How Much Are Drinks on MSC Cruise Line A Complete Guide

Drinks on MSC Cruise Line typically range from $2 to $15+, with cocktails and premium spirits on the higher end. Prices vary by drink type and ship, but alcohol packages (from $50/day) can offer significant savings for frequent drinkers, while non-alcoholic options like soda and coffee are often more affordable or included in select plans.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary by type, with cocktails averaging $8–$14 and beers $5–$8.
• Save with packages like the Premium Plus Beverage Package for unlimited drinks at one price.
• Specialty drinks cost extra—premium spirits, wine, and espresso can exceed $15 per serving.
• Kids’ drinks are cheaper with non-alcoholic options priced under $3.
• Happy hour deals offer 2-for-1 cocktails at select bars during specific times.
• Free water stations are available; bring a reusable bottle to save on bottled water.
• Check promotions—early bookings often include discounted or free drink packages.

How Much Are Drinks on MSC Cruise Line: A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’re lounging on a sun-drenched deck, the ocean breeze gently tousling your hair, and you reach for a refreshing mojito—only to hesitate. How much is this going to cost me? If you’ve ever wondered about the price of drinks on an MSC Cruise, you’re not alone. Whether you’re sipping a morning cappuccino, enjoying a sunset cocktail, or toasting with a glass of bubbly, understanding the drink costs can make a big difference in your vacation experience.

MSC Cruises, one of the world’s largest cruise lines, offers a mix of included and à la carte beverages. But here’s the catch: unlike some competitors, MSC doesn’t automatically include most drinks in your base fare. That means your onboard spending can add up fast if you’re not careful. The good news? With a little planning and insider knowledge, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how much drinks cost on MSC Cruise Line—from coffee to cocktails, wine to water—and help you make smart choices that fit your budget and taste.

Understanding MSC’s Drink Pricing: What’s Included and What Isn’t

What’s Included in Your Fare (The Basics)

Let’s start with the good news: not everything costs extra. MSC Cruises includes a few basic drinks in your cruise fare, especially during meals in the main dining rooms and buffets. Here’s what you can enjoy at no additional charge:

• Water – Still or sparkling water is served at all meal times and available at self-serve stations in the buffet.
• Coffee and tea – Regular coffee, decaf, and a selection of teas are included during meals. You can also get them at the buffet or in the dining room.
• Milk and juice – At breakfast, you’ll find milk and a few types of juice (usually orange and apple) included.
• Soft drinks (limited) – At lunch and dinner in the main dining room, soft drinks like cola, lemon-lime soda, and tonic water are complimentary. But don’t expect this at bars or the buffet outside of meal hours.

Pro tip: If you’re at the buffet and want a soda, grab it during lunch or dinner. After hours, even a simple cola can cost $3–$4. I learned this the hard way on my first MSC cruise—grabbed a soda at 8 PM and got a $3.50 surprise on my bill!

What Costs Extra (And How Much)

Now, the not-so-fun part: most drinks outside of meals come with a price tag. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll pay for popular beverages:

• Alcoholic cocktails – $10–$16, depending on the drink and ship. A classic mojito or margarita usually falls in the $11–$13 range.
• Beer – Domestic and international beers cost $5–$8 per bottle or draft. Craft beers and specialty imports can go up to $10.
• Wine by the glass – $8–$15. House wines are on the lower end, while premium labels like Pinot Grigio or Cabernet Sauvignon from well-known regions cost more.
• Wine by the bottle – $30–$100+, with mid-range bottles averaging $40–$60.
• Non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails) – $7–$10. Yes, even non-alcoholic versions are priced like real cocktails.
• Bottled water – $3–$5 for a 500ml bottle. A 12-pack from the onboard store can save you money if you drink a lot.
• Specialty coffee – Cappuccino, latte, or espresso at the café costs $4–$6. Regular coffee is free, but if you want a fancy drink, be ready to pay.

