If you’re planning an MSC cruise in 2025, there’s some important news regarding their beverage packages that could influence your onboard experience. Starting with package purchases made after December 18, 2024, MSC Cruises has introduced significant changes to its all-inclusive drink offerings. Here’s a detailed look at what’s new and how it might affect your cruise vacation.
New Daily Limit on Alcoholic Beverages
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a daily limit on alcoholic beverages. As of cruises departing on or after April 1, 2025, MSC Cruises will cap the daily consumption of alcoholic drinks at 15 per person per day for all-inclusive packages. This marks a departure from the previous policy where there was no limit to how many drinks one could enjoy under the package terms.
What Happens After the 15-Drink Cap?
If you exceed this limit of 15 drinks, you won’t be cut off like with some competitors; instead, you’ll simply pay the regular bar price for any additional alcoholic beverages. This flexibility allows for continued enjoyment without the abrupt end that some might find disappointing. However, this policy does encourage a mindful approach to consumption, aligning with MSC’s commitment to promoting responsible drinking.
No Cap on Non-Alcoholic Beverages
The good news for those who enjoy a soft drink or hot beverage is that these remain unlimited, except for non-alcoholic beer, which isn’t part of this exemption. If you’re looking to hydrate or enjoy a soda, you’ll still have carte blanche to indulge as much as you like.
Yacht Club Guests Remain Unaffected
For those splurging on MSC’s ultra-luxe Yacht Club accommodations, life goes on with the same old luxury. These guests will continue to enjoy unlimited alcoholic beverages, as the cap does not apply within the Yacht Club’s exclusive areas. This distinction maintains the premium service level expected by Yacht Club patrons, ensuring their cruise experience remains top-tier.
Comparison with Other Cruise Lines
This new policy by MSC Cruises somewhat mirrors Carnival Cruise Line’s approach, which also imposes a 15-drink limit per day. However, Carnival’s policy is more stringent as it does not allow for the purchase of additional alcoholic drinks once the limit is reached, making MSC’s approach more lenient in comparison. On the other hand, Royal Caribbean still offers unlimited alcoholic beverages with their packages, providing a different experience for those who prefer this aspect of cruise vacations.
Impact on Your Cruise Planning
For travelers, these changes might influence how you plan your cruise, especially if beverages play a significant role in your vacation enjoyment:
- Budgeting: With the cap on alcoholic drinks, you might find yourself budgeting for additional drinks if you anticipate going over the limit. This could affect your overall cruise expenses, especially if you’re a heavy drinker or enjoy a varied selection of cocktails.
- Choosing Packages: You might now evaluate whether an all-inclusive package is still worth it, depending on your drinking habits. If you’re likely to exceed 15 drinks, purchasing drinks à la carte could sometimes be more cost-effective.
- Luxury Considerations: For those considering an upgrade to the Yacht Club for the unlimited drinks alone, these changes might make that upgrade more appealing if staying within the 15-drink limit doesn’t suit your vacation style.
MSC Cruises’ adjustment to their beverage packages reflects a broader industry trend towards more regulated consumption, possibly aiming for a balance between guest satisfaction and responsible service. While this might initially disappoint some, the policy does cater to a wide range of preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their cruise in a way that suits them best.
Whether you’re a light drinker enjoying the unlimited non-alcoholic options or someone who appreciates the flexibility to buy more if needed, MSC has tailored its offerings to meet diverse needs. Keep these changes in mind as you plan your next MSC cruise adventure, ensuring your voyage is both enjoyable and aligns with your expectations.