Booking a cruise is an exciting step toward a dream vacation. However, one of the most common questions travelers ask before embarking is: “What is included in the MSC Cruises ticket price?” Understanding what you are paying for can help you plan better, avoid unexpected expenses, and maximize your cruise experience.

MSC Cruises, known for its modern ships, international atmosphere, and Mediterranean flair, offers a wide variety of inclusions in its base fare. While every cruise line has its own pricing structure, MSC ensures that guests receive an impressive range of accommodations, dining options, entertainment, and activities as part of their ticket.

In this guide, we will explore in detail what is included in your cruise fare, what extras come at an additional cost, and how you can make the most out of your MSC Cruises vacation.

1. Accommodation

Cabin Options Included

The ticket price always covers your chosen stateroom. MSC offers a wide range of cabins to suit different budgets and travel styles, including:

• Interior Cabins – Budget-friendly with no windows, perfect for travelers who spend most of their time exploring the ship.

• Ocean View Cabins – Feature a window or porthole with outside views.

• Balcony Cabins – Private balconies for fresh air and sea views.

• Suites & MSC Yacht Club – Larger spaces, premium amenities, and exclusive services.

Standard Amenities Included in All Cabins

• Comfortable bedding and linens

• Daily housekeeping service

• Ensuite bathroom with shower, towels, and toiletries

• Television and telephone

• Wardrobe and storage space

• Personal safe

• Air conditioning

Your cabin becomes your private retreat throughout the cruise, and its cost is fully included in your ticket.

2. Dining Options

Main Dining Rooms

All guests have access to the ship’s main dining rooms at no extra cost. These venues serve breakfast, lunch, and multi-course dinners with a rotating menu. Meals often feature international cuisine, Mediterranean flavors, and vegetarian options.

Buffet Restaurants

Another inclusion is the all-day buffet, offering a wide range of foods from pizza and pasta to salads, grilled items, desserts, and more. The buffet is casual and open for extended hours, making it convenient for families and travelers on the go.

Special Dietary Options

MSC accommodates various dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and some allergy-friendly meals at no additional cost if requested in advance.

What’s Not Included in Dining

• Specialty restaurants (steakhouse, sushi, teppanyaki, etc.)

• Premium dining experiences (chef’s table, wine-pairing dinners)

3. Beverages

Included Beverages

While MSC does not operate as fully all-inclusive in terms of drinks, some beverages are always included:

• Tap water

• Coffee and tea (basic options)

• Milk and juices at breakfast

Extra-Cost Beverages

• Alcoholic drinks

• Specialty coffees and teas

• Soft drinks and bottled water

• Beverage packages (sold separately)

4. Entertainment

Live Shows

Each evening, guests can enjoy Broadway-style shows in the main theater, all included in the ticket. MSC’s entertainment is known for its international flair, combining dance, music, and acrobatics.

Live Music & Performances

Around the ship, you’ll find live bands, piano music, and themed parties that are free to attend.

Movies & Outdoor Screenings

Some ships feature movie screenings, poolside entertainment, and themed cinema nights at no cost.

5. Onboard Activities

MSC Cruises ensures that a wide variety of onboard activities are included in the fare, such as:

• Pool and sun deck access

• Hot tubs and whirlpools

• Fitness center and gym facilities

• Sports courts (basketball, soccer, tennis)

• Dance classes, trivia, and group games

• Art and craft workshops (some included, some may carry a fee)

6. Kids and Family Programs

MSC is very family-friendly and offers inclusive programming for children of all ages.

Baby Club (0–3 years)

Supervised playtime and toys designed for infants and toddlers.

Mini Club (3–6 years)

Fun games, educational activities, and crafts for preschoolers.

Juniors Club (7–11 years)

Age-appropriate activities, sports, and competitions.

Young Club & Teens Club (12–17 years)

Teen lounges, video games, and themed parties included at no extra charge.

Parents can relax knowing their children are well taken care of while enjoying their vacation.

7. Fitness and Wellness Facilities

Included in Ticket

• Full fitness center with cardio and weight equipment

• Group fitness classes like aerobics and stretching

• Jogging track on select ships

• Pool access

Not Included

• Spa treatments (massages, facials, salon services)

• Thermal spa areas

• Personal training sessions

8. Destination Experiences

Included

• Access to ports of call

• Basic port taxes and fees included in fare

Not Included

• Shore excursions (guided tours, adventures, transfers) – these must be purchased separately

9. MSC Yacht Club – The Exclusive Experience

For guests booking into the MSC Yacht Club, the ticket includes additional luxury perks:

• Private suites with butler service

• Access to exclusive lounge, pool, and dining areas

• Priority embarkation and disembarkation

• Premium beverage packages included

• Concierge service

This upgraded experience combines inclusivity with luxury.

10. Service and Crew Hospitality

Service is a major part of your fare. The ticket covers:

• Daily housekeeping

• Access to guest services desk

• Room steward assistance

• General hospitality onboard

However, gratuities or service charges are often added separately to your onboard account, depending on your booking terms.

11. What’s Not Included in the Ticket Price

While many amenities are included, there are extra costs you should budget for:

• Specialty dining restaurants

• Beverage packages or individual drinks

• Internet/Wi-Fi plans

• Shore excursions

• Spa and salon treatments

• Onboard shopping and souvenirs

• Photography packages

• Casino gaming

• Laundry services

12. Tips to Maximize Inclusions

• Use the buffet and dining rooms to avoid specialty restaurant charges.

• Attend daily activities like trivia, games, and fitness sessions to enjoy free entertainment.

• Take advantage of kids’ clubs for family-friendly experiences.

• Explore ports independently if you want to avoid excursion costs.

• Bring reusable water bottles for filling with included tap water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Are all meals included in MSC Cruises ticket price?

Yes, meals in the main dining rooms and buffet are included, but specialty dining venues cost extra.

Q2. Does MSC Cruises include drinks in the fare?

Basic beverages like water, tea, coffee, and juices at breakfast are included. Alcohol and sodas require a beverage package or additional purchase.

Q3. Are gratuities included in MSC Cruises fare?

Gratuities are often added to your onboard account. Check your booking details as policies vary by region.

Q4. Are kids’ activities free on MSC Cruises?

Yes, children’s clubs and teen programs are fully included in the ticket price.

Q5. Does MSC Cruises include Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is not included. Guests must purchase an internet package separately.

Conclusion

So, what is included in the MSC Cruises ticket price? You get your stateroom, main dining and buffet meals, entertainment, onboard activities, kids’ programs, fitness center use, and access to pools and lounges. While many luxuries are included, extras like specialty dining, beverages, Wi-Fi, and excursions require additional payment.

By understanding what is covered and what is not, you can plan a budget-friendly vacation while still enjoying all the comforts of cruising. Whether you choose a standard cabin or upgrade to the MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises ensures a memorable journey with plenty of inclusions that make your voyage worthwhile.