What’s Included on MSC Cruises?

If you are booking your first MSC cruise, one of the biggest questions is simple: what’s included on MSC Cruises? The answer depends a little on your cabin experience, promotion, ship, and itinerary, but most MSC cruise fares include the basics you need for a full vacation.

In general, an MSC cruise includes your stateroom, main dining room meals, buffet dining, most onboard entertainment, pools, sports areas, gym access, kids clubs, family activities, and access to most public areas of the ship. If your itinerary includes Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, you also get access to MSC’s private island destination.

However, not everything is included. Drinks, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, casino, shopping, photos, some activities, and daily service charges may cost extra unless they are part of your booking, promotion, package, or MSC Yacht Club fare.

This guide breaks down what is included on MSC Cruises, what costs extra, and what first-time MSC cruisers should understand before they sail.

Quick answer: What is included on MSC Cruises?

Most MSC cruise fares include the core parts of a cruise vacation: your room, standard dining, entertainment, pools, activities, and access to the ship’s public spaces.

• Your stateroom or cabin
• Main dining room meals
• Buffet dining
• Basic onboard entertainment
• Theater shows
• Live music and activities
• Pool areas
• Hot tubs, depending on ship
• Open-air sports facilities
• Fitness center or gym access
• Kids clubs and youth activities
• Family activities
• Access to most public lounges and decks
• MSC for Me app features where available
• Ocean Cay island access if your itinerary includes it
• MSC Voyagers Club points

Some inclusions depend on whether you book Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, or MSC Yacht Club. That is one of the most important things to understand before booking MSC, because the experience level can change your room selection, dining flexibility, room service benefits, spa perks, and other extras.

Quick tip: MSC includes enough for a full cruise vacation, but drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, specialty dining, excursions, and spa treatments are the biggest extras to check before you book.

Your stateroom is included

Your MSC cruise fare includes your stateroom, which is your cabin for the cruise. This can be an interior, ocean view, balcony, suite-style category, or MSC Yacht Club accommodation, depending on what you book.

The exact room type matters. A lower-priced interior cabin can be a great value, while a balcony gives you private outdoor space. Aurea and Yacht Club categories come with more perks, but they also cost more.

Your stateroom includes the basics you would expect, such as beds, storage, bathroom, towels, climate control, TV, and daily cabin service. The exact layout and size depend on your ship and cabin category.

Families should pay close attention to cabin capacity and layout. Just because a room can sleep a certain number of guests does not mean it will feel spacious for everyone. Larger families may want connecting cabins, family cabins, or a more premium category.

Main dining room meals are included

Meals in MSC’s main dining rooms are included in your cruise fare. This is where many guests eat dinner, and some ships or sailings may also offer main dining room breakfast or lunch depending on the schedule.

The main dining room is a sit-down dining experience with menus that change throughout the cruise. You can expect multi-course meals with appetizers, entrees, desserts, and options for different tastes.

Your dining setup can depend on your MSC experience level. Bella and Fantastica guests may have assigned dining or available dining options depending on the ship and sailing. Aurea guests usually receive more flexible My Choice dining. Yacht Club guests have their own private restaurant.

If dining flexibility matters to you, do not only compare cabin prices. Compare the experience level too, because it can change how your meals work.

Buffet dining is included

MSC’s buffet is included in the cruise fare and is one of the easiest places to eat onboard. The buffet is useful for breakfast, casual lunches, snacks, quick meals, and times when you do not want a full sit-down dining experience.

The buffet usually has a wide range of choices, which can include items like eggs, pastries, fruit, salads, pasta, pizza, burgers, vegetables, desserts, and international dishes. Exact menus vary by ship and itinerary.

The buffet is especially helpful for families, picky eaters, and guests who want a faster meal. It can get busy during peak times, especially on embarkation day, sea day mornings, and right after popular port returns.

MSC dining tip: The main dining room and buffet are included, so you do not need specialty dining to eat well. Specialty restaurants are optional upgrades.

