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MSC Cruise Drink Menu & Packages 2026: Independent Review
Unsure about MSC's drink packages?
Choosing a drinks package is a decision that can significantly impact your holiday budget and overall enjoyment. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about MSC's 2026 drink offerings, from individual prices to package inclusions, helping you decide if an MSC drink package is right for you. Let's dive in and navigate the world of MSC beverages together! If cost rather than individual menu items is your main decision, read the MSC drink-package cost guide.
Understanding the MSC Cruise Drink Menu in 2026
MSC Cruises offers a diverse range of beverages across its fleet, from classic cocktails and fine wines to specialty coffees and refreshing soft drinks. The specific items available on the MSC cruise drink menu can vary slightly by ship and itinerary, but the core offerings remain consistent. Generally, you'll find a selection of beers, spirits, wines, soft drinks, juices, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails.
Individual drink prices on MSC can add up quickly, which is why many guests consider a drink package. For instance, a standard beer might cost around €6-€7, a glass of house wine €7-€9, and a basic cocktail €9-€12. Specialty coffees can range from €3-€5. These prices are in Euros, as MSC primarily uses the Euro onboard for most sailings, even if you embark from the UK. Understanding these individual costs is key to assessing the value of a package.
Key Things to Know About MSC's Drink Offerings
- Variety of Venues: MSC ships boast numerous bars and lounges, each with a slightly tailored menu. From the sophisticated Champagne Bar to the casual Sports Bar, you'll find different atmospheres and, sometimes, unique drink specials.
- Brand Availability: While packages cover specific price tiers, à la carte menus often feature premium brands not included in the basic packages. Be prepared for potential upcharges if you prefer specific top-shelf spirits.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Beyond alcoholic beverages, MSC's menus are rich with non-alcoholic choices, including fresh juices, mocktails, fizzy drinks, and a wide selection of teas and coffees. These are often underestimated when calculating package value.
- Water: Bottled water is available, but tap water is safe to drink. Some packages include bottled water, while others might only cover still water by the glass. This is a common point of confusion for first-time cruisers.
- Mini-Bar: Items in your cabin's mini-bar are generally not included in any drink package and are charged separately. It's always best to check the price list in your cabin before indulging.
- Specialty Drinks: Certain specialty drinks, such as those served in specific themed bars (e.g., MSC's Chocolate Bar or Gelateria), might not be fully covered by all packages or could have a surcharge.
MSC Drink Packages 2026: What to Expect & Prices
MSC Cruises offers a tiered system for its drink packages, designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. As of June 2026, these packages typically include the Easy, Easy Plus, Premium Extra, and Alcohol-Free options, plus a Minors Package. Booking pre-cruise often saves you about 10-15% compared to onboard prices, so it's always worth considering.
It's important to remember MSC's 'all-in-one' policy: if one adult in a cabin purchases an alcoholic package, all other adults in the same cabin must also purchase an alcoholic package or the 'Alcohol-Free Package'. All children in the cabin must purchase the 'Minors Package'. This policy is standard across many cruise lines to prevent package sharing and ensure fairness. You can use our Cruise Drink Package Calculator to help determine your break-even point.
| Package Name | Typical Price (per person/day) | Inclusions (Highlights) | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Package | £32-£38 | Draught beer, house wine, soft drinks, basic spirits, classic cocktails (up to €6 value) | Budget-conscious drinkers, wine/beer lovers | 3.5/5 ⭐ |
| Easy Plus Package | £42-£48 | Wider selection of beers, spirits, cocktails (up to €9 value), specialty coffees, bottled water | Those who enjoy varied drinks, coffee lovers | 4.0/5 ⭐ |
| Premium Extra Package | £58-£65 | All drinks up to €13 value, premium brands, mini-bar, room service drinks, drinks in specialty restaurants | Connoisseurs, those who want everything included | 4.5/5 ⭐ |
| Alcohol-Free Package | £24-£28 | Soft drinks, bottled water, juices, non-alcoholic cocktails, specialty coffees | Non-drinkers, designated drivers | 4.0/5 ⭐ |
| Minors Package | £17-£20 | Soft drinks, bottled water, juices, non-alcoholic cocktails, hot chocolate | Children (3-17 years old) | 4.5/5 ⭐ |
The prices listed above are indicative as of June 2026 and can vary. The 'Premium Extra' is fantastic if you truly want to indulge without thinking about costs, especially if you plan to frequent the specialty restaurants and enjoy top-shelf spirits.
