HAL and American Express Platinum Cruise Privileges Program........

[sail7seas]

I just returned from my TA (Picked up our Documents for NOORDAM.....YES!!!! ).

 

While I was there, she told me she learned just this morning that we our $300 in shipboard credits for a November cruise we booked were approved.

 

So, while I don't know for sure, it seems that the contract has been renegotiated and shipboard credits for applicable cabins are now being confirmed.

[dakrewser]

Great news. I did have a mailing from a TA a week or so ago which seemed to imply that the contract had been renewed - this confirms it.

[walnut99]

Good news. Thank you for the follow up. I have a final payment due this month.

 

John

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Sail, congratulations on finally getting those Docs:) It always feels that much better and closer when you actually have them in hand.

So glad to hear that you will be getting your Amex ship board credit.

I have final payment due in about 3 weeks (day after Christmas) for our March cruise, so we will definitely be looking forward to having new Docs in hand again.:D

[jan and jon]

would you be so kind as to explain the relation of hal to amex thank you JPM:confused:

[FIRELT5]

Annual fee of $395 for a Platnum AMEX card is a bit Steep !!!!

 

https://www201.americanexpress.com/cards/Applyfservlet?csi=17/11516/b/10/0/0/0/n&from=2

[jhannah]

Congrats, S7S. I'll be looking forward to seeing the photo of you and DH standing on the foredeck next to "your" bell!

[dakrewser]

Annual fee of $395 for a Platnum AMEX card is a bit Steep !!!

 

Not when a cruiser (and traveller) can get more than that back in credits and bennies...

[fcorey]

If you use it allot you can get full adavantage from the perks, which if you cruise twice a year, would get back more in onboard credit than the card cost you, then there are the other benefits. Its no different than Visa/Mastercard that give points for frequent flier or hotels etc. Its all in how you work the system;)

[FIRELT5]

Not when a cruiser (and traveller) can get more than that back in credits and bennies...

 

NCL Mastercard & RCL Visa Seems much better for cruising without an annual Fee !!!!

 

The 2006 Cruise Privileges program (CPP) is only valid on voyages of 6 days or longer and may not be combinable with group promotions depending on cruise line. CPP may not be combined with other American Express Card offers, including American Express® Mariner Club. Blackout dates, category and fare restrictions may apply. CPP is a special benefit for Platinum Card members. Certain Platinum Cards are not eligible for certain benefits and services. The $300 ($150 per person, double occupancy) shipboard credit cannot be used in the casino or for payment of gratuities, is non-transferable, cannot be redeemed for cash or credit and is not combinable with other shipboard credit offers. One of the travelers must be a U.S. Platinum Card member and there is a three-cabin limit per Card member, per sailing. Deposit and final payment must be made with an American Express Card in the Platinum Card member's name. Book through Platinum Travel Service (PTS) or refer your participating U.S. travel professional to PTS. To receive CPP amenities, travel agencies are responsible for following CPP bookings guidelines provided by the Agency Services Desk (ASD): 1-800-443-7672, prompt 5. Bookings made directly with the cruise lines are not eligible for CPP amenities. Program valid for sailings completed by 12/31/07. Partners and amenities are subject to change without notice. Ships' registries: Crystal Cruises: Bahamas; Cunard Line: Great Britain; Holland America Line: Netherlands & Bahamas; Princess Cruises: British & Bermuda; Radisson Seven Seas Cruises: Bahamas, Wallis & Futuna; Seabourn Cruise Line: Bahamas; Silversea Cruises; Bahamas; Windstar Cruises: Bahamas. The partners and benefits described herein are accurate as of time of printing and are subject to change or cancellation without notice. American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. acts solely as sales agent for travel suppliers and is not liable for the acts or inactions of such suppliers. CST#1022318-10,Washington UBI# 600-469-694, ML-1192, TA-002 registered Iowa Travel Agency, NV# 2001-0126.

 

Also $300 is limited to suites

 

Holland America Line

Wondrous destinations and dazzling onboard experiences blend classically aboard Holland America Line, one of the highest-rated premium cruise lines in Travel + Leisure's 2004 "World's Best" Awards. Sail stylishly throughout the world on these spacious, refined mid-sized ships. Savor a diverse choice in dining, including the Pinnacle Grill. Be pampered in your plush accommodations, in the Greenhouse Spa or in the new Explorations Cafe - powered by The New York Times.

