Planning a cruise is always exciting, but understanding the do’s and don’ts when it comes to alcohol onboard can feel a bit confusing. If you’re wondering, “Can I take alcohol on an MSC cruise?”, you’re not alone. Let us break it down for you in plain and simple terms so you can enjoy your trip without any hiccups.
Bringing Alcohol on Board at Embarkation
Let’s get straight to the point: MSC Cruises doesn’t allow passengers to bring any alcohol onboard during embarkation. This rule applies to all types of alcohol – wines, spirits, beer, liqueurs – even if you plan to consume them in your cabin. Instead, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard at fixed prices.
What About Soft Drinks?
Unfortunately, the same no-drinks rule applies to soft drinks as well. MSC doesn’t allow passengers to bring any beverages onboard at embarkation, whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic. It’s all part of their policy to ensure onboard safety and consistency.
Buying Alcohol in Ports of Call
Here’s some good news for those of you who love exploring local drinks during shore excursions! You can buy alcohol in ports of call and bring it back onboard. However, there’s a catch – MSC will hold the alcohol for safekeeping and return it to you on the last night of your cruise.
Duty-Free Alcohol Purchases Onboard
If you fancy buying duty-free alcohol from the onboard shops, keep in mind that you won’t be able to enjoy it during your cruise. Just like alcohol from ports, any duty-free purchases will be securely stored and handed back to you on the final evening.
Free Drinks on MSC Cruises
Wondering if you’ll get any complimentary drinks onboard? The buffet offers free water, tea, and coffee throughout the day, plus juices in the morning – perfect for staying refreshed without spending extra. Additionally, passengers in MSC Yacht Club enjoy access to free alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages across the ship.
Smuggling Alcohol or Drinks
We get it – the rules might be frustrating. But trying to smuggle alcohol or other drinks onboard isn’t worth the risk. Not only could you lose your drinks, but you might also face serious consequences, including being removed from the cruise altogether.
Why Does MSC Have These Policies?
MSC’s strict alcohol and beverage policies are in place to maintain a safe, enjoyable environment for all passengers. Limiting outside drinks also ensures compliance with local laws, especially in U.S. ports where the legal drinking age is 21.
FAQs About Alcohol on MSC Cruises
1. Can I drink my duty-free alcohol onboard during my MSC cruise?
No, duty-free alcohol purchased onboard will be stored by MSC and returned to you at the end of the cruise.
2. What’s the legal drinking age on MSC Cruises?
It’s 21 on U.S. and Caribbean itineraries and 18 on all others.
3. Are there free alcoholic drinks onboard?
Free alcoholic drinks are available during the captain’s cocktail party and certain special receptions. MSC Yacht Club guests get all-inclusive drinks packages.
4. Can I buy alcohol in port and drink it in my cabin?
No, alcohol bought in port is held by MSC until the last night of the cruise.
5. What happens if I bring alcohol onboard without permission?
If alcohol is found, it will be confiscated, and you may face penalties, including being removed from the ship.
Final Thoughts
While MSC Cruises has a strict policy regarding bringing alcohol onboard, there are plenty of options to enjoy drinks during your voyage. From complimentary beverages in the buffet to specialty cocktails at the onboard bars, MSC ensures you’ll never be thirsty. If you’re a big fan of alcohol, consider upgrading to a drinks package or sailing in the MSC Yacht Club for the ultimate all-inclusive experience.
Remember, these policies are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check MSC’s official website before your cruise. Got questions or tips? Share them in the comments below!
Happy cruising!
– George & Dan 🚢
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