I'm going to be brutally honest with you. I took a cruise with them in November 2023 from nyc on the Meraviglia ship & I had the most amazing time of my life. The staff was amazing, the food in all the restaurants, including the buffet was simply delicious & the honestly it's so difficult for me to interact with people, I ended up making friends with some great people on this cruise ship. My room had a temperature control thermostat where I was able to control my own air conditioner and heat. I didn't have to wait for my drinks when I ordered. The Butcher's Cut restaurant was omg simply delicious, elegant, and the best damn service I've ever had at a restaurant. My trip was to Bermuda with the drink package and wifi for 8 days, 7 nights, and the total price with the port charges of $857.00 My only complaint - honestly, the wifi simply socks. The wifi simply never worked. Drink package, I consumed about 300 various drinks non alcoholic and alcoholic. I had a lot of Hennessey drinks on this cruise cause I'm a Hennessey girl. And i have no clue what she's talking about.I actually ordered numerous drinks that were over the $9.00 I was charged the difference.
I was about to say the same thing. Don't be cheap then complain about it when YOU chose your own package. We did our homework & were thoroughly pleased ALL 4 cruises we took with MSC and all were 7 night. Do your homework & if you don't it's your fault.
Choose the drinks package suited to you. Look at the menus before hand and if you see drinks that are not in your drinks packaged, consider upgrading your package. Do your research before hand. Don’t blame MSC
@@CRUISINALONG Just wanted to say, way to keep it classy. A lot of people attacking you for your experience, feelings, and opinions, but you are de-escalating, and thats really fabulous to see. Well done, and thanks for the video.
@@CalmPlainsNo, it’s not like that at all! When you post videos on UA-cam and make yourself to be an authority on the subject you’re posting about it’s expected for you to be honest and provide legitimate and accurate information!
Actually this goes against every possible logic. You have a cheap package non alcoholic where you get speciality coffees and fresh juices and canned juices. But if you upgrade to the easy package, then you loose those perks even though you are supposed to get EVERYTHING up to 10 dollars. The coffees and juices are less then 10 euro, but no you are not allowed to drink those...
I have no clue what's she's talking about. I was on a msc cruise meraviglia in November 2023 I consumed over 300 drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic... A lot of my drinks were premium drinks. I was charged the difference. I even purchased several bottles of wine and was charged the difference and they actually gave me a 15% discount. Also you get to choose the package you want before you book because like Norwegian Cruise they give you the choice to include the drink package and wifi
@@CHOCOLATEBBW425 This was the rule, it changed last year. They did not offer to pay the difference before and made you pay full price if you went out of your package. Too many people complained about it so they changed it. They are slowly making all of their rules better.
MSC Cruises isn't like "most cruise lines". The packages that MSC offer are priced generous and competitive. I'd say if you want a few expensive drinks during formal nights just add some onboard credit prior to boarding so those drinks will be covered. However, just because they don't fall into the category of the "other cruise lines" doesn't make this an absurd rules. Happy cruising.
From what I saw on my December 2023 cruise, they've changed their policy, so that you just pay the difference, not the aggregate. However, before that was the case, your recommendation of adding credit would fail to address the principle of the video, because you'd still be paying the full beverage price, and your expensive beverage package would do nothing.
I have no clue what the hell she's talking about. I was on a msc cruise meraviglia in November 2023 I consumed over 300 drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic... A lot of my drinks were premium drinks. I was charged the difference. I even purchased several bottles of wine and was charged the difference and they actually gave me a 15% discount.
I personally think the drinking packages are the cheapest out of any cruise line I've sailed with. For a 4 night Bahama's cruise we got the easy package for $150 American which came out to only 40 bucks a night basically. Also something to mention is that gratuities are included with the fee, something my gf and I really appreciated. Anything over and above that you want to tip is your choice. We can't tell you how many other cruise lines charged us absurd prices at the end of our stay for gratuities, so this was quite a surprise to see it included. I think even for the Easy Package, $40 a night is absolutely unbeatable. I'm not a picky drinker so the heineken beer was perfectly fine for me, a couple gin and tonics and rum and cokes in between, my girlfriend enjoyed mixed drinks and the selected wines during dinner, and she only purchased a few fancy drinks which came out to nothing at the end of it all. Plus unlimited bottled mineral water, and you get to enjoy these drinks all day at Ocean Cay, I truly can't see any other cruise line offering a better drinking package.
@@CRUISINALONG When was the last time you sailed with MSC? My girlfriend and I have been hearing many other people say that the boarding process is chaotic and it's beginning to worry us now lol
Didn’t complain about price . If you get 10 drinks a day , you’re waiting in line for at least 4 hours of your day . I stand by my review . I just did the painful experience . They need to hire more people !
This is exactly why I usually don't get a drink package. I want what I want...and even if at the end of the day it ends up costing me a little more I don't care. In reality....if you are on a cruise where you are getting off in any ports...you really have to be a heavy drinker to make them worthwhile IMO because all that time you spend off the ship is unavailable for using the package. We just went on a Holland America cruise and they wanted $700 for the two of us for a 5 night cruise....I didn't buy it...we drank whatever we wanted...expensive wine by glass...fancy cocktails and even got a bottle of wine one night....total spent on alcohol for the cruise was $650. So we saved money and got exactly what we wanted.
My strategy too. If you're not a heavy drinker, a drink package is not worth it. We got a few drinks with a Princess Cruise, for example, and it was still cheaper than the package. If you do drink heavily, the package is worth it. Ave MSC does have an economical one that i think is worth it.
Msc has the best drink packages, you were not well prepared. You can even upgrade your package once on the ship for a few bucks. They give you the easy package plus wich is mid tier. It is included in your price if you pick the right package. You gotta do your homework. With all cruise lines. Plus your gratuities are also included. It is a win win.
@@johnnyv5995 I don’t . It will vary depending on what kind of package do you have? Two are kind of package of getting. I would call and ask MSC directly. I appreciate you watching. Have a great cruise.
It is not included in the price it’s an add on. Every cruise where they have it included. The same cruises were $200 cheaper a few weeks prior. The guac is always extra.
NCL did that to mee too. I had a drinking package and it was up to $12.....I wanted to order a drink that was outside my package and it was $15 and I had to pay the whole $15 instead of the $3 difference. Its not only MSC, some other cruise lines do it too
People should not be scrutinizing this woman for her experience. MSC is not like Carnival or Royal Carr. and their website is not as upfront with information. Alot of the information I found had to be word of mouth from other cruisers because its either not on the website or you call the customer service and they have no idea. We dont leave until next week and our embarkation time has changed 5 times. Luckily we live an hour from the Port.
My husband and I have always booked Aurea suites on MSC which at the time included a drink package. We knew what our tier price point was & one night we were at the pool deck & servers were walking around with a specialty cocktail in a carved out pineapple. The drink was $12. We didn't have a problem paying the full amount as an exception. Not all cruise lines adhere to the same logic of paying the difference.
WE did a short cruise in November,six days,and took advantage of a drinks deal. It cost us £14.00 each per night and could not fault it as there was nothing in the drinks line that you could not get.We shall be going again and if the deal is available then we shall be taking advantage of it.We had a great time on a wonderful time. David Williams
This is strange because I purchased drinks above my package and was only charged the difference, $3 I was told I would be charged that $3 and given other options. I approved it and on my bill was the $3 charge and nothing more.
I they have since updated their drink package policy. I recently made an updated drink package video . I'm cruising with them again and I can't wait.!! thanks for watching.
When are people going to learn that drugs are expensive anytime you're going to go and do a bunch of drugs it's going to cost you a bunch of money alcohol is no exception
Hey they changed their drink package policy to you pay the difference . I made an updated video . Also, if you look on their webpage at their website, they have a list of all the different drinks brands that are covered within the individual packages.
Thanks for the warning ⚠️! I guess msc just wants to make it a simple fact...stay within your package and no hopping around trying to create our own package!
true. I Like to get a fancy drink every now and again. now I know what to plan for. I am giving MSC a redo soon to see if they ironed out their boarding process.
@@CRUISINALONG what do you mean iron our their boarding process? It’ll be my first time on a cruise next month and I will be on the Meraviglia. Any information will help prepare me!
