MSC Drink Packages: Alcohol vs. Non-Alcoholic Compared

One of the most common questions we see from cruisers planning a trip with [MSC Cruises](/cruise-lines/msc-cruises) is about their beverage options. You're wondering, 'For MSC cruises is there an alcohol drink package compared to a non alcoholic drink package?' The short answer is a resounding yes! MSC offers a fantastic, tiered system of packages to suit every type of traveler, from the cocktail connoisseur to the soda-sipping teen.

Navigating these choices can feel a bit overwhelming at first. With names like 'Easy,' 'Easy Plus,' and 'Premium Extra,' how do you know which one is the right value for your vacation? This guide will break down everything you need to know, comparing the alcoholic and non-alcoholic options side-by-side so you can make an informed decision and budget for your perfect cruise.

Key Takeaways

* Tiered Choices: MSC offers multiple drink packages for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, catering to different budgets and preferences.

* Alcoholic Packages: The main alcoholic tiers are the Easy Package, Easy Plus Package, and Premium Extra Package, which vary in price and the quality and selection of drinks included.

* Non-Alcoholic Options: MSC provides a dedicated Alcohol-Free Package for adults and a Minors Package for children and teens, ensuring everyone in the family is covered.

* Value Depends on You: The best package depends entirely on your personal drinking habits, your itinerary (port days vs. sea days), and your budget. Calculating your potential daily spending is key.

Uncorking MSC's Alcoholic Drink Packages

[MSC Cruises](/cruise-lines/msc-cruises) has structured its alcoholic beverage packages to provide increasing levels of selection and premium brands as you move up the tiers. This allows you to choose a level of indulgence that matches your style. All adults sharing a cabin must book the same package.

The Easy Package: Your Essential All-Inclusive

The Easy Package is the entry-level alcoholic option and is often included in 'drinks on us' promotions. It’s designed for cruisers who enjoy a few drinks throughout the day but aren't particular about top-shelf brands.

* What's Included: A selection of draft beers (like Heineken), house wines by the glass, a specific list of classic cocktails (like a Gin & Tonic or Mojito), select spirits and liqueurs, and all non-alcoholic options like sodas, juices, and classic hot drinks.

* Price Point: Typically runs around $45-$50 per person, per day (prices vary by ship and sailing).

* Best For: Cruisers who are happy with house brands and classic drinks, and those who want a simple, budget-friendly way to enjoy beverages without worrying about the bill.

The Easy Plus Package: Upgrading Your Sips

The Easy Plus Package is a significant step up and a popular choice for many cruisers. It offers a much wider variety of drinks, including many of the familiar brands you'd find at your favorite bar back home.

* What's Included: Everything in the Easy Package, plus a broader selection of beers (bottled and draft), more wines by the glass, and a huge array of frozen and classic cocktails. The key benefit is that it covers all drinks priced up to €9 or $10.

* Price Point: Generally costs around $60-$65 per person, per day.

* Best For: Cocktail lovers and those who want more freedom of choice. If you enjoy trying different drinks and prefer brands like Aperol, Captain Morgan, or a wider selection of wines, this is an excellent middle-ground option.

The Premium Extra Package: The Ultimate Indulgence

For those who want the best of the best, the Premium Extra Package offers a nearly limitless beverage experience. This is the top-tier package for cruisers who appreciate fine wines, premium spirits, and the freedom to order almost anything on the menu.

* What's Included: Everything in the lower packages, plus an extensive list of top-shelf spirits (think Grey Goose vodka or Hendrick's gin), premium liqueurs, all wines and champagnes by the glass, and all drinks priced up to €15 or $16. It also includes a discount on bottles of wine and champagne.

* Price Point: Usually priced around $85-$90 per person, per day.

* Best For: Connoisseurs, luxury seekers, and anyone who doesn't want to think twice before ordering a premium scotch or a glass of fine champagne. It's perfect for a celebratory cruise on a ship like the [MSC World Europa](/ships/msc-cruises/msc-world-europa).

Exploring MSC's Non-Alcoholic Drink Packages

Not everyone drinks alcohol, and MSC recognizes this with excellent non-alcoholic options. These packages are perfect for health-conscious adults, families with children, or anyone who prefers mocktails and specialty coffees.

The Alcohol-Free Package (For Adults)

This package provides adults with unlimited access to a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages across the ship, going far beyond just standard sodas.