Is an MSC Drink Package Worth It? Independent Verdict
In our view, the value of a drink package often extends beyond just the monetary break-even point; it's also about the convenience and the freedom from constantly checking prices or worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.
Generally, if you anticipate consuming 5-6 alcoholic drinks (e.g., 2 beers, 2 glasses of wine, 1 cocktail) or a combination of premium non-alcoholic beverages and specialty coffees daily, then an MSC drink package will likely pay for itself. For example, at £38 for the Easy Package, you'd need to consume about 6 drinks at €6-€7 each to break even. This is quite achievable for many holidaymakers, especially on sea days or evenings.
When an MSC Drink Package Is Worth It
- You enjoy multiple alcoholic drinks daily: If your typical holiday consumption includes several beers, wines, or cocktails throughout the day and evening, the packages quickly become cost-effective. Think about those poolside drinks, pre-dinner cocktails, and wine with dinner.
- You love specialty coffees and bottled water: The 'Easy Plus' and 'Premium Extra' packages include unlimited specialty coffees (lattes, cappuccinos) and bottled water. If you're a coffee connoisseur or prefer bottled water over tap, this adds significant value.
- You value convenience and budget predictability: One of the biggest perks is not having to worry about the bar bill. You can order what you like, when you like, without a second thought, making for a more relaxing holiday experience.
- Your itinerary has many sea days: More time onboard means more opportunities to enjoy the ship's bars and lounges. On a 7-night Mediterranean cruise with two or three sea days, you'll likely get more use out of your package than on a port-intensive itinerary.
- You're celebrating a special occasion: For honeymoons, anniversaries, or big birthdays, the 'Premium Extra' package allows for complete indulgence, including premium brands and drinks in specialty restaurants, making the occasion feel truly special.
When an MSC Drink Package Is NOT Worth It
- You're a light drinker or prefer non-alcoholic options only: If you only have one or two alcoholic drinks a day, or primarily stick to water, juice, and basic soft drinks, paying à la carte will likely be cheaper.
- You plan to spend most of your time ashore: If your cruise is very port-intensive and you'll be off the ship for most of the day, you'll have fewer opportunities to utilise the package onboard.
- You have dietary restrictions or specific preferences: If you only drink very specific, high-end spirits that might not be included even in the 'Premium Extra' package, or have allergies that limit your choices, the package might not offer the best value.
- You're happy with basic included beverages: MSC, like all cruise lines, offers complimentary water, tea, and coffee (from dispensers) in the buffet and main dining rooms. If these suffice, you might not need a package.
How to Get the Best Deal on Your MSC Drink Package
Securing the best price for your MSC drink package can save you a significant amount of money, which you can then put towards excursions or onboard treats. It's all about timing and knowing where to look.
- Book Pre-Cruise Online: This is almost always the cheapest option. MSC typically offers discounts of 10-20% when you purchase packages through their 'MyMSC' portal or your travel agent before embarkation. Don't wait until you're onboard, as prices will be higher.
- Look for Bundle Deals: Sometimes, MSC offers promotional fares that include a drink package as part of the cruise fare (e.g., 'All-Inclusive' or 'Drinks On Us' promotions). These can be excellent value, especially if the bundled package aligns with your drinking habits.
- Check for Flash Sales: Keep an eye on MSC's website and sign up for their newsletters. They occasionally run flash sales on drink packages, especially during off-peak booking periods or for specific sailings. These sales can offer substantial savings.
- Consult Your Travel Agent: A good travel agent often has access to exclusive deals or can advise you on the best time to purchase. They might also be able to bundle a package into your overall booking at a competitive rate.
- Consider Your Loyalty Status: If you're an MSC Voyagers Club member, check if there are any loyalty discounts or perks related to drink packages. While not always a direct discount, sometimes higher tiers offer onboard credit that can offset costs.
- Compare Against Onboard Prices: Before you sail, make a note of the pre-cruise price. Once onboard, you can compare it to the onboard price (usually higher) and confirm you got the best deal. If you forgot to buy pre-cruise, sometimes the first day onboard offers a slightly reduced rate compared to subsequent days, but this isn't guaranteed.
- Don't Overbuy: While a package can be great value, don't feel pressured to buy the most expensive one if you won't use all its inclusions. Be realistic about your consumption habits to avoid wasting money on features you won't utilise.
