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Western Mediterranean from Marseille

18th Oct 2024 | 7 nights | MSC Cruises | MSC Seaside

Add drinks from £36 per person, per day
Range of medium size to mega-ships
Stylish with a relaxed atmosphere onboard
Gratuities (tips) included
Family friendly with child prices up to 17 yrs
Good for couples, groups & families
Genoa
Civitavecchia (Rome)
Palermo, Sicily
Ibiza
Valencia
Add drinks from £36 per person, per day
Range of medium size to mega-ships
Stylish with a relaxed atmosphere onboard
Gratuities (tips) included
Family friendly with child prices up to 17 yrs
Good for couples, groups & families
Show more
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Day
Date
 
Arrival
Departure
 
1
18th Oct 2024 Friday
Marseille
19:30
2
19th Oct 2024 Saturday
Genoa
09:30
18:00
3
20th Oct 2024 Sunday
Civitavecchia (Rome)
08:00
19:00
4
21st Oct 2024 Monday
Palermo, Sicily
12:00
5
22nd Oct 2024 Tuesday
At Sea
6
23rd Oct 2024 Wednesday
Ibiza
11:30
23:00
7
24th Oct 2024 Thursday
Valencia
08:00
15:00
8
25th Oct 2024 Friday
Marseille
13:00

MSC Seaside is lively and fun, incorporating jaw-dropping entertainment, lots of outdoor spaces (it's a sun worshipper's paradise!) and family-friendly activities that include a 4D cinema, bowling, ziplines and a large water park.

But what really sets Seaside apart from other ships sailing in the Caribbean is its European flair and service and the international mix of cruisers onboard. The vessel's interior showcases glitzy Italian design, meals in the dining room are European-style (read slow, sometimes taking more than two hours) and service from waiters and bartenders usually comes minus the smile many North Americans expect. Don't get us wrong, most of the crew onboard are pleasant and generally helpful; just don't expect the over-the-top friendliness you often find on other cruise lines.

The one exception to this can be found in the ship's Yacht Club, a suites-only enclave for the ship's highest-paying passengers. Here, service is friendly, attentive and efficient, and many Yacht Club passengers spend the bulk of their time onboard within its confines, whether in the spacious lounge or on the exclusive Yacht Club sun deck with accompanying pool.

To cater to the ship's largely 40-something English- and Spanish-speaking passengers -- many of whom live within driving distance of Miami -- most announcements on Seaside are only made in English and Spanish. In the theatre, however, you'll hear about five languages, and there's usually a large contingent of passengers from several European countries, including Italy and Germany. There are plenty of opportunities to make new friends from all over the world, with anywhere from 50 percent and up of your fellow passengers from outside of North America.

One final note about MSC Seaside: Be prepared to pay extra for most of the onboard activities, including all of the oversized arcade-style attractions (4D cinema, Formula One racecar simulator, bowling, etc.) and outdoor activities like the zipline.

Daytime: Dress is casual, with people sporting everything from jeans and T-shirts to bathing suits and flip-flops.

Evening: In the evenings it's dressier, but more smart casual than formal, except for the two "elegant" (not formal) nights per cruise. Jackets for men (tie optional) and dresses or pantsuits for women are appropriate, but the code isn't enforced. Suits, tuxes and ball gowns are not necessary, but many passengers do wear them, particularly on "Meet the Captain" night.

Not permitted: T-shirts and shorts are not allowed in the ships' public areas in the evenings. No swimwear is allowed in main dining rooms. Jeans are not allowed in the dining room on elegant nights.

Day & Night

  • During the day, passengers will find a variety of onboard activities, including trivia, dance classes, Ping-Pong tournaments and language lessons
  • At night, the ship offers theatre productions, live music and dancing in The Garage nightclub until the wee hours
  • MSC is known for its jaw-dropping and visually stunning theatre entertainment, which often includes acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, magicians and aerialists

Seaside offers various activities throughout the day, including stretching and tai chi in the mornings, several different types of trivia, dance classes, foosball and Ping-Pong tournaments, scavenger hunts and art auctions.

The ship also has an impressive repertoire of extra-fee amusement games, including a self-levelling pool table and an arcade with a Formula One simulator, a 4D cinema, dual bowling lanes and an air hockey table.

Additionally, the ship boasts a casino, as well as a selection of board games for passengers to borrow.

