Cruise lines continually compete to outdo one another with distinctive onboard and onshore attractions. Beyond roller coasters, water slides and rock-climbing walls, many guests prize one thing above all: a well-crafted drink. As the world’s third-largest cruise company with a strong focus on beverage programs, MSC Cruises has refined how to delight passengers’ palates at sea.
On MSC Euribia, the ship’s name—drawn from an ancient goddess associated with weather and the stars—is reflected in original artwork across the decks and hull. One highlight is the Helios Wine Maker, a modern, high-tech wine bar where state-of-the-art dispensers line the walls and offer nearly a hundred wines by tasting portion or full glass. Guests seated at multitouch tables can follow digital coasters that provide details about a wine’s history, grape varieties and region, while master classes and guided tastings give a deeper, more immersive look into what’s in the glass.
For beer lovers, MSC World Europa features Oceanic Brewery—MSC’s first brewery at sea—housed in the Masters of the Sea brewpub. Created in collaboration with Italy’s Baladin Farm Brewery and master brewer Teo Musso, the shipbrewed lineup includes a pils, a bitter and a wheat beer made with desalinated water. Brewed year-round while the ship is underway, these beers are served on tap at the brewpub and throughout the vessel.
© MSC Cruises
MSC’s new World’s Greatest Bars program brings celebrated global bars onboard as six-month pop-ups, giving guests a chance to sample inventive techniques and signature cocktails from top bartenders around the world. The first wave launched in April, featuring award-winning Barcelona bars such as Paradiso aboard MSC World Europa and Sips on MSC Euribia.
Spirits and cocktail enthusiasts can join whiskey, gin, vodka and rum tastings on many MSC ships, along with hands-on cocktail demonstrations included in the daily activity schedule. While classics like daiquiris, mojitos and spritzes remain favorites, the gin and tonic is enjoying renewed popularity with creative pairings—jasmine and rose, or lemongrass and ginger—made using craft gins and premium tonics. Nonalcoholic options are also on offer, including passionfruit takes made with alcohol-free gin alternatives for those who prefer spirit-free drinks.
Beverage-focused shore excursions extend the experience ashore. In Bermuda, guests can take a sunset cruise on the Great Sound that explores Gosling’s Rum, with tastings of three rums, a lesson in preparing the Dark ’n’ Stormy, and insights into the Bermuda Rum Swizzle. On a Duval Crawl in Key West, visitors experience the energy and variety of bars and pubs along the island’s main street. In Cozumel, mixology sessions teach margarita variations—chocolate, seasonal fruit and traditional—paired with taco tastings for a flavorful pairing of drinks and food.
MSC also adapts drink selections to the regions its ships visit. Wine lists change with itineraries: a South African voyage may highlight Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, while Mediterranean sailings tend to feature Barolo and Bordeaux among other regional choices. This regional approach ensures the beverage program complements local flavors and guest expectations.
For an elevated, all-encompassing drinks experience, the MSC Yacht Club offers premium beverage packages that include high-end spirits and wines, premium cocktails and Champagne. Yacht Club lounges provide exclusive drink service, and staterooms are stocked with complimentary wines, Champagne and even a guest’s preferred spirit. The extra attention to detail in the Yacht Club makes it a standout choice for travelers who want a refined, convenient drinking experience at sea.