MSC Cruises Drink Packages: A Quick Guide
One way to add to the fun of a cruise is to purchase the drink package. A lot of cruise passengers prefer to use a drink package so that they do not have to worry about racking up extra charges every time they order a drink. MSC Cruises offers a variety of drink packages to cater to different passenger needs. Here’s a detailed look at the Easy Package, the Easy Plus Package, the Premium Extra Package, the Alcohol-Free Package, and the Minors Package. The prices quoted are for reference only and are subject to change at any time. Something to note, MSC recently made a change to their policy and drinks over the designated price point are now partially covered up to the designated price package price point. You just pay the difference.
Easy Package
The MSC Easy Drink Package is the most basic alcoholic beverage package offered by MSC Cruises. It’s designed for those who enjoy a selection of beverages without the need for premium options. Here’s a look at what’s included in the Easy Package.
What’s Included?
The Easy Package includes a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It includes most drinks up to $7.50. Here are the details:
Alcoholic Beverages: The package includes one brand of draft beer (Heineken) and/or bottled Miller Lite. Spirits (whiskey, vodka, gin, rum, tequila, brandy - one brand per type) and house wines (red, white, sparkling, rosè). The liquor choices that go into mixed drinks are generic and sometimes off-brand.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: The package also includes non-alcoholic cocktails, soft drinks, and juices.
Water: Bottled mineral water is included in the package.
Hot Drinks: The package covers classic hot drinks such as espresso, coffee, cappuccino, and other hot drinks like tea and hot chocolate.
Cost
The Easy Package costs $46 per day per adult. However, on cruises less than 6 nights, the package is $49 per day.
Benefits
The Easy Package is a great choice for those who enjoy a few beers throughout the day, along with bottled water and coffee drinks. It’s also a budget-friendly option for those who want to enjoy a selection of beverages without the need for premium options.
Limitations
While the Easy Package offers a variety of beverages, it’s important to note that it does not include premium options. Also, the Easy Package can’t be used in specialty restaurants.
Easy Plus Package
The Easy Plus Package is a step up from the Easy Package, offering a wider range of options. It includes drinks that cost up to $10.
What’s Included?
The Easy Plus Package offers a broad selection of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Alcoholic Beverages: The package includes your favorite frozen and classic cocktails, well spirits, liqueurs and cordials, wines by the glass, and a wide variety of draught and bottled beers.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: The package also includes non-alcoholic cocktails, soft drinks, mineral water.
Hot Drinks: The package covers coffee drinks (latte, espresso, cappuccino, etc.), hot chocolate, and hot teas.
Specialty Drinks: Specialty coffees, energy drinks, and canned soft drinks are also included.
Cost
The Easy Plus Package costs $61 per day. However, on cruises less than 6 nights, the package is $64 per day.
Benefits
The Easy Plus Package is a great choice for those who enjoy a wide array of beverages. It offers more options compared to the Easy Package, given the higher price ceiling. You’ll find a wide array of beers (around 20 beers, compared to two in the Easy Package), more cocktails, more wine by the glass and liquors. The Easy Plus package can be used in Specialty Restaurants.
Limitations
While the Easy Plus Package offers a variety of beverages, it’s important to note that it does not include all premium options.
Premium Extra Package
The Premium Extra Package is the most inclusive of the MSC cruise drink packages. It includes drinks that cost up to $16.
What’s Included? The Premium Extra Package offers an extensive variety of beverages:
Alcoholic Beverages: The package includes an extensive variety of frozen and classic cocktails, and premium brand spirits, liquors, and cordials. The package includes a wide selection of fine wine by the glass and champagne by the glass. A wide variety of draft and bottled beer is included.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: The package also includes non-alcoholic cocktails and all non-alcoholic drinks.
Specialty Drinks: Fresh fruit and protein cocktails are included.
Water: Bottled mineral water is included.
Hot Drinks: The package covers a wide selection of classic and specialty hot drinks.
Cost
The Premium Extra Package costs $85 per day. However, on cruises less than 6 nights, the package is $88 per day.
Benefits
The Premium Extra Package is perfect for those who want to enjoy a wide range of premium beverages without worrying about the cost. It includes a 25% discount on purchased of bottled wine and champagne. It covers all drinks up to $16, offering passengers the freedom to enjoy their favorite beverages without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.
Alcohol-Free Package
The Alcohol-Free Package is designed for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. It costs $28 per day ($30 for short sailings) and includes a wide choice of alcohol-free cocktails, soda, energy drinks, mineral water, flavored water, juices, coffee drinks, hot chocolate, and hot teas. This package is a great choice for those who want to enjoy a variety of refreshing beverages without the alcohol. The Alcoholic Free Package can be used in bars, self-service buffet, main restaurant and on private islands, but not in the specialty restaurants and signature venues.
Minors Package
The Minors Package is designed for underage guests traveling with adults who purchase a beverage package. It costs $19 per day ($21 for short sailings) and includes non-alcoholic drinks. This package ensures that younger passengers can also enjoy a variety of refreshing beverages. The Minors Package can be used in bars, self-service buffet, main restaurant and on private islands, but not in the specialty restaurants and signature venues. Minors package can be consumed in specialty restaurants if the minor’s family/group purchased the Easy Plus or Premium Extra packages.
MSC Cruises offers a range of drink packages to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a cocktail enthusiast, or prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there’s a package for you. Remember, the key to choosing the right package is understanding your own drinking habits and preferences. Cheers to your next fantastic MSC cruise vacation!