How cruise loyalty programs make travel easier, cheaper
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We are always happy to hear from our readers and aim to bring you the best tips for making your vacations stress-free. As an example, Barbara Van Elsen, a 70-year-old frequent cruiser, tells us about how she has learned to pack less when going on Holland America Line’s Mariner Society loyalty program.
Her membership provides complimentary laundry and pressing services, which can come in handy when sailing for many weeks. By sharing stories like Barbara’s, we hope to make traveling lighter and more efficient for everyone.
What are the benefits of cruise line loyalty programs?
Cruise line loyalty programs offer members a variety of perks, from before guests board to the time they get off the ship. Each line’s program is different, but the benefits generally get better – and more plentiful – as guests move up the ranks.
Those may include priority embarkation and disembarkation or exclusive access to onboard lounges, according to Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel. Van Elsen said she has received priority access to tender boats, saving her the hassle of a long wait at certain ports.
Passengers can also get amenities that typically cost extra for a lower price. For example, drinks may be included or discounted, which Feldman called “one of the most lucrative benefits,” and members can get deals on Wi-Fi.
Jason Wallace, 43, is an Emerald member of Royal Caribbean International’s Crown & Anchor Society, and said the perk he and his family uses most is a 50% discount on coffee drinks. “I mean, we all grab coffees every morning,” said the real estate agent from Joplin, Missouri, who has cruised often with his wife and two sons.
How to join cruise line loyalty programs.
Cruise lines typically enroll passengers automatically so they can start gaining loyalty status. “It’s not like you have to sign up for the program,” Banks said. “Most cruise lines, you sail with them one time and you automatically will become a member of their program.”
They are free to join, and guests accumulate loyalty points during each sailing, typically at a rate of one point per night for standard accommodations. “So, if I’m going on a seven-day sailing, I may accumulate seven points,” Banks said
Passengers who stay in higher-level cabins earn more loyalty points on a cruise ship. Solo travelers in double rooms also get more points. Each person in the room can earn points. The methods to level up on a cruise ship’s loyalty program are different for each cruise line. Carnival Cruise Line members start at the Blue tier and move up as they gain points. Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society members move up to higher tiers based on their points. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards Program rewards members with perks at various levels. Holland America’s Mariner Society members increase their status based on the number of cruise days they have completed. Princess Cruises’ Captain’s Circle members level up based on the number of cruises or cruise days they have completed.