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MSC Cruises Dining Packages Explained Are They Worth It? What to Know Before You Go!

Most people boarding an MSC Cruise are faced with sales pitches immediately including staff selling drink packages, drink package upgrades, and dining packages. Were going to go over exactly what meals are included on an MSC Cruise and how the specialty dining experience packages work. This is based on our real-world experiences so you know whether or not an MSC Cruises Dining package is right for you.

Why do some cruisers think the Dining Packages are a rip-off on MSC Cruises?

They do not tell you the limitations of the dining packages before you buy! READ THIS FULLY to understand how these packages arent really a great value for many passengers.

What are the Dining Packages / Dining Experiences on MSC Cruises?

The Dining Experiences as they call them, are a single meal at a specialty restaurant, usable during lunch or dinner.

MSC uses the term dining package and dining experience interchangeably, and its hard to say that the dining package is anything similar to any other cruise line.

For example, if you purchase a dining package on an MSC Cruise, you are limited in most restaurants to a set menu and are NOT entitled to the entire menu. While you can substitute items that arent included at half off the menu price, it falls short of what other cruise lines do for dining packages. So calling this a dining experience is a bit misleading, as your experience is pretty limited.

The biggest issue with the packages is not that there are limits but its that when youre purchasing a Specialty Dining Package on MSC, they DO NOT TELL YOU ABOUT THE LIMITATIONS! During the sale process on board, you are not presented with menus that show the limited Dining Experience Menu.

Its worth noting that if you purchase one of these dining packages and discover that what you were really craving isnt on the menu or included in the package, there are NO refunds of any sort on any package.

When you purchase the dining package you are able to only get what is shown in this box, and everything else is for a fee:

MSC Dining Package Prices

Its important to know that the packages are misleading in some regards. Weve already mentioned the limited menu with the Dining Experience Packages but theres another. If you purchase the Unlimited Dining Package, there is an important limit. You can only go to The Butchers Cut TWICE ONCE (Updated as of August 2023). So its not really UNLIMITED. These prices are PER PERSON and could vary slightly if you choose to wait to purchase on the ship versus purchasing the package before your cruise. Children get a 50% discount on the price.

Save money, and purchase these specialty dining packages in advance

MSC Cruises heavily discounts add-ons and packages if a purchase is made in advance of the cruise. Its sometimes up to 40% less expensive to buy dining and drink packages in advance than it is to purchase while on the ship.

Do MSC Cruises include meals?

MSC Cruises include the Buffet and the Main Dining Room restaurant which you will be assigned for the duration of the cruise. So you certainly do NOT have to purchase any specialty dining package. The buffet is actually pretty good and the main dining room is adequate. For Pizza lovers, there are always tons of options and youll never go hungry! In general, however, the food is repetitive and not known to be the best in the cruise industry. This is why you might want to consider a Dining Package on your next MSC Cruise if youre comfortable with the limitations.

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A taste of the highlife

Our chefs draw inspiration from the regions we traverse, sourcing fresh, local ingredients to craft gourmet pleasures that delight the senses. Every dish is a carefully orchestrated masterpiece, from the appetizers that greet guests, to the delectable desserts that mark the grand finale. Its a culinary adventure where chefs have the privilege of creating memorable dining experiences, turning each meal into a journey of taste and refinement.

Cooking aboard the train offers more than just a culinary adventure; its a sensory voyage. The picturesque landscapes, the melodic symphony of the countryside, and the gentle rhythm of the trains movement all merge to curate an unparalleled and indelible dining experience for our guests.

Collaborating with a team of skilled chefs stands out as one of the most gratifying aspects of creating tantalizing on-board dining. Our collective effort is dedicated to crafting a menu that not only tempts the taste buds but also captivates the eye, with each dish meticulously designed to accentuate the innate quality of the ingredients.

Nicholas Allen Executive Chef

The 11 Extraordinary Fine-dining Experiences Around the World From Dinner Under the Sea to Lunch in an Ice Cave

Some fine-dining experiences around the world are much more than just exquisite food; they are a symphony of culinary art, ambiance, and cultural immersion. These experiences are not merely about eating but about embarking on a gastronomic journey that engages all the senses.

From the architectural marvels housing some of the worlds most renowned restaurants to the innovative and sometimes daring culinary techniques used by top chefs, each element plays a crucial role in crafting an unforgettable dining experience.

These establishments often showcase the best of local and international ingredients, turning each meal into a celebration of flavors and traditions.

Diners are not just customers but guests who partake in a carefully choreographed performance, where each course tells a story and each flavor is a note in a larger culinary symphony.

Whether its dining under the stars in a remote desert, enjoying a meal in an underwater restaurant, or savoring dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs, these fine-dining experiences redefine the boundaries of conventional eating and become a highlight of cultural exploration and luxury.

