Whether you’re just getting started with cruising or have already been on a few, understanding and maximizing cruise loyalty programs can help you unlock a range of valuable perks and privileges.

Imagine perks like priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, exclusive dining experiences, and access to members-only events—all of which can turn an already memorable trip into a truly special experience.

This guide explores the loyalty programs of major cruise lines departing from the U.S. and provides specific tips on how to earn and maximize your points with each.

From understanding the different levels and perks to uncovering secrets for getting the most points per cruise, you’ll be ready to chart a course to loyalty success!

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Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

1. Carnival Cruise Line – VIFP Club (Very Important Fun Person)

Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP Club is one of the most straightforward loyalty programs, making it easy for cruisers to earn points and see their progress.

You earn points based on each night spent on board, which means that every day counts toward the next level of perks.

The program is structured to reward both occasional cruisers and frequent Carnival travelers with a variety of benefits, from priority boarding to exclusive events.

Levels & Points Required:

• Blue (1st sailing): As a Blue member, you’re officially part of the VIFP Club!
  
  This tier gives you access to special offers and member-only deals.
  
  You’ll also receive a VIFP Club loyalty number, which is your key to tracking points and offers.

• Red (2–24 points): At the Red level, you start enjoying some additional perks.
  
  You’ll receive a free drink coupon for use at onboard bars on sailings longer than five nights, and you’ll be invited to members-only events, giving you a taste of the loyalty rewards Carnival has to offer.

• Gold (25–74 points): This tier gives you a special Gold VIFP pin, which you can wear on board.
  
  You’ll also continue to receive the free drink benefit on longer cruises and priority check-in at embarkation, saving you time and hassle.

• Platinum (75–199 points): Platinum members enjoy a host of premium perks, including priority boarding, priority embarkation and debarkation, access to Platinum-exclusive onboard parties, and even free laundry service.
  
  You’ll also have priority access to guest services and dedicated phone lines, so any needs you have are addressed quickly.

• Diamond (200+ points): The top-tier Diamond level includes all previous perks, plus special Diamond benefits like VIP seating at shows, unlimited laundry, and a unique Diamond gift each time you sail.
  
  You’ll even receive a special welcome letter from the ship’s captain.

• Maximizing Points on Carnival: Carnival often runs “Double Points” promotions on select sailings, which are excellent for speeding up your progress through the VIFP tiers.
  
  Look out for these deals and consider booking longer itineraries or back-to-back cruises to accumulate points faster.
  
  Opting for back-to-back voyages can be a great way to get the most points from a single trip, as each cruise counts separately toward your total points.

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2. Celebrity Cruises – Captain’s Club

Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club rewards travelers based on a point system that considers both the length of the cruise and the type of stateroom you book.

Suites and The Retreat are highly beneficial for earning points quickly, as they award additional points per night, letting you fast-track through the program.

Celebrity’s Captain’s Club is designed to provide increasingly luxurious perks as you reach higher levels, perfect for those who enjoy a refined cruising experience.

Levels & Points Required:

• Preview (0–2 points): At this introductory level, you get access to members-only deals and special promotions, which can save you money on future cruises.

• Classic (3–149 points): Classic members enjoy a complimentary welcome drink, early access to Captain’s Club events, and discounts on select onboard services.

• Select (150–299 points): At the Select level, you’ll receive priority embarkation and access to a complimentary daily cocktail hour, which offers exclusive drinks each evening.

• Elite (300–749 points): Elite members enjoy more exclusive perks, including complimentary access to lounges that serve breakfast, free laundry credits, and priority tender services.
  
  This level is designed to make your cruise experience smoother and more enjoyable.

• Elite Plus (750–2,999 points): This level builds upon Elite with expanded cocktail hours, extra laundry credits, and access to special events with senior officers.

• Zenith (3,000+ points): The ultimate tier, Zenith members receive a premium drinks package, additional onboard credits, and access to unique cruise experiences.
  
  They also enjoy complimentary cruises on milestone achievements, making this level the pinnacle of rewards.

Maximizing Points on Celebrity: Booking longer cruises or opting for suite accommodations accelerates your points earnings, especially since suites earn more points per night.

