Wanting to stretch your cruise budget? There are some major savings to be had on everything from your cruise fare to all those onboard extras like drink packages. You just need to know where to find them.
MSC provides a lot of inclusive benefits as part of the cruise fare, numerous activities, fantastic kids programs, daily live entertainment, comfy cabins and a wide range of food options.
But there are some nice to haves, like internet, or that onshore excursion you have been dreaming about forever, not to mention all the shopping to do in port.
We take you through some of our favorite tips and tricks to save money for your ultimate MSC cruise vacation.
1. Check out cruise sales
Cruise lines are offering some pretty great deals right now and MSC is no exception. Recent deals offer major savings such as 40% off the cruise price, free wi-fi and drinks, cabin upgrades and extra onboard credit.
You don't want to miss out on any deals, so ensure to sign up with MSC Cruises to get the latest promos, or even better, use a travel agent. They can be great in making sure you find the best prices available, and some even offer additional onboard credit.
Don't forget about those last minute deals on MSC’s website. There are some incredible prices, as low as $100 for a weekend cruise.
2. Loyalty program perks
Voyagers Club, MSC’s loyalty program, offers several perks that can save you money, even at the introductory levels of the program. The classic membership, which cruisers qualify for after just one cruise, gives MSC cruisers 5% off their next cruise. Member-only deals can be as much as 10% off.
The program also gives guests discounts on wi-fi packages, laundry, onboard pictures, spa services and laundry. At the top tiers, loyal customers receive complimentary specialty dinners, in-cabin treats, and extra onboard credit.
Guests are automatically enrolled in the program after their first cruise.
3. Status match
One great feature of the MSC loyalty program is Status Matching. Even if you are new to the cruise line, they let you transfer your status from other cruise and travel loyalty programs.
There is no fee to do so but should be completed at least 7-10 prior to sailing. The application for this is located on the MSC Cruises website and is easy to complete.
The list of eligible loyalty programs for matching is quite extensive. Some of the major brands include Royal Caribbean, Carnaval, Disney, Celebrity, Norwegian and Holland. Other travel operators include Club Med, Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Starwood, Fairmont, Expedia, and RIU, to name a few.
4. Buy a drink package (or not)
Buying drinks as you go may be a good strategy if you only have one or two a day. But at $3.25 for a can of pop and $10 drinks, it doesn’t take long to add up.
MSC has 5 different drink packages, which give you some choices depending on what you like to drink. If you just want a couple beers or a glass of wine with dinner, the Easy Package may be the way to go. If you want to splurge, the Premium Package includes premium spirits, liqueurs, and a wide selection of other drinks. Purchase a package pre-cruise for the best savings.
5. Internet package
Many people can’t live without access to the internet while cruising - whether it’s to check in with family and friends or the occasional work email. Cell phone roaming and cruising packages can easily add up to hundreds of dollars, so if you think you need internet access, it is best to buy a plan.
MSC offers wi-fi packages, including a basic (for emails/chat functions ) or a more robust premium package for those who want to use apps like Facetime, WhatsApp, or stream video. They have a discount if you purchase it pre-cruise, which can be 15% or more.
If you only want to keep in touch with your fellow cruisers, the MSC for me App allows for free texts to other guests. This, along with free wi-fi in port, may be good enough for those who want to go offline on their vacation.
6. Cabin selection
Like other aspects of cruising with MSC, there are plenty of cabin choices and MSC experiences that deliver a whole host of benefits.
The Fantastica Experience gives guests discounts on drink packages and specialty dining. Even better, the Aurea Experience comes with many great perks, including additional discounts on drink and specialty dining packages, one free cruise change, and free room service.
Another great way to save some bucks, let MSC pick your cabin. If you plan on spending very little time in your room or sleep like a baby wherever you go, consider this option, it can save you hundreds of dollars in some cases.
7. Sail older ships
MSC has been on a building frenzy, launching the incredibly impressive MSC World Europa this year, along with MSC Seascape, the fourth Seaside class of ships. But they still have a number of older ships from the Lirica and Musica classes that can provide great value.
For those cruisers who don’t need waterparks, endless bars and restaurants, a bevy of activities, arcades and cinemas; this can be a money saving alternative. Cruising on older ships, with their classic vibe, can be perfect for port intensive itineraries such as Europe of multi-week Grand Voyages.
8. Sail in off-peak times
Winter break, including Christmas and other major holidays, can result in bigger crowds and higher prices. If you are flexible, consider less busy times, such as after the holidays in January, May and September for Caribbean cruises.
Shoulder season is the best time to get the most bang for your buck, but it does vary by destination. In the UK, they have a school break at the end of May/early June and again at the end of October, which can make European cruises busier at that time.
Repositioning cruises can also offer great value. These transocean voyages happen when MSC moves its ships between destinations to set up for the next year, such as Europe to the Caribbean. Typically longer, 2 weeks or so, these can be the same or even less than many one week cruises and tend to be less full.
9. Age based discounts
Many families depend on discounts to make their trips affordable, and MSC helps out with a number of promotions that provide sizeable discounts on kids' cruise fares.
