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MSC Easy Drink Package vs Premium 2026: Which to Choose

By Cruise Advisor Editorial Team · Updated 2026-08-08 · 12 min read

A detailed, UK-focused guide comparing the MSC Easy Drink package vs Premium in 2026.

MSC Easy Drink package vs Premium 2026 — if you’re trying to decide which drinks package to buy for your 2026 MSC cruise, you’re in the right place. In this in-depth, UK-focused guide we’ll compare the Easy Drink and Premium packages offered by MSC in 2026, share specific prices in £, show sample cost calculations for couples and families, and give practical tips to save money or decide not to buy a package at all. Wherever relevant we’ll point to other MyCruiseAdvisor articles to help you plan your cruise smarter. All references are current for 2026.

Overview: What MSC Easy Drink and Premium include in 2026

In 2026 MSC has kept the structure of its drink packages similar to previous years but refined inclusions and pricing per itinerary and ship. Easy Drink is MSC’s soft drink-focused package while Premium broadens the offer to include more wines by the glass, cocktails and higher-priced beers and spirits. On ships such as MSC Euribia and MSC Virtuosa the company also runs occasional promotions through the booking portal and the MSC for Me app, so pre-booking in the UK often gives you savings over buying the package on board in 2026.

Important: inclusions and brand ranges can vary by ship (e.g. some flagship vessels carry a wider premium wine list) so check your specific sailing on the MSC booking site or call their UK reservations team. We’ll show typical examples and exact prices later in this guide, using contemporary 2026 offers and British pound conversions.

What the Easy Drink package covers

Easy Drink is primarily for passengers who want non-alcoholic refreshment plus lighter alcoholic choices. Typical inclusions in 2026:

• Soft drinks and fountain sodas
• Bottled water (still and sparkling) up to specified bottle sizes
• Juices and smoothies from beverage menus
• Hot drinks such as tea and standard coffees on some ships
• Selected beers and house wines by the glass (depends on ship)

The package is designed for families and daytime use — poolside soft drinks, kids’ juices and a beer or house wine with lunch. If you only drink alcohol occasionally or prefer lower-cost drinks, Easy Drink saves money compared with buying every drink individually.

What the Premium package covers

Premium is the step-up for adults who enjoy cocktails, branded spirits and an extended wine list. Typical inclusions for Premium in 2026:

• Everything in Easy Drink
• Cocktails and mocktails including premium mixes
• Wide selection of bottled beers and craft beers (selected brands)
• Wines by the glass and selected bottled wines from a better range
• Spirits and liquors including branded gins, rums and vodkas (up to a set value in some cases)
• Sparkling wines and some champagnes by the glass on certain ships

Premium targets guests who like an evening drink in the bar, cocktails at the pool and a glass of wine with dinner. For many UK cruisers who are social drinkers, Premium is the better value if you expect more than two to three alcoholic drinks per day.

<table><thead><tr><th>Feature</th><th>Easy Drink</th><th>Premium</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Soft drinks</td><td>Included</td><td>Included</td></tr><tr><td>Bottled water</td><td>Included (standard bottles)</td><td>Included (larger range)</td></tr><tr><td>House wines</td><td>Limited</td><td>Wider selection</td></tr><tr><td>Spirits and cocktails</td><td>Usually not included</td><td>Included (branded spirits & cocktails)</td></tr><tr><td>Beer selection</td><td>Basic beers</td><td>Extended & craft beers</td></tr><tr><td>Typical 2026 price (per person, per day)</td><td>£20–£30</td><td>£40–£50</td></tr></tbody></table>

Indicative prices in £ for 2026 on MSC ships (estimates)

These are typical advertised prices in £ for pre-booking (on-board rates are often higher by about 10–15%):

• MSC Euribia (Mediterranean cruises 2026): Easy Drink around £20pp/day, Premium £45pp/day.
• MSC Virtuosa (UK departures 2026): Easy Drink roughly £25pp/day, Premium £50pp/day.
• MSC Seascape (North America & Caribbean; sample 2026 repositioning sailings priced for UK customers): Easy Drink around £20pp/day, Premium £45pp/day.