At night, the Metropolitan Theater is home to production shows, concerts and comedy sketches. MSC's goal in making the theatre smaller than those on other ships was to create a more intimate experience with more flexibility for passengers. To that end, the line offers three nightly performances of about 30 minutes each; there are seven shows altogether, one for each night of the cruise with three time slots of the same show each night.

In an effort to more closely align with North American interests, MSC has added an improv comedy bit, called BeerProv. This is a big step for a line that has traditionally relied on jaw-dropping visual performances -- acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, magicians -- to avoid language barriers among its international passenger base. We're happy to report that the entertainment remains phenomenal.

Passengers are asked to reserve spots (but not specific seats) for particular show times in advance to ensure there's enough space. Unclaimed reservations are released five minutes before each show.

Once per cruise in the late afternoon, the performers put on a shortened version of Puccini's "Madama Butterfly."

MSC Seaside Bars and Lounges

With so many spots onboard to drink, it's no surprise that several drink packages are available, ranging from basic to premium all-inclusive. (If one person in the cabin purchases a package, everyone in the cabin must purchase one.)

Highlights include:

Seaside Bar (Deck 5): The Seaside Bar sits at the base of the ship's four-deck central atrium, making it a great location for an embarkation-day drink or a pre-dinner cocktail. Its backdrop is a trio of giant LED screens showcasing a rotating selection of nature-themed scenes that include jellyfish, water and plant life.

Shine Bar (Deck 6): Found on the second level of the ship's atrium, this centrally located watering hole is, like the Seaside Bar, perfect for pre-dinner drinks. What's special about it is the amount of chrome used throughout. Its intent is to catch the sun's rays as they come through the floor-to-ceiling windows that surround the bar, giving it a glistening appearance.

Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar (Deck 6): This sweet shop and coffee bar, one of two Venchi outposts onboard, also sells speciality cocktails like coffee martinis and "Chocolate and Bubbles" -- prosecco with chocolate and truffles.

Champagne Bar (Deck 7): On the third deck of the ship's atrium is the Champagne Bar, a bright and elegantly modern space with a white bar and stools, flanked by two smaller bar areas that can be booked for private tastings.

Garage Club (Deck 7): This 1950s diner-themed area boasts a bar, dance floor, jukebox, neon signage, vintage Gulf gas pump, high-top tables with chairs and a classic car that serves as a DJ booth. At night, it's the ship's disco. It has no set closing time, which means it stays open until everyone leaves. The DJ told us that's often as late -- or as early -- as 4 a.m.

Seaview Lounge (Deck 8): This quiet lounge with excellent sea views is frequently home base for daily activities. Just next door, a see-through broadcasting booth allows passersby to watch as the cruise director records the morning show.

Sports Bar (Deck 8): This bar offers drinks, added-fee finger food and semi-private booths with individual TV screens so groups can watch sporting events together. Walls are decorated with autographed memorabilia, adding to the vibe. More extensive than the offerings on most ships, the beer menu includes more than 30 different brews.

Top Sail Lounge (Deck 16): Those booked in MSC Yacht Club cabins have access to the two-deck Top Sail Lounge, a private lounge with free drinks and a restaurant on its upper level.

Miami Beach Bar (Deck 16): This bar is where you'll want to go for your ice cream fix. Priced a la carte, you can purchase by the scoop or can splurge on a sundae or milkshake. Also available is a full menu of cocktails, frozen drinks, beer and wine.

MSC Seaside Outdoor Recreation

  • Four pools include one each for general use, adults, families and Yacht Club cruisers
  • Four water slides and a for-fee zipline provide outdoor thrills
  • Outdoor glass-bottom walkways and the Bridge of Sighs offer views of the water below

The main pool is the Miami Beach Pool, which can get crowded. It's a zero-entry pool surrounded by a sizable sun deck with plenty of loungers and giant movie screen. At night, the pool is covered and transformed into a stage for outdoor entertainment.

There are three hot tubs nearby, as well as the Bridge of Sighs (a glass walkway that lets you see the ocean below).

The South Beach Pool overlooks the ship's wake and is reserved for passengers aged 16 and older. There are no hot tubs, but a small number of loungers is available. Note that the starboard side of this area allows smoking.

The Jungle Pool has a retractable roof and is close to the kids clubs, AquaVenture water park and entrance to the ship's zipline. There's also a nearby lounge area with chairs and foosball and Ping-Pong tables.

