Does MSC Cruise Line Charge for Infants Find Out Here

MSC Cruise Line does charge for infants, with mandatory fees covering port taxes and onboard services—even for babies under two years old. However, infants sail free of base fare on most sailings, making it a budget-friendly option for families despite the added charges. Always verify current policies before booking, as fees and promotions may vary by destination and season.

Key Takeaways

• Infants under 2 sail free on most MSC cruises with conditions.
• Port fees may still apply even if base fare is waived for infants.
• Book as lap infants early to secure proper accommodations onboard.
• Proof of age is required at check-in to qualify for infant rates.
• Special requests need advance notice like cribs or dietary needs.

Does MSC Cruise Line Charge for Infants? Find Out Here

Planning a family vacation is an exciting yet challenging endeavor, especially when it involves traveling with young children. For many parents, the thought of cruising with their little ones brings up a host of questions, chief among them being: Does MSC Cruise Line charge for infants? The answer isn’t always straightforward, and understanding the nuances can save families both money and stress. As one of the world’s leading cruise lines, MSC Cruises offers a range of family-friendly amenities, but the policies for infants—typically defined as children under two years old—can vary depending on several factors.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about MSC’s infant pricing policies. From the cost of booking to onboard accommodations, dining, and even special services, we’ll break down the details to help you plan a seamless and enjoyable cruise experience for your entire family. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing what to expect when bringing an infant onboard can make all the difference. So, let’s dive in and uncover the truth about MSC’s infant fees, hidden costs, and money-saving tips.

Understanding MSC’s Infant Pricing Policy

What Qualifies as an Infant?

Before we delve into the costs, it’s essential to clarify who is considered an infant by MSC Cruises. According to their official policy, an infant is a child under the age of two years old at the time of embarkation. This age threshold is critical because it determines whether the child will be charged as a passenger or receive special infant pricing. It’s important to note that this classification applies to all aspects of the cruise, including cabin occupancy, dining, and onboard activities.

For example, if your child turns two during the cruise, they will still be considered an infant for the entire trip as long as they haven’t reached their second birthday by the day you board the ship. However, if your child’s second birthday falls within a day or two of the cruise date, it’s advisable to contact MSC directly to confirm their status. Some families have reported discrepancies in how different booking agents interpret this rule, so getting official confirmation from MSC can prevent last-minute surprises.

Standard Infant Pricing: Is There a Charge?

Now, to answer the burning question: Does MSC Cruise Line charge for infants? The short answer is: **it depends**. While MSC does not charge the full adult fare for infants, they are not entirely free either. Here’s how it works:

• Infant Surcharge: MSC typically applies a nominal fee for infants, which is a fraction of the adult cruise fare. This fee covers the child’s spot on the manifest, basic onboard services, and safety compliance. The exact amount varies by itinerary, ship, and time of year but generally ranges from $25 to $100 per infant per cruise.
• Third/Fourth Passenger Rates: If you’re booking a cabin for two adults and bringing an infant, the infant is often charged as a third passenger. In many cases, MSC offers discounted or even “free” third/fourth passenger rates, especially during promotional periods. For instance, a family of three (two adults + one infant) might only pay for two full fares, with the infant’s fee waived or heavily reduced.
• Special Promotions: MSC frequently runs deals like “Kids Sail Free” or “Infant Discounts,” where infants under two travel at no additional cost. These promotions are time-sensitive and may require specific booking conditions (e.g., booking a balcony cabin or sailing during off-peak months).

To illustrate, consider this real-world example: A family books a 7-night Mediterranean cruise on the MSC Seaside during a summer sale. The base fare for two adults is $1,400 ($700 each). With the “Infant Sails Free” promotion, their 18-month-old child boards at no extra cost. However, if they had booked the same cruise without the promotion, they might have paid an additional $75 for the infant. This highlights the importance of timing and promotions when budgeting for your trip.

Hidden Costs and Additional Fees for Infants

Gratuities and Service Charges

One area where many parents are caught off guard is gratuities. While the infant’s base fare might be low or waived, MSC still applies a daily gratuity (or “service charge”) for infants. As of 2023, the standard gratuity rate for children under two is approximately $7–$10 per day, depending on the ship and region. For a 7-day cruise, this adds up to $49–$70, which is a non-negotiable fee added to your onboard account.

Pro Tip: Some MSC promotions include prepaid gratuities. If you’re taking advantage of a “Kids Sail Free” deal, check whether gratuities are covered. If not, budget for this expense upfront to avoid sticker shock at the end of your trip.