Extraordinary Fine-dining Experiences Around the World

1. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Maldives

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers a breathtaking fine-dining experience that is as spectacular as its surroundings. This luxurious resort boasts a collection of world-class dining venues, each offering a unique culinary adventure.

The standout is the underwater dining concept, where guests can dine amidst the vibrant marine life of the Maldives. The cuisine is as exquisite as the views, with menus featuring a blend of local and international flavors, prepared with the freshest ingredients.

The chefs are masters in their craft, creating dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. The ambiance of each restaurant is designed to complement its setting, from over-water dining pavilions to intimate beachfront settings.

The resorts commitment to sustainability is evident in its culinary practices, ensuring a responsible yet indulgent dining experience. At the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, each meal is not just a feast for the palate but also for the eyes, offering an unparalleled dining experience in one of the worlds most idyllic locations.

2. Joali Maldives, Maldives

Joali Maldives, located on Muravandhoo Island in the Raa Atoll, redefines luxury dining with its stunning overwater and beachfront settings. This exclusive resort is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse array of gourmet experiences that cater to the most discerning palates.

Among its standout dining venues is Saoke, designed by renowned Japanese architect Noriyoshi Muramatsu. This restaurant is known for its exceptional Japanese cuisine, featuring the freshest sushi and sashimi, along with a curated sake selection.

The ambiance at Saoke, with its overwater location and elegant design, perfectly complements the culinary journey. Joalis commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of locally sourced ingredients, which are masterfully incorporated into innovative dishes across its restaurants.

Each dining venue at Joali Maldives, whether offering Italian, Mediterranean, or Asian cuisine, provides a unique and immersive experience, blending exquisite flavors with breathtaking views.

The exceptional service, coupled with the serene and luxurious atmosphere of the resort, ensures that every meal is not just a dining experience but a celebration of the vibrant Maldivian culture and natural beauty.

3. The Inn at Little Washington, Virginia

The Inn at Little Washington, nestled in the picturesque Virginia countryside, is a culinary gem that offers an enchanting fine-dining experience. Renowned for its exceptional cuisine and unparalleled service, this establishment has consistently been recognized as one of the best in America.

Chef and proprietor Patrick OConnell, a self-taught culinary maestro, has created an imaginative and refined menu that showcases the best of American cuisine with a whimsical twist. The Inns opulent dining rooms provide a backdrop of luxury and elegance, where each table setting is a work of art.

The seasonal menu features locally sourced ingredients, blending fresh flavors with innovative culinary techniques. The experience is heightened by the Inns impressive wine selection and personalized service, making every meal a grand celebration.

The Inn at Little Washington is not just a restaurant; its a destination where food, art, and culture converge to create an unforgettable dining journey.

4. Shangri-La Vancouver, Canada

In the heart of Vancouver, the Shangri-La Hotel presents a fine-dining experience that mirrors the citys vibrant multicultural tapestry. The hotels signature restaurant, Market by Jean-Georges, is a culinary hotspot that reflects the dynamic and diverse food scene of Vancouver.

Helmed by the renowned Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the restaurant offers a menu that blends Asian influences with Canadian flair. The ingredients are locally sourced, emphasizing freshness and seasonality, a testament to Vancouvers rich agricultural landscape.

The dining space is elegantly designed, providing a serene yet sophisticated ambiance that complements the culinary experience. In addition to the main dining area, the restaurant features a chic bar and an outdoor terrace, offering diverse dining settings.

The Shangri-Las commitment to excellence is evident in the attentive service and the meticulously prepared dishes that offer a burst of flavors. This dining experience is not just about savoring exquisite food; its about celebrating Vancouvers rich cultural diversity and the art of fine dining.

5. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island epitomizes luxury dining in an idyllic island setting. Renowned for its iconic underwater restaurant, Ithaa, this resort offers an unparalleled culinary experience amidst the Indian Oceans stunning marine life.

Ithaa, meaning mother of pearl in Dhivehi, is the worlds first all-glass undersea restaurant, situated five meters below the ocean surface. Here, diners are enveloped in a 180-degree panoramic view of vibrant coral gardens and exotic sea creatures, creating an unforgettable backdrop.

The cuisine is a sophisticated fusion of Maldivian and Western influences, with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood and ingredients. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to match the surreal surroundings, offering a multi-sensory dining experience.

The resort also features other exceptional dining venues, each offering distinct flavors and atmospheres, from beachfront grills to over-water fine dining. Dining at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is not merely about the food; its an immersive journey into luxury, nature, and culinary excellence.

6. Under, Norway

Under, located in Lindesnes, Norway, is Europes first underwater restaurant and a marvel of modern architecture and culinary innovation.

Designed by the renowned architectural firm Snhetta, the restaurant is half-submerged into the North Sea, offering a unique perspective of the underwater world through its massive, slanting window.