On shorter sailings (3–5 nights) MSC sometimes offers day-rate discounts; on longer cruises (7+ nights) you can secure a lower daily average by pre-booking a promotion. Remember prices shown per person mean couples multiply that figure — two adults on Premium at approximately £45pp/day is in the region of £90/day for drinks. That’s why worked examples are useful below.

See our guide to booking the best offers How to find cruise deals.

How package rules work — worth knowing in 2026

A few common rules apply across MSC packages in 2026 and they affect value: drinks are for the person named on the reservation only (no sharing), limits on the number of drinks per order may apply (e.g. two drinks per person per transaction), and excluded items such as certain premium bottles or wines above a stated value will be charged separately. If you plan to drink high-value wines or share a big bottle, the package may not cover it. Also note that packages often don’t cover drinks in exclusive restaurants (check speciality restaurant rules) unless explicitly stated.

<table><thead><tr><th>Item</th><th>Likely covered by Easy Drink</th><th>Likely covered by Premium</th><th>Typically excluded</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Fountain soft drinks</td><td>Yes</td><td>Yes</td><td>—</td></tr><tr><td>Bottled water</td><td>Yes (standard)</td><td>Yes (larger range)</td><td>Large format premium bottles</td></tr><tr><td>Cocktails</td><td>No</td><td>Yes</td><td>Ultra-premium cocktails</td></tr><tr><td>Branded spirits</td><td>No</td><td>Usually yes (brand-limited)</td><td>Very rare aged spirits & large measures</td></tr><tr><td>Premium wines & Champagne</td><td>No</td><td>Selected by the glass; expensive bottles excluded</td><td>Prestige bottles</td></tr></tbody></table>

Who should buy Easy Drink in 2026?

Buy Easy Drink if:

• You’re cruising with children and want soft drinks covered.
• You only want an occasional beer or a simple house wine at dinner.
• You mostly drink tea, coffee and juices while ashore explores are your priority rather than drinking on board.
• You want to cap unexpected bar bills without paying for premium cocktails.

For example, a family of four (two adults and two children) on a 7-night MSC Euribia cruise in 2026 paying Easy Drink at £22pp/day for the adults will pay roughly £308 per adult (7 x £22 = £154 each). For the two children there may be a lower or child-version fee; check MSC terms. Compared with paying for 1–2 drinks a day individually, Easy Drink can be a cost-saving option for families.

Who should buy Premium in 2026?

Premium is for guests who:

• Enjoy cocktails, branded spirits and a good selection of wines.
• Regularly drink 3+ alcoholic drinks per day (cocktails or wines push this cost up quickly if bought individually).
• Prefer the convenience of an all-in-one package for evenings at bars and lounges.

A couple on a 7-night cruise where each consumes 3 drinks per day at an average £8–£10 per drink will typically pay more by buying individually than pre-booking Premium. For example, three drinks a day at £9 each is £189pp for the week; Premium at £45pp/day would be £315pp — so Premium pays off only if you drink more cocktails or higher-value wines. You should run a quick calculation for your habits — we’ll show worked examples shortly.

1. Estimate your average drinks per day and likely cost per drink (use £8–£10 for cocktails, £5–£6 for beers, £6–£8 for wine by the glass).
2. Multiply by cruise nights to get the weekly total per person.
3. Compare to advertised Premium per person price (pre-book rate) and add any gratuities if applicable.
4. Include tax and service charges — in 2026 MSC typically itemises service alongside the package price in the purchase flow.
5. If your drinks forecast exceeds the Premium price, buy Premium; if it’s lower, consider Easy Drink or pay-as-you-go.

• Pre-book online whenever possible — MSC pre-book discounts in 2026 are often 10–20% compared to onboard rates.
• Look for promotional bundles (for example ‘Drinks & Wi‑Fi bundle’) which sometimes work out better value.
• If you plan to drink mainly at dinner, check whether dinner house wine options and restaurant corkage rules make a difference.
• Take advantage of ‘drink of the day’ offers and happy hours on board to reduce per-drink cost if you’re not on Premium.
• Use loyalty benefits — MSC Voyagers Club tiers occasionally offer discounts on packages.