* What's Included: A full range of mocktails, sodas (fountain and canned), energy drinks, flavored water, premium bottled water, a wide variety of coffee drinks (lattes, cappuccinos), hot teas, and soft-serve ice cream.

* Price Point: Typically around $30-$35 per person, per day.

* Best For: Adults who don't drink alcohol but still want the all-inclusive feeling of ordering specialty coffees, mocktails, and bottled water without signing a check each time.

The Minors Package (For Children & Teens)

Designed specifically for guests under the legal drinking age (21 in the US/Caribbean, 18 in Europe), this package ensures kids and teens can enjoy fun and festive drinks all cruise long.

* What's Included: Creative mocktails, sodas, energy drinks, juices, bottled water, flavored water, hot drinks like hot chocolate, and soft-serve ice cream.

* Price Point: Generally priced around $20-$25 per child, per day.

* Best For: Families traveling with children. It gives kids the freedom to order their own drinks and makes them feel included in the all-inclusive experience.

How to Choose: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Deciding on the right MSC cruises drink package comes down to simple math and your personal vacation style. Let's break down how to figure out if a package is worth it for you.

Calculating Your Break-Even Point

First, look at the à la carte drink prices. While they vary, here are some typical costs on an MSC ship:

* Soda/Juice: $3.50

* Bottled Water: $3.00

* Specialty Coffee: $4.50

* Draft Beer: $7.00

* Glass of House Wine: $8.00

* Classic Cocktail: $10.00

* Premium Spirit: $12.00+

To find your break-even point, divide the daily package price by the average cost of the drinks you'll be consuming.

Example for the Easy Plus Package (~$62/day):

If you plan to drink a mix of cocktails ($10) and beers ($7), your average drink cost is around $8.50. You would need to drink about 7-8 alcoholic beverages per day ($62 / $8.50 ≈ 7.3) to break even. Don't forget to factor in sodas, bottled water for excursions, and specialty coffees, which can make the package pay for itself faster.

Itinerary and At-Sea Days Matter

Your itinerary plays a huge role in the value of a drink package.

* Port-Intensive Cruises: If you're on a port-heavy [Mediterranean cruise](/destinations/mediterranean) where you'll be off the ship from morning until late afternoon, you'll have less time to use the package onboard. You might be better off paying as you go.

* Sea-Day Heavy Cruises: For itineraries with many sea days, like transatlantic crossings or some [Caribbean cruises](/destinations/caribbean), a drink package offers incredible value. You'll be on the ship all day, enjoying the pools, shows, and lounges, making it easy to get your money's worth.

Key Rules and Fine Print for MSC Drink Packages

Before you purchase, it’s important to understand a few key rules that apply to all MSC drink packages.

The 'All or Nothing' Rule

MSC requires that all guests of legal drinking age sharing a stateroom purchase the same alcoholic beverage package. If one adult gets the Easy Plus Package, the other adult(s) in the cabin must get it too. This prevents sharing. The only common exception is for documented medical reasons, in which case the other guest may be permitted to purchase the Alcohol-Free Package.

Where Can You Use Your Package?

Your package is valid in all onboard bars, lounges, the buffet, and main dining rooms. It also typically extends to specialty restaurants. However, some exclusions may apply, such as in souvenir glasses, the in-cabin minibar, or at specific third-party venues like Venchi 1878 Chocolate and Coffee Bars on some ships.

Gratuities and Service Charges

In most markets (including North America), a service charge or gratuity (usually 18%) is automatically included in the price of the drink package when you buy it. This means you won't see an extra charge on each drink you order, simplifying the process and preventing any surprise fees on your final bill.

Frequently Asked Questions about MSC Drink Packages

Can I upgrade my drink package onboard?

Yes, you can upgrade your drink package on the first day of your cruise. You cannot, however, downgrade to a lower-tier package. You will pay the price difference for the entire duration of the cruise.

Does the MSC drink package work at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve?

Absolutely! Your drink package benefits extend to MSC's stunning private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay. All the bars on the island will honor your package, just as they do onboard the ship.

What happens if I order a drink that costs more than my package limit?

If you have the Easy or Easy Plus package and want to order a drink above your price threshold (e.g., a $14 cocktail with the Easy Plus package), you will have to pay the full menu price for that drink. The package will not cover a portion of it.

Still trying to decide which MSC cruise and drink package is the perfect fit for your vacation? It can be a lot to figure out, but you don't have to do it alone.

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