MSC Cruises drinks packages compared and reviewed

MSC Cruises is more popular than ever, with the launch of the MSC Euribia cruise ship and its reputation for offering value-for-money cruises in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. As you plan your dream vacation on board an MSC cruise ship, one of the most talked about subjects is whether to purchase one of the MSC Cruises drinks packages.

In this article, we will review the details of MSC Cruises drinks packages, comparing and reviewing the options available. Whether you are looking for an Easy, Easy Plus, or Premium Extra drinks package, we will help you choose the perfect beverage package to maximize your MSC Cruise experience, whichever MSC cruise ship you sail on.

MSC Cruises offers three types of drink packages: Easy, Easy Plus, and Premium Extra. Then there is also the alcohol-free package and the Minors package. Beverage gratuities are included in the package prices.

The Easy Package

The Easy Package is the most basic and covers a selection of drinks, including house wines (red, white, sparkling, rosè), Heineken beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic soft drinks from the fountain, canned soft drinks, fruit juices and bottled mineral water. Classic hot drinks such as espresso, cappuccino, tea and hot chocolate are also included. This package costs around €29 per person per day and will most likely cost more if you wait until you are onboard to book.

The Easy Plus Package

The Easy Plus Package is an upgrade from the Easy Package and includes a more extensive selection of drinks. It has everything from the Easy Package plus premium spirits, cocktails, and a more comprehensive choice of wines. It also includes fresh fruit cocktails and protein shakes. In addition, you receive a 10% discount on bottles of wine purchased on board. Priced at €39 per person per day, it will probably be more if you purchase onboard the ship.

The Premium Extra Package

The Premium Extra Package is the most comprehensive drinks package and includes everything from the Premium Package plus premium champagnes and international cocktails and wines. In addition, you receive a 25% discount on bottled wine and champagne purchases. It is priced at €55 per person per day and is better if you book before you are onboard.

Alcohol-Free Package

MSC Cruises offers an alcohol-free drinks package that is perfect for passengers who do not drink alcohol or prefer non-alcoholic beverages. The package includes a selection of non-alcoholic drinks such as sodas, juices, smoothies, and mocktails. It is priced at a lower rate than the alcoholic drinks packages, making it a more affordable option for those who do not plan to consume alcohol during their cruise.

Minors Package

MSC Cruises also offers a Minors Drinks Package for children and teenagers under 18. This package includes a selection of non-alcoholic drinks such as sodas, juices, smoothies, mocktails and soft-serve ice cream.

It is important to note that the Minors Drinks Package can only be purchased by parents or legal guardians and is only available for children and teenagers traveling with their families. The Minors Drinks Package is an excellent option for families who want their children to access various fun, non-alcoholic drinks during their MSC Cruise.

Comparing the Packages

When comparing the packages, the Easy Plus and Premium Extra Packages offer more value for money than the Easy Package. The Premium Extra includes premium spirits and a more comprehensive selection of wines, while the Easy Plus Package adds premium champagnes and wines to the mix. However, it is worth noting that the Premium Extra Package is significantly more expensive than the Easy Plus Package.

If you are a wine connoisseur or enjoy premium spirits and cocktails, the Premium Extra or Easy Plus Packages are the best options. However, if you are happy with the house wines and beers, the Easy Package may be sufficient.

Are the Packages Worth It?

Whether the packages are worth it depends on your drinking habits and preferences. If you plan to drink alcohol throughout the cruise, the packages can save you significant money. However, it may not be worth the cost if you only plan to have a few drinks here and there.

We did a test. Onboard our last MSC cruise as a family of 4, we had the Easy drinks package. Each time we ordered, we received a receipt with the amount the drink costs, which was then zeroed out as we had the drinks package. In this way, we could see what we bought and how much it would have cost. When we added up all our receipts, it came to over 150 euros more than the amount we paid for the drinks package.

So it looked like we saved money. However, we often ordered specialty coffees or an extra fruit cocktail before dinner as we had the drinks package—perhaps more so than if we had paid for each drink on board without a drinks package.

Purchase drinks onboard without a drinks package

If you do not book a drinks package, there are still plenty of options for drinks on board an MSC Cruise. Here are some of the options available:

• Water is available on board, and it is safe to drink. However, it is not free. You can purchase bottled water on board at bars, restaurants, and vending machines. Alternatively, you can bring your refillable water bottle and fill it up at the water stations around the ship.
  MSC Cruises offers a range of coffee options, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte. You can purchase these drinks at the bars and cafes on board. Alternatively, you can buy a coffee package that includes a set number of coffees for a discounted price.
• If you enjoy alcoholic drinks, plenty of options are available on board. You can purchase beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails at the bars and restaurants on board. Prices vary, but they are generally comparable to what you would pay at a bar or restaurant on land.
• In addition to water, coffee, and alcoholic drinks, various non-alcoholic beverages are available. These include sodas, juices, and mocktails. You can purchase these drinks at the bars and restaurants on board.

It is worth noting that drinks on board can be quite expensive, especially if you plan to drink regularly throughout the cruise. If you are on a budget, purchasing a drinks package may be worth it, as it can save you money in the long run. However, purchasing drinks individually on board may be more cost-effective if you only plan to have a few drinks here and there.

Why it’s better to pre-purchase a drinks package

1. Discounts: MSC Cruises often offer discounts on drinks packages when you pre-purchase them before your cruise. These discounts range from 10% to 20% off the regular price.
2. Convenience: Pre-purchasing a drinks package means you do not have to worry about paying for drinks throughout your cruise.
3. Budgeting: Pre-purchasing a drinks package allows you to budget for your cruise more effectively. You can pay for the package upfront, and then you do not have to worry about any unexpected expenses for drinks during your cruise.

Frequently asked questions

What drinks are included in the MSC Cruises Easy Package?

The MSC Cruises Easy Package includes a selection of house wines, beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks such as sodas and juices.

Is it worth purchasing a drinks package on an MSC Cruise?

Whether it is worth purchasing a drinks package on an MSC Cruise depends on your drinking habits and preferences. If you plan to drink alcohol throughout the cruise, the packages can save you significant money. However, it may not be worth the cost if you only plan to have a few drinks here and there.

Can I purchase a drinks package on board the ship?

Yes, you can purchase a drinks package on board the ship. However, it is generally better to pre-purchase a drinks package before your cruise, as MSC Cruises often offers discounts on packages when you purchase them in advance.

What is the difference between the MSC Cruises Easy Plus and Premium Extra Packages?

The Premium Package includes premium spirits, cocktails, and a wider selection of wines. The Premium Extra Package adds premium champagnes and wines to the mix. It is significantly more expensive than the Easy Plus Package.

Can I share my drinks package with someone else?

No, drinks packages are non-transferable and can only be used by the person who purchased the package. If you are caught sharing your drinks package with someone else, you may be subject to additional charges or penalties.

Where can I find a more detailed description of the MSC Cruises drinks packages?

This link will give you information MSC Cruises has about all their drinks package options.

Where should I book my MSC Cruise to get personal help booking excursions and drinks packages with the cruise line?

We like to recommend Cruise Direct. They have super offers and knowledgeable staff that can help you with your questions. Click to search, compare and book your cruise on their website.