Pizza, pasta, and casual food are usually part of the experience

MSC is known for having strong casual Italian-style food, especially pizza and pasta. The exact venues depend on the ship, but many MSC ships include casual food options in the buffet or other included dining areas.

This is one of the reasons MSC can work well for families and first-time cruisers. Even if someone in your group does not love the main dining room menu, there are usually easy casual options somewhere onboard.

The important thing is to check what is included on your specific ship. Some casual venues are included, while other branded or specialty venues may cost extra.

Room service depends on your experience level

Room service on MSC can be confusing because the rules may depend on whether you booked Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, or Yacht Club.

Bella guests may have access to continental breakfast in the stateroom with a delivery fee. Fantastica and Aurea guests may receive free delivery for continental breakfast and room service delivery, but food items may still be priced individually depending on the menu and sailing. Yacht Club guests have more inclusive room service benefits.

The main thing to know is that room service is not always the same for every MSC guest. Before assuming room service is completely free, check your experience level and the menu in your cabin.

• Bella usually has the most basic room service benefits.
• Fantastica includes more room service delivery benefits.
• Aurea includes more flexibility and premium perks.
• Yacht Club has the strongest room service inclusion.
• Food items and delivery rules can vary by menu and sailing.

Are drinks included on MSC Cruises?

Most drinks are not automatically included on MSC Cruises unless you booked a promotion, purchased a drink package, or are sailing in MSC Yacht Club.

This is one of the biggest things first-time MSC cruisers should understand. Your cruise fare includes food in the main dining room and buffet, but that does not mean cocktails, beer, wine, soda, specialty coffee, bottled water, mocktails, and other drinks are automatically included.

MSC offers drink packages that can be purchased separately. The exact packages available can vary by sailing, but common options include packages for alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic drinks, and minors. MSC Yacht Club includes the Premium Extra drink package as part of the Yacht Club experience.

If drinks matter to you, compare the cost of a drink package before you sail. Sometimes MSC offers promotions with drinks and Wi-Fi included, but you should confirm the exact package and rules before booking.

First-time MSC tip: Do not assume drinks are included just because food is included. Check your fare, promotion, or package before sailing.

Is Wi-Fi included on MSC Cruises?

Wi-Fi is not usually included with a basic MSC cruise fare. Most guests need to purchase an internet package unless Wi-Fi is part of a promotion, bundle, or MSC Yacht Club booking.

MSC Yacht Club includes a Wi-Fi package, but standard cabin categories usually do not include internet automatically. If you need to stay connected for work, messaging, social media, or family communication, check Wi-Fi prices before your cruise.

The MSC for Me app may still work onboard for certain ship features even if you do not purchase a full internet package, but that is different from having regular internet access.

Theater shows and entertainment are included

Most standard onboard entertainment is included on MSC Cruises. This can include theater shows, live music, parties, trivia, games, poolside activities, dance classes, family activities, and themed events.

MSC’s entertainment varies by ship. Newer ships usually have more venues, larger productions, more lounges, and more activity options. Older or smaller ships may have a simpler entertainment schedule.

Some special experiences, attractions, or premium activities may cost extra. Always check the daily program or MSC for Me app once onboard to see what is included and what requires a fee or reservation.

• Theater shows
• Live music
• Poolside games
• Trivia and quizzes
• Dance classes
• Theme parties
• Family entertainment
• Kids and teen activities
• Sports competitions
• Some ship events and activities

Pools and hot tubs are included

Access to the main pool areas is included on MSC Cruises. Most MSC ships have pools, sun decks, loungers, and hot tubs or whirlpools, although the exact setup depends on the ship.

On warm-weather itineraries, the pool deck can be one of the busiest places onboard. Sea days are especially popular, so it is smart to get outside earlier if you want a good spot.

Some areas may be restricted by age, cabin type, or experience level. For example, MSC Yacht Club guests may have access to private sundeck and pool areas on many ships, while Aurea guests may have access to certain relaxation areas depending on the ship and experience.

