Updated September 2026
MSC Cruises keeps its drink package lineup relatively simple in 2026. For most U.S. sailings, guests can choose from the Premium Extra Package, Alcohol-Free Package, or Minors Package. The right option depends on what you drink, how often you order, and whether you want beverages covered in places such as specialty restaurants or Ocean Cay.
The biggest changes from older MSC drink packages are easy to summarize: Easy and Easy Plus are no longer sold for new bookings, Premium Extra has a 15-alcoholic-drink daily limit, and drinks covered by Premium Extra are generally limited to menu items priced at $16 or less on many U.S.-based itineraries.
Below, we compare the current packages, the major rules, typical pricing, where each package works, and how to decide whether buying one actually makes sense for your cruise.
MSC Drink Packages at a Glance
| Package | Best For | Alcohol Included? | Typical U.S. Price* | Drink Price Limit | Specialty Restaurants | Ocean Cay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Extra | Guests who want cocktails, beer, wine, specialty coffee, water, soda and other premium beverages | Yes | About $85 per person, per day before promotions | Up to $16 on many U.S. itineraries | Yes | Yes |
| Alcohol-Free | Adults who want mocktails, soda, coffee, water and other non-alcoholic drinks | No | About $33 per person, per day before promotions | Package-specific non-alcoholic selection | No | No |
| Minors | Children, teens and underage guests traveling with adults who have a drink package | No | About $22 per person, per day before promotions | Package-specific non-alcoholic selection | When accompanied by an adult with Premium Extra | When accompanied by an adult with Premium Extra |
*Drink package prices vary by sailing, ship, region and promotion. The prices above are useful planning benchmarks from recent U.S. pricing, not guaranteed rates. Check your My MSC booking for the actual price offered on your cruise. MSC frequently discounts packages purchased before sailing.
How Much Are MSC Drink Packages in 2026?
MSC does not use one universal public price for every cruise. Pricing can vary by itinerary, ship, cruise length, region and promotion. Your My MSC account is the best place to see the exact price for your sailing.
For planning purposes, recent U.S. pricing has commonly put Premium Extra around $85 per person, per day at the regular rate, Alcohol-Free around $33, and the Minors Package around $22. MSC regularly runs pre-cruise sales, and discounts can materially change the value calculation.
MSC sometimes promotes savings of 40% or more compared with onboard pricing on select sailings. Those promotions are not guaranteed, so it is better to think of them as sale opportunities rather than a permanent discount.
If you are comparing the package price against buying drinks one at a time, our MSC Drink Package Cost Calculator lets you estimate your own daily spend.
Premium Extra Drink Package
Premium Extra is MSC’s main alcoholic drink package and the package most U.S. cruisers are comparing when they ask whether an MSC drink package is worth it.
It covers a broad range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including:
- Cocktails and spritzes
- Premium spirits and mixed drinks
- Draft and bottled beer
- Wine and sparkling wine by the glass
- Non-alcoholic beer and wine selections
- Mocktails
- Soft drinks
- Energy drinks
- Juices and smoothies
- Espresso, cappuccino, tea, hot chocolate and other hot drinks
- Still and sparkling water, including AQUA by MSC where available
On many U.S.-based itineraries, Premium Extra covers eligible drinks priced up to $16. MSC’s current U.S. terms state that drinks valued above the package threshold are excluded, so guests should check the current menu and onboard policy before assuming they will only pay the difference on a higher-priced drink.
Premium Extra can be used in the buffet, main dining rooms, bars and specialty restaurants. It is also the package MSC currently accepts at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
The package also includes beverage gratuities, which matters when comparing its price with ordering drinks individually.
The 15-Drink Daily Limit
Premium Extra includes a maximum of 15 alcoholic beverages per guest during each 24-hour package period. MSC measures that period from 6 a.m. to 6 a.m., rather than midnight to midnight.
- The limit applies to alcoholic beverages.
- Non-alcoholic package drinks do not count toward the 15-drink alcohol limit.
- Once you reach 15 alcoholic drinks, additional alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the full menu price.
- The same 15-drink limit applies to Yacht Club guests.
For most cruisers, 15 alcoholic drinks is a high ceiling. The more important value question is usually whether you will drink enough cocktails, beer, wine, coffee, water, soda and other included beverages to justify the package cost in the first place.
Alcohol-Free Package
The Alcohol-Free Package is designed for adults who want a broad selection of non-alcoholic drinks without paying for Premium Extra.
Depending on the ship and itinerary, the package can include:
- Non-alcoholic cocktails
- Soft drinks
- Energy drinks
- Juices and smoothies
- Espresso and specialty coffee drinks
- Tea and hot chocolate
- Still and sparkling water
- Selected 0.0% beer, wine or sparkling beverages
The biggest limitation is where the package can be used. MSC’s current U.S. terms say the Alcohol-Free Package is not valid in specialty restaurants, selected thematic or signature venues, or on private islands such as Ocean Cay.
If you mostly drink soda, specialty coffee, mocktails, water and juices, this package can still make sense. It is worth comparing your likely daily spend against the package price rather than assuming the alcohol-free option is automatically a bargain.