 

Exclusive Amenities

 

 

Two-category upgrade on outside staterooms or $300 per suite shipboard credit

 

Complimentary dinner at the Pinnacle Grill (available first night only)

 

Welcome bottle of champagne

Cruise Destinations

 

Alaska, Asia Pacific, Canada & New England, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, South America, World Cruise

 

 

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Princess Cruises

With a fleet specializing in "Big Ship Choice, Small Ship FeelSM," Princess Cruises invites you to escape completelySM. Leave the ordinary behind for a world of delightful courtesies and innovative options such as the ScholarShip@SeaSM enrichment series, unique Lotus Spa® and a variety of sensational evening entertainment. Soak up the view from affordable balconies on standard staterooms. Dine when and where you want with Anytime DiningSM featuring up to five distinctive dining options per ship.

 

Exclusive Amenities

 

 

Two-category upgrade on staterooms and mini-suites, or $300 per suite shipboard credit

Complimentary dinner in an alternative dining venue (available first night only)

Welcome bottle of champagne

Cruise Destinations

 

Alaska, Asia, Canada & New England, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, South America, South Pacific

 

 

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Luxury Goes ExploringSM aboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises, a distinctive fleet of elegant ships designed for hundreds of guests rather than thousands. Each six-star vessel shares an ambience that's upscale but not uptight. Hone your cooking skills at exclusive Le Cordon Bleu workshops and enjoy other signature programs like Spas by Carita of Paris and the new Travel Concierge.

 

Exclusive Amenities

 

 

$300 per stateroom shipboard credit

Exclusive embarkation

Exclusive cocktail reception

Cruise Destinations

 

Alaska, Antarctica, Asia, Bermuda, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, South America, South Pacific, World Cruise

 

 

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Silversea Cruises

Often chosen the world's best small ship cruise line by leading travel publications, Silversea Cruises exhibits a passion for perfection. More than 80% of the all-suite accommodations feature private verandas. Enjoy open-seating dining, inspired cuisine, and complimentary wines, spirits, and beverages. All onboard gratuities are included.

 

Exclusive Amenities

 

 

$300 per suite shipboard credit

Complimentary bottle of Dom Perignon champagne

Exclusive bridge tour

Cruise Destinations

 

Africa, Asia, Alaska, Eastern Seaboard, Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, South America, South Pacific

 

 

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The Yachts of Seabourn

Uncompromising luxury characterizes The Yachts of Seabourn, three intimate 208-guest ships that offer virtually one staff member per guest. Seabourn's Signature DelightsSM include such amenities as all-suite accommodations (many with balconies), open-seating dining, an open bar, and a no-tipping policy. Complimentary Massage Moments and Caviar in the SurfSM are among the many signature experiences provided.

 

Exclusive Amenities

 

 

$300 per suite shipboard credit

Exclusive "suite dreams" turndown service (once per cruise)

Complimentary bottle of wine

Cruise Destinations

 

Africa, Asia, Eastern Seaboard, Caribbean, Europe, Panama Canal, South America, South Pacific

 

 

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Windstar Cruises

Even as you relax on deck, the snap of the sails lends a touch of adventure to the comfort of the familiar. Aboard Windstar, even the routine is a touch more exotic. A casual meal is a feast, enhanced by chef Joachim Splichal's signature recipes. A chat with a bartender leads to advice on a hidden beach ashore. A dip in the sea becomes a thrilling ride on a banana boat or other watersports you'll find on the Sports Platform. Your vacation is an experience of wonderful freedom--180° From Ordinary®.

 

Exclusive Amenity

 

 

$300 per stateroom shipboard credit

Exclusive "Romance Under Sail" amenities package

Cruise Destinations

 

Caribbean, Costa Rica, Greek Isles, Iberia, Mediterranean, Panama Canal, Transatlantic

 

 

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1. The 2006 Cruise Privileges program(CPP) is only valid on voyages of 6 days or longer and may not be combinable with group promotions depending on cruise line. CPP may not be combined with other American Express Card offers, including American Express® Mariner Club. Blackout dates, category and fare restrictions may apply. CPP is a special benefit for Platinum Card members. Certain Platinum Cards are not eligible for certain benefits and services.