One thing to keep in mind: prices vary slightly by ship and region. For example, drinks on a Caribbean cruise might be priced differently than on a Mediterranean itinerary due to local taxes and import costs. But overall, the range stays consistent across the fleet.

Taxes and Service Charges

Don’t forget the extras. MSC adds a 15% service charge to all drink purchases, including those on drink packages. This is automatically added to your bill—no tipping required, but it’s not optional. Some guests assume this charge goes to the staff, and while it does support crew compensation, it’s still part of your total cost.

Also, be aware that port taxes and VAT (Value Added Tax) may apply in certain regions. For example, if you’re cruising in Europe, VAT (around 10–20%) can be added to drinks purchased onboard, especially in bars near the gangway or during port days. This isn’t always clearly labeled, so check your receipt if you’re budgeting tightly.

MSC Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Overview of MSC’s Drink Packages

MSC offers several drink packages designed to save you money if you plan to drink regularly. These packages can be purchased before your cruise or onboard, though booking in advance often comes with a discount. Here are the main options:

• Easy Package – $40–$45 per person, per day. Includes unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, coffee, tea, and select juices. Also covers beer and wine under $8 per glass. Great for non-heavy drinkers or families.
• Easy Plus Package – $65–$75 per person, per day. Adds premium cocktails, spirits, and wine up to $12 per glass. Also includes specialty coffee and mocktails.
• Premium Package – $85–$95 per person, per day. Covers everything: top-shelf liquors, premium wines (up to $18 per glass), champagne, and all cocktails. Also includes bottled water and specialty drinks.
• Zero Package – $25–$30 per person, per day. For non-drinkers or those who just want unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, and specialty coffee.

All packages include the 15% service charge, so you don’t get hit with extra fees. They also work across all bars, lounges, and restaurants (with a few exceptions, like private events or room service after midnight).

When a Package Saves You Money

Let’s do some math. Suppose you’re on a 7-night cruise and plan to have:

• 2 cocktails per day ($12 each) = $168
• 1 beer per day ($6) = $42
• 1 glass of wine per day ($10) = $70
• 1 specialty coffee ($5) = $35
• 2 bottles of water ($4 each) = $56

Total without a package: $371 per person (plus 15% service charge = ~$427).

With the Easy Plus Package at $70/day: $490 total. That’s more than à la carte—but wait! The package covers unlimited drinks. If you have just one extra cocktail, beer, or coffee, you’re already saving. And if you’re socializing at the bar every night, the value skyrockets.

Break-even points:

• Easy Package: ~5 drinks per day
• Easy Plus: ~7–8 drinks per day
• Premium: ~10+ drinks per day

So if you’re a moderate drinker (3–4 drinks/day), Easy Plus might still be worth it—especially if you love variety or want to try premium cocktails. But if you only have one drink every other day, skip the package and pay as you go.

Limitations and Fine Print

Drink packages aren’t perfect. Here are some things to watch out for:

• Per-person, per-day pricing – If you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t drink, you might end up paying for two packages. MSC doesn’t offer shared packages (yet).
• No sharing – You can’t use your package to buy drinks for friends unless they’re on the same package.
• Exclusions – Room service drinks, mini-bar items, and drinks at private events (like weddings) are usually not covered.
• Time limits – Some packages have time restrictions (e.g., no drinks after 12:30 AM). Check the details when you buy.
• Refunds – If you cancel the package, you’ll only get a partial refund, and only if you do it early.

One guest I met on a cruise told me she bought the Premium Package but only used it for three days because her group spent most of their time on excursions. She ended up losing money. So consider your itinerary: if you’re in port most days, a package might not pay off.

Smart Ways to Save on Drinks (Without Feeling Cheap)

Buy in Bulk: The 12-Pack Trick

One of the smartest moves I made on my last MSC cruise? Buying a 12-pack of bottled water from the onboard store on the first day. At $25 for 12 bottles (~$2.08 each), it was cheaper than the $4–$5 per bottle at the bar. I kept them in my room fridge and refilled my reusable bottle throughout the day.