Finally, the MSC Yacht Club Pool on Deck 19 is for private use by cruisers booked in Yacht Club cabins. Cabanas are available on a first-come, first-served basis for an extra fee.

Pool towels are provided in cabins for passenger use. There is a fee for unreturned or missing towels.

As part of its dedication to sailing in warm climates, Seaside has a huge, colourful water park area known as the Forest AquaVenture. The facility comprises a wading pool area with sprayers and fountains, a giant climbing structure and four water slides: a standard water slide, two "racing" slides and a slide for slideboarding, where passengers use their boards to select colours that light up inside the slide as they glide through it (sort of like "Guitar Hero" or "Dance Dance Revolution").

MSC Seaside Services

  • Guest services desk (self-service kiosks available to set up onboard accounts)
  • Future cruise desk
  • Photography services
  • Art gallery
  • Business centre (no internet cafe or printer for passenger use)
  • Wi-Fi (see prices)
  • Shore excursions desk
  • Library and billiard room (with for-fee self-levelling pool table)
  • Shops (toiletries, candy, duty-free, MSC-branded items)
  • Washing and pressing services (added cost; no self-service launderettes)
  • Medical centre
  • Large menu of services: massages; body treatments; facials; manicures and pedicures; haircuts, colour and styling; waxing; and men's grooming
  • The massive extra-fee thermal suite is the spa's highlight, featuring sensory steam rooms, saunas, aromatherapy, a thalassotherapy pool and a cold room with real snow
  • Discounts are often offered to cruisers booking multiple treatments
  • A well-equipped fitness center with added-fee classes such as yoga, spin and boxing

Spa

MSC's Aurea Spa has 24 treatment rooms for services like massages ($60 to $250) and facials ($69 to $130).

Just outside of the spa is a private sun deck for use exclusively by passengers who have booked spa treatments. It features lounge chairs and two whirlpools. You'll also find spa cabanas for rent (extra fee, treatment included).

The noteworthy thermal area offers dark and light sensory steam baths, a salt relaxation room, aromatherapy, a thalassotherapy pool, two saunas and a cold room with real snow. Passes are required and can be purchased by day or for the entire cruise.

The spa shares space with hair and nail salons, a tanning booth and a barber shop featuring men's services.

Port-day discounts are not offered, but you'll find a variety of promotions throughout the cruise, as well as discounts for multiple massage reservations.

Fitness

The large, well-equipped onboard gym has partnered with Technogym to offer weight and cardio machines, and equipment like heavy bags and rings. Each passenger must sign a waiver to work out.

We love the amount of open space. Because not every square inch is crammed with equipment, it's easy to find areas to do bodyweight movements without having to wait until the aerobics studio is empty.

Classes -- Transform (yoga, stretching), Revolution (spin) and War (Thai boxing) --, as well as personal training, are available for an extra fee.

Just off the gym are separate men's and women's locker rooms with showers, changing areas, lockers, toilets and saunas.

  • Dining venues include two dining rooms, two buffets and three extra-fee eateries, featuring Asian, seafood and steakhouse fare
  • Italian chocolatier Venchi offers for-fee chocolate, ice cream and speciality drinks
  • Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and gluten-free items are scarce
  • Room service includes free continental breakfast and hot breakfast sandwiches for a fee

Food aboard MSC Seaside is generally enjoyable, with dishes focusing heavily on meats, fish and homemade pasta. Dishes tend to be small but filling, leaving you feeling satisfied but not overfed.

In true European style, expect meals in the dining rooms and alternative restaurants to be long, drawn-out affairs, sometimes taking between two and three hours.

Free Dining

Seashore Restaurant (Deck 5) and Ipanema Restaurant (Deck 6)
Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

The Seashore Restaurant is open every day for breakfast, for lunch on sea days only and for dinner every night, in three set seatings, though passengers who choose MSC's flexible My Choice dining can eat dinner at Seashore any time between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Ipanema is open nightly for dinner only. It shares a menu with Seashore and also has three set seatings. Both offer sea views through large windows. Tables seat anywhere from two to 10 people.

Chef's selections are noted on the menu, and a "Classic Favorites" section features a variety of items for picky eaters. Extra-fee items are also offered, each with one free side.

Service in the main dining room is generally efficient but not overly engaging.