Minors Package
The Minors Package is MSC’s non-alcoholic package for children, teens and other guests who are below the legal drinking age for their sailing.
It generally includes:
- Soft drinks
- Juices and smoothies
- Non-alcoholic cocktails
- Still and sparkling water
- Tea, coffee and other hot drinks
- Selected energy drinks
MSC requires underage guests to purchase the Minors Package when an adult in the same cabin purchases a beverage package. Infants under three are generally exempt from the package requirement.
The Minors Package can be used in specialty restaurants and on MSC private islands when the minor is accompanied by an adult who has Premium Extra.
Does Everyone in the Cabin Have to Buy a Drink Package?
In most cases, yes. MSC requires beverage packages to be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin. Underage guests purchase the Minors Package rather than Premium Extra.
MSC also says guests traveling in separate cabins who want to dine together at the same table may need compatible beverage packages.
Packages cannot be shared or transferred to another guest, and each package is valid for one beverage per order.
Where Can You Use MSC Drink Packages?
| Location | Premium Extra | Alcohol-Free | Minors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bars | Yes, subject to venue exclusions | Yes, subject to venue exclusions | Yes, subject to venue exclusions |
| Buffet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Main Dining Room | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Specialty Restaurants | Yes | No | Yes, when accompanied by an adult with Premium Extra |
| Ocean Cay / MSC Private Islands | Yes | No | Yes, when accompanied by an adult with Premium Extra |
| Minibar | No | No | No |
| Room Service | No | No | No |
Do MSC Drink Packages Work at Ocean Cay?
Premium Extra works at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. That makes the package more valuable on itineraries that spend a full day, or sometimes an overnight, at MSC’s private island because you can continue using the package after leaving the ship.
MSC currently says the Alcohol-Free Package is not accepted on its private islands. The Minors Package can be used when the minor is accompanied by an adult with Premium Extra.
The selection on Ocean Cay can be smaller than the full onboard beverage lineup. For bar locations, drink options and island-specific tips, see our Ocean Cay Bars & Drink Guide.
Can You Use a Drink Package in Specialty Restaurants?
Premium Extra can be used for eligible beverages in MSC specialty restaurants. Alcohol-Free generally cannot.
The Minors Package can be used in specialty restaurants when the minor is dining with an adult who has Premium Extra.
This distinction is easy to miss and can matter if you plan to book several specialty meals. Your specialty dining package covers food, while beverage coverage depends on the drink package you have.
What Is Not Included in MSC Drink Packages?
Even Premium Extra does not cover everything sold onboard. MSC’s current U.S. terms list exclusions that can include:
- Minibar purchases
- Room service beverages
- Tobacco products
- Souvenir glasses
- Retail items
- Ice cream menu items
- Promotional products or offers
- Selected thematic or signature venues
MSC has specifically listed some branded or signature locations among exclusions in its U.S. terms. These can include venues such as Venchi, Lavazza Coffee Shops, Jean-Philippe Chocolate, Coffee, Crepes & Gelato and certain other signature concepts, depending on the ship.
Because venue rules can change by ship and sailing, check your onboard menu or MSC booking terms if a specific specialty venue is important to you.
What Drinks Are Free Without a Package?
You do not need a drink package to have basic beverages available during your cruise. MSC provides several complimentary drink options, especially around the buffet, although the exact selection varies by meal and venue.
If you mainly drink basic water, regular coffee, tea and included buffet beverages, you may be perfectly comfortable cruising without a package. Our guide to complimentary drinks on MSC Cruises breaks down what you can expect without paying extra.
AQUA by MSC and Drink Packages
MSC is gradually rolling out AQUA by MSC, its onboard mineral-enriched water program. On ships where the system is available, water may be served by the glass, in reusable bottles or through refill points rather than traditional single-use plastic bottles.
AQUA by MSC is included with eligible drink packages. Where AQUA facilities have not yet been installed, MSC says bottled water may continue to be provided under the package.
This rollout is still ship-dependent, so bring an empty reusable bottle and check the setup on your specific ship once onboard. For the full breakdown, see our AQUA by MSC guide.
What Do Drinks Cost Without a Package?
Actual prices vary by ship and region, but recent U.S.-based MSC menus give you a useful idea of what you may pay without a package:
| Drink | Typical Recent Price |
|---|---|
| Standard cocktail | About $14 |
| Premium cocktail | About $16-$18 |
| Beer | About $9 |
| Wine by the glass | About $14-$16 |
| Mocktail | About $10-$11 |
| Soda | About $3.50 |
| Water | About $3.25 where bottled water is sold |
| Specialty coffee | About $4-$5 |
Prices change, and specialty bars can have different menus. For current examples, photos and venue-specific pricing, see our MSC Drink Menus.
Is the MSC Drink Package Worth It?