Same goes for beer. A six-pack of Heineken costs around $20—about $3.33 per bottle—compared to $6 at the bar. If you’re sharing with a partner or friend, it’s a no-brainer.

Pro tip: The onboard store often has sales during the first few days or on port days. Keep an eye out for “Happy Hour” discounts on drinks and snacks.

Take Advantage of Free Drink Hours

MSC sometimes offers “free drink” events during the cruise—especially on embarkation day or themed nights. For example:

• Embarkation cocktail hour – Often includes complimentary welcome drinks (usually a sparkling wine or fruit punch) at the main atrium or pool deck.
• Captain’s Welcome Party – Free drinks and hors d’oeuvres for a limited time.
• Theme nights – Like “Tropical Night” or “Italian Evening,” which sometimes feature free samples or discounted drinks.

These events are a great chance to enjoy premium drinks without paying full price. Just don’t rely on them—they’re rare and short-lived.

Stick to the Included Options

Want to save without sacrificing enjoyment? Get creative with what’s free. For example:

• Order a glass of house wine during dinner—it’s included and often decent quality.
• Ask for sparkling water with a slice of lemon at the bar—it’s free and feels fancy.
• Bring your own reusable cup to the buffet for coffee and juice (MSC allows this).
• Use the self-serve soda fountain during meal hours, then refill your cup later.

I once saw a family of four using large insulated mugs for soda at lunch, then sipping them by the pool all afternoon. Smart!

Use Loyalty Perks and Discounts

If you’re an MSC Voyagers Club member (their loyalty program), you might get drink discounts or free upgrades. Silver members and above often receive:

• 10–20% off drink packages
• Complimentary drinks on certain nights
• Free specialty coffee or wine during select events

Also, check your pre-cruise emails—MSC sometimes offers “buy one, get one free” drink package deals or onboard credit that can be used for drinks.

Regional and Seasonal Pricing Differences

Caribbean vs. Europe: What to Expect

Drink prices on MSC can vary depending on your itinerary. Here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Caribbean cruises – Prices are generally lower. A cocktail might be $10–$12, and beer $5–$6. Why? Lower import costs and competition with local bars.
• Mediterranean cruises – Prices are higher due to EU regulations and VAT. A mojito could cost $13–$15, and wine by the glass $10–$12. Bottled water is pricier too.
• Alaska and Northern Europe – Similar to the Caribbean, but with more premium options. Expect craft cocktails and local spirits at higher prices.

Season also matters. During peak summer months, MSC might run more drink promotions to boost sales. In the off-season (like January), you’ll see more discounts and package deals.

Port Days vs. Sea Days

Here’s a little-known fact: drink prices can increase on port days. Why? MSC knows passengers are less likely to spend money on excursions and more likely to relax with a drink. I’ve seen bars offer “port day specials” that are actually more expensive than regular prices—like a “buy one, get one half-off” deal that still costs more per drink than usual.

On sea days, though, MSC often runs real promotions—like $5 cocktails between 2 PM and 4 PM. These are great opportunities to save.

Special Cases: Kids, Non-Drinkers, and Dietary Needs

Kids’ Drinks: What’s Included?

Kids under 18 can enjoy free soft drinks, juice, milk, and water during meals. But if they want a soda at the bar or a mocktail by the pool, it’ll cost $7–$10. That adds up fast for families.

The Zero Package ($25–$30/day) can help. It includes unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, and specialty coffee—perfect for teens or kids who love fancy drinks. But for younger kids who just want juice and milk, it might be overkill.

Tip: Bring your own juice boxes or powdered drink mixes. MSC allows this, and it’s a huge money-saver.