Sports areas and the gym are included

MSC cruise fares usually include access to open-air sports facilities and the onboard gym. This gives guests a way to stay active without paying extra.

The gym setup depends on the ship, but many MSC ships have fitness centers with cardio machines, weights, and ocean views. Sports areas may include courts, walking or jogging areas, and outdoor activity spaces depending on the ship.

Fitness classes, personal training, specialty activities, or some sports experiences may cost extra. If a specific activity matters to you, check the app or daily schedule once onboard.

Kids clubs are included

MSC kids clubs and many youth activities are included in the cruise fare. This is one of the best included benefits for families.

MSC offers age-based programming for children and teens, with activities such as games, competitions, parties, sports, creative activities, and themed events. Exact age groups, hours, and schedules can vary by ship and sailing.

Parents should register children early in the cruise and check the schedule once onboard. Kids club availability may be especially important on family-heavy ships like MSC World America, MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, and MSC Meraviglia.

Some kids or family experiences may still cost extra, especially arcades, VR, paid attractions, or specialty activities. The supervised youth programming itself is one of the key included family perks.

Access to most public areas is included

Your MSC cruise fare includes access to most public areas of the ship. This means you can walk around the ship, visit lounges, enjoy open decks, sit by the pool, listen to music, browse shops, attend activities, and enjoy the general atmosphere onboard.

Some spaces are restricted. MSC Yacht Club areas are only for Yacht Club guests. Spa thermal areas may require a package or be included only with certain experiences. Specialty restaurants, casino, shops, and paid attractions may have extra costs.

Still, most of the ship is available to standard guests. You do not need to pay extra just to enjoy the ship.

MSC for Me app access is included where available

On ships that support it, MSC for Me is a helpful app for planning your cruise. It can show daily schedules, ship maps, dining information, entertainment times, onboard spending, and other cruise details.

The app is especially useful for first-time MSC cruisers because it helps you understand what is happening onboard without constantly checking paper schedules or walking to guest services.

Download the app before your cruise and connect once onboard. Some app features may vary by ship.

Ocean Cay is included if it is on your itinerary

If your MSC cruise stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, access to the island is included with your cruise. You do not need to buy a separate ticket to walk off the ship and enjoy the island.

Ocean Cay is MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. It is a beach-focused destination with swimming, sand, water views, food options, bars, activities, shopping, excursions, and evening entertainment on some sailings.

Some things on Ocean Cay are included, while others cost extra. Beach access, walking around the island, swimming, and some food options are included. Cabanas, rentals, excursions, spa treatments, shopping, and some premium items may cost extra.

For a full breakdown, read: What’s Included at Ocean Cay

What is included with Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club?

MSC is different from some cruise lines because it sells different experience levels. These are not only cabin types. They can affect flexibility, room selection, dining, room service, spa perks, and other benefits.

Bella Experience

Bella is usually MSC’s entry-level experience. It can be a good choice if price is your top priority and you are comfortable with fewer extras.

• Modern ship and stateroom
• Buffet access
• Main dining room meals
• Chance to request preferred dinner seating, subject to availability
• Basic entertainment, pools, sports, gym, and kids activities
• MSC for Me where available
• MSC Voyagers Club points

Bella is often the best fit for guests who want the lowest fare and do not care as much about cabin location, dining flexibility, or extra perks.

Fantastica Experience

Fantastica is a step above Bella and can be a good choice for guests who want more choice and flexibility.

• Buffet access
• Main dining room meals
• Opportunity to choose your stateroom and location
• Free continental breakfast delivery
• 24-hour room service delivery, with food items priced individually
• Entertainment, pools, sports, gym, and kids activities
• MSC for Me where available
• MSC Voyagers Club points
• Discounted package offers

Fantastica is often a good middle ground for guests who want a standard MSC cruise but prefer a little more control over their cabin and room service options.

Aurea Experience

Aurea is MSC’s more premium experience below Yacht Club. It is a good fit for guests who want better cabin locations, more relaxed dining, and spa-related perks.