Additionally, Celebrity offers occasional point-matching programs, allowing cruisers to match their status from other loyalty programs.

Keep an eye on promotions that offer extra points, such as double points for suites, which can help you reach Elite and Zenith status faster.

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3. Costa Cruises – Costa Club

Costa Cruises rewards loyal cruisers through Costa Club, which is unique because it rewards members for both cruise duration and onboard spending.

Points are awarded based on both the length of your cruise and every dollar spent onboard, so it’s ideal for guests who enjoy specialty dining, shopping, or excursions.

Levels & Points Required:

• Ambra: All new Costa Club members start here, with access to Costa Club communications and exclusive discounts on future cruises.

• Acquamarina (1–2,000 points): Members receive access to Costa Club events, discounts on select onboard services, and a free welcome drink.

• Corallo (2,001–5,000 points): Corallo members enjoy priority boarding, welcome gifts, and additional discounts.
  
  This level also provides access to exclusive parties, giving you a taste of what’s to come.

• Perla (5,001–13,000 points): Members at this level receive complimentary cabin upgrades when available, as well as discounts on spa treatments and onboard services.

• Perla Oro (13,001–26,000 points): Perla Oro members enjoy priority embarkation, exclusive invitations to private cocktail parties, and the chance to dine with the ship’s captain.

• Perla Diamante (26,001+ points): The highest level, Perla Diamante members enjoy a wide range of benefits, including priority access at ports, a personal concierge, and substantial discounts on future bookings.

Maximizing Points on Costa: If you’re looking to boost your points with Costa, take advantage of the points awarded for onboard purchases.

Costa Cruises rewards spending on specialty dining, excursions, and spa services, so enjoy these activities to reach the next level faster.

Additionally, look out for Costa’s Fun & Joy or Deluxe packages, which offer bonus points and additional perks.

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4. Cunard Line – Cunard World Club

Cunard’s loyalty program, the Cunard World Club, caters to cruisers who appreciate the traditional elegance of cruising.

This program is structured around “Voyage Credits,” which are earned based on the number of cruises you take and their length.

Cunard’s benefits focus on enhancing the cruising experience with premium services and priority access.

Levels & Points Required:

• Bronze (1–2 credits): This level gives members access to Cunard World Club benefits, such as exclusive member discounts and early booking offers.

• Silver (3–7 credits): Silver members enjoy priority check-in, invitations to special Cunard World Club cocktail parties, and discounts on future bookings.

• Gold (8–15 credits): Gold members gain access to additional discounts, priority embarkation, upgraded cabin amenities, and enhanced onboard recognition.

• Platinum (15+ credits): Platinum members enjoy the full range of benefits, including complimentary internet, dedicated disembarkation lines, and exclusive access to private events onboard.

Maximizing Points on Cunard: For Cunard enthusiasts, longer voyages—such as world cruises or transatlantic crossings—provide more credits, helping you move up the tiers faster.

Booking a suite or a higher-class cabin also awards more points, bringing you closer to Platinum status with perks like free internet and private events.

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5. Disney Cruise Line – Castaway Club

Disney’s Castaway Club is designed with families in mind, rewarding loyal cruisers based on the number of completed sailings rather than the length of each cruise.

This program is ideal for those who prefer multiple short Disney cruises.

Levels & Points Required:

• Silver (1–4 sailings): Silver members enjoy early booking privileges for onboard activities and excursions, helping them secure popular activities before general booking opens.

• Gold (5–9 sailings): Gold members receive priority check-in and boarding, access to exclusive merchandise, and invitations to member-only events.

• Platinum (10+ sailings): Platinum members have access to the highest level of perks, including early booking windows, priority access for reservations, and special onboard gifts.

Maximizing Points on Disney: Since Disney rewards you per sailing rather than by length, shorter sailings can be an efficient way to build points.

Booking higher-category cabins, like family suites, can enhance your experience without affecting points but provides additional Disney amenities.

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6. Holland America Line – Mariner Society

Holland America’s Mariner Society rewards travelers based on “Cruise Day Credits,” which are earned for each day sailed.

Points accumulate more quickly for those who opt for long, immersive itineraries, making this program popular for dedicated Holland America cruisers.