Marketplace Buffet (Deck 8) and Biscayne Bay Buffet (Deck 16)
Meals: B, L, D

MSC Seaside has two onboard buffets: Marketplace, the main buffet near the ship's outdoor promenade, and Biscayne Bay, a smaller and more family-friendly buffet near the ship's main pool area.

Both buffets are open for breakfast and lunch daily, with virtually identical offerings, but only Marketplace is open for dinner each night. Both are also open during select between-meal hours to offer pizza and grill items. Additionally, Marketplace does afternoon and midnight snacks like sandwiches and cookies.

An out-of-this-world standout is the ship's buffet pizza, which is made fresh throughout the day.

Both buffets offer indoor and outdoor seating.

Note that passengers cannot access the Biscayne Bay Buffet from the forward end of Deck 16. It can only be accessed from the aft elevator bank and stairs, so anyone already on Deck 16 but at the front, will need to go down a deck, walk toward the back of the ship and then go back up.

MSC Yacht Club Restaurant (Deck 18)
Meals: B, L, D

This restaurant is restricted to and complimentary for passengers booked in the MSC Yacht Club. The space is set on a balcony overlooking the club's private Top Sail Lounge on Deck 16. Tables accommodate between two and 10 passengers.

The menu varies daily but is different from what passengers get in the main dining rooms; it often features higher cuts of meat than what you'd find elsewhere.

Pricing was accurate at the time of review but might have changed since.

Asian Market Kitchen (Deck 16); a la carte, $9 to $55
Meals: L, D

Headed by renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi, Asian Market Kitchen is a trio of Asian dining options including Kaito Teppanyaki (with four menu choices), a sushi bar and Hawaiian-influenced pan-Asian cuisine.

The sushi and pan-Asian eateries share one space, with all items printed on one menu. For the Pan-Asian choices, there's also a prix fixe dining package that lets you choose three dishes from a smaller menu for $35. Service is attentive and friendly.

Ocean Cay (Deck 16); $49 prix fixe or a la carte
Meals: L, D

This bright eatery with a nautical but classy theme was the most pleasant culinary surprise of the sailing for us. The prix fixe dinner option entitles diners to one dish from each section of the multicourse menu, up to a maximum of three dishes. (Several of the higher-priced menu items are not included in the prix fixe menu.) Or, you can order a la carte.

Tip: Book a table for lunch for gorgeous sea views.

Butcher's Cut (Deck 16); $39 prix fixe or a la carte, $3 to $50
Meals: B, L, D

The menu is extensive at this fine dining steakhouse. The prix fixe option lets you choose up to three dishes, but no more than one from any given section, or you can order a la carte. We had no complaints about the food and left feeling completely stuffed.

Brunch is served at Butcher's Cut on sea days. All items range from $5 to $8; there's no prix fixe brunch.

Venchi Cioccogelateria & Coffee Bar (Deck 6); a la carte and Venchi Gelateria & Creperie (Deck 7); a la carte, $3.50 to $8.50
Meals: Snacks

Through a linkup with Italian chocolatier Venchi, MSC offers two outposts for anyone with a sweet tooth. The cioccogelateria and coffee bar indoors on Deck 6 features gelato, speciality coffee drinks, milkshakes, sweet alcoholic drinks, Italian hot chocolate and chocolate by the pound. The gelateria and creperie, found outdoors on Deck 7, serves crepes, milkshakes, waffles and ice cream.

  • Room categories include: interior, ocean-view, balcony, suites and MSC Yacht Club cabins
  • Aft-facing condo-style suites offer large balconies and stunning views
  • All-suite MSC Yacht Club offers keycard access to an exclusive pool, sun deck, dining room and bar
  • Families and groups can connect as many as three cabins, creating a large shared space for up to 10 people
  • Fifty-two accessible staterooms are spread across all cabin categories

Cabins on Seaside are comfortable and spacious with adequate storage for two people's clothes, toiletries and suitcases. Staterooms are chic and modern, and 73 percent have either a porthole or a balcony. All are nonsmoking, including on the balcony.

We love the ship's aft-facing Miami-inspired condo cabins, which overlook the wake; interconnecting staterooms that allow families and groups to stay closer; and the ultra-exclusive luxury of the cabins in the Yacht Club. We don't love that rooms are far from soundproof, particularly those with connecting doors.

