of:
Package names and inclusions occasionally change, so travelers should always verify current details directly through MSC Cruises before booking.
Drink packages serve two primary purposes:
Instead of signing receipts throughout the cruise, guests enjoy included beverages without worrying about individual drink charges.
For many travelers, this "all-inclusive" feeling is a significant benefit.
MSC typically offers several beverage package tiers.
Designed for budget-conscious travelers.
Usually includes:
Best for:
A mid-tier option with broader selections.
Common inclusions:
Best for:
MSC's most comprehensive beverage package.
Typically includes:
Best for:
A family-friendly alternative.
Often includes:
Best for:
Pricing varies based on:
Generally, purchasing before embarkation is cheaper than buying onboard.
| Package Type | Typical Daily Cost Range* |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | $20–$35 |
| Easy | $40–$60 |
| Easy Plus | $60–$85 |
| Premium Extra | $85–$110+ |
Prices vary by sailing and are subject to change.
Travelers should review MSC's official pricing before departure.
The most effective way to determine value is through a break-even calculation.
Many cruise lines charge approximately:
| Beverage | Estimated Price |
| Beer | $7–$10 |
| Cocktail | $10–$16 |
| Glass of wine | $9–$15 |
| Specialty coffee | $4–$7 |
| Soda | $3–$5 |
| Bottled water | $2–$4 |
Assume a package costs $75 daily.
A passenger consumes:
Total daily consumption:
$72
In this example, the package nearly breaks even.
Add one additional beverage and the package becomes financially advantageous.
Several traveler profiles consistently benefit from beverage packages.
Cocktails onboard can quickly accumulate costs.
A traveler consuming:
May exceed package costs every day.
Many guests underestimate coffee spending.
Consider:
Over a week-long cruise, coffee expenses alone can become substantial.
Many vacationers value certainty more than savings.
Benefits include:
Consumer finance experts frequently note that predictable travel expenses improve vacation satisfaction by reducing financial stress.
Sea days often increase beverage consumption.
Passengers may enjoy:
The more time spent onboard, the greater the package value.
Not every cruiser benefits from a beverage package.
If you consume:
Per day, purchasing individually is usually cheaper.
Mediterranean and Northern Europe itineraries often involve:
Guests spending most of the day ashore have fewer opportunities to use the package.
Occasional drinkers may spend far less paying à la carte.
Example:
Daily total:
$17
Compared with a $75 package, paying individually is far cheaper.
Let's compare two travelers.
Daily consumption:
$75–$90
Seven-day total:
$525–$630
Package cost:
Approximately $525
Result:
Break-even or modest savings.
Daily consumption:
Estimated daily cost:
$15–$20
Seven-day total:
$105–$140
Package cost:
Approximately $525
Result:
Significant overspending.
Many passengers purchase drink packages for reasons beyond economics.
No repeated transactions.
No constant bill monitoring.
No concerns about drink prices.
Guests often feel more comfortable trying:
Because they are already included.
Families and groups avoid splitting beverage expenses throughout the trip.
Travelers should understand package restrictions before purchasing.
MSC has historically required adult guests sharing a cabin to purchase the same beverage package level.
Policies can change, so verification is essential.
Drink packages are intended for individual use only.
Sharing beverages may violate cruise policies.
Some package tiers cap the maximum price per included beverage.
Premium drinks exceeding package limits may require additional payment.
Some items may not be included:
Always review package terms carefully.
The value equation should include health considerations.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol consumption carries health risks, including increased risks for certain cancers, cardiovascular conditions, and injuries.
The WHO emphasizes that no level of alcohol consumption is entirely risk-free.
Research published through biomedical and public health sources has shown that vacation environments often encourage increased alcohol consumption.
Travelers should avoid purchasing a package solely to "get their money's worth."
Choose a package based on:
Avoid increasing alcohol intake merely because beverages are prepaid.
Generally:
Carnival's beverage policies differ, particularly regarding daily drink limits.
MSC travelers should compare specific package terms rather than assuming identical value.
Norwegian frequently markets bundled beverage promotions.
MSC sometimes offers discounted package bundles during booking promotions.
Comparing total cruise fare—not just package cost—is essential.
List:
Use MSC's current onboard menus when available.
Example:
Total:
$58
If the package costs $80 daily:
You would lose approximately $22 per day.
Consumption usually increases on sea days.
Adjust calculations accordingly.
Ask yourself:
If yes, the package may still be worthwhile.
Many passengers calculate based on their highest-consumption day rather than average consumption.
Long excursions significantly reduce package usage.
Coffee, water, and soda contribute meaningfully toward package value.
Assuming every beverage is covered can lead to unexpected charges.
Travel industry analysts generally recommend beverage packages for travelers who:
Conversely, paying individually often works best for:
For many travelers, yes—an MSC Cruises drink package can be worth the cost, particularly for guests who enjoy multiple alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, bottled water, and soft drinks throughout the day.
However, the package is not automatically a good value.
It is usually worthwhile if you:
It may not be worthwhile if you:
The smartest approach is to calculate your expected daily beverage spending and compare it directly with the package price for your specific sailing.
In many cases, a simple break-even calculation provides a clear answer.
For many travelers, three to five alcoholic beverages plus coffee, water, or soda can justify the package cost, depending on package pricing.
Many MSC beverage packages include bottled water, though inclusions vary by package tier and sailing.
No. Beverage package sharing is generally prohibited.
In many cases, yes. Pre-cruise purchases are often discounted compared with onboard pricing.
Higher-tier packages frequently include specialty coffee beverages, but travelers should confirm current package details.
Coverage depends on the destination and package rules. Review MSC's current policy for your itinerary.
MSC has historically required adults sharing a cabin to purchase the same package level. Verify current rules before booking.
It can be worthwhile for guests who regularly consume premium cocktails, higher-end spirits, and upgraded wines.
MSC offers alcohol-free beverage options suitable for younger travelers.
Some package tiers have beverage value limits rather than quantity limits. Drinks above those thresholds may incur extra charges.
Policies vary. Travelers should review the package terms displayed during booking.
For most guests, the greatest benefit is predictable vacation budgeting combined with convenience and freedom from tracking individual beverage purchases.
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