Levels & Points Required:

• Star Mariner (1–29 points): Members receive access to onboard discounts and special promotions.

• 2-Star (30–74 points): Benefits include complimentary photographs, priority check-in, and access to exclusive onboard events.

• 3-Star (75–199 points): At this level, you’ll enjoy complimentary wine tastings, laundry services, and additional dining discounts.

• 4-Star (200–499 points): Offers expanded perks like complimentary canapés delivered to your room and significant discounts on shore excursions.

• 5-Star (500+ points): Holland America’s highest tier offers top-tier perks, including free laundry, premium dining experiences, and exclusive 5-Star recognition and rewards.

Maximizing Points on Holland America: Consider multi-week voyages or back-to-back sailings to quickly accumulate points.

Holland America’s exotic itineraries are typically longer, allowing you to reach higher tiers and enjoy perks like free laundry and specialty dining discounts.

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7. MSC Cruises – MSC Voyagers Club

MSC’s Voyagers Club rewards members based on “Voyages Club Points,” which are calculated using cruise length, fare type, and onboard spending.

MSC also offers a unique loyalty match program, allowing you to match your status from other cruise or travel programs for immediate perks.

Levels & Points Required:

• Welcome (1st cruise): Basic loyalty discounts on future bookings and access to MSC member-only events.

• Classic (1–2,199 points): Exclusive discounts, onboard events, and special offers.

• Silver (2,200–4,299 points): Priority boarding, access to exclusive discounts, and special gifts.

• Gold (4,300–9,999 points): Additional perks like welcome back gifts and priority boarding for added convenience.

• Diamond (10,000+ points): Highest level with exclusive events, parties, complimentary services, and VIP benefits.

Maximizing Points on MSC: Take advantage of MSC’s loyalty match program if you have status with another cruise line.

Onboard spending at specialty dining, shopping, and shore excursions will boost your points quickly.

Double-points promotions are also available from time to time, helping you reach Diamond status faster.

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8. Norwegian Cruise Line – Latitudes Rewards

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards program is designed for those who love flexibility and freedom at sea.

You earn points based on each night sailed, with extra points for suite bookings, The Haven (Norwegian’s ship-within-a-ship luxury suites), and longer cruises.

The program encourages frequent cruising and offers increasingly valuable perks as you move up the levels.

Levels & Points Required:

• Bronze (1–29 points): Basic level with access to exclusive Latitudes offers and discounts on select onboard services and purchases.

• Silver (30–54 points): Adds perks like a complimentary photo each cruise and special onboard discounts.

• Gold (55–79 points): Enjoy priority check-in, discounts on dining and spa services, and access to members-only events.

• Platinum (80–174 points): This level unlocks added perks like dinner vouchers at specialty restaurants, a free wine tasting, and complimentary chocolate-covered strawberries.

• Platinum Plus (175–699 points): Additional benefits include special shore excursion discounts, more dining perks, and VIP privileges.

• Ambassador (700+ points): The top level offers exclusive Ambassador perks, including access to VIP events, personal recognition by the captain, and special offers on future cruises.

Maximizing Points on Norwegian: If you’re looking to fast-track your status, booking a suite or The Haven offers extra points per night, helping you reach Platinum and Ambassador levels faster.

Norwegian also frequently offers double-points promotions on select sailings, making it easier to accumulate points quickly.

Additionally, Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Insider website sometimes has unique offers and events, so be sure to check for these member-exclusive deals.

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9. Oceania Cruises – Oceania Club

Oceania’s Oceania Club rewards loyal guests based on the number of cruises completed rather than cruise length, making this an ideal program for frequent travelers who prefer multiple shorter cruises.

Each level unlocks luxurious perks, from onboard credits to exclusive Oceania Club events.

Levels & Points Required:

• Blue (1 cruise): Starting with the Blue tier, members receive exclusive discounts and Oceania Club newsletters with special promotions.

• Bronze (2–4 cruises): Adds onboard credits and invites to members-only events.

• Silver (5–9 cruises): Enhanced discounts, welcome gifts, and access to exclusive dining events.

• Gold (10–19 cruises): Gold members enjoy added perks like priority disembarkation and upgraded onboard services.