@@Curlyyfulll Hi my cruise was their first cruise back in the states after coming from europe so I think they were short staffed. I hope that is the reason. Their embarkation and disembarkation was slowwww. that was back in Oct so I'm sure they are at full staff by now. have a great time. It is. beautiful ship.
P&0 are the same they charge you for the whole drink if it's outside of your package. But they informed me on their Web sites that would be the case, so I knew in advance
I like the way MSC does their drink packages. I pretty much just drink beer and wine. I don’t mind buying the one fancy cocktail I’ll have out side the package.
Oasis of the seas (Royal Caribbean) does the same thing was a rip off ,served me lighter fluid vodka on my package! This line was the most nickel dime company out of 40 cruises I’ve done over the years. Celebrity,Holland, NCL, great but favorite was Viking!
I haven't sailed w MSC yet, but the way I'm reading the drink packages, The cheapest one is like an HMO, no outta network benefits. The second level, Easy Plus works like the other cruise lines, you pay the overage on drinks that surpass your dollar limit. I'll see for sure when I sail.
Well, if you were to only pay the difference, then everyone would purchase the most basic package. There is a reason why they offer tiered drinking packages.
MSC has since updated their drink package policy to reflect you only pay the difference. I made an updated video. Thanks for watching. MSC'S ABSURD DRINKING PACKAGE UPDATE 5/2023. IS IT STILL ABSURD? ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
I am actually giving MSC another go on the Seaside in a few months myself. The ships are beautiful. Let me know how the cruise goes. Have a great time. Thank you for watching.
Totally understand her point. Why not just charge the difference instead of the entire cost of the drink. I agree that since you already have a drink package only charge those guests the difference.
That is why you research the rules before going on any cruises. If it is listed in the rules, then it is not "shame on MSC" that is just the lack of knowing what the rules are. I have watched over 50 videos which were posted before this one which all mention that issue and that you need to be aware of it. Just a little looking up drinking packages would have uncovered this. MSC says the reason is to get people on the 'right' drinking package for the cruiser. So, in this case, you probably would have saved money by getting a little nicer package. (Of course we all know that it is just a bit of a money grab. Especially if there are more than one person in the room). This still can be a better approach than no drinks packages available (Disney or Virgin) (in my opinion). I totally understand why people may miss this information, especially if it is their first or 2nd cruise. Experienced cruisers should know to look for the 'gotchas' where the line can charge extra. I have been lucky and not been caught in the cheap trap. If I want to go on a cruise, I make sure I can afford the way I want to cruise and get as much as possible bundled together so I don't need to have anything on my room charges (except casino or spa). If it is not possible to bundle it all together and prepay most (if not all) the cruise, then I will look at another cruise line. The rules change so often, you need to be able to research before EVERY trip (in my experience). Way too many policy changes or package changes or ship changes.
I've cruised on MSC and only had to pay the difference between what the drink I wanted cost and what I ordered (ie. paid an extra $1 or $2 for the fancier drink).
What i don't like is i don't want to buy any package. And i don't drink any alcohol. And would rather just bring my own 8/12 pack of cans on the cruise. But msc doesn't allow that.
I know they don’t like some other cruise lines. I sometimes like to bring two bottles of wine if I’m not getting a drinking package but with MSC that’s a no can do. Thanks for watching!
I am sailing with MSC in October and will have the easy drink package and previously cruised MSC with no drink package and I did not know this and I really do my research.
Not all other cruise lines offer so many drink package options. I can understand their reasoning behind their policy. Even the premium package is a good deal compared to other cruise lines.
First off, it was always like this. Which is why MSC offered THREE different packages. You pick the one that suits you. They still offer these same packages, but several weeks ago started offering the upgrade on individual drinks. There is still a 15% gratuity added to that. Secondly, it was WELL advertised this was the case. If you are as experienced as you say, you should have known this. Research is wonderful. So anyone watching this now, the information is not correct anymore.
I'm cruising with them again very very soon. And am excited to see any changes/updates in policy. They do have beautiful ships. I hope they sorted out their 4 hour boarding & deboarding debacle last October. That was a crazy situation, Passengers were breaking out in fights. Their ships are way too beautiful for that environment. thank you for watching!
@@CRUISINALONG what policy will they change? I went on two weeks ago. Maybe they already did and that’s why I didn’t have a problem. I kept checking my bill every couple of hours to make sure I wasn’t over charged
in all honesty the Easy package is for basic drinking. people who are not particular and do not drink much. If you are drinking several martinis outside that package even for a day you should upgrade.
I’ll save you some time, she loves to talk and gossip! Skip to 3:03 to get the answer. By the way out of all the cruises I’ve been on MSC seems to be the most generous with their drinking package! I can put the hammer down on drinks so I do not mind the price my wife hardly drinks but you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll drink for her and me both plus more!
MSC has since updated their drinking package policy to reflect you only pay the difference. I made an updated video. Thanks for watching ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
I don’t understand why are we forced to give pre paid gratitudes.. doesn’t tip means “tip”.. optional!! Not mandatory! Mandatory is called salary!! Which ship should give, not us
I’ve never had an issue with pre paid gratuities. There are alot of countries who don’t have tipping so to have continuity in tipping they just add it on. You can always tip extra if you want. A lot of passengers will do that if they have a few crew members during their cruise . Thanks for watching !
Thank you for the heads up. After researching lots of reviews and videos today, we have personally decided to skip MSC cruisline. Repeatedly we’ve heard that they “nickel and dime” you. It’s hard enough to come up with the cost of the cruise. No one needs the worry of extra charges to enjoy a treat here or there.
I'm actually giving them another go very soon. I will most certainly be making a video about my experience. I am optimistic my experience will be better this time.
This is why I like MSC. I'm not taking a cruise to be around wasted ppl. MSC is more of an opulent cruise line. If drinking is your focus, go on Carnival.
Wrong information. With MSC you only pay the difference. See quote from MSC website below. Quote: If I choose a drink not included in the package, do I pay a full price? No. Guests who purchase alcoholic all-inclusive beverage packages Easy, Easy Plus, or Premium Extra, and who want to enjoy cocktails, spirits and/or wines by the glass that are not included in their package, will pay only the price difference between the package allowance and the à la carte price of ordered drinks. Unquote.
We were just on Royal and they charge you the full amount (not the difference) of the drink if it is out of the package price. We knew about it prior and we were fine with that. We also experienced the same thing on Carnival Mardi Gras.
its normal for some cruise lines,p&o cruise lines do the same, your allowed 15 drinks per day up to about £6.95 and only every 15 mins,1 drink per card, and if you want a more expensive drink more than the stated amount in the package you pay the full price we just come back from msc seaside and found the drinks package brilliant as many drinks as you like in the package, not like p&o ships
But then MSC cruises are much cheaper so you will still pay less than e.g. Royal or Celebrity even if you get the more premium drink. Or go for Yacht club as we do, then you have the premium package
Hi there can anyone tell me Im litle confused My husband and I we are taken MSC cruse this year If I got the tikets for the cruise Do we have to take the drink package also? or is include I mean basic drink non alcoholic
Hi I know MSC has recently ran a few specials, when you purchase your cruise it includes a few different perks, possibly your drink package. I recommend you call MSC to confirm what all is and isn't included. Then you can go from there but it is not mandatory you pre purchase a drink package. There are plenty of free choices onboard. I usually take a yeti style cup with me on a cruise for coffee, water, tea, etc... those are usually free in the buffet's and possibly a few other spots. Have a great time, I'd love to hear about your cruise in the comment section.
On European ships ist is much more complicated - try german Aida Cruiseline - there are drinking packages wich are different in different bars on the ship. If you want to have a soda its possible that a drink in the first bar ist included and the same soda has to be paid on another bar or restaurant. They do the same like MSC by the way - if your out of your package you have to pay the whole price. so this is very common on european ships. But with easy Plus its very comfortable on MSC - most of the things what you need is included - and the price is very ok. What bothers me more on MSC are the service fees - i had a 1 hour massage for 120€ and after fees it was over 150€ - but this was nowhere mentioned - i must admit we germans are used to see the "last" price on ads and in stores which means its alwas the price we have to pay including fees and tax.
