I've been on more than 30 cruises. Here are 10 things I wish I'd known sooner

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-10-09 • Permanent link

Royal Caribbean Cruises has announced a major overhaul of its loyalty program, which will see the introduction of a new tiered system and increased rewards for frequent cruisers. The changes, which are set to take effect in early 2024, will also include a revamped points system and a new "diamond" tier for the most loyal customers. The move is seen as a response to growing competition in the cruise market, with rival lines such as Carnival and Norwegian also vying for market share. Industry insiders predict that the changes will have a positive impact on Royal Caribbean's bottom line.

The impact of Royal Caribbean's loyalty program overhaul will be felt far beyond the cruise line itself, however. As a major player in the leisure travel market, Royal Caribbean's changes will have a ripple effect on the wider economy. With millions of people set to take to the high seas in the coming years, the cruise industry is a significant contributor to tourism revenue and job creation. By offering more competitive rewards and incentives, Royal Caribbean is likely to see an increase in bookings and revenue, which will in turn boost the economy.

Since the early 2000s, the cruise industry has experienced rapid growth, driven in part by increased demand for leisure travel and a rise in disposable income. Royal Caribbean, in particular, has been a major beneficiary of this trend, with its market share growing significantly in recent years. However, the industry is not without its challenges, including rising competition and concerns over safety and environmental impact. As the cruise industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Royal Caribbean's loyalty program overhaul plays out.

As the cruise industry continues to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic era, it's clear that Royal Caribbean is looking to stay ahead of the curve. With its loyalty program overhaul, the company is signaling its commitment to providing a unique and rewarding experience for its customers. As the industry looks to the future, it will be watching with interest to see how Royal Caribbean's changes play out and whether they will have a lasting impact on the wider cruise market.