Royal caribbean boosts cruise rewards with new co-branded credit cards
Royal Caribbean is betting big on its loyal customer base, launching two new credit cards through Bank of America designed to fuel future sailings. Forget the endless accumulation of points – these cards are built around a single, compelling objective: getting you back on the high seas.
A closer look at the royal one and royal one plus
The Royal ONE™ Visa Signature® card offers a no-annual-fee option, clocking in at $99. It’s a solid choice for cruisers who don’t sail multiple times a year, boasting priority boarding for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity lines, a $100 anniversary reward after $10,000 spent in the preceding year, and crucially, no foreign transaction fees. The welcome bonus? 45,000 points after $2,000 in purchases within 90 days – easily enough for a substantial onboard credit or even a partial cabin upgrade.
But the Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® card ups the ante, demanding a $99 annual fee, but delivering a more substantial reward structure. New cardholders can snag 70,000 points after $3,000 in spending within the first 90 days, translating to a minimum of $700 in value. This is a serious proposition for frequent cruisers – enough points for a multi-night cruise, and a $200 anniversary reward after $20,000 spent.
The nitty-gritty rewards breakdown
Let’s be clear: points are valuable, but their redemption power is what truly matters. The Royal ONE earns 3 points per dollar on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea cruises; 2 points per dollar on groceries, gas, and EV charging; and 1 point per dollar on everything else. The Royal ONE Plus, however, offers a steeper climb: 4 points per dollar on those same premium cruise lines, 2 points on groceries, gas, EV charging, airfare, hotels, and dining, and a single point on the rest. Treating your spending strategically is key – transferable rewards programs still offer superior value, but these cards provide tangible benefits directly tied to your cruising habits.
The bottom line
Ultimately, the decision hinges on your cruising frequency and willingness to embrace the annual fee. The no-annual-fee Royal ONE Visa remains a pragmatic choice for infrequent cruisers or those prioritizing flexibility. However, for the dedicated traveler – those sailing at least twice a year – the Royal ONE Plus Visa’s enhanced perks and higher point earning potential make it a compelling investment. Don’t be swayed by flashy marketing; assess your cruising habits and choose the card that maximizes your value on the water.