Thanks to a plethora of loyalty programs and strategic partnerships, booking a cruise with points is very possible. Various air and hotel loyalty programs have partnerships with cruise lines, allowing members to either book cruises directly with points or transfer points to a cruise line’s loyalty program. This guide aims to provide an overview of how to book a cruise with points or miles.
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Virgin Voyages with Virgin Red Points
Virgin Red often hosts promotions for members to redeem points for Virgin Voyages. Additionally, points from Virgin Atlantic can be transferred to Virgin Red, expanding the possibilities for members. Virgin Atlantic’s partnerships with various loyalty programs like American Express Membership Rewards also provide an avenue for gathering enough points for a cruise booking.
- For a more detailed guide, check out: How to Book a Virgin Voyages Cruise with Points
American Express Cruise Bookings
With the American Express Travel portal, cardholders can browse a wide range of cruises and book using Membership Rewards Points. The process is straightforward, and the portal provides a seamless booking experience for those looking to use their Amex points for a cruise.
- Amex Travel: https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/travel
Chase Ultimate Rewards Cruise Bookings
Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be used to book cruises through the Chase Travel Portal. The portal offers a variety of cruise options, and points can be applied directly towards the booking, reducing the overall cost.
Marriott Bonvoy Cruise Bookings
Marriott Bonvoy members have the option to book cruises through the Marriott Bonvoy Cruise portal. Points can be applied directly toward the booking, and the portal also provides an opportunity for members to earn additional points with each booking.
See our details post on how to book a cruise with Marriott Bonvoy Points.
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection with Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy points can also be utilized for bookings with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht CollectionRitz-Carlton Yacht Collection, offering a luxurious cruise experience to members. This is an exclusive opportunity to explore the seas in luxury using Marriott Bonvoy points. In order to book, you’ll need to call and speak with a Ritz-Carlton travel specialist.
Hyatt and Lindblad Expeditions Partnership
Hyatt’s partnership with Lindblad Expeditions allows World of Hyatt members to use their points for booking cruises on the National Geographic Endurance. Bookings can be made through the Hyatt/Lindblad website or by phone, providing a straightforward process for members to redeem their points for a cruise experience.
Timeshare Points for Cruise Bookings
Timeshare points also present an opportunity for cruise bookings. For instance, Hilton Grand Vacation Club members can use points with CruisesOnly, and Club Wyndham members can book with Norwegian Cruise Line.
Airline Cruise Portals
Several airlines extend their loyalty programs to cruises. For example, American Airlines, Delta, and United have cruise booking portals where members can use miles for bookings or earn miles for every dollar spent on a cruise.
- Delta Cruises: https://cruises.delta.com/
- American Airlines Cruises: https://www.bookaacruises.com/
- United Airlines Cruises: https://cruises.united.com/
Additional Opportunities
If you’re looking to book a cruise with points, we recommend trying to stay updated with the latest partnerships and promotional offers for whichever loyalty programs you have points with. Periodic promotions or special offers may provide enhanced value or new avenues for using points or miles for cruise bookings.
Leveraging points or miles for cruise bookings isn’t commonly the best way to maximize your point values, but if you’re sitting on a bunch or just really want to hit the seas, there are absolutely opportunities to cash in. By understanding the various avenues available and the partnerships between loyalty programs and cruise lines, you can effectively use their points or miles for memorable cruise experiences.
