We’ve spent countless hours navigating the open seas, exploring charming port towns, and yes, enjoying a refreshing beverage or two (or three!) on a multitude of cruise ships. Our passion for the perfect cruise vacation has led us to dissect every aspect of the onboard experience, from the comfiest cabins to the most exhilarating shore excursion. Today, we’re diving into a topic that often sparks lively debate amongst our fellow travelers: the MSC World America drink package. Is it truly worth the cost? Let’s uncork this question together!
When it comes to enjoying your favorite sips on the high seas, MSC Cruises, and specifically the magnificent MSC World America, offers a variety of drink packages. These aren’t just one-size-fits-all deals; they’re designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of whether they’re a good value, let’s break down what each package typically includes.
The Easy Package
This is usually MSC’s entry-level offering, perfect for those who enjoy a modest amount of drinks throughout their cruise. We’ve found this package to be quite popular with first-time cruisers or those who aren’t heavy drinkers.
- What it generally includes: We’re talking about basic beer (often a specific brand or draft), house wine by the glass, select spirits (think well brands like gin, vodka, rum, and whiskey), non-alcoholic cocktails, fruit juices, soda, and bottled water. Coffee and hot chocolate are also typically included.
- Where it’s valid: You can usually enjoy these beverages in most onboard bars, buffets, and main dining rooms.
The Easy Plus Package
Stepping up from the Easy, this package offers a broader selection and often appeals to those who want a bit more variety without going all out.
- What it generally includes: Everything from the Easy Package, plus a wider selection of beers (including some premium bottled options), a better choice of wines by the glass, more premium brand spirits, and a greater range of cocktails. We also often see some specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos included here.
- Where it’s valid: Similar to the Easy Package, it’s typically valid across most bars, buffets, and main dining rooms.
The Premium Extra Package
For the true connoisseur or those who simply love to indulge, the Premium Extra package is where you’ll find the most extensive selection.
- What it generally includes: This package truly opens up the beverage menu. You’ll typically get access to all drinks up to a certain price point (usually around $13-$15 per drink), covering virtually all spirits, liqueurs, premium cocktails, a wider selection of premium wines and beers, and often mini-bar items. Specialty coffees are a given here.
- Where it’s valid: This is usually valid across all onboard venues, including specialty restaurants and the mini-bar in your stateroom.
The Alcohol-Free Package
We always appreciate options for everyone, and MSC provides a great alcohol-free package for those who prefer to skip the spirits.
- What it generally includes: This typically covers a wide array of non-alcoholic cocktails, sodas, fruit juices, bottled water, energy drinks, and specialty coffees.
- Where it’s valid: Valid in most onboard bars, buffets, and main dining rooms.
The Minors Package
Perfect for our younger cruisers, this package ensures they have access to their favorite soft drinks and juices throughout the cruise.
- What it generally includes: Unlimited soft drinks, fruit juices, bottled water, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
- Where it’s valid: Similar to the adult packages, it’s typically valid across most bars, buffets, and main dining rooms.
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The Cost Factor: Breaking Down the Price Tag
This is where the rubber meets the road, isn’t it? The cost of these packages can vary depending on your cruise booking, the length of your cruise, and sometimes even the time of year. We’ve noticed that prices can sometimes be slightly lower if you purchase them in advance during the cruise booking process, rather than waiting until you’re onboard the cruise ship.
Per Day Pricing
MSC’s drink packages are priced on a per-person, per-day basis. This means you’ll pay a set fee for each day of your cruise for everyone in your stateroom (if they are within the same age group for the package, e.g., all adults for an adult package). We always advise travelers to consider this when budgeting for their cruise vacation.
Pre-Cruise vs. Onboard Purchase
A little insider tip we’ve picked up over the years: oftentimes, purchasing your drink package during the cruise booking phase, or as a pre-cruise add-on, can save you a few dollars per day compared to buying it once you’re already on the MSC World America. This is a common practice across many cruise lines, and MSC is no exception. So, if you’re leaning towards a package, do your research early!
Children’s Package Requirements
For those traveling with little ones, remember that if adults in the stateroom purchase an alcoholic drink package, any minors in the same stateroom are typically required to purchase an equivalent non-alcoholic package. This is a standard policy to prevent sharing of alcoholic beverages and ensure responsible consumption.
Crunching the Numbers: Is It Worth It?
Now for the million-dollar question: is an MSC World America drink package truly worth the cost? This is where we put on our accountant hats and delve into some practical examples. We’ve seen countless guests wrestle with this decision, and the answer truly depends on your individual drinking habits.
Your Daily Drink Consumption
This is the most crucial factor. We recommend tracking your typical daily beverage consumption, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, over a few days at home.
- If you’re a light drinker: If you only enjoy a couple of sodas, a glass of wine with dinner, and maybe a morning coffee, the “pay-as-you-go” option might be more economical. A la carte prices for sodas are usually around $3-4, beers $7-9, basic cocktails $9-12, and glasses of wine $8-12. If you’re only having 3-4 drinks a day, you might struggle to break even with even the Easy package, which often starts around $40-50 per person, per day.
- If you’re a moderate drinker: This is where packages like the Easy Plus start to look appealing. If you anticipate having 2-3 alcoholic beverages (beers, wines, or standard cocktails) along with several sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and bottled water throughout the day, you’ll likely hit the break-even point. We often find that around 5-7 drinks (a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic) is the sweet spot for the Easy Plus.