 

2. The $300 ($150 per person, double occupancy) shipboard credit cannot be used in the casino or for payment of gratuities, is non-transferable, cannot be redeemed for cash or credit and is not combinable with other shipboard credit offers. One of the travelers must be a U.S. Platinum Card member and there is a three-cabin limit per Card member, per sailing. Deposit and final payment must be made with an American Express Card in the Platinum Card member’s name. Book through Platinum Travel Service (PTS) or refer your participating U.S. travel professional to PTS. To receive CPP amenities, travel agencies are responsible for following CPP bookings guidelines provided by the Agency Services Desk (ASD): 1-800-443-7672, prompt 5. Bookings made directly with the cruise lines are not eligible for CPP amenities. Program valid for sailings completed by 12/31/07. Partners and amenities are subject to change without notice. Ships’ registries: Crystal Cruises: Bahamas; Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Bahamas, Wallis & Futuna; The Yachts of Seabourn: Bahamas; Silversea Cruises; Bahamas; The partners and benefits described herein are accurate as of time of printing and are subject to change or cancellation without notice. American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. acts solely as sales agent for travel suppliers and is not liable for the acts or inactions of such suppliers. CST#1022318-10,Washington UBI# 600-469-694, ML-1192, TA-002 registered Iowa Travel Agency, NV# 2001-0126.

[Krazy Kruizers]

We feel that it is worth the $395 per year annual fee.

[Krazy Kruizers]

In 2005 we went on four cruises - $300 per cruise = $1200.

 

In 2006 we went on 3 cruises - $300 per cruise = $900.

[10s nut]

Questions:

 

We have an AMEX Gold card. If we upgrade, will I get credit for the 2 cruises I have already booked? Do they have to have been paid with the AMEX card?

[lysolqn]

10s nut, the cruises must be paid for with the AmX Platinum card in order to receive the perks.

 

There are a bunch of very good perks that come along with the AmX platinum card and make the $395+ (for additional cardholders) well worth while. Whether cruising or otherwise, we always make use of the airline clubs. Not only does the card gain you entry to many of the clubs but each Platinum cardholder may also bring in a limited number of guests. When we travel with family or friends, between my husband's and my card, we all enjoy that perk.

 

There's also "buy one first class airline ticket on certain airlines; get one for free" which is a super perk of which we've availed ourselves.

 

Definitely worth the $$$$$.

[fcorey]

Questions:

 

We have an AMEX Gold card. If we upgrade, will I get credit for the 2 cruises I have already booked? Do they have to have been paid with the AMEX card?

 

if you are already paying for the gold card its about $300 extra per year.... so one cruise and you break even :)

[10s nut]

I REALLY wish I had known this before booking my Jan. and Feb. cruises on HAL. Makes me very sad to have passed up all of the benefits. Will wait until looking for my next cruise to upgrade. The airline lounges would not be a help since I mainly fly US Air/United.

 

Thanks so much for all of your wonderful knowledge.

[sail7seas]

According to the arithmetic I learned in grade school, for this year, DH and I will make $ by having and using the AmEx Platinum Card.

 

We are booked for 6 cruises. 6 x 300 = $l,800

$l,800 - 395 (annual fee) = $1,405.

Not a bad investment.

 

ALSO, we consider the fact that we do not book travel insurance to cover the price of our cruises primarily because AmEx Platinum covers us for emergency medical evacuation in the (heaven forbid) event we should require that. Such evacuation is very costly and we would not want to have to foot that bill. As frequent HAL cruisers, we value the shipboard credit feature but that is not the only travel benefit we get from having and using it.

 

We have not booked insurance for (all but one) of our last 35+ cruises. That is a lot of saved premiums. We are willing to self insure the price of our cruises as we would still be ahead if (heaven forbid) we were to have to cancel a cruise at this point. We certainly hope it doesn't happen but in terms of dollars and cents, we still come out ahead.

