Trying to decide whether the MSC drink package makes sense for your cruise? You’re not alone. Many cruisers either overestimate how much they’ll drink or assume a package is automatically the better deal. This calculator helps you estimate your realistic daily drink cost and compare it to MSC’s drink package prices so you can make an informed decision based on your habits — not guesswork.
Enter your drinking patterns below to see your estimated cost per day and whether a package may be worth it for your itinerary.
How to Use This Calculator
This tool gives a personalized estimate of what you’re likely to spend on drinks during your cruise. For the most accurate results, enter:
- How many drinks you normally have on an average day for the next cruise you are taking.
- Consider the types of drinks (beer, cocktails, wine, coffee, soda) you’ll consume.
- Calculate everything as an average, taking into account you may drink more or less on certain days.
- Don’t count any drinks you will have at ports, except of course your cruise is visiting Ocean Cay. In that case, calculate the average drinks you’ll plan on having, including on Ocean Cay.
A good tip: think about how you drink on vacation, not how you drink at home. Most travelers drink differently when relaxing by the pool, enjoying shows, or lingering after dinner.
The calculator will estimate your average daily drink cost and compare it to the MSC drink package options.
Sea Days vs Port Days Matter
Not every cruise day looks the same — and your drinking probably won’t either.
Sea Days:
You’re on the ship all day, relaxing by the pool and enjoying bars and lounges. And you’ll be on the ship with a multitude of bars. Most cruisers drink more on sea days.
Port Days:
You may spend hours off the ship at beaches, excursions, or walking around. Many guests drink far less on the ship these days — or spend their drink budget off the ship where packages don’t apply.
Embarkation Day:
This is usually a half day. Some like to go heavy embarkation day and some take it easy… it’s all up to you.
Drink Exhaustion:
Many people who don’t drink regularly at home will drink less on the last couple days of a week-long cruise after drinking more than they usually do the earlier part of the week.
Understanding Your Results
The calculator will show:
- Your estimated average daily drink spend
- How that compares to the price of the MSC drink package
- An easy interpretation of whether a package may offer value
General guidance:
- If your estimated daily spend is well below the package price → You likely don’t need the package
- If your estimated daily spend is close to or above the package price → The convenience and predictability may make it worthwhile
It’s not just about breaking even — some travelers prefer the freedom of not thinking about individual drink prices.
What the Calculator Does Not Perfectly Cover
To keep things transparent, here’s what the tool may not account for exactly:
- MSC bar prices can vary slightly between ships and regions.
- The Premium package covers drinks up to a certain price; ultra-premium spirits may cost extra
- Drink package rules change occasionally; always check MSC when booking
- Yacht Club guests have a different beverage situation and may not need a separate package at all.
If you’re sailing in Yacht Club, see: Yacht Club — Do You Still Need a Drink Package?
MSC Drink Package Calculator
💰 Estimated Cost Summary (Including 18% Gratuity)
- Daily Average: $0.00
- Total (3 Days): $0.00
- Total (4 Days): $0.00
- Total (7 Days): $0.00
Tips Before You Decide
A few practical things to keep in mind when interpreting your results:
Check Out The Menus
Use our drink menu guide to check out what is available before deciding what you may drink.
Be realistic.
Don’t enter drinks you wish you’d have — enter what you’ll actually drink.
Port-heavy itineraries reduce package value.
Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries with lots of port days typically mean fewer drinks consumed onboard.
Consider specialty coffees & sodas.
Remember: many drink packages include lattes, cappuccinos, frappes and mocktails. These add up quickly if you enjoy them daily.
Think about convenience.
Even if you don’t fully “break even,” the freedom of not checking prices is valuable for some travelers.
Different drinkers in your group may make different decisions.
One heavy drinker doesn’t mean everyone in the cabin needs a package.
Related Links
MSC Drink Packages Explained
Your complete breakdown of MSC’s drink packages, what each level includes, and how to choose the best one for your cruise.
Ocean Cay Bars and Drink Guide
See how drink packages work on MSC’s private island and find the best bars, signature cocktails, and nighttime spots.
Where to Find the Best Coffee on MSC Cruises
From specialty espresso bars to included coffee options, here is your guide to staying caffeinated at sea.
MSC Dining Guide: What’s Included and What Costs Extra
Helpful for understanding how drink packages work alongside dining venues throughout the ship.
MSC Specialty Dining: How to Book Once Onboard
Perfect for guests who plan to enjoy cocktails before or after their specialty dinner reservations.
Our Story: Was the Drink Package Worth It? (Full Breakdown)
Use your own real cruise consumption data to help readers compare their habits to yours.