Royal Caribbean Adjusts Casino Rewards Program, Sparking Mixed Reactions
Loyal Royal Caribbean casino players are buzzing with mixed feelings after the cruise line made significant changes to its Instant Certificate rewards program. While the updates aim to expand options for lower-tier players, many loyal cruisers are frustrated by what they perceive as a downgrade in benefits.
How Royal Caribbean’s Casino Rewards Work
Royal Caribbean offers several ways for casino players to earn free cruises:
- Annual Certificates: Based on players’ status levels each year.
- Targeted Offers: Sent via email or mail, often tailored to specific play levels.
- Instant Certificates: Earned during a single cruise by reaching specific point thresholds, redeemable for a list of eligible sailings.
The Instant Certificates are particularly popular since players can view eligible cruises immediately via a QR code in the casino. This allows them to aim for specific sailings rather than hoping for a random offer later.
Additionally, players who book through the NextCruise program before leaving the ship receive extra perks, such as free play credits. For example, players reaching 4,000 points can earn $500 in free play on the cruise they book with their certificate.
What’s Changing in the Rewards Program?
In December, Royal Caribbean introduced a two-tier system for certain lower point levels. Previously, these tiers offered free cruises for two people in a cabin, requiring players to pay only taxes and port fees. Now, the changes include:
- Two Lists for Lower Tiers:
- A list of free cruises for two, similar to past offers.
- A new list of “free cruises for one” in a two-person cabin.
These one-person offers operate as BOGO (buy one, get one) deals. Players pay the taxes and port fees for two passengers but only cover the cruise fare for one. Unlike the traditional two-person offers, the room cannot be booked for a single traveler at no additional cost.
What Do These Changes Mean?
At first glance, the changes caused confusion and frustration, especially among lower-tier players. Many thought free cruises for two were being replaced with BOGO offers. However, Royal Caribbean clarified that the BOGO list is an addition, not a replacement, to the complimentary cruise list.
For example:
- At the 1,200-point level, players now see a short list of complimentary cruises for two alongside a much longer BOGO cruise list.
- While the free cruise options primarily include off-peak dates and shorter sailings, the BOGO list offers greater variety in itineraries and ships.
Higher tiers, such as those at the 3,000-point level and above, remain unchanged. These lists still exclusively feature free cruises for two, with no BOGO offers.
A Boost for Lower-Tier Gamblers
The changes could benefit casual players. Previously, reaching a low threshold like 400 points on a short cruise earned just a $100 discount on a future trip. Now, players at this level gain access to the expanded BOGO list, giving them more value and choice.
Why Did Royal Caribbean Make This Change?
While Royal Caribbean hasn’t disclosed its motivations, several factors may be at play:
- Incentivizing Higher Play Levels: Encouraging players to aim for more points to unlock better rewards.
- Boosting Passenger Numbers: Encouraging lower-tier gamblers to bring companions, who may gamble or contribute to room costs.
Presentation Confusion Causes a Stir
The rollout of these changes caused initial panic among the cruise line’s casino loyalists, many of whom misunderstood the updates. Some assumed that the free cruise options for two were being eliminated for tiers below 3,000 points.
What’s Next for Casino Players?
For Royal Caribbean’s casino players, the new structure brings both opportunities and adjustments. While higher-tier players will notice no changes, lower-tier gamblers now have additional options, albeit with slightly different terms.
For anyone eyeing a free or discounted cruise, it’s worth exploring the expanded lists and planning how to maximize rewards on their next voyage. Royal Caribbean continues to refine its program, but one thing is certain: loyal gamblers remain an integral part of the cruise line’s strategy.