All cabins have two twin beds that convert to a queen, flanked by bedside light/reading lamp combos and small nightstands with just enough space to store a couple of pairs of pyjamas. Each room also has a couch; individual climate control; a hair dryer; desk/vanity area with a chair that doubles as a coffee table; an ice bucket with a bottle opener and drinking glasses; and a mini-bar stocked with for-fee water, soft drinks, juice, beer and snacks.

A flat-screen Samsung TV features the interactive MSC for Me system, for-fee on-demand movies and a selection of news channels, as well as channels with cruise information.

Closets have sliding doors. Although there's ample space inside, we found one-half difficult to access due to its proximity to the bed. Closets also contain code-operated safes.

Bathrooms in standard cabins are shower-only with glass doors. Shelf space is ample, as is under-sink storage, but there's little room on the counter. In some accommodations, there's considerably little leg room for anyone sitting on the toilet. Additionally, bare minimum toiletries -- shampoo and shower gel only -- are offered in anything below a suite.

Cabin lights must be turned on with a keycard. Outlets include at least one USB near the beds and both American and European outlets. Buttons near the door tell your room steward if you'd like your room made up or if you'd rather not be disturbed.

MSC's cabins are attached to bookable "experiences," such as Bella, Fantastica, Wellness, Aurea and MSC Yacht Club. Each of these experiences offers a list of amenities and multiple cabin types.

All suites have bathtubs, bathrobes and balconies, unless otherwise noted. They all include MSC-branded shampoo, conditioner, body lotion and shower gel.

 

Interior: Seaside has 411 inside cabins across the Bella, Fantastica, Wellness and MSC Yacht Club categories, ranging from 150 to 301 square feet. Instead of a sofa, these rooms have a chair.

 

Oceanview: Spanning the Bella, Fantastica and Wellness experiences, the ship's 80 outside cabins are each 183 square feet.

 

Balcony: A total of 1,312 non-suite balcony cabins range in size between 172 and 269 square feet (not including balconies) and are available in the Bella, Fantastica, Wellness and Aurea experiences. They each have a 54-square-foot balcony with two upright chairs and a small drinks table. Some cabins in this category also have showers with bathtubs.

 

Basic Suite: There are 88 of these between the Fantastica and Aurea categories. They range from 183 to 301 square feet with 97-square-foot balconies that have two loungers and a drinks table.

Grand and Wellness Grand Suites: Fourteen of these are available with Wellness and Aurea experiences only. They range from 344 to 527 square feet with up to 226-square-foot balconies that hold several upright chairs and a couple of drinks tables. Each also offers an indoor dining table with chairs, a sofa and small glass table, two bedrooms (sleeping up to four), two bathrooms and a walk-in closet.

Whirlpool Suites: Suites with private on-balcony whirlpools are 301 square feet apiece, and there are 28 of them (Aurea bookings only). In addition to large balconies (75 square feet) with upright seating and a small drinks table, they also include a sitting area with sofa, a small glass table and a walk-in closet.

 

MSC Yacht Club Suites: In the MSC Yacht Club, all cabins are suites outfitted with Nespresso machines and large-screen TVs. The 12 interior suites, at 226 square feet, have no windows or balconies, a chair but no table and are shower-only, but they're larger than some cabins that do have balconies. Deluxe Suites (269 square feet) feature sofas with a chair and a small table. Balconies in these 72 cabins measure 86 square feet and feature upright chairs and a drinks table. Bathrooms have increased counter space and shaving/makeup mirrors, as well as larger showers (shower-only).

Royal Suites: The largest staterooms onboard, the ship's two Royal Suites are more like small apartments. At 667 square feet, there's enough room for a separate bedroom, a bathroom with a tub and shower, two sofas and two plush chairs with a small table in the living room, a large balcony (355 square feet) with a private hot tub, two loungers, a drinks table and two upright chairs. There's also a walk-in closet area and a bar setup.

 

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Deck 18

Best for...

Travellers looking for an action-packed, around-the-clock party, plus families with kids on a budget

Not the best for...

Recluses looking for a small ship feel with plenty of quiet spaces, penny pinchers looking to avoid extra expenses

Who goes on MSC Cruises cruise ships?