Unders interior mirrors the serene, mysterious ambiance of the sea, creating an immersive atmosphere for diners. The menu, crafted by Chef Nicolai Ellitsgaard, emphasizes sustainable wildlife and locally sourced ingredients, offering a contemporary twist on Nordic cuisine.

Dishes are inspired by the sea and the wild surroundings, with a focus on purity, freshness, and simplicity. Dining at Under is not just about savoring extraordinary food; its a holistic experience of nature, architecture, and gastronomy, offering a new understanding of the seas resources and beauty.

7. Eden Roc Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Eden Roc Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic offers a luxurious dining experience in a tropical paradise setting. This boutique resort, nestled within the exclusive Cap Cana community, boasts a collection of world-class restaurants that cater to sophisticated palates.

The resorts flagship restaurant, Mediterraneo, showcases the richness of Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and authentic flavors.

The chefs at Eden Roc combine traditional cooking techniques with modern culinary trends, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in the Mediterranean culinary tradition.

The ambiance of the restaurants reflects the elegance and charm of the Caribbean, offering a tranquil and refined dining environment.

Whether its a beachside grill or an elegant indoor setting, each meal at Eden Roc Cap Cana is a celebration of the vibrant culture and natural bounty of the Dominican Republic, making it a must-visit destination for culinary enthusiasts.

8. The Cave, Bali, Indonesia

The Cave in Bali, Indonesia, offers a dining experience like no other, set within a natural cave on a secluded beach. This unique restaurant is part of the Samabe Bali Suites & Villas and provides an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

The Caves setting is dramatic and enchanting, with the natural acoustics and ambiance of the cave creating a truly magical dining experience. The menu features a fusion of local Balinese and international cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local seafood and ingredients sourced from the island.

The dishes are carefully crafted to complement the extraordinary surroundings, offering flavors as captivating as the setting itself. Dining in The Cave is not just about the food; its about immersing oneself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Bali, making it an unforgettable culinary adventure.

9. Klein Jan at Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa

Nestled in the heart of the vast Kalahari, Klein Jan represents a culinary oasis that transcends traditional fine dining. This unique restaurant, located at Tswalu Kalahari, South Africas largest private game reserve, offers an immersive experience that blends local heritage with contemporary cuisine.

Chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, the first South African to receive a Michelin star, masterfully crafts dishes that reflect the rich, diverse flavors of the Kalahari. The menu is a tribute to local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, intertwined with modern culinary techniques.

Diners embark on a sensory journey, where each dish tells a story of the land, its history, and its people. The ambiance is intimately tied to its environment, with a decor that complements the natural beauty and serenity of the Kalahari.

Dining at Klein Jan is not just about enjoying exceptional food; its about connecting with the soul of South Africa, its landscapes, and its cultural mosaic.

10. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, located on the picturesque Kona-Kohala coast of Hawaii, offers a dining experience that captures the essence of Hawaiian culture and cuisine. The resorts flagship restaurant, ULU Ocean Grill, boasts a spectacular oceanfront setting, providing an authentic Hawaiian atmosphere.

The menu at ULU focuses on fresh, local ingredients, with an emphasis on seafood and produce sourced directly from the islands rich volcanic soil.

The chefs skillfully blend traditional Hawaiian cooking techniques with contemporary culinary concepts, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in the local culture.

The resort also features a variety of other dining options, including a steakhouse and a beachside bar and grill, each offering a unique taste of Hawaii.

The dining experience at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is complemented by the warm Aloha spirit and the breathtaking natural beauty of the island, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a genuine Hawaiian culinary adventure.

11. Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Necker Island, Sir Richard Bransons private island in the British Virgin Islands, is an exclusive retreat that offers a bespoke dining experience in a paradisiacal setting. The culinary journey on Necker Island is as unique and personalized as the island itself.

The islands chefs are adept at creating customized menus that cater to guests individual preferences, ensuring a truly unique dining experience. The cuisine is a fusion of international flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Guests can enjoy their meals in a variety of settings around the island, from intimate beach picnics to elegant dinners in the Great House. The island also offers unique dining experiences like sushi nights and beach BBQs, each adding a distinct flavor to the stay.

Dining on Necker Island is not just about the exquisite food; its about the overall experience, which includes breathtaking views, exceptional service, and the feeling of being on your own private paradise. This exclusivity and attention to detail make dining on Necker Island an unforgettable part of the luxury island experience.

Final Thoughts

The world of fine dining transcends mere culinary indulgence, offering experiences that are as diverse and enchanting as the destinations themselves.

From the underwater marvels in the Maldives to the private island luxury of Necker Island, and from the cultural fusion of the Four Seasons in Hawaii to the intimate cave dining in Bali, each venue offers a unique journey.

These dining experiences are not just about exceptional food but are a celebration of local cultures, innovative culinary artistry, and breathtaking environments.