I will say MSC did change their drink package policy a few months back. I did an updated video ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html Thanks for watching!
MSC cruise drink packages FAQ If you want to order a cocktail, glass of wine or spirit that's not included in the package you've purchased, you will only pay the difference in price between the package allowance and the price of your beverage .Apr 7, 2024
Thank you for this information. Very informative and useful. I agree-this is absurd!☹😮😟 If you don't mind, I have a quick question about duty free on MSC Meraviglia board shopping. Do you know if selection of wines and spirits are good? Are the prices on board more expensive than those on land? Thank you very much.
Hi I find on cruise ships in general. the prices for a bottle of wine is decent, maybe even slightly cheaper than say a restaurant in town. There is a wide selection of wines/beers/alcohol to pick from. I usually don't purchase wine or liquor from the duty free because then your left to schlep it off the ship as it can't be consumed onboard. they will hold it for you till the end of the cruise. now if you purchase a bottle in a restaurant or bar then yes you can drink that onboard. . thanks for watching.
I have no damn clue what she's talking about. I was on a msc cruise meraviglia in November 2023 I consumed over 300 drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic... A lot of my drinks were premium drinks. I was charged the difference. I even purchased several bottles of wine and was charged the difference and they actually gave me a 15% discount. The duty free liquor on the ship is reasonable prices... the duty free shops at the ports prices depends on the country your visiting. Now I can tell you Bermuda duty free shops prices are not the best depending on the liquor
With whatever package you select with MSC I recommend you print out what’s included in that drinking package and keep it with you because if you order a drink something that isn’t included within the package you selected you will be charged for entire instead of the difference of your package and whatever you ordered. I had the easy package And was accustomed to if you go outside the package , say you order a drink that’s $15 instead of the nine dollars that’s included in your package you just pay the difference. MSC charges you the entire $15 or whatever the cost is. It caught me off guard. I would cruise again within MSC but now I know to be aware of what is included in the package. I definitely am partially responsible for not looking at the fine print. Thanks for watching the video! Happy holidays
MSC is the only cruise line that doesn’t have a cap on the amount of daily drinks - they are truly unlimited . Other cruise lines stop you after 8-12 drinks so actually they have the truly unlimited packages and they are the cheapest- you never mentioned that ….
I don’t normally exceed a max capacity so it’s not something I consider . I did do an updated video once MSC updated their drink package policy . Thanks for watching .
No, I took a cruise and find out that you had to pay for the entire cost of a beverage. If you purchase something outside the drink package. At that time I cruised with MSC that was the policy. So no it was not an assumption. It was a fact at that time. The next time I cruised on Msc, they updated, modified their drinking package policy to reflect you only pay the difference which at that time I made an updated video Have a great day and happy fourth
So in your opinion: you het a Heineken in your package but you prefer another. So you order the other but only wanna pay the difference??? That not logical. Its like going to the bakery getting an other loaf of bread than usual but you only wanna pay the difference. 🤷🏽♂️ Thats a weird thinking.
I was accustomed to other cruise lines, drinking package guidelines. Now I definitely read the fine print. Thanks for watching . I appreciate your input.
We've done 4 cruises 7 nights each on MSC & were thoroughly pleased. But we were also smart enough to do research before hand. Maybe SHAME ON YOU for being cheap. Don't blame them for your mistakes.
Unfortunately, a lot of cruise lines make you do that, but sometimes if you call the cruise line and tell them the circumstances, they will make an exception
I don't want the fancy stuff, mainly a beer guy. For me this plan structure adds choice to not have to pay for things I don't want. Perfect! I would suggest that if you don't want to invite the nasty comments maybe stay away from excessive clickbait type titles with caps and 8 exclamation points. In my opinion that was the only absurd thing here.
@@CRUISINALONG Actually that would only give me Heineken ugggh. I went for the middle package which is the same as the top package for the most part as it pertains to Beer. So as a beer guy the top package is more than I need and bottom package is too basic. Nice to have choice don’t you agree or is that !!!!ASBURD!!!! ?
I was going to express the same thing but I will cut some slack seeing everyone else said it. I buy what I will consume. Or Don't buy the drinking package and have the fancy drink when you want and pay for it.
Hi MSC has since updated their policy to you only pay the difference. I made an updated video. Thanks for watching MSC'S ABSURD DRINKING PACKAGE UPDATE 5/2023. IS IT STILL ABSURD? ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
Thank you for watching . I’ve heard MSC has changed their policy on this . I’m sailing with them in a month or so. If so, I’ll do a new video about it .
Good to know when you dont know or assume that it might be a certain way. So you may know the answer to this since you experienced it. I got the easy plus package: It says All beverages priced up to $9. Includes bottomless frozen and classic cocktails, well spirits, liquors and cordials and a selection of wine by the glass. 10% discount on bottled wine purchased on board and a wide variety and im assuming these this list is covered in the package: it states that all below items are covered that is served at bars, buffet, main restaurants draft and bottled beer non alcoholic cocktails soft drinks mineral water coffee drinks ( caffe latte, cappuccino etc ) hot chocolate and teas Also it includes Ocean Cay and other exclusive destinations but does not cover the signature venues
I strongly recommend you print out the list of what is included and keep it with you on board. It is nice to be able to use your package on the island but still take the printout with you because it’s easy to get outside the nine dollar range.
Additionally, I would go on a MSC cruise again but the next time I’ll upgrade to the absolute premium drink package because I don’t really want to have to think about it. Thank you for watching.
Not sure if my previous message went through. I strongly recommend you print out the list of brands of drinks that is included within your drink package from their website. There are some nice selections on beer, liquor brands, and wines but if you print it out and make copies, keep it with you at all times . that will help you stay within your package, please post when you get back from your cruise, love to hear about your experience. Have a great cruise and thanks for watching.
Loki, if you're not a heavy drinker and just like to casually drink the Easy Plus Package will be perfect for you. There are a lot of drinks to choose from within the package. You won't go thirsty!
The truth is, people are boycotting them since they ditched Steve Hoffmeyers gig. SA dont want to go on such ships. Now they blame dry docking for cancellations in April. Bad Planning crap. Bad advertising and decisions.
I am truly surprised at some of the comments below. The lady here is making a valid point. Lets say you are entitled to a drink upto $9 and you end up getting a drink that costs $10 because you got an extra shot of tequila or grand marnier, would it not hurt to pay $10 extra and over and beyond what you have already paid for your drink package? Just because their fares are competitive now because they are trying to enter and grab a good US market-share does not mean that cruisers should not be pointing our policies that do not make sense so the cruise line can actually listen and address these. For example take a look at the food. maybe if every cruiser would have said in the past, well their fares are low so we will eat horrible and unseasoned food versus provide feedback and create awareness then they would not have uped their game with food. So pull your head out of wherever you have it buried and allow people to point and raise valuable feedback for cruise lines to address.
I just booked my first ever cruise, which will be on the MSC Seascape this December, and was curious about this very scenario. It's not something that I'd assume one way or the other, so I was planning on asking guest services on embarkation day, if I didn't find out for sure before then, so this settles that. Thank you! I wouldn't bash them for it, though, so at least it's good that you didn't decide to make it your last cruise with them on account of that. I already pre-paid for the premium extra package anyway, because I like expensive beverages. But then it just means it'd be an extra ouch if I exceeded that bad boy a few times. I'll be sure not to do that.
Thank you for watching and thank you for your very thoughtful message. They do have beautiful ships. I’m excited to cruise with them again in May. Keep me posted on your experience.
@@sasutton100 That is a good package, especially if you know that all the beverages that you're interested in are $10 or less, which is a lot of them, especially all the beers. I paid for the Aurea Experience, so the Easy Plus was included. Then, I upgraded that to the Premium Extra to capture premium beverages that I like that fall in that next $6 each above the Easy Plus limit (which is approximately 11 wines, almost 33 spirits options and I haven't even counted the cocktails that are between $10 & 16 each). That's the great thing about the series of different packages; there's a best value option available for everyone and their varied tastes. : )
@CRUISINALONG Update: once aboard, I immediately noticed wording on the bar menus, indicating that you only pay the difference, not the full amount. I asked a bar tender, just to be sure, and they confirmed that it's just the difference, if you pop your drink package limit. So, apparently their policy changed. Maybe they received enough negative feedback? It was a fun cruise, so now I'm a cruiseaholic and I love MSC. They did things really well on the Seascape! I'm thinking a MSC Mediterranean cruise is in the cards for next year.