MSC Cruises is one of the most diverse cruise lines you can sail on with a multicultural mix of Italians, Brits, Spanish, Germans and French in the Mediterranean, with more North Americans in the Caribbean (but still lots of Italians and Spanish-speaking passengers), and a big local market in South Africa and South America. You'll also come across all ages. The lively night scene means these ships work well for teens and younger cruisers, while the decent kids' clubs (particularly on the newer ships) and the clever arrangements of clustered family cabins mean a lot of families travel during school holidays.


Do I have to dress up on a MSC Cruises cruise?

Yes, a little. The usual dress code is informal during the day and smart-casual at night -- think nice trousers and shirt for men and nice pants/skirts with blouse or cocktail dress for women. There's usually one gala night per cruise, when black tie or dark suit and tie are encouraged for men, as is a formal dress for women. This is not enforced, but people do make an effort.


Is everything included on MSC Cruises cruises?

No, unless you're in one of the Yacht Club suites, and even then, not everything is included. MSC sells its cruises through a somewhat bewildering array of packages: Bella, Fantastica, Aurea and Yacht Club. All include your accommodation, meals in specified restaurants and big-stage entertainment, along with basic coffee and tea, and select juices at breakfast and lunch. Beyond that, perks and inclusions vary by which package you've purchased, with Bella having no additional inclusions and Aurea featuring unlimited beverages. The Yacht Club has the most inclusions, with extra dining venues for eating, spa thermal suite passes and most beverages (plus access to a personal butler and a dedicated Yacht Club lounge and pool).


What are MSC Cruises's most popular activities?

The action onboard an MSC ship is nonstop, with cruisers flocking to participate in pool games, sports contests, shopping promotions, trivia, karaoke and filling the nightclubs until late. On newer ships, high-tech arcade games are all the rage, including a 4D cinema, laser maze, F1 simulator and bowling. Many MSC cruisers are also just as happy to park themselves by a pool and stay there all day, and when the ship is in port, you'll find the vast majority of cruisers off the ship on ship-sponsored or independent tours.


  • Comfortable, well-appointed accommodation
  • Restaurant-style dining and extensive buffet
  • Excellent service
  • World-class entertainment
  • Cutting-edge fitness facilities
  • Nightclub and casino entry
  • Kids clubs and activities for families
  • Tips and service charges for all included

MSC Cruises Status Match

Discover the Best of MSC Cruises with all the Benefits you're Used to

How does it work?

All new clients in possession of a loyalty card from other leading travel reward programmes* will be able to join the MSC Voyagers Club at a similar or higher level than their current status**. You will also a receive a 5% discount on any booking. If you are already in possession of a privilege card from a mainstream leisure travel programme, you will be able to join the MSC Voyagers Club, receiving a matching status card from either their Classic, Silver, Gold and Black tiers, guaranteeing you a 5% discount on any booking and a similar or higher benefit status*.

Call us on 0800 023 1273 to take advantage of this new programme and discover the world of MSC Cruises.


Terms & conditions

Terms: *MSC Cruises will only consider benefit cards from other Cruising companies, Hotels and/or Tour Operators. Airline Company benefit cards are excluded. ** Matching is carried out by comparing as much as reasonably possible the level of benefits guaranteed from the external travel programme benefit card with those offered by the MSC Voyagers Club cards. Customers will physically receive their membership card once on-board during their first cruise with MSC Cruises. It is not possible to combine MSC Voyagers Club points with points from the benefit card data of other cruise companies. If you have benefit cards with multiple companies, you will have to choose which card to use to take part in the promotion. The MSC Voyagers Club card and membership will be subject to the terms and conditions of the MSC Voyagers Club. MSC Cruises reserves the right to reject any Status Match Request without any legal ramifications for legitimate reasons and to stop this programme at any time

What's included in the MSC All-Inclusive drinks package?

Great savings on Premium Extra drinks packages

There's never been a better time to plan your next holiday with MSC Cruises. Book now and, in addition to all of the great value that's always available as well as tips included as standard (saving around £80pppw), you could also secure a discounted Premium Extra drinks package! The regular onboard price is up to £67pppn, so with average savings of over £300pp per week, you can relax knowing you're saving money and can enjoy that extra tipple or two onboard.

Cheers!