Family travel considerations

For families on MSC in 2026, Easy Drink often makes sense because it covers children’s soft drinks and keeps adult costs moderate. Beware that children under the legal drinking age are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol regardless of package type. Some sailings provide a child-priced beverage bundle or allow you to add drinks for children at a reduced rate — check your booking. If you’re sailing with P&O, Cunard or Marella on the same holiday, compare their family-friendly offers as well — see our P&O drinks guide P&O drink packages 2026.

How MSC drink packages compare with P&O, Cunard and Marella in 2026

UK cruisers often ask how MSC’s packages compare with British lines. Quick summary for 2026:

• P&O Cruises: often offers a 'Classic' drinks package and a 'Premium' option with a similar price bracket to MSC Premium but with British brand selections. Typical price for P&O Premium in 2026 sits an estimated £40–£50pp/day on many sailings.
• Cunard: more expensive overall; Cunard’s drinks packages in 2026 focus on wine pairings and classic cocktails with higher average per-day prices — often used by those who want a formal dining experience.
• Marella: tends to have simpler, family-friendly drink bundles; prices in 2026 are competitive and sometimes cheaper than MSC for comparable soft-drink coverage.

If you favour a distinctly British onboard experience, P&O or Cunard may be preferable — but MSC often wins on value if you want modern bars, themed cocktail menus and younger-vibe shipboard nightlife.

<table><thead><tr><th>Feature</th><th>MSC Premium</th><th>P&O Premium</th><th>Marella Drinks Bundle</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Typical UK price (pp/day)</td><td>£40–£50</td><td>£40–£52</td><td>£18–£30</td></tr><tr><td>Cocktails</td><td>Included</td><td>Included</td><td>Limited</td></tr><tr><td>Brand spirits</td><td>Included</td><td>Included</td><td>Not usually</td></tr><tr><td>Family-friendly</td><td>Moderate</td><td>Moderate</td><td>Strong</td></tr></tbody></table>

Practical tips for buying and using MSC packages in 2026

• Buy for the whole sailing: packages are typically sold for the entire duration of the cruise and cannot be purchased per-day outcome. If you buy for part of the sailing, the system usually charges for the full cruise length.
• Activate on embarkation day: ensure the package is activated and on your cruise card to avoid being charged for drinks in the first 24 hours.
• Use the MSC for Me app: it shows an up-to-date drinks list and helps you see if a drink is covered before you order.

Using loyalty status to your advantage

MSC Voyagers Club members can sometimes access discounts on drink packages. If you cruise regularly with brands like P&O, Cunard or Marella, check whether loyalty club benefits stack or whether you can claim a price match through the agent you booked with.

If you’re booking through a UK travel agent or direct via MSC UK, ask for package pricing in GBP and whether a ‘drinks-inclusive’ fare is available. Some agents bundle drinks in promotional fares, which can be better than adding a package after you’ve booked.

1. Log in to your MSC booking on the UK website and look for 'Extras' or 'Beverage Packages'.
2. Compare the pre-booked price vs ‘onboard price’ (onboard is usually 10–15% higher).
3. Add the package per person and complete the checkout; prices will be shown in £.
4. Check your booking confirmation and ensure the package appears under 'Extras'.
5. On embarkation day, verify your MSC cruise card has the package active; ask Guest Services if not.
6. Use the MSC for Me app to view the menu and confirm coverage before ordering.

Worked examples and cost scenarios for UK passengers (2026)

Here are three typical scenarios using 2026 prices to help you decide.

Scenario A — Couple, social drinkers, 7 nights on MSC Virtuosa (UK departure):
- Expected average: 3 drinks each per day (cocktail + wine + beer) at average £8.50 per drink.
- Pay-as-you-go cost: 3 x £8.50 x 7 x 2 = £357 per person? (calculation should be per person: 3 x £8.50 x 7 = £178.50pp; for two = £357)
- Premium pre-book price: £48pp/day x 7 = £336pp, which is more than pay-as-you-go for 3 drinks/day as calculated — in this example, Premium does not pay off unless they drink more premium cocktails or bottled wines.