This is nonsense - MSC deducts the prices on drinks above your package prices. If your package includes drinks up to 9$, and you pick a 12$ drink you pay the difference plus service charge.
What you described is industry standard and is the same on most cruise lines. I would expect some with a cruise channel to have had experience with this process prior on other lines as it’s certainly not anything new!
Well just was on the meravilia last week I got the easy plus and cover most everything and if something was out of the package I paid just the difference and I have proof 🙃
Awfull experience. The ship wasnt at full capacity and was very overcrowded could get a seat at the theatre’s or bars. Was geared up to get as much money out of you as possible. Cheap to book but we spent £1100 on the ship in 7 days and they charged us an additional £1100 by mistake and 2 weekd later we still havnt had a refund. Very disappointed with the entire experience
My first experience with MSC was abysmal but I’ve cruised a few more times with them and had a much better experience. I’m trying their Yacht Club on MSC Davina in March. I have several MSC videos on my channels. Check those out if you’re interested. I appreciate your comment .
Just saw a post from someone that cruised Seascape April 2023 and he mentioned that MSC was now doing 'pay the difference' however I have not seen anything official from MSC. We are onboard next month, keep you posted.
Hey, I'll have one of the cheapest cruise lines and the cheapest drinks package...now let me complain about wanting something outside that package and moan about it. The only shame here, especially in this day and age, is not doing your research. A very brief search and the policy is on the front page of the drinks package and all over you tube covered by reviews. Just another case of wanting Royal Caribbean service at 1/2 the cost. I actually think that MSC are one of the most upfront and open cruise lines about costs and tips.
MSC offers the best value especially on their drink packages. They offer 3 levels of drink packages where everyone else offers two. Do your research and do understand that every cruise line has their own set of rules. Sorry I think your video is inappropriate.
B/c on many other cruise lines it’s Allowed , it’s now even allowed on MSC. I did an updated video reflecting their new drink package policy . Thanks for watching
I need a drink after watching this
lol I’m sure ! Thanks for watching
I'm going to be brutally honest with you. I took a cruise with them in November 2023 from nyc on the Meraviglia ship & I had the most amazing time of my life.
The staff was amazing, the food in all the restaurants, including the buffet was simply delicious & the honestly it's so difficult for me to interact with people, I ended up making friends with some great people on this cruise ship.
My room had a temperature control thermostat where I was able to control my own air conditioner and heat.
I didn't have to wait for my drinks when I ordered. The Butcher's Cut restaurant was omg simply delicious, elegant, and the best damn service I've ever had at a restaurant.
My trip was to Bermuda with the drink package and wifi for 8 days, 7 nights, and the total price with the port charges of $857.00
My only complaint - honestly, the wifi simply socks. The wifi simply never worked.
Drink package, I consumed about 300 various drinks non alcoholic and alcoholic.
I had a lot of Hennessey drinks on this cruise cause I'm a Hennessey girl.
And i have no clue what she's talking about.I actually ordered numerous drinks that were over the $9.00
I was charged the difference.
They since updated their promo package policy
. I made an updated video
Thanks for watching
Choose the drinking package you want and pay more. Don’t blame it on MSC.
shut up, u are stupid.
some ppl like u dont mind being ripped off.
most of us with brains dont.
Buying a package is a marketing scheme... most instances you won't finish those drinks... they benefit. It's not fair.
I was about to say the same thing. Don't be cheap then complain about it when YOU chose your own package. We did our homework & were thoroughly pleased ALL 4 cruises we took with MSC and all were 7 night. Do your homework & if you don't it's your fault.
@@4ledki it’s like that on all cruise lines, it’s just how the industry works
Choose the drinks package suited to you. Look at the menus before hand and if you see drinks that are not in your drinks packaged, consider upgrading your package. Do your research before hand. Don’t blame MSC
Reasonable people usually familiarize themselves with the rules BEFORE, not AFTER the fact, no?
I appreciate your input. thanks for watching
@@CRUISINALONG Just wanted to say, way to keep it classy. A lot of people attacking you for your experience, feelings, and opinions, but you are de-escalating, and thats really fabulous to see. Well done, and thanks for the video.
Not really. Many people get overwhelmed with all the details & usually miss something.
@@CalmPlainsNo, it’s not like that at all! When you post videos on UA-cam and make yourself to be an authority on the subject you’re posting about it’s expected for you to be honest and provide legitimate and accurate information!
Actually this goes against every possible logic. You have a cheap package non alcoholic where you get speciality coffees and fresh juices and canned juices. But if you upgrade to the easy package, then you loose those perks even though you are supposed to get EVERYTHING up to 10 dollars. The coffees and juices are less then 10 euro, but no you are not allowed to drink those...
this sounds like your fault. I am going on MSC for the first time and I found that out on my own before going. Always research.
Definitely the perils of assuming their policy would be like other cruise lines. Appreciate you watching.
I have no clue what's she's talking about.
I was on a msc cruise meraviglia in November 2023 I consumed over 300 drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic...
A lot of my drinks were premium drinks. I was charged the difference. I even purchased several bottles of wine and was charged the difference and they actually gave me a 15% discount. Also you get to choose the package you want before you book because like Norwegian Cruise they give you the choice to include the drink package and wifi
@@CHOCOLATEBBW425 This was the rule, it changed last year. They did not offer to pay the difference before and made you pay full price if you went out of your package. Too many people complained about it so they changed it. They are slowly making all of their rules better.
please note that gratuity is included in drink package unlike other lines where you pay separately for the tip
On most drink packages you still have to pay the additional gratuity at the time you purchase the drink package
Gratuity is INCLUDED in all of Royal Caribbean's drink packages.
Ummmmmm........ Every other cruise line charges gratuities upfront for drink packages. Not sure what planet your living on.
That is not how it works.
MSC Cruises isn't like "most cruise lines". The packages that MSC offer are priced generous and competitive. I'd say if you want a few expensive drinks during formal nights just add some onboard credit prior to boarding so those drinks will be covered. However, just because they don't fall into the category of the "other cruise lines" doesn't make this an absurd rules. Happy cruising.
Thanks for watching!
thanks for watching . I am giving them another try very soon.
From what I saw on my December 2023 cruise, they've changed their policy, so that you just pay the difference, not the aggregate.
However, before that was the case, your recommendation of adding credit would fail to address the principle of the video, because you'd still be paying the full beverage price, and your expensive beverage package would do nothing.
Carnival only let you get a few drinks in the package per day. Msc let you get unlimited drinks.
It's true. I'm giving MSC another try this weekend and couldn't be more excited.
thats works if carnival is cheaper....
normal ppl dont want to get hangover everyday.
is it cheaper ? if not, are the drinks better ?
@@CRUISINALONG i usually book with an agent or topline cruise. The drink plus package is better and better deal with wifi.
That's why I like MSC! Am through with carnival cruise line. They also match you rewards status.
I have no clue what the hell she's talking about.
I was on a msc cruise meraviglia in November 2023 I consumed over 300 drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic...
A lot of my drinks were premium drinks. I was charged the difference. I even purchased several bottles of wine and was charged the difference and they actually gave me a 15% discount.
I personally think the drinking packages are the cheapest out of any cruise line I've sailed with. For a 4 night Bahama's cruise we got the easy package for $150 American which came out to only 40 bucks a night basically. Also something to mention is that gratuities are included with the fee, something my gf and I really appreciated. Anything over and above that you want to tip is your choice. We can't tell you how many other cruise lines charged us absurd prices at the end of our stay for gratuities, so this was quite a surprise to see it included. I think even for the Easy Package, $40 a night is absolutely unbeatable. I'm not a picky drinker so the heineken beer was perfectly fine for me, a couple gin and tonics and rum and cokes in between, my girlfriend enjoyed mixed drinks and the selected wines during dinner, and she only purchased a few fancy drinks which came out to nothing at the end of it all. Plus unlimited bottled mineral water, and you get to enjoy these drinks all day at Ocean Cay, I truly can't see any other cruise line offering a better drinking package.
