Cruising can be one of the most rewarding ways to travel—not just for the experiences, but for the rewards you can rack up before and during your trip. By combining multiple savings tools like cruise loyalty programs, travel credit cards, and cashback apps, you can significantly cut your total cost while maximizing perks. The key is knowing how to layer these systems effectively.

Step 1: Join Your Cruise Line’s Loyalty Program

Most major cruise lines offer free loyalty programs with tiered rewards. These programs are essential for repeat travelers and can unlock perks like priority check-in, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounted shore excursions, and onboard gifts. Here are a few examples:

• Carnival’s VIFP Club: Earn points for every cruise night and unlock benefits starting with your second cruise..
  
• Norwegian Latitudes Rewards: Members enjoy discounts on onboard purchases and early booking offers.
  

Joining is free and immediate, and rewards begin accumulating as soon as you set sail.

Step 2: Use a Travel Credit Card with Bonus Categories

The right travel credit card can be a powerful tool. Many offer elevated rewards for travel purchases, including cruise bookings. Popular options include:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred: 2x points on travel, 5x on select bookings via Chase Travel
  
• Capital One Venture: 2x miles on all purchases, with cruise redemptions via travel eraser
  
• American Express Platinum: Premium cruise benefits and access to exclusive sailings through Amex Travel
  

Make sure to book directly or through your card’s travel portal when required to get the bonus points. Also check if your issuer partners with the cruise line—you may qualify for added perks or statement credits.

Step 3: Add Cashback for an Extra Layer of Savings

Before booking, consider buying gift cards for your cruise line via a cashback platform. You can earn cashback with a Carnival gift card or explore similar opportunities on other lines by using Fluz. The advantage? You lock in savings at the time of purchase, rather than waiting for points to accumulate.

In addition to Fluz, apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer cashback for pre-cruise essentials such as luggage, sunscreen, and even hotel stays near the port.

Step 4: Book at the Right Time and Through the Right Channels

Cruise prices fluctuate based on demand, season, and promotions. Look for deals during Wave Season (January–March) or via flash sales on official cruise sites. Booking through a trusted travel agent can also unlock extras like onboard credit, drink packages, or prepaid gratuities. Just make sure it doesn’t interfere with earning your card rewards or loyalty benefits.

Step 5: Combine It All

Here’s what full stacking looks like:

• Join the cruise line’s loyalty program
  
• Buy a discounted gift card on Fluz and pay for your cruise with it
  
• Use a travel credit card to buy the gift card and earn points
  
• Activate Rakuten for any related travel purchases
  
• Book through the right channel to secure onboard perks
  

By combining all these methods, you can stack loyalty perks, cashback, and points on a single trip—turning a standard vacation into a high-value experience.