Cruising is one of the best ways to explore the world, and if you’re a frequent cruiser like me—someone who has been on hundreds of cruises—you know the value of a good loyalty program. Cruise lines offer some incredible perks for their repeat guests, from discounts and priority boarding to free cruises. But not all loyalty programs are created equal.
In this deep dive, I’ll break down the best cruise loyalty programs, comparing their rewards, benefits, and how quickly you can climb the ranks. If you’re looking to maximize your cruising experience, this guide will help you choose the best loyalty program for your needs.
What Makes a Great Cruise Loyalty Program?
Before we dive into specific cruise lines, let’s talk about what makes a loyalty program truly valuable. Here are the key factors I consider when evaluating these programs:
- Ease of Earning Points – How quickly can you accumulate points or progress through tiers?
- Valuable Perks – Are the perks worthwhile, such as priority boarding, free drinks, or free cruises?
- Elite Status Recognition – Do higher-tier members get truly exclusive benefits?
- Flexibility of Use – Are there blackout dates, restrictions, or limited availability on rewards?
- Transferability – Can benefits be extended to family members or friends?
Now, let’s take a look at the top cruise line loyalty programs and see which one comes out on top.
1. Royal Caribbean – Crown & Anchor Society
Overview: Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society is one of the most rewarding programs for frequent cruisers. With six tiers, guests accumulate points based on the number of nights sailed, with suite guests earning double points.
Key Perks:
- Priority check-in and boarding (Platinum and above)
- Exclusive onboard discounts and offers
- Complimentary drinks (Diamond and above)
- Free cruise at Pinnacle Club status (700+ points)
Best For: Cruisers who frequently sail with Royal Caribbean and want excellent mid-tier perks.
2. Carnival – VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club
Overview: Carnival’s loyalty program is known for being fun and simple. You earn points for every night sailed, and there are five tiers.
Key Perks:
- Priority boarding (Platinum and above)
- Free drinks at sea (Diamond level)
- Complimentary laundry service
- Special offers on future cruises
Best For: Budget-conscious cruisers who love a lively onboard atmosphere.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line – Latitudes Rewards
Overview: Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards program is great for those who prefer freestyle cruising. Points are earned per night, and higher-tier members enjoy more exclusive perks.
Key Perks:
- Priority embarkation and disembarkation (Platinum and above)
- Exclusive cocktail parties (Gold and above)
- Free specialty dining and onboard credits
- Complimentary cruise at Ambassador level (700+ points)
Best For: Travelers who enjoy flexible dining options and luxury perks.
4. Princess Cruises – Captain’s Circle
Overview: Princess offers a straightforward loyalty program with perks that improve over time.
Key Perks:
- Priority embarkation (Platinum and above)
- Complimentary Wi-Fi for Elite members
- Free minibar setup (Elite level)
- Special discounted cruise fares
Best For: Cruisers who enjoy premium experiences and longer voyages.
5. Holland America – Mariner Society
Overview: Holland America’s Mariner Society is best suited for those who appreciate classic, refined cruising.
Key Perks:
- Complimentary specialty dining (4-star and above)
- Priority check-in and disembarkation
- Free laundry and pressing service
- Exclusive onboard events
Best For: Mature travelers who enjoy an elegant cruise atmosphere.
6. MSC Cruises – Voyagers Club
Overview: MSC’s Voyagers Club offers some of the most generous perks, including a status match program from other travel brands.
Key Perks:
- Discounts on future cruises
- Free specialty dining (Diamond level)
- Priority boarding and luggage handling
- Complimentary spa treatments (top tier)
Best For: International cruisers looking for luxury at a reasonable price.
Which Loyalty Program is Best?
If you’re wondering which program offers the best rewards, it really depends on your cruising habits. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Best for Frequent Cruisers: Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society
- Best for Budget Travelers: Carnival’s VIFP Club
- Best for Luxury Cruisers: Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards or MSC Voyagers Club
- Best for Long Voyages: Princess Cruises Captain’s Circle
- Best for Classic Cruising: Holland America’s Mariner Society
For me, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian stand out for their balance of perks and flexibility. If you’re after a program that offers real value without taking decades to reach the top tiers, these are excellent choices.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Rewards
If you love cruising, signing up for a loyalty program is a no-brainer. Here are some tips to get the most out of your membership:
- Stick to One Cruise Line – Loyalty pays off when you sail with the same company regularly.
- Book Longer Cruises – The more nights you sail, the faster you earn points.
- Use Credit Card Perks – Some cruise lines offer co-branded credit cards for additional benefits.
- Watch for Promotions – Cruise lines sometimes offer double points on select sailings.
- Take Advantage of Status Matching – If you have high status with one program, MSC’s Voyagers Club lets you match it for instant perks.
No matter which cruise line you prefer, loyalty programs are designed to enhance your experience at sea. Choose the right one for your travel style, and you’ll be sailing in VIP luxury in no time!
Have you experienced any of these loyalty programs? Share your thoughts in the comments!