Scenario B — Cocktail fans, 7 nights on MSC Euribia:
- Expected average: 5 drinks each per day at average £9.
- Pay-as-you-go: 5 x £9 x 7 = £315pp.
- Premium pre-book: £45pp/day x 7 = £315pp — break-even. If you expect more than 5 drinks/day or higher-priced cocktails, Premium becomes the better deal.

Scenario C — Family of four (two adults on Easy Drink, two kids), 7 nights:
- Adult Easy Drink: £22pp/day x 7 = £154pp
- Children soft drink add-on: variable, often lower or included in child price
- Overall family cost is lower and keeps bar bills predictable.

Note: add 15% service charge to pay-as-you-go tallies where applicable in 2026, and check MSC for Me for ship-specific drink prices.

Scenario	Pay-as-you-go (£)	Premium pre-book (£)	Easy Drink pre-book (£)
Couple, 3 drinks/day	178.50	336.00	154.00
Cocktail fans, 5 drinks/day	315.00	315.00	154.00
Light drinker, 1 drink/day	52.50	336.00	154.00

Practical on-board behaviour with packages (what to expect)

When you’ve purchased a package, staff will generally check ID and the system links the package to your cruise card. Expect to show your card when ordering; bartenders may ask to confirm your package on the app. Limits such as two drinks per order sometimes exist, and bartenders may refuse service if they suspect drinking to excess. Sharing drinks is not allowed — packages are strictly per person.

Also remember: in speciality dining venues and certain events, the package may not apply. Ask the staff beforehand if you’re unsure.

App and tech — MSC for Me features in 2026

The MSC for Me app has improved in 2026 and now displays real-time menus and clearly flags which drinks are included in your package. Use the app to estimate costs and find special offers for the cruise. It’s an essential tool for modern cruising and particularly useful when you want to check whether a particular craft beer or cocktail is covered by Premium.

If you’re less comfortable using apps, Guest Services can print your package inclusions at the help desk.

Is Easy Drink available for children on MSC in 2026?

Easy Drink covers non-alcoholic drinks for kids and some sailings offer a child-price beverage bundle. Alcohol is not permitted for underage passengers. Always check your specific booking for child pricing and whether juices, milkshakes and fountain drinks are included for minors.

Can I upgrade from Easy Drink to Premium onboard?

Yes, MSC allows upgrades onboard but expect to pay the onboard rate which is typically 10–15% higher than the pre-book price. If you decide to upgrade, go to Guest Services or use the MSC for Me app to add the Premium package and confirm activation on your cruise card.

When not to buy a drinks package

There are times when buying no package is the better choice:

• If you drink very little (1 drink or fewer per day).
• If you prefer to enjoy alcoholic drinks only on excursions or in port when they’re cheaper ashore.
• If you’re sailing on a budget fare and the package price would make the holiday unaffordable.

Remember that on shore excursions you may find excellent local drinks at reasonable prices — a glass of Portuguese Vinho Verde in Lisbon or local craft beer in Tallinn is often cheaper and better value than specialty cocktails on board.

Special events, tastings and excluded items in 2026

Throughout 2026 MSC hosts wine tastings, cocktail masterclasses and premium pairing events that are usually not included in drinks packages. These are sold separately and typically cost from £15–£60 per person depending on the event. If you love wine education or mixology, budget for these extra events on top of your package purchase.

Additionally, bottles of champagne and expensive wines are commonly excluded and charged a la carte. If you plan to buy bottles for celebration dinners, check corkage rules and whether the package makes any concession for bottled wine at specialty restaurants.

How to save on speciality drinks and events

• Book tasting events early as they can fill up and sometimes early-bird prices are available.
• Share premium bottles with your table and split the bill — sometimes cheaper than ordering cocktails individually.
• Use shore days to sample local wine and beer that are often better value.

Frequently asked questions (top 6+ in-depth answers)

Below are common questions UK cruisers ask about MSC Easy Drink package vs Premium in 2026. If you need further details, our extended FAQ library at MyCruiseAdvisor has more specific articles such as MSC Euribia review 2026 and Choosing the right drink package.

Is the price shown per person or per cabin?

