Drinks Package Debate Rambles On

Since I got back from my MSC cruise, many people have been asking if I took the drinks package with them and was it worth it.  Well, yes I did take the package, simply because drinks can be expensive on board, the choice with MSC is very good and we do like a drink. But, are drinks packages really worth it?

I happen to think that the MSC package (along with NCL) are some of the best on the market as they do include all drinks, such as beer, wine, spirits and cocktails as well as soft drinks (of course do bear in mind that even these do have restrictions!). Not all of the cruise lines offer this choice though.  Is having a “free” drinks package included with the cost of the cruise a deal breaker for you? Would you drink that much whilst on holiday? Have you checked to see what drinks are included?

The six star cruise lines such as Seabourn, Silverseas and Regent all include drinks in the cost of the cruise. Then there are others who will include the drinks package as an “incentive” when you book, or you can purchase these after you book. Some of the drinks packages which are included in the cost though do have a limited choice, such as soft drinks, beer or wine. Once you have booked, you can of course upgrade the drinks package with some of the cruise companies – EG Celebrity.

I would recommend you to really ask yourselves what is the package and would I use it?  Might sound a silly question but in all honesty would you take a package which only included beer and wine when all you drink is spirits?  If you are one of these people then perhaps it may be worth you looking at another cruise line which offers everything OR look to pay a bit more and upgrade to a six star cruise line, which also include many other “extras” such as tips and excursions.

There is no getting away from it that the drinks packages are big business for cruise lines as most people look for this now. My advice to you is think about the package and don’t let your heart run away with your head – spend wisely!