• Buffet access
• Main dining room meals
• My Choice dining in a dedicated restaurant or area
• Better stateroom locations
• Free continental breakfast delivery
• 24-hour room service delivery, with food items priced individually
• Welcome package
• Access to thermal area for adults by reservation
• Top Exclusive Solarium access where available
• 10% discount on spa treatments purchased onboard
• Priority boarding and luggage drop-off
• MSC Voyagers Club points

Aurea can be a smart choice if you want a more flexible MSC experience but do not want to pay for Yacht Club.

MSC Yacht Club

MSC Yacht Club is MSC’s most premium experience. It includes private areas, a dedicated restaurant, Top Sail Lounge, butler service, concierge service, drinks, Wi-Fi, room service, minibar, thermal suite access, and more.

Yacht Club is a much bigger upgrade than Bella, Fantastica, or Aurea because it changes the entire feel of the cruise. You get a private home base while still having access to the rest of the ship.

For a full breakdown, read: What’s Included in MSC Yacht Club

What food is included on MSC Cruises?

The easiest way to think about MSC food is this: standard dining is included, specialty dining is extra.

• Main dining room meals are included.
• Buffet dining is included.
• Some casual food options may be included, depending on ship.
• Kids menu options are available.
• Yacht Club restaurant is included for Yacht Club guests.
• Ocean Cay includes some food options if your itinerary stops there.

Specialty restaurants are usually extra. These may include venues like steakhouses, sushi, tacos, seafood, teppanyaki, or other ship-specific restaurants.

What drinks are included on MSC Cruises?

Drinks are where many first-time MSC cruisers get confused. Most beverage items are not included with a standard fare.

Depending on venue and ship, you may find basic included beverage options in some dining areas, but you should not assume soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, cocktails, wine, beer, mocktails, or premium drinks are included unless you have a drink package, promotion, or Yacht Club booking.

If drinks are important to your vacation, check the drink package options before sailing. MSC’s prepaid and onboard beverage packages include gratuities, which makes it easier to compare the cost.

For more on drink packages, read: MSC Drink Packages Explained

What entertainment is included on MSC Cruises?

Most general entertainment is included. This is one of the biggest values of cruising because you can enjoy a lot onboard without paying for every individual show or activity.

• Theater shows
• Live music
• Theme parties
• Dance classes
• Trivia
• Poolside activities
• Family entertainment
• Kids club activities
• Teen activities
• Sports competitions
• Some comedy or lounge entertainment, depending on ship

Some premium attractions, VR, arcade games, casino, special experiences, or limited-capacity activities may cost extra. Check your ship’s schedule and app for details.

What costs extra on MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises includes a lot, but you should still budget for extras. Some guests spend very little onboard, while others add drink packages, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, excursions, spa treatments, and shopping.

• Drink packages
• Individual alcoholic drinks
• Soda and specialty drinks without a package
• Specialty coffee without a package
• Bottled water without a package
• Wi-Fi packages
• Specialty dining
• Shore excursions
• Spa treatments
• Salon services
• Thermal area access unless included with your experience
• Casino spending
• Arcade games
• VR and some paid attractions
• Shopping
• Photos
• Laundry
• Medical services
• Parking and transportation
• Daily Hotel Service Charges unless prepaid or included
• Some room service charges depending on experience and menu
• Private cabanas or rentals at Ocean Cay

The biggest extras for most guests are drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, specialty dining, and excursions. If you price those out before booking, you will have a much better idea of the real cost of your MSC cruise.

Are gratuities included on MSC Cruises?

MSC usually charges a daily Hotel Service Charge unless it is prepaid or included in your booking. This charge is separate from the basic cruise fare in many cases.

The amount can depend on itinerary, age, booking date, and whether you are in Yacht Club. MSC also adds a bar service charge to onboard bar purchases, although drink packages include beverage package gratuities.

This is important because some guests look only at the cruise fare and forget service charges. Before booking, check whether the Hotel Service Charge is included, prepaid, or added onboard.