There is no single break-even point that works for every cruiser. Premium Extra becomes more attractive when you use it for more than alcohol. Specialty coffee, water, soda, mocktails and other non-alcoholic drinks can add meaningful value throughout the day.
| Drinking Style | Example Day | Package Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate cocktail drinker | 4 cocktails, 2 waters, 1 specialty coffee and 1 soda | Premium Extra can be competitive, especially when purchased on sale |
| Beer plus non-alcoholic drinks | 4 beers, 3 waters, 2 coffees and 2 sodas | Worth comparing carefully against your actual package offer |
| Light drinker | 1-2 alcoholic drinks plus basic complimentary beverages | Paying a la carte is often cheaper |
| Non-drinker who likes premium beverages | Mocktails, specialty coffee, soda, juices and water throughout the day | Alcohol-Free may make sense if your usage is high enough |
| Yacht Club guest | Premium Extra is already included | No separate Premium Extra purchase is normally needed |
The easiest way to decide is to estimate what you would realistically drink instead of assuming you need to “get your money’s worth.” Use our MSC Drink Package Cost Calculator to run your own numbers.
Should You Buy the Package Before Your Cruise?
Usually, yes, if you have already decided you want a package. MSC frequently offers lower pre-cruise pricing than the onboard rate, although the exact discount changes by sailing and promotion.
Check your My MSC account after booking and watch the price. Promotional discounts can be substantial on some sailings, and MSC sometimes bundles Premium Extra with Wi-Fi as part of the cruise fare.
If you are considering the bundle, see our MSC Drinks & Wi-Fi Package guide before assuming the package is automatically the better deal.
Can You Bring Your Own Drinks Instead?
MSC has stricter rules than some other cruise lines about bringing beverages onboard. Guests generally cannot bring their own alcohol, soda or bottled beverages for normal consumption.
If you are considering skipping a package and bringing drinks with you instead, read our full guide to bringing drinks on an MSC cruise before packing.
What Happened to Easy and Easy Plus?
MSC stopped selling the Easy and Easy Plus packages for new bookings after changes announced in late 2024. Guests who purchased one of those packages before MSC’s cutoff can still have it honored under the conditions attached to their original booking.
For new bookings, the main options are Premium Extra, Alcohol-Free and Minors.
MSC Yacht Club and Drink Packages
Premium Extra is included with the MSC Yacht Club experience. Yacht Club guests therefore do not normally need to purchase Premium Extra separately.
The same 15-alcoholic-drink daily limit still applies, including drinks ordered within the Yacht Club area.
If you are comparing Yacht Club pricing with a standard cabin plus add-ons, remember to include the value of Premium Extra in that calculation.
How to Get More Value From Your Package
If you already know you are buying a package, use it for the drinks you would otherwise pay for throughout the day, not just cocktails at night. Water, espresso drinks, mocktails, soda and drinks with meals can all add up.
There is also value in trying different bars and ordering beverages closer to your package’s included price threshold instead of defaulting to the cheapest options every time.
For more practical ideas, see our tips for getting the most out of an MSC drink package.
MSC Drink Package FAQ
What drink packages does MSC Cruises offer in 2026?
For most U.S. guests, MSC currently offers Premium Extra, Alcohol-Free and Minors packages. Availability and pricing can vary by sailing, so check the My MSC area for your booking.
Are gratuities included in MSC drink packages?
Yes. MSC says beverage gratuities are included with its prepaid and onboard beverage packages.
How many alcoholic drinks can you have with Premium Extra?
Premium Extra includes up to 15 alcoholic beverages per guest during each 6 a.m. to 6 a.m. package day. After reaching 15, additional alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the full menu price.
Do non-alcoholic drinks count toward the 15-drink limit?
No. The 15-drink limit applies to alcoholic beverages.
What is the Premium Extra drink price limit?
MSC currently lists a $16 drink threshold on many U.S.-based itineraries. The threshold can vary by region.
What happens if a drink costs more than $16?
MSC’s current U.S. terms state that drinks over the Premium Extra threshold are excluded. Because onboard treatment of higher-priced drinks has changed over time, check the current menu and onboard policy before ordering rather than assuming you will only pay the difference.
Can MSC drink packages be shared?
No. Packages are personal, non-transferable and cannot be shared with another guest.
Does everyone in the cabin need a package?
Generally, yes. MSC requires packages to be booked by guests occupying the same cabin, with minors purchasing the Minors Package. Infants under three are generally exempt.
Can Premium Extra be used in specialty restaurants?
Yes. Premium Extra can be used for eligible beverages in specialty restaurants. Alcohol-Free generally cannot.
Does Premium Extra work at Ocean Cay?
Yes. MSC currently accepts Premium Extra at Ocean Cay. The Alcohol-Free Package is not accepted on private islands. Minors can use their package when accompanied by an adult with Premium Extra.
Is Premium Extra included with MSC Yacht Club?
Yes. Premium Extra is included with MSC Yacht Club, although the 15-alcoholic-drink daily limit still applies.
Should I buy an MSC drink package before the cruise?
If you know you want one, buying before sailing is usually worth checking because MSC frequently offers pre-cruise discounts. Promotions vary, so compare the offer in your booking with the onboard rate.