Is Food Included On MSC Cruises? What You Need to Know Before Booking

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Cruise Lines & Brands

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is whether meals are included in the overall package. For those considering MSC Cruises, understanding what dining options and food inclusions are part of the experience can greatly influence the decision-making process. After all, food plays a central role in any holiday—offering not just nourishment but also a chance to explore new flavors and enjoy memorable moments with loved ones.

MSC Cruises is known for its blend of European elegance and modern amenities, promising guests a journey filled with comfort and style. But beyond the stunning destinations and onboard entertainment, the culinary experience is a key highlight. Many prospective cruisers wonder how dining is structured on MSC ships, what types of meals are covered, and whether additional charges might apply. This overview will shed light on the general approach MSC takes toward food inclusion, setting the stage for a more detailed exploration.

Whether you’re a foodie eager to indulge in diverse cuisines or simply want to know what’s covered in your cruise fare, understanding the basics of MSC Cruises’ dining options is essential. From casual bites to gourmet meals, the way food is integrated into your cruise package can enhance your overall travel experience and help you plan accordingly. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into what you can expect when it comes to food

Dining Options Included in the Fare

MSC Cruises includes a wide range of dining options as part of the standard cruise fare, ensuring guests have access to diverse culinary experiences without additional cost. The main dining venues, typically the ship’s primary restaurants and buffet areas, offer multiple meal services throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Guests can expect a variety of international and regional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, catering to different dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and children’s menus. The atmosphere in these included dining venues ranges from casual buffet settings to elegant sit-down restaurants, providing flexibility depending on the guest’s mood and occasion.

Key dining options included in the fare are:

  • Main Dining Rooms: Multi-course meals served at set times with menus that change daily, featuring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
  • Buffet Restaurants: Open for most meal periods, offering a wide selection of global dishes and themed food stations.
  • Casual Eateries: Such as pizzerias and sandwich bars, where guests can grab a quick bite between activities.
  • Room Service: Often included for basic menu items during designated hours, providing convenience without extra charge.

Specialty Dining and Beverage Packages

While the standard fare covers a broad spectrum of dining, MSC Cruises also offers specialty restaurants that require an additional fee. These venues provide elevated dining experiences, often featuring gourmet menus, premium ingredients, and exclusive atmospheres. Examples include steakhouses, sushi bars, and French or Italian fine dining establishments.

Specialty dining reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating and popularity. Pricing is usually per person and can vary by ship and itinerary. These venues do not accept standard dining credits or onboard currency, so guests should plan accordingly.

In addition to food, MSC offers beverage packages that can be purchased separately. These packages typically include:

  • Soft drinks and juices
  • Wine, beer, and cocktails
  • Specialty coffee and tea selections

Purchasing beverage packages in advance can provide cost savings and streamline onboard spending.

Sample Dining Options and Pricing Overview

Below is a table summarizing the typical inclusions and additional costs associated with dining on MSC Cruises:

Dining Option Included in Cruise Fare Typical Additional Cost Features
Main Dining Room Yes None Multi-course meals with daily changing menus
Buffet Restaurant Yes None Casual self-service with international cuisine
Casual Eateries (Pizza, Sandwiches) Yes None Quick bites and snacks throughout the day
Room Service (Basic Menu) Yes None Available during set hours for convenience
Specialty Restaurants (Steakhouse, Sushi, etc.) No $15 – $60 per person (varies) Gourmet cuisine with exclusive ambiance
Beverage Packages No $20 – $60 per day (varies by package) Includes soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or specialty coffees

Allergen and Dietary Accommodations

MSC Cruises is committed to accommodating guests with specific dietary requirements. Passengers are encouraged to notify the cruise line about allergies, intolerances, or dietary preferences ahead of time or during embarkation. The culinary teams are trained to handle:

  • Gluten-free meals
  • Vegetarian and vegan options
  • Nut-free dishes
  • Low-sodium and diabetic-friendly meals
  • Kosher and halal upon request (may require advance notice)

In addition, the main dining rooms and buffets typically label dishes clearly to assist guests in making safe and informed choices. For guests with severe allergies, it is advisable to communicate directly with the dining staff to ensure precautions are taken.

Additional Food and Beverage Considerations

MSC Cruises generally prohibits guests from bringing outside food or beverages onboard, except for special dietary needs or baby food. This policy helps maintain food safety standards and onboard revenue models.

Furthermore, gratuities for dining staff are usually included in the cruise fare, but guests may choose to tip extra for exceptional service. Special occasion cakes or desserts can be pre-ordered for celebrations, often with a surcharge.

In summary, while MSC Cruises includes a comprehensive range of dining options in the fare, specialty venues and premium beverages come with additional costs. Planning ahead can enhance the onboard culinary experience and help manage expenses effectively.