Onboard Dining and Beverage Packages

Infants do not require a full dining package, but there are still costs to consider:

• Specialty Dining: If you dine at one of MSC’s specialty restaurants (e.g., Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse), you may be charged a small fee for your infant to sit at the table, even if they’re not eating a full meal. This fee is typically $10–$20 per visit.
• Infant Formula and Baby Food: While MSC provides complimentary water and milk, parents are expected to bring their own formula, baby food, and bottles. Some ships offer a limited selection of baby food in the buffet, but options are often basic (e.g., plain pasta, mashed potatoes). If you need specialized items (e.g., organic, allergy-friendly), pack them in your carry-on.
• Drinks for Parents: If you’re considering a beverage package (e.g., the “Easy Drink Package”), note that infants are not included. However, parents can order non-alcoholic drinks for their children at no extra cost.

Port Fees, Taxes, and Government Charges

Even if the infant’s cruise fare is free, they are still subject to port fees, taxes, and government charges. These fees are mandatory and cover docking, security, and local taxes. The cost per infant is usually $50–$150 per cruise, depending on the itinerary. For example, a transatlantic cruise with multiple stops will have higher port fees than a short Caribbean getaway.

Example: A family sailing on the MSC Grandiosa for 10 days in the Caribbean might pay $120 in port fees for their infant, even if the base fare was waived. These fees are non-refundable and non-negotiable, so factor them into your total cost.

Booking Tips to Save Money on Infant Travel

Timing Your Booking: Promotions and Off-Peak Sailing

The best way to avoid or minimize infant fees is to book during promotional periods. MSC regularly offers:

• Kids Sail Free: This promotion waives the base fare for infants and children under a certain age (often under 12). It’s most common during off-peak seasons (e.g., January–March, September–October).
• Third Passenger Free: If you’re booking a suite or balcony cabin, MSC may waive the third passenger fee, which includes infants.
• Last-Minute Deals: Booking within 60–90 days of departure can yield significant savings, as MSC fills unsold cabins with discounted rates for families.

Pro Tip: Sign up for MSC’s email newsletter and follow them on social media to get alerts about flash sales. For instance, in 2022, MSC offered a “Buy One, Get One Free” deal on select sailings, which effectively made infants sail free when booking two adult fares.

Choosing the Right Cabin

Cabin selection can also impact your infant costs:

• Interior and Oceanview Cabins: These are the most budget-friendly options. However, they may not have enough space for a crib or bassinet. MSC provides complimentary cribs, but they are limited in supply and must be requested in advance.
• Balcony and Suite Cabins: These often have more space and are more likely to accommodate a family of three. Some suites even include a pull-out sofa or separate sleeping area for infants. While the upfront cost is higher, the added comfort can be worth it.
• Family Cabins: On newer ships like the MSC World Europa, MSC offers dedicated family cabins with bunk beds and convertible furniture. These cabins may have special infant pricing or bundled deals.

Example: A family books an interior cabin on the MSC Meraviglia for $1,200 (two adults). The infant’s fee is $50, plus $80 in port fees. Total: $1,330. If they upgrade to a balcony cabin for $1,500 (with a “Third Passenger Free” promotion), the infant sails free, and the total cost is $1,500. While the balcony costs more, the family gains extra space, a private outdoor area, and avoids the infant surcharge.

Leveraging Loyalty Programs and Discounts

If you’re an MSC Voyagers Club member, you can unlock additional savings:

• Discounts: Gold and Diamond members receive 5–10% off cruise fares, which can include infant fees.
• Priority Booking: Higher-tier members get first access to promotions and limited-time offers.
• Onboard Credit: Some promotions include onboard credit (e.g., $100–$500), which can be used to offset gratuities or specialty dining fees for your infant.

Even if you’re not a member yet, joining is free and can pay off quickly. For example, a family of three booking a $2,000 cruise with a 10% member discount saves $200—enough to cover the infant’s port fees and gratuities.

Onboard Experience: What to Expect with an Infant

Crib and Bassinet Requests

MSC provides complimentary cribs and bassinets for infants, but they must be requested at least 48 hours before embarkation. Availability is limited, so book early. When requesting, specify:

• Your infant’s age and weight
• Preferred sleeping arrangement (crib vs. bassinet)
• Any special needs (e.g., allergy-free materials)

Note: Cribs are standard wooden or metal frames with a thin mattress. If you prefer a more comfortable setup (e.g., a portable crib with a thicker mattress), consider bringing your own. Most ships allow this as long as it fits in the cabin and meets safety standards.

Kids’ Clubs and Childcare

MSC’s Kids’ Clubs are a highlight for families, but infants have limited options:

• Baby Club (0–3 years): Available on select ships, this supervised play area is free for infants. Activities include sensory play, music, and nap time. Hours are typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM and 7:00 PM–10:00 PM.
• Evening Childcare: For parents who want a night out, MSC offers paid babysitting services (usually $10–$15 per hour per child). This is ideal for date nights or late dinners.
• Parent-and-Me Activities: Many ships host stroller-friendly events like baby yoga, storytelling, and craft sessions.