• Platinum (20–39 cruises): At this level, you’ll receive greater onboard credits, dining upgrades, and more personalized service.

• Diamond (40+ cruises): The highest tier offers luxurious benefits, such as a personal concierge, premium access to all onboard events, and exclusive discounts on select cruises.

Maximizing Points on Oceania: Oceania Club’s rewards are based on the number of cruises completed, so shorter, frequent cruises can quickly elevate your status.

Oceania’s destination-intensive itineraries often feature back-to-back options, giving you the chance to book multiple cruises and increase your cruise count while visiting different regions.

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10. Princess Cruises – Captain’s Circle

Princess Cruises’ Captain’s Circle rewards passengers based on the total number of days sailed.

Longer cruises and back-to-back voyages are particularly beneficial, making this program ideal for travelers who enjoy extended journeys at sea.

As you accumulate days, you’ll unlock increasingly exclusive perks that enhance your cruise experience.

Levels & Points Required:

• Gold (1–29 cruise days): Access to basic loyalty benefits, including priority booking on new itineraries and occasional Captain’s Circle member promotions.

• Ruby (30–49 cruise days): Ruby members enjoy complimentary onboard events and additional discounts.

• Platinum (50–149 cruise days): Includes complimentary internet access in select locations, priority embarkation, and special Captain’s Circle events.

• Elite (150+ cruise days): Elite members receive all previous benefits, plus priority disembarkation, complimentary laundry service, and special in-room amenities.

Maximizing Points on Princess: Prioritize longer itineraries, especially exotic or world cruises, which often include multiple segments and offer a high number of days.

Suite bookings on longer cruises can help you quickly reach Elite status, where perks like complimentary laundry and priority services significantly enhance your experience.

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11. Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Seven Seas Society

Regent’s Seven Seas Society rewards guests based on the number of nights sailed, ideal for fans of extended luxury voyages.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, known for its all-inclusive luxury experience, provides increasingly exclusive benefits as you progress through the levels.

Levels & Points Required:

• Bronze (1–20 nights): Access to Seven Seas Society savings and members-only events.

• Silver (21–74 nights): Priority booking for excursions, special invites to events, and members-only offers.

• Gold (75–199 nights): Added perks like complimentary internet, exclusive gifts, and additional discounts.

• Platinum (200–399 nights): Priority embarkation, added internet minutes, and a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay on select cruises.

• Titanium (400+ nights): Enjoy a personal concierge, priority access to exclusive events, and free shore excursions on every voyage.

Maximizing Points on Regent: Booking longer cruises or back-to-back itineraries is the fastest way to reach higher levels, especially since Regent’s all-inclusive pricing includes many amenities that typically earn points elsewhere.

Regent occasionally offers limited-time loyalty bonuses, so watch for these deals to accelerate your journey to Titanium.

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12. Royal Caribbean – Crown & Anchor Society

Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society awards points based on each night sailed, with double points for suites, allowing guests to move through the levels faster.

Each tier offers new benefits that can make your cruise experience smoother, from priority boarding to exclusive members-only events.

Levels & Points Required:

• Gold (3–29 points): Basic member benefits, including access to special offers and discounts.

• Platinum (30–54 points): Adds perks like priority check-in and exclusive onboard offers.

• Emerald (55–79 points): Enhanced discounts on internet, beverages, and onboard services.

• Diamond (80–174 points): Diamond members enjoy exclusive lounge access, complimentary drinks, and priority seating for events.

• Diamond Plus (175–699 points): Expanded privileges, including dining discounts, VIP events, and additional perks.

• Pinnacle Club (700+ points): Ultimate level with VIP status, exclusive events, and even free cruises upon reaching major milestones.

Maximizing Points on Royal Caribbean: Booking suites is a fast track to earning points, as these offer double points per night.

Longer cruises, back-to-back itineraries, and booking during double-points promotions can help you achieve higher tiers, where benefits like private lounges and exclusive member events enhance your experience.

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13. Seabourn – Seabourn Club

Seabourn Club’s loyalty program rewards members based on the number of nights sailed, making it easy for guests on extended voyages to reach higher tiers quickly.

Seabourn Club benefits emphasize personal service and exclusive experiences.