I’m give MSC another go. last time they had a 4 hour chaotic boarding . I’m hopeful it’s a better experience this time . It was a colossal hot mess.
@@CRUISINALONG When was the last time you sailed with MSC? My girlfriend and I have been hearing many other people say that the boarding process is chaotic and it's beginning to worry us now lol
Does the easy package includes martinis and margaritas?
Didn’t complain about price . If you get 10 drinks a day , you’re waiting in line for at least 4 hours of your day . I stand by my review . I just did the painful experience . They need to hire more people !
I was on seascape in may 2023 and I paid the difference or nothing but I was generous with the bar man
They have since updated their drink package policy
This is exactly why I usually don't get a drink package. I want what I want...and even if at the end of the day it ends up costing me a little more I don't care. In reality....if you are on a cruise where you are getting off in any ports...you really have to be a heavy drinker to make them worthwhile IMO because all that time you spend off the ship is unavailable for using the package. We just went on a Holland America cruise and they wanted $700 for the two of us for a 5 night cruise....I didn't buy it...we drank whatever we wanted...expensive wine by glass...fancy cocktails and even got a bottle of wine one night....total spent on alcohol for the cruise was $650. So we saved money and got exactly what we wanted.
That’s great! We have gone that route a Few times also! Thank you for watching
My strategy too. If you're not a heavy drinker, a drink package is not worth it. We got a few drinks with a Princess Cruise, for example, and it was still cheaper than the package. If you do drink heavily, the package is worth it. Ave MSC does have an economical one that i think is worth it.
Msc has the best drink packages, you were not well prepared. You can even upgrade your package once on the ship for a few bucks. They give you the easy package plus wich is mid tier. It is included in your price if you pick the right package. You gotta do your homework. With all cruise lines. Plus your gratuities are also included. It is a win win.
I appreciate your input, thank you for watching
Would you know how much the upgrade is for a 7 day cruise?
@@johnnyv5995 I don’t . It will vary depending on what kind of package do you have? Two are kind of package of getting. I would call and ask MSC directly. I appreciate you watching. Have a great cruise.
@@johnnyv5995 the difference was 140 more for the 7 days. With the base wifi and easy plus. The easy plus covers all drinks 9 dollars and under.
It is not included in the price it’s an add on. Every cruise where they have it included. The same cruises were $200 cheaper a few weeks prior. The guac is always extra.
You only pay difference now (Since April 23).. They are not the only line that charged full price outside package btw.. Carnival owned P&O do too..
Yep! I made an updated msc drink package policy video
NCL did that to mee too. I had a drinking package and it was up to $12.....I wanted to order a drink that was outside my package and it was $15 and I had to pay the whole $15 instead of the $3 difference. Its not only MSC, some other cruise lines do it too
Wow! Thanks for the info and thank you for watching
That's not true...NCL only ever charge the difference and it's been that way for years ..
People should not be scrutinizing this woman for her experience. MSC is not like Carnival or Royal Carr. and their website is not as upfront with information. Alot of the information I found had to be word of mouth from other cruisers because its either not on the website or you call the customer service and they have no idea. We dont leave until next week and our embarkation time has changed 5 times. Luckily we live an hour from the Port.
thank you for watching. I am cruising with MSC again in May. Giving them another go.
My husband and I have always booked Aurea suites on MSC which at the time included a drink package. We knew what our tier price point was & one night we were at the pool deck & servers were walking around with a specialty cocktail in a carved out pineapple. The drink was $12. We didn't have a problem paying the full amount as an exception. Not all cruise lines adhere to the same logic of paying the difference.
MSC has since modified their drink package policy . I did an updated drink package video
HERE IS THE LINK TO MY UPDATE DRINK PACKAGE POLICY VIDEO,ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
WE did a short cruise in November,six days,and took advantage of a drinks deal.
It cost us £14.00 each per night and could not fault it as there was nothing in the drinks
line that you could not get.We shall be going again and if the deal is available then
we shall be taking advantage of it.We had a great time on a wonderful time.
David Williams
I’m trying MSC again in May. Thank you for watching
This is strange because I purchased drinks above my package and was only charged the difference, $3 I was told I would be charged that $3 and given other options. I approved it and on my bill was the $3 charge and nothing more.
I they have since updated their drink package policy. I recently made an updated drink package video . I'm cruising with them again and I can't wait.!! thanks for watching.
This is a link to the updated video, ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
When are people going to learn that drugs are expensive anytime you're going to go and do a bunch of drugs it's going to cost you a bunch of money alcohol is no exception
Thanks for watching !!
we were told they dont have packages on 3 night cruises!!! Did you book before or did you have to book your package on the boat?
we booked it before when booking the stateroom . you will usually have 3 choices, low fare, fare with small credit and fare with wifi and drinks.
I am sailing with MSC and bought the plus package. Do you think that will cover me? I don’t do super chop shelf but maybe absolute vodka or Tangaray
Hey they changed their drink package policy to you pay the difference . I made an updated video . Also, if you look on their webpage at their website, they have a list of all the different drinks brands that are covered within the individual packages.
@@CRUISINALONG Thank you!
Thanks for the warning ⚠️! I guess msc just wants to make it a simple fact...stay within your package and no hopping around trying to create our own package!
true. I Like to get a fancy drink every now and again. now I know what to plan for. I am giving MSC a redo soon to see if they ironed out their boarding process.
@@CRUISINALONG what do you mean iron our their boarding process? It’ll be my first time on a cruise next month and I will be on the Meraviglia. Any information will help prepare me!
@@Curlyyfulll Hi my cruise was their first cruise back in the states after coming from europe so I think they were short staffed. I hope that is the reason. Their embarkation and disembarkation was slowwww. that was back in Oct so I'm sure they are at full staff by now. have a great time. It is. beautiful ship.
I couldn't have said it better. People complain wanting to cherry pick what they want. I don't get it
@@theRovingVets I appreciate your input, thank you for watching
P&0 are the same they charge you for the whole drink if it's outside of your package. But they informed me on their Web sites that would be the case, so I knew in advance
Msc has changed that policy over the last couple of months. I did an updated video about two weeks ago.
I like the way MSC does their drink packages. I pretty much just drink beer and wine. I don’t mind buying the one fancy cocktail I’ll have out side the package.
They have since updated their drinking package policies. I cruise with him again back at the end of July and it was quite nice.
Oasis of the seas (Royal Caribbean) does the same thing was a rip off ,served me lighter fluid vodka on my package! This line was the most nickel dime company out of 40 cruises I’ve done over the years. Celebrity,Holland, NCL, great but favorite was Viking!
I've been wanting to do a Viking cruise
Great video, thanks for the info!
Thank you very much! I appreciate you watching
I haven't sailed w MSC yet, but the way I'm reading the drink packages, The cheapest one is like an HMO, no outta network benefits. The second level, Easy Plus works like the other cruise lines, you pay the overage on drinks that surpass your dollar limit. I'll see for sure when I sail.
They have since updated their drinking package policy to reflect you pay the difference .
I made an updated video .
Thanks for watching
Well, if you were to only pay the difference, then everyone would purchase the most basic package. There is a reason why they offer tiered drinking packages.
MSC has since updated their drink package policy to reflect you only pay the difference.
I made an updated video. Thanks for watching.
MSC'S ABSURD DRINKING PACKAGE UPDATE 5/2023. IS IT STILL ABSURD?
ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
I'm going on an msc cruise in May. Gonna keep this in mind
I am actually giving MSC another go on the Seaside in a few months myself. The ships are beautiful. Let me know how the cruise goes. Have a great time. Thank you for watching.
Totally understand her point. Why not just charge the difference instead of the entire cost of the drink. I agree that since you already have a drink package only charge those guests the difference.