Pro Tip: Check your ship’s itinerary for “Family Fun Days,” which often include free activities for infants and toddlers.

Dining with an Infant

Dining with an infant on MSC is surprisingly stress-free:

• High Chairs: Available in all dining venues. Request one when booking your table.
• Kid-Friendly Menus: Main dining rooms offer pureed foods, steamed vegetables, and simple pasta dishes for infants.
• Flexible Dining Times: MSC’s “My Choice Dining” lets you choose when and where you eat, making it easier to accommodate nap schedules.

Example: A family with a 10-month-old can request a high chair and a pureed chicken dish in the main dining room, then head to the pool deck for a quick lunch of baby-safe snacks from the buffet.

Comparing MSC with Other Cruise Lines

Infant Pricing Across Major Cruise Lines

To put MSC’s policies in perspective, here’s a comparison with other popular cruise lines:

Cruise Line	Infant Fee (Under 2)	Gratuities	Special Notes
MSC Cruises	$25–$100 (or free during promotions)	$7–$10/day	Free cribs; Kids’ Club for 0–3
Royal Caribbean	Free (third passenger)	$7–$10/day	Free cribs; Adventure Ocean for 6mo+
Carnival	Free (third passenger)	$7–$10/day	Free cribs; Camp Ocean for 2–5
Norwegian Cruise Line	$25–$50	$7–$10/day	Free cribs; Splash Academy for 6mo+
Disney Cruise Line	Free (third passenger)	$7–$10/day	Free cribs; It’s a Small World Nursery

As the table shows, MSC is competitive with other major lines. While Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney offer more consistently free infant fares, MSC’s frequent promotions and family-friendly amenities make it a strong contender—especially if you book strategically.

Unique Advantages of MSC for Infants

What sets MSC apart?

• European Focus: MSC ships often sail in the Mediterranean, where ports are stroller-friendly and family activities are abundant.
• Language Support: With multilingual staff, MSC caters to international families, including those from non-English-speaking countries.
• Affordable Upgrades: Balcony cabins and suites are often priced lower than on U.S.-based lines, making them more accessible for families.

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Infant Cruise with MSC

So, does MSC Cruise Line charge for infants? The answer is nuanced: Yes, there are fees, but they can often be minimized or waived entirely with the right strategy. By booking during promotions, choosing the right cabin, and leveraging loyalty programs, families can enjoy a luxurious cruise experience without breaking the bank. From complimentary cribs to engaging Kids’ Clubs and flexible dining options, MSC has designed its ships with families in mind.

Remember, the key to a stress-free cruise with an infant is preparation. Request your crib early, pack essential baby supplies, and familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout before boarding. And don’t forget to take advantage of MSC’s onboard childcare—it’s a rare opportunity for parents to relax while knowing their little one is in good hands.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Mediterranean adventure, a Caribbean escape, or a transatlantic voyage, MSC offers a compelling mix of affordability, comfort, and family-friendly amenities. With this guide in hand, you’re now equipped to answer the question: Does MSC Cruise Line charge for infants?—and make informed decisions for your next family getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does MSC Cruise Line charge for infants under 2 years old?

Yes, MSC Cruises does charge for infants, but they often offer discounted rates for children under 2 years old. The exact cost depends on the itinerary and stateroom type, but infants typically sail at a fraction of the adult fare.

Is there a free infant policy on MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises does not offer a completely free infant policy. However, infants under 2 usually receive a heavily reduced rate, making it affordable for families traveling with babies. Check the “infant cruise fare” during booking for specific pricing.

What is the cost for infants on an MSC Cruise?

The cost for infants on an MSC Cruise varies by sailing but is generally a small percentage of the adult fare. For example, infants may pay port fees and taxes plus a minimal base fare, often under $100 total for short cruises.

Does MSC Cruise Line require infants to have their own bed?

Infants do not need their own bed; they can share a bed with a parent or use a complimentary crib. However, MSC still charges the infant fare regardless of sleeping arrangements to cover mandatory port fees and onboard services.

Are there any hidden fees for bringing an infant on an MSC Cruise?

No hidden fees exist beyond the published infant rate, which includes port charges and taxes. MSC Cruises is transparent about pricing, and you’ll see the final infant cost before confirming your booking.

Can I book an MSC Cruise with an infant online?

Yes, you can easily add an infant during the online booking process by selecting “under 2” in the passenger age field. The system will automatically apply the correct discounted fare for the infant.