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A Complete Guide to MSC Cruises Drinks Packages
One of the biggest questions guests ask before sailing with MSC Cruises is whether a drinks package is worth it. From cocktails by the pool to speciality coffees in the morning, having the right package can make your holiday even more relaxing and help you budget before you board.
Read MoreOne of the biggest questions guests ask before sailing with MSC Cruises is whether a drinks package is worth it. From cocktails by the pool to speciality coffees in the morning, having the right package can make your holiday even more relaxing and help you budget before you board.
Whether you’re researching MSC drink package prices, comparing MSC Cruises drink packages, or wondering can you upgrade your drink package on MSC? This guide answers the most common questions to help you choose the right option for your cruise.
Does MSC Cruises Offer Drinks Packages?
Yes. MSC Cruises offers a range of drinks packages designed to suit different tastes and budgets. Depending on your sailing and departure region, you’ll typically find alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, with packages available to purchase before your cruise or onboard. Booking in advance is often the most cost-effective option, as MSC regularly offers discounted pre-cruise pricing.
Each package allows you to order eligible drinks throughout your holiday without paying individually every time you visit a bar or restaurant.
What Drink Packages Does MSC Cruises Offer?
The exact selection can vary depending on your itinerary, but MSC Cruises generally offers the following options.
Easy Drinks Package
The Easy Drinks Package is ideal for guests who enjoy a good selection of classic alcoholic and soft drinks without paying for premium brands.
It typically includes:
- Classic cocktails
- House spirits and mixers
- House wines by the glass
- Draught beer
- Soft drinks
- Fruit juices
- Mineral water
- Tea and speciality coffees such as espresso and cappuccino
Premium Extra Drinks Package
The Premium Extra Drinks Package offers the widest selection of beverages.
It generally includes:
- Premium cocktails
- Premium spirits
- Wines by the glass
- Champagne by the glass
- Bottled and draught beers
- Speciality coffees
- Soft drinks
- Smoothies
- Energy drinks
- Bottled water
Guests also receive discounts on selected bottles of wine purchased onboard.
Alcohol-Free Package
Perfect for guests who don’t drink alcohol but still enjoy premium refreshments.
It typically includes:
- Soft drinks
- Mocktails
- Fruit juices
- Bottled water
- Speciality coffees
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Minors Package
Designed for children travelling with adults who have purchased a drinks package, the Minors Package includes unlimited soft drinks, juices, bottled water and a variety of non-alcoholic refreshments.
MSC Drink Package Prices
One of the most common questions we hear is “How much are MSC drink packages?”
The exact cost depends on your itinerary, cruise length, destination, sailing date and departure market. MSC Cruises no longer publishes fixed package prices, so you’ll see the most accurate pricing during the booking process or in your MyMSC account after you’ve booked.
As a general guide, you can expect the following price ranges when booking before your cruise:
| Drinks Package | Typical Price (Per Person, Per Day) |
| Easy Drinks Package | From £35–£45 |
| Premium Extra Drinks Package | From £60–£85 |
| Alcohol-Free Package | From £20–£30 |
| Minors Package | From £15–£20 |
Prices vary depending on itinerary, destination and promotional offers. Pre-cruise prices are usually lower than purchasing onboard.
Easy Drinks Package Price
Typical price: From £35–£45 per person, per day
If you enjoy beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks throughout the day, the Easy Drinks Package offers excellent value. It’s ideal for guests who like a couple of drinks by the pool, wine with dinner and speciality coffees during the day.
Premium Extra Drinks Package Price
Typical price: From £60–£85 per person, per day
The Premium Extra Drinks Package is perfect if you prefer premium spirits, Champagne, a wider cocktail selection and more premium beverages throughout your holiday.
Alcohol-Free Package Price
Typical price: From £20–£30 per person, per day
If you don’t drink alcohol, this package provides unlimited soft drinks, speciality coffees, bottled water, juices and mocktails throughout your cruise.
Minors Package Price
Typical price: From £15–£20 per child, per day
Designed specifically for younger guests, this package includes unlimited soft drinks, juices, bottled water and other child-friendly refreshments.
Top Tip: Booking your drinks package before you sail is usually the cheapest option and can often save you money compared to purchasing once you’re onboard.
Can You Upgrade Your Drink Package on MSC?
Yes. If you’ve already booked the Easy Drinks Package, you can usually upgrade to a higher package before your cruise, subject to availability and your booking terms.
Many guests decide to upgrade if they’d like access to premium spirits, a wider cocktail menu or higher-value wines.
The easiest way to upgrade your drinks package is through your MyMSC account before departure or by contacting your cruise provider.
Does the MSC Drink Package Work on Ocean Cay?
One of the biggest advantages of MSC Cruises drinks packages is that they’re accepted on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC’s private island in The Bahamas.
Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, enjoying lunch or watching the sunset, you can continue using your drinks package at participating bars on the island without paying extra for eligible drinks.
For Caribbean itineraries, this makes the package even better value, as you don’t lose its benefits while ashore.
Are Alcoholic Drinks Free on MSC Cruises?
No. Alcoholic drinks aren’t automatically included in your cruise fare.
Unless you’ve booked a promotional fare that includes a drinks package or you’re staying in MSC Yacht Club, where many beverages are included, alcoholic drinks are charged individually.
Purchasing a drinks package allows you to enjoy eligible alcoholic beverages throughout your holiday without worrying about paying for each drink separately.
Do You Get Free Drinks on an MSC Cruise?
Yes, but only a limited selection.
Your cruise fare includes complimentary drinks in the buffet restaurant, including:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Water from dispensers
- Selected fruit juices during breakfast
Outside these complimentary options, drinks ordered from bars, lounges, speciality restaurants and cafés are charged unless they’re included within your drinks package.
Is an MSC Drinks Package Worth It?
For many guests, absolutely.
A drinks package can represent excellent value if you regularly enjoy:
- Cocktails by the pool
- Wine with lunch and dinner
- Premium coffees
- Bottled water
- Soft drinks
- Fresh juices
- Mocktails
It also makes budgeting much easier, as you’ve already paid for most of your drinks before boarding.
If you only have the occasional drink, however, paying as you go may work out cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSC Drinks Packages
What does the MSC Easy Drinks Package include?
The MSC Easy Drinks Package typically includes classic cocktails, house spirits and mixers, house wines by the glass, draught beer, soft drinks, fruit juices, bottled water and speciality coffees such as cappuccinos and espresso. The exact selection may vary slightly depending on your ship and itinerary.
Can you use your MSC drinks package in speciality restaurants?
Yes. Drinks packages can generally be used in speciality restaurants, although the drinks available will depend on the level of package you’ve purchased. Premium packages offer the widest selection.
Can everyone in the cabin have different drink packages?
Generally, no. MSC Cruises usually requires adults sharing the same cabin to purchase the same alcoholic drinks package. Children travelling with adults who purchase an alcoholic package are normally required to have the appropriate Minors Package.
Should I buy my MSC drinks package before my cruise?
In most cases, yes. Booking before departure is usually cheaper than purchasing onboard and often provides access to promotional savings.
Can I use my drinks package throughout the entire cruise?
Yes. Once activated, your drinks package can generally be used throughout your cruise, including onboard bars, restaurants and, on eligible Caribbean itineraries, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Why Book Your MSC Cruise with Bolsover Cruise Club?
Whether you’re choosing the right drinks package, comparing cabins or looking for the latest MSC Cruises offers, our Cruise Experts are here to help every step of the way.
If you’re unsure which MSC drinks package is right for you, speak to our team today. We’ll explain your options, answer your questions and help you find the best value for your next cruise holiday.
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