MSC has since updated their drinking package policy . I made an updated video . Thanks for watching
That is why you research the rules before going on any cruises. If it is listed in the rules, then it is not "shame on MSC" that is just the lack of knowing what the rules are. I have watched over 50 videos which were posted before this one which all mention that issue and that you need to be aware of it. Just a little looking up drinking packages would have uncovered this. MSC says the reason is to get people on the 'right' drinking package for the cruiser. So, in this case, you probably would have saved money by getting a little nicer package. (Of course we all know that it is just a bit of a money grab. Especially if there are more than one person in the room). This still can be a better approach than no drinks packages available (Disney or Virgin) (in my opinion).
I totally understand why people may miss this information, especially if it is their first or 2nd cruise. Experienced cruisers should know to look for the 'gotchas' where the line can charge extra. I have been lucky and not been caught in the cheap trap. If I want to go on a cruise, I make sure I can afford the way I want to cruise and get as much as possible bundled together so I don't need to have anything on my room charges (except casino or spa). If it is not possible to bundle it all together and prepay most (if not all) the cruise, then I will look at another cruise line.
The rules change so often, you need to be able to research before EVERY trip (in my experience). Way too many policy changes or package changes or ship changes.
MSC'S ABSURD DRINKING PACKAGE UPDATE 5/2023. IS IT STILL ABSURD?
ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
MSC has since updated their policy
But I appreciate your very long winded message
Thanks for watching
I've cruised on MSC and only had to pay the difference between what the drink I wanted cost and what I ordered (ie. paid an extra $1 or $2 for the fancier drink).
After I met this video during drinking package policy changed, I made a updated drinking package policy video. Thanks for watching.
Ok Karen. Obviously you did not research the drink package. MSC drink package is actually much simpler and makes more sense.
Have a good day!Thank you for your input ! I appreciate you watching
Shock horror... you have to stick with what you have bought
Thanks for your input . I appreciate you watching
Ridicolous never had a problem with drink package! It's in print what your getting. If you're ordering out of drink package that's on you.
Hi I appreciate your input, thank you for watching!
I think you have had too many drinking package.
Have a splendid day, thanks for watching
What i don't like is i don't want to buy any package. And i don't drink any alcohol. And would rather just bring my own 8/12 pack of cans on the cruise. But msc doesn't allow that.
I know they don’t like some other cruise lines. I sometimes like to bring two bottles of wine if I’m not getting a drinking package but with MSC that’s a no can do. Thanks for watching!
I am sailing with MSC in October and will have the easy drink package and previously cruised MSC with no drink package and I did not know this and I really do my research.
They have since updated their drink package policy to reflect you only pay the difference if you go outside your package price point
Not all other cruise lines offer so many drink package options. I can understand their reasoning behind their policy. Even the premium package is a good deal compared to other cruise lines.
It just caught me off guard since I had never ran into this . I am cruising with MSC again yo give them another go
First off, it was always like this. Which is why MSC offered THREE different packages. You pick the one that suits you.
They still offer these same packages, but several weeks ago started offering the upgrade on individual drinks. There is still a 15% gratuity added to that.
Secondly, it was WELL advertised this was the case. If you are as experienced as you say, you should have known this. Research is wonderful.
So anyone watching this now, the information is not correct anymore.
I'm cruising with them again very very soon. And am excited to see any changes/updates in policy. They do have beautiful ships. I hope they sorted out their 4 hour boarding & deboarding debacle last October. That was a crazy situation, Passengers were breaking out in fights. Their ships are way too beautiful for that environment. thank you for watching!
That was your fault. The drink package was well explained. I had no problems with mine! The menu even had the passes and what they included on them.
I’ve since heard they have changed their policy . I’ll keep you posted . I’m sailing with them soon
@@CRUISINALONG what policy will they change? I went on two weeks ago. Maybe they already did and that’s why I didn’t have a problem. I kept checking my bill every couple of hours to make sure I wasn’t over charged
@@Natureboy207 that’s great to hear. Makes me look even more forward to sailing with them again. Have a great day .
in all honesty the Easy package is for basic drinking. people who are not particular and do not drink much. If you are drinking several martinis outside that package even for a day you should upgrade.
MSC has since updated their policy to reflect you only pay the difference. I made an updated video
I’ll save you some time, she loves to talk and gossip! Skip to 3:03 to get the answer. By the way out of all the cruises I’ve been on MSC seems to be the most generous with their drinking package! I can put the hammer down on drinks so I do not mind the price my wife hardly drinks but you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll drink for her and me both plus more!
MSC has since updated their drinking package policy to reflect you only pay the difference. I made an updated video.
Thanks for watching
ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
Info at 2:45
Thanks for watching
I don’t understand why are we forced to give pre paid gratitudes.. doesn’t tip means “tip”.. optional!! Not mandatory!
Mandatory is called salary!! Which ship should give, not us
I’ve never had an issue with pre paid gratuities. There are alot of countries who don’t have tipping so to have continuity in tipping they just add it on.
You can always tip extra if you want. A lot of passengers will do that if they have a few crew members during their cruise .
Thanks for watching !
Thank you for the heads up. After researching lots of reviews and videos today, we have personally decided to skip MSC cruisline. Repeatedly we’ve heard that they “nickel and dime” you. It’s hard enough to come up with the cost of the cruise. No one needs the worry of extra charges to enjoy a treat here or there.
I'm actually giving them another go very soon. I will most certainly be making a video about my experience. I am optimistic my experience will be better this time.
Don’t go on RC if you don’t want to be nickel and dimed to death.
No worse than any other line. Can easily go onboard and not spend anything if have drinks package already.
This is why I like MSC. I'm not taking a cruise to be around wasted ppl. MSC is more of an opulent cruise line. If drinking is your focus, go on Carnival.
Thanks for watching ! Have a great day .
MSC has since updated their drink package policy
@CRUISINALONG that is unfortunate.
if you were dealing with a travel agent they should explain the package to you. All cruise lines are different. Always Ask if you do not know
I am going on MSC again to give them another go
@@CRUISINALONG I have been on MSC 14 times and never had a problem. Glad you are giving them another chance
Msc drinking package is one of the brst onrs ive had at sea. Unlimited drinks with no wait inbetween with a huge choice
It has definitely improved since they changed their drink package.
What drinks are free in fantastica water, milk, tea,juice or nothing?
I don’t believe beverages are included in that package
They have made some changes in the last 9 months .
Yes correct
The beverages at the drink stations in the buffet or other included dining eateries
Thanks for watching
Wrong information. With MSC you only pay the difference. See quote from MSC website below.
Quote:
If I choose a drink not included in the package, do I pay a full price?
No. Guests who purchase alcoholic all-inclusive beverage packages Easy, Easy Plus, or Premium Extra, and who want to enjoy
cocktails, spirits and/or wines by the glass that are not included in their package, will pay only the price difference between the
package allowance and the à la carte price of ordered drinks.
Unquote.
Hi MSC has since updated their drink package policy . I made an updated video .
Um... I'd say shame on you for not doing the research. Why is MSC to blame for you being unaware of their policies?
Thanks for watching
We were just on Royal and they charge you the full amount (not the difference) of the drink if it is out of the package price. We knew about it prior and we were fine with that. We also experienced the same thing on Carnival Mardi Gras.
Perhaps more cruise lines are switching to that methodology . Thanks for watching !
I agree..too many people are quick to defend getting ripped off by these companies because they are fans
I appreciate you watching !
It's good that they have changed it now, but the easy package was always designed to be a house drinks package and nothing more.
I appreciate your input ! Thanks for watching
its normal for some cruise lines,p&o cruise lines do the same, your allowed 15 drinks per day up to about £6.95 and only every 15 mins,1 drink per card, and if you want a more expensive drink more than the stated amount in the package you pay the full price
we just come back from msc seaside and found the drinks package brilliant as many drinks as you like in the package, not like p&o ships
Ok cruising with them very soon. I’m excited to give them another try. Thanks for watching.
But then MSC cruises are much cheaper so you will still pay less than e.g. Royal or Celebrity even if you get the more premium drink. Or go for Yacht club as we do, then you have the premium package
We are trying the yacht club in March . Thanks for watching!