Levels & Points Required:

• Silver (1–19 days): Access to members-only Seabourn Club events and exclusive offers.

• Gold (20–69 days): Complimentary internet minutes, additional discounts, and access to special onboard events.

• Platinum (70–139 days): Enjoy upgraded internet access, special invites, and even more member benefits.

• Diamond (140+ days): The highest tier includes priority boarding, complimentary shore excursions, and exclusive onboard recognition.

Maximizing Points on Seabourn: Longer sailings, especially on Seabourn’s exotic itineraries, help you accumulate days quickly.

Booking suites or extended itineraries can also be a great way to experience Seabourn’s luxury offerings while moving up the loyalty ladder.

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14. Silversea – Venetian Society

Silversea’s Venetian Society program rewards members with points based on the total number of days sailed.

Known for its luxurious, all-inclusive experience, Silversea’s loyalty program focuses on providing exclusive access and benefits tailored to high-end travelers.

Levels & Points Required:

• Member (1 day): Basic benefits with access to members-only offers and discounts.

• Silver (100–249 days): Complimentary laundry services and invitations to exclusive Venetian Society events.

• Gold (250–499 days): Includes more exclusive events and even free cruises on milestone anniversaries.

• Platinum (500+ days): The pinnacle of luxury, with all previous perks plus personal concierge services and added benefits on every cruise.

Maximizing Points on Silversea: Silversea’s around-the-world and expedition cruises are excellent options for those seeking high-day sailings, which quickly accumulate points.

Booking in higher suites offers a more opulent experience while helping you reach higher Venetian Society levels faster.

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15. Viking Ocean Cruises – Viking Explorer Society

Viking’s Explorer Society is an all-encompassing loyalty program that rewards Viking travelers based on each day sailed.

Viking’s program is unique in that it doesn’t have specific tiers but instead provides tailored perks to frequent travelers.

Levels: No formal levels, but benefits include:

• Access to special cruise discounts and offers.

• Members-only events and exclusive onboard perks.

• Early booking notifications and other perks for loyal members.

Maximizing Points on Viking: Viking rewards repeat travelers with special offers and early booking discounts, so booking back-to-back cruises can maximize benefits.

Frequent Viking travelers are invited to exclusive events, and loyalty perks are customized based on their history with Viking.

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16. Virgin Voyages – Sailor Loot and Rewards

Virgin Voyages takes a different approach with Sailor Loot, an onboard credit program rather than a traditional points-based loyalty structure.

Virgin rewards loyalty by offering credits for use on future voyages, ideal for younger, adventurous travelers.

Levels: Virgin doesn’t use tiered levels, but:

• Rewards come in the form of “Sailor Loot,” which can be used for onboard purchases, dining, and excursions.

• Frequent cruisers earn higher Sailor Loot bonuses, increasing with the number of cruises booked within a year.

Maximizing Sailor Loot on Virgin Voyages: Booking multiple cruises within a single year allows you to earn higher Sailor Loot rewards.

Virgin’s emphasis on onboard experiences makes this program ideal for those who prefer flexible perks without the constraints of traditional loyalty tiers.

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Tips to Maximize Points Across All Cruise Lines

• Choose Longer Cruises and Back-to-Back Voyages: With many programs rewarding based on cruise days, longer or consecutive cruises are the quickest ways to accumulate points.

• Upgrade to Suites When Possible: Suites often come with double points or additional perks, helping you move up the loyalty ranks more quickly.

• Take Advantage of Double-Point Promotions: Many cruise lines offer “Double Points” promotions for specific sailings.
  
  These are excellent opportunities to jump up the ranks without booking extra cruises.

• Spend on Onboard Services: If the loyalty program rewards onboard spending (like Costa and MSC), splurge on specialty dining, excursions, and spa treatments.

• Utilize Loyalty Match Programs: Some lines, like MSC Voyagers Club, allow you to transfer your loyalty status from other travel programs, giving you instant access to perks.

By understanding each cruise line’s loyalty program structure and applying these tips, you can maximize your points on every voyage, transforming each trip into a rewarding experience filled with exclusive perks, discounts, and VIP treatment.

Plan Your Next Cruise!

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