  • Premium Extra drinks package from £220pp (based on 7-night sailing), saving £249pp!
    • Prices vary by season and duration
  • Gratuities included for all

Guide to MSC Cruises' drinks packages

Refresh yourself with great savings. MSC has created an array of great-value drinks packages to offer you the choice of refreshment that most appeal to you, from soft drinks to fine wines and premium beers. MSC's unlimited cruise options and numerous drinks packages give you carte blanche to quench your thirst whenever you like and can be combined with a huge selection of cruise holidays. So go on, give yourself the gift of total relaxation! Prices vary by destination - our team will be happy to provide the appropriate price for your chosen cruise.

'Easy' package:

  • All destinations: Includes a selection of pre-mixed drinks
  • Cruises of 6 nights and less: £37pppn | Cruises of 7 nights and more: £34pppn

Enjoy a selection of classic cocktails, house spirits and mixed drinks, non-alcoholic cocktails, a dedicated selection of house wines by the glass, beer, sodas, fruit juices, bottled mineral water and classic hot drinks (espresso, cappuccino, caffe latte, hot tea). The Easy package covers all of the above served in their bars, buffet and main restaurant plus private islands. Not available in speciality restaurants or signature venues such as Venichi 1878 establishments or MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.

'Easy Plus' package:

  • Caribbean & North America, South America & Far East & Japan: All beverages priced up to $10
  • All other destinations: All beverages priced up to €9 (£9 onboard MSC Virtuosa in Summer)
  • Cruises of 6 nights and less: £50pppn | Cruises of 7 nights and more: £47pppn

Includes all of the beverages from the 'Easy' package plus a selection of frozen and classic cocktails, a variety of spirit brands, liqueurs and cordials. In addition, there's a selection of wine by the glass, a 10% discount on bottled wines purchased onboard and a wide variety of draft & bottled beers, non-alcoholic cockatiels, soft drinks, mineral water, coffee drinks, hot chocolate and hot teas. The Easy Plus package covers all of the above served in their bars, buffet, main and speciality restaurants plus private islands. Not available in signature venues such as Venichi 1878 establishments or MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.

'Premium Extra' package:

  • Caribbean & North America, South America & Far East & Japan: All beverages priced up to $16
  • All other destinations: All beverages priced up to €14 (£14 onboard MSC Virtuosa in Summer)
  • Cruises of 6 nights and less: £67pppn | Cruises of 7 nights and more: £64pppn

The premium choice to quench your thirst. The Premium Extra package includes an extensive variety of frozen & classic cocktails, premium brand spirits, liquors and cordials. Then there's a varied selection of wines and champagnes by the glass, a 25% discount on bottles of wine and champagne purchased onboard and the entire selection of draft, craft and bottled beers, sodas, fruit juices, mineral water, energy drinks, coffee drinks, hot chocolate and teas. The Premium Extra package covers all of the above served in their bars, buffet, main and speciality restaurants plus private islands. Not available in signature venues such as Venichi 1878 establishments or MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.

Alcohol-Free package:

  • South America / Caribbean & North America & Far East/Japan Cruises - available for guests aged 21 and over
  • All other destinations - available for guests aged 18 & over
  • Cruises of 6 nights and less: £23pppn | Cruises of 7 nights and more: £21pppn

Give your thirst a treat as and when you like with a wide choice of alcohol-free cocktails, sodas, energy drinks, mineral water, flavoured water, fruit juices, classic coffee drinks and coffee specialities, hot chocolate, hot teas and soft-serve ice cream. You can use this package in the bars, self-service buffet, main restaurants and on private islands, but not in the speciality restaurants and signature venues (Venchi 1878 establishments or Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club).

Minors Package:

  • South America / Caribbean & North America & Far East/Japan Cruises - available for guests aged 4-20 yrs.
  • All other destinations - available for guests aged 4-17 yrs.
  • Cruises of 6 nights and less: £16pppn | Cruises of 7 nights and more: £15pppn

Give your kids the freedom to enjoy their choice of alcohol-free cocktails, sodas, energy drinks, mineral water, flavoured water, fruit juices, a selection of coffee drinks, hot chocolate, hot tea and soft-serve ice cream. Available at selected bars, the self-service buffet and main restaurants. What’s more, the Minors Package also includes the private islands but does not cover the speciality restaurants and signature venues(Venchi 1878 establishments or Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club), regardless of beverage price. Applicable for minors (age respective of the country/operation area) who are part of a group/family purchasing Adult Package


Terms & conditions

Discounted drinks packages may not be available on every sailing. Further conditions apply. Please ask for full details.