Are shore excursions included on MSC Cruises?

Shore excursions are not usually included in a standard MSC cruise fare. If you want a guided tour, beach break, snorkeling trip, city tour, food tour, or transportation-based excursion, you usually need to pay extra.

You can also explore some ports on your own, depending on the destination. But if you want a structured experience, book an excursion before the cruise or once onboard.

Ocean Cay is different because the island itself is included if it is on your itinerary. However, excursions, rentals, cabanas, and some activities at Ocean Cay can still cost extra.

Are spa treatments included on MSC Cruises?

Spa treatments are not usually included with a standard MSC fare. Massages, facials, salon services, and many spa treatments cost extra.

Thermal area access depends on your experience level or package. Aurea and Yacht Club guests may have thermal area access included, while other guests may need to pay for a spa pass or treatment.

If spa time matters to you, compare Aurea, Yacht Club, or spa package pricing before sailing.

Are specialty restaurants included on MSC Cruises?

Specialty restaurants are usually extra on MSC Cruises. Your fare includes the main dining room and buffet, but specialty venues are separate unless you booked a dining package or promotion.

Specialty restaurants vary by ship, but may include steakhouse, sushi, teppanyaki, tacos, seafood, or other themed restaurants.

You do not need specialty dining to enjoy the cruise, but it can be a nice upgrade if food is a major part of your vacation.

Are packages included on MSC Cruises?

Packages are not automatically included unless your fare or promotion specifically says so. MSC often offers deals that may include drinks, Wi-Fi, onboard credit, or other perks, but those promotions change.

Do not assume your cruise includes drinks or Wi-Fi because you saw a deal advertised. Check your actual booking confirmation and package names.

• Drink package
• Wi-Fi package
• Dining package
• Spa package
• Photo package
• Excursion package
• Fun pass or arcade package
• Laundry package

If a package matters to you, make sure it is attached to your booking before final payment.

What is included for families on MSC Cruises?

MSC can be a strong cruise line for families because kids clubs, youth activities, family entertainment, pools, sports areas, and casual dining are included in the cruise fare.

Newer ships like MSC World America, MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, MSC Meraviglia, and MSC Euribia usually have more family features than older ships. Families should choose the ship carefully, not just the lowest price.

Some family extras may cost more, such as arcade games, VR experiences, some attractions, specialty dining, photos, and shore excursions.

For help choosing a ship, read: Best MSC Ship for Families

What is included for couples on MSC Cruises?

Couples can enjoy a lot on MSC without paying extra. Main dining, buffet meals, entertainment, live music, pools, lounges, ocean views, and most public spaces are included.

Couples who want a more premium experience may want to consider Aurea or MSC Yacht Club. Aurea gives more flexibility and relaxation perks, while Yacht Club gives the most private and inclusive MSC experience.

If you are celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or special occasion, also compare specialty dining, spa, drinks, and photo packages before sailing.

What is included at Ocean Cay on MSC Cruises?

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. If Ocean Cay is on your itinerary, access to the island is included.

You can walk off the ship, enjoy the beaches, swim, explore the island, and use the ship as your home base while docked. Some food and water options are included, while cabanas, excursions, rentals, spa treatments, shopping, and some premium items may cost extra.

Yacht Club guests have additional Ocean Cay benefits, including access to Ocean House Beach and Ocean House Restaurant.

For full details, read: What’s Included at Ocean Cay

Is MSC Yacht Club more inclusive?

Yes, MSC Yacht Club is much more inclusive than a standard MSC fare. Yacht Club includes the Premium Extra drink package, Wi-Fi, private restaurant, Top Sail Lounge, 24-hour butler service, concierge service, room service, minibar, thermal suite access, and private areas.

Yacht Club is not completely all-inclusive because gratuities, excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments, casino, shopping, photos, and some extras can still cost more. But it is MSC’s most inclusive experience.