- If you’re a heavy drinker or enjoy premium options: The Premium Extra package could be your best friend. If you enjoy a wide variety of premium spirits, specialty cocktails, and fine wines, and plan on having 7+ drinks per day (including specialty coffees, bottled water, etc.), this package almost always offers significant savings. Consider the convenience of not having to worry about the bill every time you order a craft cocktail.
The “All-Inclusive” Peace of Mind
Beyond the purely financial aspect, there’s the intangible value of “all-inclusive” peace of mind. For many of us, a cruise vacation is about relaxation and not having to constantly think about the bill.
- Budget Control: A drink package allows you to budget your beverage costs upfront, eliminating any surprises on your final statement. This is especially helpful if you’re on a strict budget for your cruise vacation.
- No Bill Shock: There’s nothing worse than getting off your cruise ship and seeing a hefty bill for individual drinks. With a package, that worry is gone. We’ve seen this reduce stress for many of our fellow cruisers.
- Freedom to Experiment: Want to try a new cocktail? Go for it! With a package, there’s no penalty for ordering something you might not totally love. This encourages exploration of the beverage menu.
Factors to Consider Beyond the Price
While cost is a significant factor, we believe there are other elements to weigh when deciding on a drink package for your MSC World America cruise.
Shore Excursions and Port Days
Think about your itinerary and how many full days you’ll be spending off the ship during shore excursions.
- Lost Value on Port Days: If you plan on being off the cruise ship for most of the day exploring a cruise port, you might not get full value from your drink package on those days. You won’t be utilizing it during your time ashore.
- Evening Drinks: Even if you’re off the ship all day, you’ll still likely be back in the evening for dinner and entertainment, where you can make use of the package.
- Pre-Excursion Coffee/Juice: We still appreciate being able to grab a specialty coffee or fresh juice before heading off for our shore excursion without an extra charge.
Stateroom Occupancy and Package Requirements
Remember that if one adult in a stateroom purchases an alcoholic drink package, all other adults in the same stateroom are typically required to purchase an equivalent or higher alcoholic package. As mentioned, minors will need a non-alcoholic package. This is a crucial point that can significantly impact the overall cost. We always encourage travelers to check MSC’s most current policy as it can sometimes change.
Specialty Coffees and Bottled Water
Don’t underestimate the cost of these seemingly small items.
- Coffee Lovers Rejoice: If you’re a fan of lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees, these can quickly add up if purchased individually. Many drink packages include these, offering good value for coffee enthusiasts.
- Staying Hydrated: Bottled water is a must, especially in warmer climates. Purchasing individual bottles can be quite expensive. Most packages include unlimited bottled water, which we find incredibly convenient.
Mini-Bar Inclusion
For those who enjoy a late-night snack or drink in their cabin, the Premium Extra package often includes mini-bar items. This can be a nice perk if you plan on using it.
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Tips for Maximizing Your Drink Package
If you decide to take the plunge and purchase a drink package, we’ve got some seasoned advice to help you get the most bang for your buck.
Utilize Specialty Coffees and Juices
Start your day right! Grab a specialty coffee from a bar or cafe on the ship. Enjoy fresh-squeezed juices with breakfast. These add value without requiring alcoholic consumption.
Stay Hydrated with Bottled Water
Fill up on bottled water from bars or grab a few from the buffet before heading out for your shore excursion. Staying hydrated is key, and it helps you get more value from your package.
Explore the Cocktail Menu
Don’t stick to the same old drink! Use your package as an opportunity to try new cocktails, especially with the Easy Plus or Premium Extra packages.
Take Advantage of All Venues
Remember that your package is valid in most, if not all, onboard bars and lounges. Don’t limit yourself to just one spot. Enjoy a poolside drink, a pre-dinner cocktail, and a nightcap in a different venue.
Consider Your Disembarkation Day
Remember that your drink package typically runs until the morning of disembarkation. We usually grab a final specialty coffee or juice before heading off the cruise ship for the last time.
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Our Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
After countless cruises and endless sips, our conclusion on the MSC World America drink package isn’t a simple yes or no. It truly boils down to your personal habits and preferences.
- For the “Sip, Not Guzzle” Crowd: If you’re a light drinker who enjoys the occasional beverage, or if you plan on spending most of your time exploring the cruise port on shore excursions, paying as you go might be the more economical choice. Don’t feel pressured to buy a package if it doesn’t align with your consumption.
- For the “Moderate Enjoyer” or “Value Seeker”: If you anticipate enjoying 5-7 drinks a day, including a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options (sodas, juices, specialty coffees, bottled water), then the Easy Plus package likely offers excellent value and the peace of mind of an all-inclusive experience.
- For the “Indulgent Connoisseur”: If you love premium spirits, a wide variety of cocktails, and plan on enjoying numerous beverages throughout your day, the Premium Extra package will almost certainly save you money and enhance your overall cruise vacation experience on the MSC World America.
Ultimately, we encourage you to do your own quick calculation based on your typical consumption. What we can say with certainty is that MSC provides a range of options designed to cater to different needs, ensuring that your cruise vacation is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Cheers to finding the perfect pour on your next adventure with MSC World America!