Are You Loyal?

What is the point of a loyalty card either with a cruise line, supermarket or a high street store?  A few of my clients have recently asked me the same question in regard to cruising.  Some people have said they do not seem to get anything at all so what is the point?  Well for me, I do think they are worth it but only if you are going to travel with the same cruise line time and time again.  The more points, the more benefits.  Your points start from your first cruise so eventually (depending on the cruise line and how many points you have) you will have free gifts, savings, upgrades, exclusive sailings, etc.

P&O for example have one of the best memberships which are based on the number of nights spent onboard which are then converted to points. Once you have spent at least 15 nights on board (150 points), you automatically become a member of the Peninsular Club. The points are named after oceans and seas which the P&O fleet of ships go to. Some of the benefits apart from those mentioned above, are (apart from getting to book your cruise before anyone else of course!), from 5% on board spend discount, invitations to inaugural events, hosted cocktail parties on board, a lapel pin, discount off travel insurance, priority with boarding and disembarking and a nice glass of champers. Oh ! I forgot the P&O slippers too, you would be surprised at how many people love them!

Another really good one is with Royal Caribbean. Membership benefits include onboard booklet including money off photographs, complimentary laundry, dinner with the Captain, priority boarding, future cruise discounts, lapel pins etc etc.

There are really far too many of the membership clubs to go into but if you are interested I would really take at a look at what they will offer you, but remember if you want to get to the top tiers, you do have to do alot of cruising with the same cruise line! If you are happy to do that then boy you will find them worthwhile. I also think there is so much competition with cruise lines these days that they will continue to add more benefits which can only be good news for you.

Loyalty membership has also shown a huge increase in repeat clients which is smashing for the cruise lines of course, but as always you have to work out if it will work for you.  Bit like is that bag of tea bags cheaper in Tesco or Asda really!

Till next time x