For a full guide, read: What’s Included in MSC Yacht Club

How to avoid surprise costs on MSC Cruises

The best way to avoid surprise costs is to understand what is included before you book. MSC can be a great value, but only if you know which extras matter to you.

1. Check whether your fare includes drinks or Wi-Fi.
2. Compare Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club.
3. Add daily Hotel Service Charges to your budget.
4. Decide if you need a drink package.
5. Decide if you need Wi-Fi.
6. Price out specialty dining before sailing.
7. Book excursions early if they matter to you.
8. Check room service rules for your experience level.
9. Understand what is included at Ocean Cay.
10. Read your booking confirmation carefully.

The cheapest fare is not always the cheapest vacation. Sometimes a higher experience level, package, or promotion can make more sense once you compare the total cost.

Final thoughts: What’s included on MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises includes the essentials for a full cruise vacation: your cabin, main dining room meals, buffet, entertainment, pools, sports areas, gym access, kids clubs, family activities, and access to most public areas of the ship.

The main extras to watch are drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, specialty dining, excursions, spa treatments, shopping, casino, photos, and some paid activities. Ocean Cay is included if it is on your itinerary, but some island experiences still cost extra.

If you want the most included MSC experience, look at MSC Yacht Club. If you want a good balance of value and flexibility, compare Fantastica and Aurea. If price is your top priority, Bella can work well as long as you understand what is and is not included.

The most important thing is to compare the total vacation cost, not just the cruise fare. Once you know what MSC includes and what costs extra, it becomes much easier to choose the right ship, cabin, and package for your cruise.

What’s Included on MSC Cruises FAQ

What is included on MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises usually includes your cabin, main dining room meals, buffet dining, most entertainment, pool areas, sports facilities, gym access, kids clubs, family activities, and access to most public areas of the ship.

Is food included on MSC Cruises?

Yes. Main dining room meals and buffet dining are included on MSC Cruises. Specialty restaurants usually cost extra unless included in a package or promotion.

Are drinks included on MSC Cruises?

Most drinks are not included with a standard MSC fare. Drinks may be included if you booked a promotion, purchased a drink package, or are sailing in MSC Yacht Club.

Is Wi-Fi included on MSC Cruises?

Wi-Fi is not usually included with a standard MSC cruise fare. It may be included with certain promotions or MSC Yacht Club.

Are gratuities included on MSC Cruises?

MSC’s daily Hotel Service Charges are usually separate unless prepaid or included in your booking. Check your booking confirmation to see how they are handled.

Is entertainment included on MSC Cruises?

Yes. Most standard entertainment is included, such as theater shows, live music, parties, trivia, poolside activities, and family entertainment. Some premium activities may cost extra.

Are kids clubs included on MSC Cruises?

Yes. MSC kids clubs and many youth activities are included in the cruise fare. Exact hours and programs can vary by ship and itinerary.

Are pools included on MSC Cruises?

Yes. Access to the main pool areas is included. Some private pool or sundeck areas may be reserved for Yacht Club, Aurea, adults-only spaces, or other specific guests.

Is room service included on MSC Cruises?

Room service depends on your experience level. Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club have different room service benefits and rules. Check your cabin menu and booking details.

Is Ocean Cay included on MSC Cruises?

Yes, if Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is on your itinerary, island access is included. Some food and beach access are included, while cabanas, excursions, rentals, shopping, and some premium items may cost extra.

What costs extra on MSC Cruises?

Common extras include drink packages, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, casino, shopping, photos, laundry, medical services, room service charges depending on experience, and Hotel Service Charges.

Is MSC Yacht Club all inclusive?

MSC Yacht Club is more inclusive than a standard MSC fare, but it is not completely all-inclusive. It includes drinks, Wi-Fi, private dining, room service, minibar, butler service, concierge service, and thermal suite access, but some extras still cost more.

Is MSC Cruises good value?

MSC Cruises can be a very good value if you understand what is included and what costs extra. Compare the total cost of your fare, drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, excursions, and dining before booking.