Prices are per person. When MSC quotes £45pp/day for Premium, that is the daily cost per adult. Multiply by the number of adults and nights to reach the total package cost for the booking. The exception is some promotions or bundles that may discount the second person; check the promotion terms. Always ensure the cost is in £ for UK bookings.

Are tips included in the package price in 2026?

MSC typically adds service charges to drink prices or includes service in package pricing depending on the promotion. When pre-booking, the final checkout will show if service is included or an added cost. In 2026 many pre-book prices displayed on the UK site were inclusive of service, but it varies — read the summary at purchase.

Specialty non-alcoholic options and allergen-free drinks are generally available but may not all be included in Easy Drink or Premium. If you need something specific, ask Guest Services or your waiter; they can advise whether a small supplement applies. For medically necessary drinks, always inform the ship in advance.

Does the package apply in speciality restaurants?

Usually standard drinks packages apply in main dining rooms and bars but many speciality restaurants are excluded or have limited coverage. Some premium packages include a limited number of drinks in speciality venues but this is rare. Check the restaurant details in the MSC for Me app or ask when booking the restaurant.

Can I share leftover drinks or exchange for onboard credit?

No. Packages are non-transferable and drinks cannot be exchanged for cash or onboard credit. Unused days of a package are usually non-refundable once the cruise has started. If you cancel before embarkation, refund rules depend on MSC’s terms and timing.

Are there family discounts or child pricing for Easy Drink in 2026?

Some sailings offer lower child rates for beverage bundles but policies vary by ship and itinerary. In 2026 child pricing was sometimes offered as a percentage of adult pricing for children aged 3–12. Babies and toddlers are not charged for drinks but check MSC’s precise age brackets and inclusions for your sailing.

Final verdict and recommendations for UK cruisers in 2026

Choosing between MSC Easy Drink and Premium depends on your drinking habits, travel party and budget.
- Choose Premium if you love cocktails, branded spirits and wines and expect to drink 5+ drinks per day or want convenience.
- Always pre-book in 2026 when possible to save compared with onboard prices and watch for bundles and promotions.

If you’re unsure, run the simple cost calculation shown earlier. For more ship-specific advice see our review pieces MSC Virtuosa review 2026 and MSC Seascape guide 2026.

Passengers enjoying cocktails at the Sky Bar on MSC Virtuosa in 2026 — photo alt: Guests at Sky Bar with cocktails on MSC Virtuosa 2026.

What is the main difference between MSC Easy Drink and Premium in 2026?

Easy Drink focuses on non-alcoholic drinks, bottled water and limited beers/house wines. Premium includes cocktails, branded spirits and a wider wine selection. Premium suits cocktail and wine lovers; Easy Drink is aimed at families and light drinkers.

How much do MSC drink packages cost in 2026?

Typical pre-book prices in 2026 range from about £20–£30pp/day for Easy Drink and £40–£50pp/day for Premium, depending on ship and itinerary. Onboard rates are usually 10–15% higher.

Can I upgrade from Easy Drink to Premium on board?

Yes, upgrades are possible from Guest Services or via the MSC for Me app, but expect to pay the higher onboard rate. Upgrading early in the cruise maximises value.

Are drink packages refundable if I cancel my cruise in 2026?

Refunds depend on MSC’s cancellation policy and timing. If you cancel before embarkation, you may be eligible for a refund according to MSC terms; once the cruise starts, packages are usually non-refundable.

Do drink packages include service charges or tips?

Service charges vary; some pre-book prices include service while others add a service fee. The checkout process will show whether service is included — always check when purchasing in 2026.

Is it better to pre-book or buy on board in 2026?

Pre-booking generally saves money (often 10–20%) and guarantees availability. Onboard purchases are convenient but usually more expensive. Monitor promotions and rebook if a better pre-book price appears before final payment.

Related articles

• Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It in 2026? Independent Planning Guide
• MSC Cruises Independent Review: Is It Worth Booking in 2026?
• MSC Virtuosa Drink Package Review 2026: Is It Worth It?
• MSC Cruises Review for First-Time Cruisers 2026: Is It Right for You?
• MSC Cruise Drink Packages 2026 — Independent Planning Guide
• MSC Cruise Drink Package Cost 2026 — Independent Planning Guide