Please be advised that in respect to Saudi law, during the calls in Saudi Arabian ports, alcoholic drinks will not be served until the ship will be in international waters. Beverage packages are not transferrable and may not be shared with other guests, being valid for one beverage only per each order. Violation of these terms may result in the cancellation of a guest’s package without eligibility for a refund or credit of any kind. Packages are sold on a per cruise basis and not a per day or any other basis. Pricing applies to each day of the cruise, except for disembarkation day. Once activated on board, packages cannot be terminated or refunded. Packages must be booked by all guests occupying the same cabin, travelling together and wishing to dine at the same table. This includes minors, for who the Minors Package must be booked. Packages are not obligatory for infants under three years of age. The following exclusions apply: tobacco, souvenir glasses, ice cream menu, retail items, minibar, room service, promotions and signature venues (Venchi 1878 establishments or Jean-Philippe Maury venues, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room), regardless of beverage price. Must be of legal age to consume alcohol - see our terms of our guest alcohol policy. Other conditions & terms may apply. Beverages and liquors may be substituted based on availability and itinerary.

Choose your MSC Cruise experience

MSC Cruises is the first company to offer truly customised experiences, designed to accommodate your every need.

Don't forget the "Aurea" Experience for upgraded amenities and service or the MSC Yacht Club, the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity. With an MSC cruise, there’s something for everyone.

Included for all

  • Comfortable, well-appointed accommodation
  • Restaurant-style dining and extensive buffet
  • Excellent service
  • World-class entertainment
  • Cutting-edge fitness facilities
  • Nightclub and casino entry
  • Kids clubs and activities for families
  • Tips and service charges for all included

Bella Experience

Available with Interior, Ocean View & Balcony accommodation types

  • Lowest price
  • Dining time preference taken at the time of booking & confirmed onboard. On selected ships, you can change this daily before 4pm
  • Cabin location will be advised by MSC at any time up to boarding
  • Access to all restaurants, facilities, kids clubs, gym & sports facilities and more.

Fantastica Experience

Available with Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, SuperFamily & Suite accommodation types

All benefits of Bella Experience plus

  • Accommodation located on the upper decks in the most desirable areas of the ship.
  • More dining flexibility:
    • On Meraviglia/Bellissima/Seaside/World Europa class, choose Classic first/second sitting or Flexi Dining.
    • On other ships, Classic dining with first/second sitting priority choice
  • Complimentary room service breakfast
  • 20% discount on prepaid speciality restaurants packages

Aurea Experience

Designed to offer reinvigorating, all-inclusive comfort. Available with balcony and suites only

All benefits of Bella Experience plus

  • Superior sea views from the upper decks
  • Welcome package of prosecco & chocolate, plus free room service delivery 24-hrs a day
  • Free access to Top Exclusive Solarium and thermal area (thermal area for adults only)
  • 40% discount on Spa prepaid packages / 10% discount if purchased onboard
  • Relaxation amenities in each cabin/suite and pillow menu
  • Ultimate dining choice and flexibility:
    • On Meraviglia/Bellissima/Seaside class, enjoy My Choice dining arriving at any time during dinner with priority lane access to complimentary restaurants
    • Other ships: Exclusive reserved area in the main restaurant with anytime My Choice dining
  • Priority embarkation and disembarkation

All-Inclusive Cruising

All-Inclusive Cruising with MSC Cruises  - Upgrade from just £36 per day!

When MSC Cruises say all-inclusive they mean it. Sail with unlimited premium extra drinks, gratuities and port taxes included when you upgrade from just £36 per day.

Onboard MSC Virtuosa, sail to the Canary Islands, Norwegian Fjords and more. Onboard MSC Preziosa, sail to iconic Northern European treasures, including Hamburg, Bruges and more. Both are sailing from Southampton!

In the summer months, fly from airports around the UK on direct flights that include hold luggage and return transfers to the East or West Mediterranean, or feel the warmth of the Caribbean with plenty of embarkation ports from Miami, Port Canaveral, or New York.

For some winter sunshine, fly to Dubai for the dazzling Arabian Gulf onboard MSC Euribia or fly from London to Barbados for 14-nights of adventure onboard MSC Virtuosa, taking in the best of the Southern Caribbean.

Get all-inclusive from £36 per day when you book your drinks package in advance with MSC Cruises.

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