MSC Cruises has announced significant changes to its drinks packages, set to take effect on April 1, 2025. These modifications include the introduction of a daily limit on alcoholic drinks for the first time, aiming to enhance onboard safety and ensure a pleasant experience for all guests.

Introduction of Daily Alcoholic Beverage Limit

Starting April 1, 2025, MSC Cruises will implement a maximum of 15 alcoholic drinks per person per day across its Easy, Easy Plus, and Premium Extra drink packages. This policy marks a departure from the previous unlimited alcoholic beverage offerings and is designed to promote responsible drinking among passengers.

Unlimited Non-Alcoholic Beverages

While alcoholic drinks will be capped, non-alcoholic beverages will remain unlimited. This ensures that guests can continue to enjoy a variety of soft drinks, juices, and other non-alcoholic options without restriction, maintaining flexibility and satisfaction for all passengers.

Pricing Structure Adjustments

MSC Cruises is also revising the pricing of its drink packages base the voyage. The packages will be categorised into three tiers: 1-3 nights, 4-9 nights, and 10 or more nights. This tiered pricing approach allows guests to select a package that best fits the duration of their cruise, potentially offering cost savings and better value.

Impact on MSC Yacht Club Guests

Guests booked in the MSC Yacht Club, will continue to enjoy unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks within exclusive Yacht Club venues. However, when accessing bars and restaurants outside these venues, the new 15-drink daily limit on alcoholic drinks will apply. This policy ensures consistency across the ship while maintaining the exclusive benefits of the Yacht Club experience.

Booking and Implementation Timeline

These changes will apply to any drink package for sailings commencing on or after April 1, 2025. Guests who purchase drink packages before December 18, 2024, or those sailing before April 1, 2025, will not be affected by these modifications. This timeline provides passengers with ample opportunity to plan and adjust their bookings accordingly.

Our thoughts

We’ve been accustomed to a 15 alcoholic drink limit having cruised with Cunard Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, so it appears MSC are just matching their competitors offerings. Drinks packages allow cruisers to budget, knowing at the end of the cruise there won’t be a hefty bar bill.