MSC Cruise Drink Menu Comparison: MSC vs. Other Lines
When considering an MSC drink package, it's helpful to see how their offerings stack up against other popular cruise lines. The 'all-in-one' cabin policy is also common, but not universal.
| Cruise Line | Typical Entry-Level Package | Price Range (pp/day, 2026) | Key Differences | Decision Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSC Cruises | Easy Package | £32-£38 | Good value, 'all-in-one' cabin policy, Euro pricing onboard | Solid choice for standard drinkers |
| Royal Caribbean | Refreshment Package (non-alc) / Deluxe Beverage Package (alc) | £25-£30 (non-alc), £60-£80 (alc) | Higher price point for alcohol, often bundled with sales, US Dollar pricing | Best for heavy drinkers or those who value premium brands |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Cheers! Package | £50-£60 | Limited to 15 alcoholic drinks/day, includes specialty coffees/sodas | Good for those who hit the limit, but mindful of daily cap |
| Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) | Unlimited Open Bar (often 'Free at Sea' perk) | £80-£100 (if purchased separately) | Often included as a 'Free at Sea' perk, but daily service charge applies | Excellent value if you get it as a perk, otherwise pricey |
| P&O Cruises | Ultimate Drinks Package | £40-£45 | Pound Sterling pricing, includes Costa Coffee, no 'all-in-one' policy | Great for UK cruisers, good value for money, more flexible |
| Celebrity Cruises | Classic Drink Package (often included) | £55-£65 (if purchased separately) | Often included in 'All Included' fares, premium brands | Fantastic if bundled, otherwise a higher-end option |
As you can see, MSC's 'Easy Package' is quite competitive on price, especially compared to the premium offerings of Royal Caribbean or Celebrity. However, MSC's 'all-in-one' policy can be a deal-breaker for some. Ultimately, the 'best' option depends on your personal consumption, budget, and the specific cruise line's policies. For a deeper dive, check out our MSC Cruises Independent Review.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSC Drink Packages
What is the cheapest MSC drink package in 2026?
As of June 2026, the cheapest MSC drink package is typically the 'Easy Package', starting from around £30-£40 per person, per day. This package includes a selection of house wines, draught beer, soft drinks, and classic cocktails. It's ideal for those who enjoy a few drinks daily but don't require premium spirits or extensive wine lists. Remember, prices can fluctuate based on itinerary and booking time.
Can I share an MSC drink package with someone else?
No, MSC Cruises, like most cruise lines, strictly prohibits sharing drink packages. Each package is assigned to an individual guest and is non-transferable. If you're caught sharing, MSC reserves the right to cancel your package without refund and charge you for any drinks consumed. It's a common policy to ensure fair usage across all guests.
Are there non-alcoholic drink packages available on MSC in 2026?
Yes, MSC offers non-alcoholic drink packages, such as the 'Minors Package' (for guests aged 3-17) and the 'Alcohol-Free Package' (for adults). These typically include unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, fruit juices, non-alcoholic cocktails, and hot drinks. They are an excellent option for children, designated drivers, or anyone preferring to abstain from alcohol while still enjoying a variety of beverages.
What happens if only one person in my cabin wants a drink package on MSC?
MSC Cruises has a 'all-in-one' policy, meaning if one adult in a cabin purchases an alcoholic drink package, all other adults (aged 18/21+, depending on sailing region) in the same cabin must also purchase a drink package, or the 'Alcohol-Free Package' if they prefer. This policy is designed to prevent sharing. Children in the same cabin must purchase the 'Minors Package'.
Can I upgrade my MSC drink package once onboard?
Yes, in most cases, you can upgrade your MSC drink package onboard. For example, if you purchased the 'Easy Package' and decide you want more premium options, you can upgrade to the 'Easy Plus' or 'Premium Extra' package. However, you cannot downgrade a package. The upgrade cost will be the difference in price for the remaining days of your cruise, and it's usually best to do this early in your sailing.
Are specialty coffees included in MSC drink packages?
In 2026, specialty coffees (like lattes, cappuccinos, espressos) are generally included in the 'Easy Plus' and 'Premium Extra' MSC drink packages. The basic 'Easy Package' typically only includes standard filter coffee and tea. If you're a coffee connoisseur, upgrading to a higher-tier package might be worth it to enjoy those barista-made beverages throughout your cruise.
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