Hi there can anyone tell me Im litle confused My husband and I we are taken MSC cruse this year If I got the tikets for the cruise Do we have to take the drink package also? or is include I mean basic drink non alcoholic
Hi I know MSC has recently ran a few specials, when you purchase your cruise it includes a few different perks, possibly your drink package. I recommend you call MSC to confirm what all is and isn't included. Then you can go from there but it is not mandatory you pre purchase a drink package. There are plenty of free choices onboard. I usually take a yeti style cup with me on a cruise for coffee, water, tea, etc... those are usually free in the buffet's and possibly a few other spots. Have a great time, I'd love to hear about your cruise in the comment section.
@@CRUISINALONG thanks
@@CRUISINALONG Awesome tip. can I carry my own water bottle(Thermal or metal) around , which I can fill up in buffet anytime I please ?
Yes you absolutely can. I often take two insulated cups. A big one for water, and one for drinks, coffee, juice or whatnot. @@devbandy9004
@@CRUISINALONG Keep up your good work. Thanks for prompt response. 👍
On European ships ist is much more complicated - try german Aida Cruiseline - there are drinking packages wich are different in different bars on the ship. If you want to have a soda its possible that a drink in the first bar ist included and the same soda has to be paid on another bar or restaurant. They do the same like MSC by the way - if your out of your package you have to pay the whole price. so this is very common on european ships. But with easy Plus its very comfortable on MSC - most of the things what you need is included - and the price is very ok. What bothers me more on MSC are the service fees - i had a 1 hour massage for 120€ and after fees it was over 150€ - but this was nowhere mentioned - i must admit we germans are used to see the "last" price on ads and in stores which means its alwas the price we have to pay including fees and tax.
I will say MSC did change their drink package policy a few months back. I did an updated video
ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
Thanks for watching!
MSC cruise drink packages FAQ
If you want to order a cocktail, glass of wine or spirit that's not included in the package you've purchased, you will only pay the difference in price between the package allowance and the price of your beverage .Apr 7, 2024
Yep! They have since modified difference. I made an updated video. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for this information. Very informative and useful. I agree-this is absurd!☹😮😟 If you don't mind, I have a quick question about duty free on MSC Meraviglia board shopping. Do you know if selection of wines and spirits are good? Are the prices on board more expensive than those on land? Thank you very much.
Hi I find on cruise ships in general. the prices for a bottle of wine is decent, maybe even slightly cheaper than say a restaurant in town. There is a wide selection of wines/beers/alcohol to pick from. I usually don't purchase wine or liquor from the duty free because then your left to schlep it off the ship as it can't be consumed onboard. they will hold it for you till the end of the cruise. now if you purchase a bottle in a restaurant or bar then yes you can drink that onboard. . thanks for watching.
@@CRUISINALONG Thank you very much! That's exactly what I need to know.
I have no damn clue what she's talking about.
I was on a msc cruise meraviglia in November 2023 I consumed over 300 drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic...
A lot of my drinks were premium drinks. I was charged the difference. I even purchased several bottles of wine and was charged the difference and they actually gave me a 15% discount.
The duty free liquor on the ship is reasonable prices... the duty free shops at the ports prices depends on the country your visiting. Now I can tell you Bermuda duty free shops prices are not the best depending on the liquor
Did you say Easy package or Easy plus package you purchased ? There is a difference
With whatever package you select with MSC I recommend you print out what’s included in that drinking package and keep it with you because if you order a drink something that isn’t included within the package you selected you will be charged for entire instead of the difference of your package and whatever you ordered. I had the easy package And was accustomed to if you go outside the package , say you order a drink that’s $15 instead of the nine dollars that’s included in your package you just pay the difference. MSC charges you the entire $15 or whatever the cost is. It caught me off guard. I would cruise again within MSC but now I know to be aware of what is included in the package. I definitely am partially responsible for not looking at
the fine print. Thanks for watching the video! Happy holidays
Just to let you know that Msc has changed its policy. From now on you’ll just pay for the difference + gratuities.
Hi, I’m cruising with them again next month. I’m excited to see the change in the policy.
MSC is the only cruise line that doesn’t have a cap on the amount of daily drinks - they are truly unlimited . Other cruise lines stop you after 8-12 drinks so actually they have the truly unlimited packages and they are the cheapest- you never mentioned that ….
I don’t normally exceed a max capacity so it’s not something I consider . I did do an updated video once MSC updated their drink package policy . Thanks for watching .
I'm going on the Meraveglia next month but I don't drink alcohol. Non alcoholic drinks up to 9 bucks are included so I'm fine with it.
Thanks for watching !
read the rules lady it tells you drinks 6 bucks and below
HI thanks for your input. and I appreciate you watching
So basically you made an assumption without actually checking if they charged the difference or total cost then blamed them ?
No, I took a cruise and find out that you had to pay for the entire cost of a beverage. If you purchase something outside the drink package. At that time I cruised with MSC that was the policy. So no it was not an assumption. It was a fact at that time. The next time I cruised on Msc, they updated, modified their drinking package policy to reflect you only pay the difference which at that time I made an updated video
Have a great day and happy fourth
So in your opinion: you het a Heineken in your package but you prefer another. So you order the other but only wanna pay the difference??? That not logical. Its like going to the bakery getting an other loaf of bread than usual but you only wanna pay the difference. 🤷🏽♂️ Thats a weird thinking.
I was accustomed to other cruise lines, drinking package guidelines. Now I definitely read the fine print. Thanks for watching . I appreciate your input.
We've done 4 cruises 7 nights each on MSC & were thoroughly pleased. But we were also smart enough to do research before hand. Maybe SHAME ON YOU for being cheap. Don't blame them for your mistakes.
I appreciate your input, thank you for watching
Reminded me how awesome moderation is when I cruise.
MSC has since updated their drinking package policy. I did a follow up video. Thanks for watching. Have a great day!
For me they just charged the difference ,
It was one time they charged ful but went
to info and they removed it, this was on msc fantasia
They have since changed their policy
Thanks for the guidance. I’m getting nervous to my upcoming MSC cruise.
You’re going to have a great time! Their ships are lovely!
Just pre print or screen shot what is all included in the drink package
Supposedly MSC has recently changed this only charging the difference.
I’m sailing with them next month so if that is so I will do another video about that . Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing
Unfortunately, a lot of cruise lines make you do that, but sometimes if you call the cruise line and tell them the circumstances, they will make an exception
I don't want the fancy stuff, mainly a beer guy. For me this plan structure adds choice to not have to pay for things I don't want. Perfect! I would suggest that if you don't want to invite the nasty comments maybe stay away from excessive clickbait type titles with caps and 8 exclamation points. In my opinion that was the only absurd thing here.
Then you should be fine with a basic package . Thanks for watching
@@CRUISINALONG Actually that would only give me Heineken ugggh. I went for the middle package which is the same as the top package for the most part as it pertains to Beer. So as a beer guy the top package is more than I need and bottom package is too basic. Nice to have choice don’t you agree or is that !!!!ASBURD!!!! ?
Lol I totally agree! I like the option to try new drinks
I was going to express the same thing but I will cut some slack seeing everyone else said it. I buy what I will consume. Or Don't buy the drinking package and have the fancy drink when you want and pay for it.
Hi MSC has since updated their policy to you only pay the difference. I made an updated video.
Thanks for watching
MSC'S ABSURD DRINKING PACKAGE UPDATE 5/2023. IS IT STILL ABSURD?
ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
Great Infos, thansk for sharing, very interesting
Thank you for watching . I’ve heard MSC has changed their policy on this . I’m sailing with them in a month or so. If so, I’ll do a new video about it .
Good to know when you dont know or assume that it might be a certain way.
So you may know the answer to this since you experienced it.
I got the easy plus package:
It says All beverages priced up to $9.
Includes bottomless frozen and classic cocktails, well spirits, liquors and cordials and a selection of wine by the glass. 10% discount on bottled wine purchased on board and a wide variety and im assuming these this list is covered in the package:
it states that all below items are covered that is served at bars, buffet, main restaurants
draft and bottled beer
non alcoholic cocktails
soft drinks
mineral water
coffee drinks ( caffe latte, cappuccino etc )
hot chocolate and teas
Also it includes Ocean Cay and other exclusive destinations but does not cover the signature venues
I know onboard at one of the coffee shops, is not included in the drink package
I strongly recommend you print out the list of what is included and keep it with you on board. It is nice to be able to use your package on the island but still take the printout with you because it’s easy to get outside the nine dollar range.
