What To Know
- The world of cruising offers a wide array of options, each catering to a unique set of preferences and budgets.
- In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the details of Virgin Voyages’ and Royal Caribbean’s loyalty programs to determine if the former can match the latter’s coveted status levels.
- Loyalty points can be earned on Virgin Voyages cruises through spending on onboard purchases, participating in activities, and completing surveys.
The world of cruising offers a wide array of options, each catering to a unique set of preferences and budgets. When it comes to premium cruise experiences, two industry giants stand out: Virgin Voyages and Royal Caribbean. Both offer exceptional amenities, innovative dining concepts, and unparalleled entertainment options. But how do they compare when it comes to elite cruise status? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the details of Virgin Voyages’ and Royal Caribbean’s loyalty programs to determine if the former can match the latter’s coveted status levels.
Comparing Loyalty Programs
Virgin Voyages’ “The Scarlet Lady” Program
Virgin Voyages’ loyalty program, “The Scarlet Lady,” features four tiers:
1. Seafarer: Entry-level tier with basic benefits such as exclusive offers and priority boarding.
2. Rocker: Mid-tier with added perks like complimentary Wi-Fi and priority dining reservations.
3. Insider: Upper-tier with exclusive access to private events, complimentary excursions, and priority tendering.
4. Icon: Top-tier with the most comprehensive benefits, including unlimited Wi-Fi, unlimited laundry, and a dedicated concierge.
Royal Caribbean’s “Crown & Anchor Society” Program
Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program, “Crown & Anchor Society,” has six tiers:
1. Member: Entry-level tier with basic benefits such as discounts on cruises and onboard purchases.
2. Gold: Mid-tier with added perks like priority check-in and disembarkation, as well as complimentary stateroom upgrades.
3. Platinum: Upper-tier with exclusive access to concierge services, complimentary dining packages, and priority tendering.
4. Emerald: Elite-tier with the most comprehensive benefits, including unlimited internet access, free laundry, and a dedicated suite concierge.
5. Diamond: Pinnacle-tier with exclusive perks such as complimentary cabin upgrades, priority access to amenities, and invitations to special events.
6. Diamond Plus: The highest tier, reserved for the most loyal guests, with additional benefits like complimentary shore excursions and a dedicated shoreside concierge.
Matching Virgin Voyages to Royal Caribbean Status
While the tier structures of Virgin Voyages’ and Royal Caribbean‘s loyalty programs differ, it is possible to make some general comparisons.
| Virgin Voyages Tier | Royal Caribbean Tier |
| — | — |
| Seafarer | Member |
| Rocker | Gold |
| Insider | Platinum |
| Icon | Emerald |
Benefits Comparison
Complimentary Amenities
Virgin Voyages: Unlimited Wi-Fi (Icon tier only), complimentary excursions (Insider tier only).
Royal Caribbean: Unlimited internet access (Emerald tier only), complimentary dining packages (Platinum tier only).
Priority Services
Virgin Voyages: Priority boarding, priority dining reservations, priority tendering (Insider tier only).
Royal Caribbean: Priority check-in, priority disembarkation, priority tendering (Platinum tier only).
Exclusive Access
Virgin Voyages: Private events (Insider tier only), dedicated concierge (Icon tier only).
Royal Caribbean: Concierge services (Platinum tier only), dedicated suite concierge (Emerald tier only).
Which Program is Better?
The better loyalty program depends on individual preferences and cruising habits.
- If unlimited Wi-Fi and complimentary excursions are top priorities, Virgin Voyages’ “The Scarlet Lady” program may be a better fit.
- If priority services, exclusive access, and a wider range of tier levels are desired, Royal Caribbean’s “Crown & Anchor Society” program may be more suitable.
Final Thoughts: A Matter of Choice
Ultimately, the question of whether Virgin Voyages matches Royal Caribbean’s status depends on the specific benefits and privileges that are most important to the individual cruiser. Both loyalty programs offer exceptional perks and benefits designed to enhance the cruise experience. By carefully considering the comparison outlined in this guide, travelers can make an informed decision about which program best aligns with their needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I transfer my Royal Caribbean loyalty status to Virgin Voyages?
No, the loyalty programs of Virgin Voyages and Royal Caribbean are separate and distinct. Status cannot be transferred between the two programs.
2. Does Virgin Voyages offer any benefits for repeat cruisers without loyalty status?
Yes, Virgin Voyages offers a “Loyal Sailor” program that provides discounts and exclusive offers to repeat cruisers who have sailed with them at least once before.
3. How can I earn loyalty points on Virgin Voyages?
Loyalty points can be earned on Virgin Voyages cruises through spending on onboard purchases, participating in activities, and completing surveys.