It is not just kids that get discounts, though. MSC offers other age-based discounts. Guests aged 18-29 sharing the same cabin are eligible for a discount of 10% off interior and ocean view cabins. Even better, 15% off a balcony, suite or MSC Yacht Club suite.
Over 65? Guests in that age group are eligible for a 5% discount on an interior or ocean view cabin. It increases to 10% for a balcony, suite or MSC Yacht Club stateroom.
10. Buy a Fun Pass
While MSC cruises have tons of included activities, some are extra. You will need to open your wallet for popular activities such as the F1 Simulator, bowling, VR Maze, video games and 4D Cinema. The F1 and VR simulators both cost $12 per turn. Adults pay $11 for movies, and kids $9. Parents and guests can purchase the Fun Pass Package to cover most of these. For a $50 pass, MSC gives you an extra $10 in fun, all the way up to an extra $70 on a $150 card.
Make sure to try all the free stuff onboard. Favorites, such as the family Game Show, Family Disco, and live theatre productions, are complimentary. The cruise line also has a number of great activities, such as waterparks, pools and free kids club with plenty of great things to keep little cruisers happy.
11. Bring a water bottle
This may sound somewhat inconsequential, but bottled water can add up. MSC cruises provide drink options included with your fare, such as tea, and coffee but sadly, bottled water is not. At a couple of dollars a bottle, it won't take long to add your bill, especially for a week long cruise.
Bring along your favorite water bottle to fill up in the Marketplace buffet, or bring it onshore. This is especially important in a warm climate where you need to stay hydrated.
This can be helpful in port, as some places have water refill stations (popular in Europe). If you aren’t sure about the quality of the water, consider one with a filter, or even better, one that cleans on bacteria or other water-borne illnesses.
12. Free day at Ocean Cay
Speaking of warm weather, Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas, is a frequent stop on both its Easter and Western cruise itineraries. The island is a true tropical paradise with brilliant blue waters and breathtaking views all around.
The great news is that you don’t need to spend any money to have a fantastic day at Ocean Cay; there is so much included in your cruise fare.
There are eight different beaches to explore, with tons of free loungers and chairs. Seakers Food Court and food trucks provide guests with a complimentary lunch while on the island. The evening brings a festive Junkanoo parade and sundown party at the islands’ signature lighthouse,
13. Pre-book packages
While MSC offers many included benefits with their cruise fare, many guests choose to make additional purchases, such as shore excursions and drink packages. Once you have booked your cruise, MSC has numerous discounts on pre-cruise purchases that can be accessed through the cruise planner. Typical savings include 20% off excursions, 35% off dining and drink packages, 40% off spa treatments and 20% off internet packages.
MSC’s pricing on packages is pretty consistent, so don't expect any major sales on these onboard items, but if you change your mind, you can cancel pre-cruise and get your money back.
14. Casino comps
For those who like to gamble, casino perks can be incredible. Everything from free drinks, discounts, onboard credit and free cruises. MSC offers a wide range of game options in its lively casinos throughout the fleet. Roulette, blackjack, many variations of poker, slot machines and even bingo.
So if you are going to play, you might as well get some free stuff. Once onboard, talk to the casino host about the ship’s program. Guests must be 21 years of age sailing out of the United States and 18 in Europe.
15. Pack the important stuff
Packing is not always the most fun activity, but you want to ensure you have all you need for your cruise vacation.
MSC Cruise ships have a lot of stores onboard where you can buy last minute things you may have forgotten or some medicines you may need. Onboard shopping can be at a premium, so pack all your necessities like sunscreen or pain relief products. There are plenty of cruise packing lists to help you manage the process with ease.
There are also some things that, sadly, you can’t bring on your cruise. Unlike most cruise lines, MSC does not allow its guests to bring any alcohol onboard, including wine or pop. So don’t waste your money on things you won't be able to bring along.
16. Skip the extras
Photo packages can be fun and provide great memories of your cruise vacation. Try skipping the package and taking your own pictures. There are so many great spots throughout the ships- lounges, atriums, and Swarovski covered stairs to snap your own pictures.
New phones have fantastic camera options, along with filters to help you make the best vacation photos. Tell your own story, and share with friends and families all those special touches you notice, like a morning sunrise, your first impressions of the ship, or sailing into a port for the first time.
17. Book onboard
The worst thing about cruising is that sad day you have to get off the ship and go home. Suddenly, there is no one to make you a perfectly cooked omelet in the morning or make your bed while you are off at the beach for the day.
One of the best ways to get over this is to book another cruise. Even before you leave the ship – it will be the journey home bearable.
Booking your next cruise onboard can be a great way to get some extra onboard credit and other perks.. While onboard, visit the MSC Future Cruise desk to see the best offers and where your next adventure will take you.
Chantal McPhee
Chantal McPhee has a great passion for travel since first venturing to the Bahamas as a child with her grandparents. Today, she loves cruising with her husband and two daughters to new places and aspires one day to do a world cruise. Living on the east coast of Canada, she shares cruising tips and information with fellow Canucks seeking a reprieve from the great white north. She also teaches business studies at a university, with a focus on strategy