Additionally, I would go on a MSC cruise again but the next time I’ll upgrade to the absolute premium drink package because I don’t really want to have to think about it. Thank you for watching.
@@CRUISINALONG Your right i read that also like if you buy a coffee from Jean-Philippe Chocolate & Coffee
@@CRUISINALONG I will but ill be pretty content at drinking bottomless Pina Coladas and frozen Rock Lobsters Cheers!!!!!!!!!
That’s a messed up policy
Hi thank you for watching !
Ahh man I booked in feb for the basic plus and was hoping to just pay the difference. We’re there decent $9 drinks?
Not sure if my previous message went through. I strongly recommend you print out the list of brands of drinks that is included within your drink package from their website. There are some nice selections on beer, liquor brands, and wines but if you print it out and make copies, keep it with you at all times . that will help you stay within your package, please post when you get back from your cruise, love to hear about your experience. Have a great cruise and thanks for watching.
No
Loki, if you're not a heavy drinker and just like to casually drink the Easy Plus Package will be perfect for you. There are a lot of drinks to choose from within the package. You won't go thirsty!
Thanks for posting this, I am new to cruising and would have never thought of looking out for that.
So happy it helped ! Thank you for watching !
Sounds like you didn't read the details before picking your drink package level assuming its the same as other cruise ships- you're error.
MSC has since updated their drink package policy to reflect you only pay the difference .
Thanks for watching
The truth is, people are boycotting them since they ditched Steve Hoffmeyers gig. SA dont want to go on such ships. Now they blame dry docking for cancellations in April. Bad Planning crap. Bad advertising and decisions.
I’m cruising again with them in May. I’m curious to see how it goes. I am hopeful for a great experience. Thanks for watching.
Go on the Seaside now and wait 30 minutes for a drink . Don’t go on the Seaside if you drink . Way understaffed !!!
yeah that was my experience on Meraviglia back in October. It was really bad. beautiful ship but woefully understaffed.
I am truly surprised at some of the comments below. The lady here is making a valid point. Lets say you are entitled to a drink upto $9 and you end up getting a drink that costs $10 because you got an extra shot of tequila or grand marnier, would it not hurt to pay $10 extra and over and beyond what you have already paid for your drink package? Just because their fares are competitive now because they are trying to enter and grab a good US market-share does not mean that cruisers should not be pointing our policies that do not make sense so the cruise line can actually listen and address these. For example take a look at the food. maybe if every cruiser would have said in the past, well their fares are low so we will eat horrible and unseasoned food versus provide feedback and create awareness then they would not have uped their game with food. So pull your head out of wherever you have it buried and allow people to point and raise valuable feedback for cruise lines to address.
Thank you for watching . I appreciate your in-put.
MSC is absolutely ridiculous !! What a waste of time …the people defending them must be employees 😂
Thank you for your input !
Carnival does the same thing
Good to know . Thank you for watching !!
I just booked my first ever cruise, which will be on the MSC Seascape this December, and was curious about this very scenario. It's not something that I'd assume one way or the other, so I was planning on asking guest services on embarkation day, if I didn't find out for sure before then, so this settles that. Thank you! I wouldn't bash them for it, though, so at least it's good that you didn't decide to make it your last cruise with them on account of that. I already pre-paid for the premium extra package anyway, because I like expensive beverages. But then it just means it'd be an extra ouch if I exceeded that bad boy a few times. I'll be sure not to do that.
Thank you for watching and thank you for your very thoughtful message. They do have beautiful ships. I’m excited to cruise with them again in May. Keep me posted on your experience.
Easy Plus covers everything except Top Shelf. It's a very good package
@@sasutton100 That is a good package, especially if you know that all the beverages that you're interested in are $10 or less, which is a lot of them, especially all the beers. I paid for the Aurea Experience, so the Easy Plus was included. Then, I upgraded that to the Premium Extra to capture premium beverages that I like that fall in that next $6 each above the Easy Plus limit (which is approximately 11 wines, almost 33 spirits options and I haven't even counted the cocktails that are between $10 & 16 each). That's the great thing about the series of different packages; there's a best value option available for everyone and their varied tastes. : )
@CRUISINALONG Update: once aboard, I immediately noticed wording on the bar menus, indicating that you only pay the difference, not the full amount. I asked a bar tender, just to be sure, and they confirmed that it's just the difference, if you pop your drink package limit. So, apparently their policy changed. Maybe they received enough negative feedback?
It was a fun cruise, so now I'm a cruiseaholic and I love MSC. They did things really well on the Seascape! I'm thinking a MSC Mediterranean cruise is in the cards for next year.
This is nonsense - MSC deducts the prices on drinks above your package prices. If your package includes drinks up to 9$, and you pick a 12$ drink you pay the difference plus service charge.
MSC has since changed their policy. I made an updated video . Thanks for watching‼️
What you described is industry standard and is the same on most cruise lines. I would expect some with a cruise channel to have had experience with this process prior on other lines as it’s certainly not anything new!
Since this video was posted MSC had updated their policy to be more agreeable
HERE IS THE LINK TO MY UPDATE DRINK PACKAGE POLICY VIDEO,ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
Some research before buying the cruise package could have saved you a lot of grief...the package restrictions were in place before you got on board.
MSC has since changed their policy. I made an updated video. Thanks for watching
Well just was on the meravilia last week I got the easy plus and cover most everything and if something was out of the package I paid just the difference and I have proof 🙃
They have since updated their policy . Thanks for watching
I made an updated video
Sorry, not ALL other cruise lines let you pay the difference. Plus MSC has one of the best drink package by cost. People must do their research.
Thank you for watching !
Awfull experience. The ship wasnt at full capacity and was very overcrowded could get a seat at the theatre’s or bars. Was geared up to get as much money out of you as possible. Cheap to book but we spent £1100 on the ship in 7 days and they charged us an additional £1100 by mistake and 2 weekd later we still havnt had a refund. Very disappointed with the entire experience
My first experience with MSC was abysmal but I’ve cruised a few more times with them and had a much better experience. I’m trying their Yacht Club on MSC Davina in March. I have several MSC videos on my channels. Check those out if you’re interested. I appreciate your comment .
Just saw a post from someone that cruised Seascape April 2023 and he mentioned that MSC was now doing 'pay the difference' however I have not seen anything official from MSC. We are onboard next month, keep you posted.
Hi, I’ve heard the same and am sailing on seaside next month . I’ll keep you posted !
Hey, I'll have one of the cheapest cruise lines and the cheapest drinks package...now let me complain about wanting something outside that package and moan about it.
The only shame here, especially in this day and age, is not doing your research. A very brief search and the policy is on the front page of the drinks package and all over you tube covered by reviews.
Just another case of wanting Royal Caribbean service at 1/2 the cost. I actually think that MSC are one of the most upfront and open cruise lines about costs and tips.
Thanks for watching ! Have a great day!
MSC offers the best value especially on their drink packages. They offer 3 levels of drink packages where everyone else offers two. Do your research and do understand that every cruise line has their own set of rules. Sorry I think your video is inappropriate.
I appreciate your input! thank you for watching.
But why would you think you could do this. Just buy the premium package
B/c on many other cruise lines it’s Allowed , it’s now even allowed on MSC. I did an updated video reflecting their new drink package policy . Thanks for watching
Rules are rules, lady!
Right ! It’s all about reading the fine print . I was use to what other cruise lines allow .
If you wanted to drink "Several Martinis" you should have got a package to suit. It's not MSCs fault you decided to go outside your package.
MSC has since updated their drinking package policy. Thanks for watching!
HERE IS THE LINK TO MY UPDATE DRINK PACKAGE POLICY VIDEO,ua-cam.com/video/p5dRBlVp9ek/v-deo.html
I heard from all the complaints they changed it back to the difference.
Oh good . I’m cruising with them again in May so I’ll keep you posted