Choosing the Right Cruise: Beyond the Loyalty Perks

Cruise line loyalty programs have become a significant part of the cruising experience, offering frequent travelers a wide range of benefits that can enhance their time at sea. From priority boarding and exclusive events to discounts on dining and spa services, these programs provide a sense of appreciation and added value to your travels. Popular programs such as Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society, Princess Cruises’ Captain’s Circle, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards entice cruisers with tiered levels that unlock more perks the more you sail.

However, while these loyalty perks can certainly sweeten the deal, it’s essential to remember that a cruise vacation is much more than the benefits you receive on board. The most memorable cruises are those that take you to the destinations you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Here’s why it’s important to choose your cruise based on the ports and experiences you desire, not just your loyalty status.

Focus on the Journey, Not Just the Perks

1. Destination Drives the Experience
The true essence of cruising lies in the journey—the places you’ll explore, the cultures you’ll immerse yourself in, and the unforgettable moments that happen off the ship. We’ve been fortunate to sail on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Disney, and MSC, each offering unique perks as part of their loyalty programs. But while we’ve enjoyed the benefits of our high status on some lines, it’s the destinations that have left the most lasting impressions. From snorkeling in Cozumel’s vibrant reefs to exploring ancient castles in Scotland, these experiences far outweigh any onboard perks.

2. Loyalty Programs Are Nice, But Not All Perks Are Created Equal
Every cruise line’s loyalty program comes with its own set of benefits, ranging from simple rewards like priority check-in to more luxurious perks such as access to private lounges and concierge services. But not all perks are relevant to every traveler. For instance, if you rarely use onboard Wi-Fi, the discounts on internet packages may not be as valuable to you. On our trips, we’ve found that the allure of a new port often outshines the comforts of any loyalty perk. Whether it’s strolling through the markets of Croatia or savoring local dishes in a quaint French village, it’s these moments that truly define a cruise.

3. Choosing the Right Itinerary—and Cabin—Matters More
Whether it’s the Mediterranean, Alaska, the Caribbean, or a transatlantic adventure, each cruise destination offers a unique experience. Over the years, we’ve sailed to breathtaking places like Alaska’s icy fjords, the turquoise waters of Tahiti, and the historic streets of Rome. But just as important as the destination is the choice of your onboard accommodations. We love to travel in style, often choosing to fly business class to Europe (the secret to no jet lag is sleeping on the plane!) and booking suites on board. Experiences like MSC’s Yacht Club, Aqua Class mini-suites, or the ‘ship within a ship’ concept provide a level of comfort that makes the journey itself just as enjoyable as the destination. Selecting the right room can elevate your entire cruise experience, making it a key factor when planning your trip.

4. Variety Adds to the Cruising Experience
Sticking with one cruise line to climb the loyalty ladder can be tempting, but it can also limit your experiences. Each cruise line has its own personality, from the elegance of Celebrity to the family-friendly fun of Disney. For us, exploring different lines has been part of the adventure. We’ve loved Disney’s magical touch in the Caribbean and MSC’s European flair in the Mediterranean. Trying different lines allows you to find the one that best suits your style and the types of adventures you enjoy most.

5. Maximize Value, But Don’t Let It Dictate Your Choices
Loyalty programs are excellent tools for getting more value from your cruise, but they shouldn’t be the primary factor in choosing where to sail. Instead, use these programs as a way to enhance your experience rather than drive it. We’ve learned that while perks like priority embarkation or a welcome gift are nice, they’re not the reason we set sail. It’s the thrill of waking up to a new port, the joy of trying new foods, and the chance to create memories that last a lifetime that keeps us cruising.

Cruise Line Loyalty Programs Overview
To help you navigate the perks of each program, here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular cruise line loyalty programs:

• Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society
  Earn points for every night you sail, with double points for suite guests. Benefits include priority boarding, special discounts, access to private lounges, and exclusive events for members.
• Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club
  With five tiers from Classic to Zenith, the Captain’s Club offers benefits like complimentary internet, priority embarkation, concierge services, and exclusive invites. Points are earned per night based on your stateroom category, making it easier to climb the ranks with suite bookings.
• Princess Cruises Captain’s Circle
  Captain’s Circle members enjoy benefits like priority check-in, special event invitations, and discounts on future bookings. Higher tiers include access to an exclusive Captain’s Circle Host onboard and other special amenities.
• Norwegian Cruise Line Latitudes Rewards
  With tiers ranging from Bronze to Ambassador, Norwegian rewards frequent cruisers with priority check-in, complimentary wine, exclusive onboard discounts, and special offers on future cruises.
• Holland America Line Mariner Society
  Mariner Society members earn points for every cruise and onboard purchase, with benefits like welcome-back lunches, collectible gifts, and discounts on shore excursions. Higher tiers unlock priority services and free laundry.
• MSC Voyagers Club
  MSC’s program rewards members with benefits like exclusive onboard discounts, priority embarkation, and invites to members-only events. Points are earned through cruising and onboard spending, with a unique matching program that allows you to carry over status from other loyalty programs.
• Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club
  Disney’s Castaway Club offers Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, with benefits such as priority booking for activities, a dedicated check-in line, and a welcome-back gift. Platinum members also enjoy the earliest access to new itineraries.

Remember to Navigate Wisely
The best cruise is one that takes you on an unforgettable journey, not just one that offers the most loyalty perks. By choosing your cruise based on destinations, accommodations, and experiences that resonate with you, you’ll create memories that far outweigh any onboard benefit. So, while it’s great to enjoy the perks of your loyalty status, always let your sense of adventure guide you first.

For a detailed guide on cruise line loyalty programs, including how to maximize your perks, check out our comprehensive document, “Cruise Line Loyalty Programs – A Guide to Unlocking Exclusive Perks at Sea” on our website.