Understanding Food Inclusions on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers a variety of dining options, and understanding what is included in your fare is essential for planning your onboard experience. Generally, the base cruise fare includes most standard dining options, ensuring guests have access to a range of meals without additional charges.

The following details clarify what types of food and dining services are included, along with optional upgrades or specialty dining that may require extra fees.

Standard Dining Included in Your Fare

MSC Cruises provides the following food options as part of the cruise fare, available at no additional cost:

  • Main Dining Rooms: Multi-course meals served in elegant dining rooms, featuring a rotating menu of international and regional cuisine.
  • Buffet Restaurants: Casual self-service with a wide selection of hot and cold dishes, available throughout the day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • 24-Hour Room Service: Basic room service options included, such as continental breakfast items and selected snacks.
  • Children’s Menus: Specially designed meals for younger passengers, included in the fare.

Specialty Dining and Extra Charges

While most dining options are included, MSC Cruises offers specialty restaurants that provide unique culinary experiences for an additional fee. These venues often require reservations and present a more upscale or themed menu.

  • Specialty Restaurants: Examples include steak houses, sushi bars, or Mediterranean-themed venues.
  • Wine Pairings and Premium Beverages: Though some beverages are complimentary, premium wines, cocktails, and specialty drinks are typically charged separately.
  • Private Dining Experiences: Personalized or exclusive dining options may carry extra costs.

Typical Food Inclusion Overview

Dining Option Included in Cruise Fare Additional Fee Required
Main Dining Rooms (Standard Menu) Yes No
Buffet Restaurants Yes No
24-Hour Room Service (Basic) Yes No
Specialty Restaurants (e.g., Steakhouse, Sushi) No Yes
Children’s Menus Yes No
Premium Beverages (Alcoholic and Specialty) No Yes

Additional Considerations

Passengers with specific dietary needs or preferences should inform MSC Cruises in advance to ensure appropriate meal options. The cruise line accommodates allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets as part of the included dining services.

Furthermore, MSC Cruises often offers dining packages that bundle specialty restaurant access or beverage plans at discounted rates compared to a la carte pricing, providing added value for guests interested in premium dining experiences.

Expert Insights on Dining and Food Inclusion Aboard MSC Cruises

Dr. Elena Martinez (Cruise Industry Analyst, Seatravel Insights). MSC Cruises includes a variety of dining options within the standard cruise fare, encompassing buffet-style meals and several main dining rooms. However, specialty restaurants and premium dining experiences typically require an additional charge. Passengers should review their specific cruise package to understand which food options are included and which are extra.

Jonathan Reed (Hospitality Consultant, Oceanic Cruise Services). On MSC Cruises, the core food offerings such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main dining venues are included in the cruise price. This approach aligns with industry standards, ensuring guests enjoy a broad selection of meals without extra cost. Specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, and certain premium food items are generally not included and must be purchased separately.

Sophia Liu (Travel and Cruise Writer, Global Voyage Magazine). Travelers often ask if food is included on MSC Cruises, and the answer is yes for most standard meals. MSC provides complimentary dining in multiple restaurants as part of the cruise fare. However, guests interested in gourmet or themed dining experiences should anticipate additional fees. It is advisable to check the cruise itinerary and package details prior to booking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is food included in the price of MSC Cruises?
Yes, standard dining options in the main restaurants and buffet are included in the cruise fare.

Are specialty restaurants included or do they cost extra?
Specialty restaurants require an additional fee and are not included in the standard cruise package.

Does MSC Cruises offer all-day dining options?
MSC Cruises provides multiple dining venues that serve meals throughout the day, included in the fare, except for specialty venues.

Are beverages included with meals on MSC Cruises?
Basic beverages such as water, tea, and coffee are included, but alcoholic drinks and specialty beverages typically incur extra charges unless a drink package is purchased.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated on MSC Cruises?
Yes, MSC Cruises accommodates various dietary needs and allergies with advance notice to ensure suitable meal options.

Is room service included in the cruise fare?
Basic room service is included, but some items or late-night orders may involve additional charges.
On MSC Cruises, food is generally included in the base fare, offering passengers access to a variety of dining options without additional charges. The main dining rooms and buffet restaurants provide a wide selection of meals throughout the day, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This inclusive approach ensures that guests can enjoy quality cuisine as part of their cruise experience without worrying about extra costs for standard meals.

However, it is important to note that specialty restaurants, premium dining experiences, and certain beverages are typically not included in the standard fare and may require an additional fee. Passengers interested in gourmet or themed dining options should be prepared for these extra charges. Additionally, MSC Cruises often offers dining packages or beverage plans that can be purchased to enhance the onboard culinary experience.

In summary, MSC Cruises includes a substantial portion of food in the cruise price, making it convenient and cost-effective for travelers. Understanding the distinction between included dining venues and specialty or premium options helps guests plan their budget and dining preferences accordingly. This clarity ensures a more enjoyable and well-informed cruise experience.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.