 

The only cruise I would insure at this point would be a very costly, lengthy cruise/exotic cruise that is not in our near future as DH is not yet retired.

 

[sail7seas]

Questions:

 

We have an AMEX Gold card. If we upgrade, will I get credit for the 2 cruises I have already booked? Do they have to have been paid with the AMEX card?

 

You can try but I think not. You are supposed to paid deposit and final payment with the AmEx Platinum. Is it realistic for you to get the Platinum, cancel the existing bookings and then rebook using the Platinum card?

 

If you would suffer no cancellation penalty and could still get cabins you like, you may consider that.....if you are at a point prior to final payment.

[cat1]

Sail7Seas,

 

We also have Amex Platinum and I inquired this morning to see if it covered for us for insurance while on the cruise. They said it did not and we had to pay something like $80 for all three of us for $100,000 medical/evacation insurance. Can you forward me any info you have on that?

[dakrewser]

Sail7Seas,

 

We also have Amex Platinum and I inquired this morning to see if it covered for us for insurance while on the cruise. They said it did not and we had to pay something like $80 for all three of us for $100,000 medical/evacation insurance. Can you forward me any info you have on that?

 

The insurance is available thru Amex Platinum, but does require a monthly premium charged to your account. I think we're paying approx. $12/month for insurance whenever we're more than "x" (75?) miles from home.

[sail7seas]

I will have my DH research to see if the terms have changed but in the Platinum Card Member Agreements (Agreement between Platinum Card Member and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.) Agreement that I am looking at........

 

In the Section Entitled: Premium Global Assist (formerly Travel Emergency Assistance) Section C.....Medical Transport and Evacuation, it is stated Medical Transport and Evacuation will be provided at no cost etc etc......

 

I will definitely find out why someone is paying extra for something that has always been included.

 

PERHAPS the benefits have changed and we are not aware of it.

 

IF that is the case.....Big Thanks for telling us.

 

IF not.......why are some paying more money for an included item?

 

[10s nut]

My DH was very distressed to learn about the perks with the AMEX Platinum Card. No way can we cancel and rebook. They are both SY cabins that are sold out. One in Jan. and one in Feb. All of that being said, once again, you all have provided me with valuable information that I will be using for future cruises:)

[sail7seas]

Congrats, S7S. I'll be looking forward to seeing the photo of you and DH standing on the foredeck next to "your" bell!

 

Thanks, Jim. We're really very excited to finally be sailing that gorgeous ship. We surely will want photos at Noordam's Bell.

[dakrewser]

I will have my DH research to see if the terms have changed but in the Platinum Card Member Agreements (Agreement between Platinum Card Member and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.) Agreement that I am looking at........

 

In the Section Entitled: Premium Global Assist (formerly Travel Emergency Assistance) Section C.....Medical Transport and Evacuation, it is stated Medical Transport and Evacuation will be provided at no cost etc etc......

 

I will definitely find out why someone is paying extra for something that has always been included.

 

PERHAPS the benefits have changed and we are not aware of it.

 

IF that is the case.....Big Thanks for telling us.

 

IF not.......why are some paying more money for an included item?

 

 

The current agreement states: "We can direct you to English-speaking medical and legal professionals and arrange for a transfer to a more appropriate medical facility, even if an air ambulance is required. " In other words, they will fly you out if - in their determination - it is necessary. We pay extra so that it will be done at our option.

[sail7seas]

The current agreement states: "We can direct you to English-speaking medical and legal professionals and arrange for a transfer to a more appropriate medical facility, even if an air ambulance is required. " In other words, they will fly you out if - in their determination - it is necessary. We pay extra so that it will be done at our option.

 

What is this extra 'rider' you have called?

 

I feel comfortable in terms of cruise travel that if a ship's doctor says the condition needs care he cannot provide in ship's infirmary, AmEx is not going to fight the issue.

 

Ship's docs want pax off and gone if they are that ill. They don't want/need the risk of trying to care for a very ill person in a facility that is not equipped to do so. Too much paper work if they should go and die on them. ;)

 

For cruise travel, we don't have a problem.

 

For land travel, it might be different. What is this extra insurance?