To Purchase or Not: Analysing the MSC Cruise Drinks Package for Family Holidays with Children
Booking a cruise holiday involves numerous decisions, and one crucial choice for many families sailing with MSC Cruises is whether to invest in a drinks package. With various options available, determining if these pre-paid beverage plans offer good value for money can significantly impact your holiday budget and experience. Let's dive into a comprehensive analysis to help you make an informed decision before setting sail.
Understanding msc cruise drinks packages
MSC Cruises offers several different beverage bundles designed to cater to various preferences and consumption habits. These packages range from basic options covering just water and soft drinks to comprehensive premium packages that include everything from morning coffees to evening cocktails. Understanding what's encompassed in each option is essential for making the right choice. Many families are surprised to discover that some packages include nowt in the way of premium beverages, while others offer an extensive range of options.
What's encompassed in different beverage bundles
The basic packages typically include unlimited soft drinks, mineral water, and sometimes hot beverages like tea and coffee. Mid-tier packages generally add beer, wine, and some mixed drinks to the menu. For those who enjoy a more refined drinking experience, premium packages incorporate top-shelf booze and hard liquor options. Children-specific packages focus on juice, soft drinks, milkshakes, and hot chocolate, providing young cruisers with plenty of refreshment options without paying for alcoholic beverages they cannot consume.
Price structures and service charges explained
MSC Cruises packages are priced per person, per day, and every passenger sharing a cabin must purchase the same package, with exceptions made for children who can opt for appropriate non-alcoholic versions. It's worth noting that most packages already include the service charge, removing the need to calculate additional tips for each drink. Current pricing varies by cruise duration and destination, so checking the latest data from MSC directly is advisable before making your decision.
Value Assessment for Families with Children
Determining whether a drinks package represents good value requires an honest assessment of your family's drinking habits. While the convenience factor is undeniable, the financial equation needs careful consideration. Many families find that having unlimited access to beverages without worrying about mounting costs enhances their holiday experience substantially.
Calculating daily beverage consumption needs
To evaluate if a package makes financial sense, try to summarise your typical daily consumption. Consider how many cups of specialty coffee, soft drinks, waters, alcoholic beverages, and juice boxes your family might consume throughout a day aboard the ship. Remember that cruising often involves more drinking than usual due to the hot weather, increased activity, and holiday mindset. A family of four might easily consume 8-10 soft drinks, 4-6 bottles of water, 2-4 coffees, and 4-5 alcoholic beverages daily. Multiply this by the individual drink prices to get your potential daily spend.
Comparing package costs versus pay-as-you-go options
Once you've estimated your potential consumption, compare this figure against the package cost. The breakeven point varies depending on what you drink. Premium cocktails might cost £10-15 each, while a soft drink could be £3-4, and bottled water around £2-3. For families who enjoy several drinks throughout the day, packages often represent savings. However, families who drink minimally or plan to spend significant time off the ship exploring ports might find pay-as-you-go more economical.
Beyond the basics: special considerations
Making an informed decision involves looking beyond just the price comparison. Other factors can significantly impact the value and enjoyment you derive from a drinks package. These considerations might tip the scales one way or another for your specific situation.
Access to premium beverages and top-shelf booze
If you appreciate quality spirits and fine wines, the premium packages might be particularly appealing. These typically include access to top-shelf booze that would otherwise come with a hefty individual price tag. Some packages also include a selection of wines by the glass that would normally cost significantly more when purchased separately. For connoisseurs, this access to premium options can transform the cruising experience and provide excellent value despite the higher package price.
Availability across different eateries and venues aboard
An important consideration is where your package can be used. MSC Cruises typically honours drinks packages across most eateries and bars aboard the ship, but there might be exceptions or limitations in specialty restaurants or exclusive venues. Additionally, check if the package includes drinks served in a souvenir tumbler or special container, as these are sometimes excluded. Understanding these boundaries ensures you won't face unexpected charges when ordering your favourite aqua vitae or speciality coffee in different locations around the ship.
Making the Right Decision for Your Family
The final decision comes down to understanding your specific family dynamics, drinking preferences, and holiday style. What works brilliantly for one family might be poor value for another. Consider your previous holiday patterns and be realistic about how cruising might differ from your normal routine.
Factoring in children's drinking habits and preferences
Children can significantly impact the equation. They typically consume more soft drinks and juices while on holiday, especially in warm weather. The convenience of allowing them to order beverages without parental approval for each transaction can enhance their independence and enjoyment. Consider whether your children have particular preferences that might not be covered in their package, such as speciality milkshakes or fresh-squeezed juices that might incur additional charges.
Tips for maximising your beverage package investment
If you decide to purchase a package, getting maximum value requires some strategic thinking. Start each day with a speciality coffee rather than the free option in the buffet. Carry a refillable water bottle to keep hydrated between more exciting beverages. Don't hesitate to try premium options that would normally be outside your budget. Order drinks in standard glasses rather than souvenir containers unless specifically desired. Remember that most packages limit drinks to one at a time per card, so timing your orders to finish one drink before ordering the next helps avoid frustration and maximises your package benefits.
Family-friendly beverage strategies for msc cruises
Planning a family cruise with MSC? One of the biggest decisions you'll face is whether to splash out on a drinks package or pay as you go. MSC Cruises offers various beverage bundles that might save you a pretty penny, but they aren't always the right choice for every family. Let's have a proper look at what's on offer and whether it makes sense for families holidaying with little ones.
The drinks packages aboard MSC ships encompass everything from soft drinks to top-shelf booze, with prices varying based on what's included. For families, considering the drinking habits of both adults and children is essential before committing to a package that might not provide value for money.
Balancing aqua, juice and mixed drinks for all ages
When travelling with children, your beverage needs become rather more complex. The youngsters might fancy juice or fizzy drinks throughout the day, while parents might enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or mixed drinks by the pool. MSC's packages offer different levels of coverage, from basic soft drink options to premium packages that include hard liquor and a wide range of cocktails.
Remember that children's packages are typically less costly than adult versions, but you'll need to calculate whether the amount your little ones will actually drink justifies the expense. Most packages include unlimited aqua (bottled water), which can be brilliant in warm climates when staying hydrated is crucial. However, if your children are light drinkers or prefer tap water, you might be better off purchasing beverages individually at the ship's various eateries and bars.
Don't forget that MSC adds a service charge to individual drink purchases, which isn't applied when you've pre-purchased a package. This extra cost can add up over a week-long cruise and might tip the scales in favour of a package deal.
Bringing your own tumblers and containers: Worth the bother?
Some savvy cruisers bring their own tumblers or containers aboard to maximise their drinks package. These larger vessels can mean fewer trips to the bar and keeping drinks colder for longer in the Mediterranean sun. MSC generally permits guests to bring empty containers, which can be especially useful for families who want to keep juice or water on hand for little ones throughout the day.
Is it worth the bother of packing these extra items? For families spending lots of time around the pool or on excursions, having a proper tumbler for each family member can be rather practical. You can fill them with included beverages from your package and have drinks ready when thirst strikes, without queuing at crowded bars or returning to your cabin.
Some cruisers also note that bar staff might be more generous with portions when pouring into larger tumblers, potentially giving you more bang for your buck from your drinks package. Just be mindful of the space these items take in your luggage and whether they align with your family's drinking habits while on holiday.