Non-Drinkers and Designated Drivers

If you’re not drinking alcohol, you still have options:

• Order a virgin cocktail—they’re usually the same price as regular ones, but you can ask for a discount (some bars will oblige).
• Stick to free options like water, coffee, and juice.
• Buy the Zero Package if you drink a lot of soda or specialty coffee.

One friend of mine, a designated driver, asked the bartender for a “free mocktail” during happy hour. The bartender laughed and said, “We don’t do free, but I’ll make you a special one on the house.” It was a great gesture—and a reminder that a little kindness goes a long way.

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions

If you have allergies or need gluten-free, sugar-free, or low-carb drinks, don’t assume they’re available or included. Most bars can make accommodations, but:

• Specialty drinks (like sugar-free mojitos) may cost more.
• Gluten-free beer is available but priced at premium rates ($8–$10).
• Low-sugar cocktails require custom orders—expect a wait and possibly an upcharge.

Always ask the bartender or dining room manager about ingredients. And if you’re on a drink package, confirm that specialty requests are covered.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Drink Budget

So, how much are drinks on MSC Cruise Line? The answer depends on you. If you’re a light drinker who enjoys a glass of wine at dinner and a coffee in the morning, you might spend $10–$20 per day. But if you’re a social sipper who loves cocktails, craft beer, and premium wine, your daily drink tab could easily hit $50–$100—especially without a package.

The key is planning ahead. Decide how much you want to spend, then choose the right strategy:

• Buy a drink package if you’ll drink 6+ drinks per day.
• Use bulk purchases and free drink events to save.
• Stick to included options when possible.
• Take advantage of loyalty perks and seasonal deals.

Remember: MSC isn’t trying to trick you. They’re offering choices—some affordable, some luxurious. The goal isn’t to spend the least, but to spend wisely. With this guide, you’re now equipped to enjoy your favorite drinks, stay within budget, and make every sip count.

So go ahead—raise a glass to your next adventure. Just make sure it’s a smart one.

Quick Reference: Average Drink Prices on MSC Cruises (2024)

Drink Type	Price Range (USD)	Included in Fare?
Water (bottle)	$3–$5	No (free during meals)
Coffee (regular)	Free	Yes (during meals)
Cappuccino/Latte	$4–$6	No
Beer (bottle)	$5–$8	No
Cocktail (classic)	$10–$16	No
Wine (glass)	$8–$15	No (house wine free at dinner)
Wine (bottle)	$30–$100+	No
Soft drink (soda)	$3–$4	Yes (during meals)
Mocktail	$7–$10	No

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are drinks on MSC Cruise Line compared to other cruise lines?

Drinks on MSC Cruise Line are generally competitively priced, with cocktails averaging $8–$12 and beers $5–$7. While slightly higher than some budget lines, MSC offers better value than premium competitors, especially with their drink packages.

Does MSC Cruise Line offer all-inclusive drink packages?

Yes, MSC provides tiered drink packages like the “Easy” (soft drinks, wine, beer) and “Premium” (top-shelf cocktails, champagne). Prices range from $30–$70 per person, per day, depending on the package and itinerary.

Are there any free drinks available on MSC cruises?

Basic coffee, tea, water, and juice are complimentary at meals and buffets. However, specialty coffees, alcohol, and bottled beverages are always charged unless covered by a package.

How much are drinks on MSC Cruise Line in bars vs. restaurants?

Prices are consistent across onboard venues, but bars and lounges may offer happy hour discounts (e.g., 2-for-1 cocktails). Specialty dining packages sometimes include wine pairings at no extra cost.

Do kids pay for drinks on MSC Cruise Line?

Children receive free soft drinks, milk, and juice in restaurants and buffets. Parents can purchase a kids’ drink package (~$15/day) for unlimited non-alcoholic beverages at all venues.

Are gratuities included in MSC drink purchases?

A 15% service charge is automatically added to all drink purchases and packages. This gratuity is separate from the base drink price and applies to both à la carte orders and prepaid packages.