Norwegian Cruise Line makes changes to their Latitudes Rewards Program

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) introduced changes to their Latitudes, their loyalty rewards program effective January 10, 2022.

According to Norwegian, they wanted to refresh their loyalty incentives making sure it is relevant and rewarding for their guests, incorporating feedback that they have received from customers.

The program has traditionally provided cruisers with a number of perks, especially for those who reach the higher-level tiers such as Platinum plus and Ambassador.  

The adjustments to their plan keep many of the existing benefits in place while making the threshold for many tiers lower, along with adding another level. Here is an overview of the new tier levels as well as benefits.                               

Overview of Major Changes

One of the biggest changes to Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards program is the modification of point levels. For Gold, Silver and Platinum, the base point levels have gone down, making it easier for cruisers to get the next level of benefits sooner.

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Another significant adjustment is the elimination of the Platinum Plus category, which is being replaced by two new tiers, Sapphire and Diamond. These new categories break up the large Platinum Plus category, which spanned more than 500 points.

Sapphire now starts at 150 points, down from 175 previously, and midway toward the Ambassador level at 350 points, members are now Diamond, with added benefits. The Ambassador tier level remains the same.

What are some of the new benefits of the Latitudes program?

• One time free cabin upgrade for Diamond level and up  
• Exclusive Sail & Sustain Mixology Experience, Diamond and above
• Wines around the World Tasting, Platinum and above
• Early pre-booking access for entertainment, dining, and onboard activities (125 days) Platinum and above
• Dedicated pre-service desk, Platinum and above
• Discount on Internet Package, Platinum and above

Some things you may miss:

• Priority embarkation at the pier for Bronze level and above. Norwegian has removed any reference to this at any level.
• Free internet minutes have been discontinued, with a discount on internet packages replacing it. 
• The internet discount can be applied to the Unlimited 1 device and Unlimited Premium 1 device whether purchased in advance or onboard.

Summary of Changes by Tier Level

Bronze Level (1-19 points) 

What’s new?

• No Priority check-in at the pier
• No Free bottle of sparkling wine in the cabin

What’s staying from the previous program:

• 10% discount in Duty Free Shop on NCL logo merchandise  
• Free artwork for attending art auction
• Exclusive members-only offers
• Keycard recognition
• Signature tier pins
• Onboard Latitudes Rewards Representation

Silver Level (20-44 points)

What’s new:

• Qualify for Silver at 20 points
• No priority check-in at the pier
• No Free bottle of sparkling wine in the cabin

What’s staying from the previous program:

• All Bronze benefits
• Exclusive cocktail party
• 15% discount Duty Free Shop on NCL logo merchandise 
• 10% discounts on shore excursions
• 20% discounts on photos
• 15% discounts on spa treatment (while in port)

Gold Level (45-74 points)

What’s new:

• Qualify for Gold at 45 points
• No priority check-in at the pier
• No Free bottle of sparkling wine in the cabin

What’s staying from the previous program:

• Bronze and Silver benefits
• 50% discount on one bag of laundry
• 1 free carton of Just Water  
• Priority tender tickets (for applicable ports)
• Priority disembarkation

Platinum Level (75-149 points)

What’s new:

• Qualify for Platinum at 75 points
• 15% off internet package (free minutes previously)
• Wine around the World tasting
• Dedicated Pre-cruise Service Desk
• Prebooking for dining, entertainment and activities 125 days
• No priority check-in at the pier
• No free bottle of sparkling wine in the cabin

What’s staying from the previous program:

• All Bronze, Silver, Gold benefits
• 1 free bag of laundry
• Complimentary dinner for two at Cagney's or Le Bistro Y(with wine)
• Complimentary dinner for two at Moderno or La Cucina
• Discount on internet package
• 30% discount on photos
• 25% discount on spa (while in port)
• Chocolate-covered strawberries
• Behind-the-scenes ship tour
• Concierge service to help with reservations for dining, shore excursions and shows

New Sapphire (previously Platinum Plus, 150-349 points)

What’s new:

• Qualify for Sapphire at 150 points
• 20% off internet package
• Extra carton of water (per member)
• No priority check-in at the pier
• No free bottle of sparkling wine in the cabin

What’s staying from the previous program:

• All Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum benefits
• Dinner with officers
• Priority entertainment and restaurant seating

Diamond Level (350-699 points) previously Platinum Plus

What’s new:

• Qualify for Diamond at 350 points
• One-time Free Cabin Upgrade
• 25% off internet package
• Exclusive Sail & Sustain Mixology Experience

What’s staying from the previous program:

• All Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, Sapphire benefits

Ambassador Level (700+ points)

What’s new:

• New: New Specialty Ambassador Gift

What’s staying from the previous program:

• All Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Sapphire and Diamond benefits  and Platinum Plus
• Free seven-day cruise (must be redeemed within one year of reaching Ambassador status)

Member Concerns

Some tiers will see more of an impact in terms of change than others. Norwegian has assured loyalty members that no loyalty member will be downgraded as a result of the change, and some will be upgraded based on the new criteria.

Cruises will be automatically placed in the tier based on their current point balance and guests will continue to get the benefits of the guest with the highest tier in the cabin.

New to Norwegian Cruise Line ?  Not to worry, passengers are automatically enrolled in the loyalty program once a sailing has been completed. Suite guests of the Haven, receive 2 points per night, in comparison to 1 for a regular cabin.