NCL MasterCard

[JulieandPaul]

Has anyone had any experience redeeming points for a cruise? Any pointers on best ways to use the points or how to handle the redemption process? Better to use the points for upgrades or for discounts on the cruise price? Thanks. :confused:

[smeyer418]

Has anyone had any experience redeeming points for a cruise? Any pointers on best ways to use the points or how to handle the redemption process? Better to use the points for upgrades or for discounts on the cruise price? Thanks. :confused:

 

There really are a large number of threads on this if you do a search. Most people agree that the dscount is better than the upgrade.

 

here is one as an example

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=330305

[CTCruisers]

Has anyone had any experience redeeming points for a cruise? Any pointers on best ways to use the points or how to handle the redemption process? Better to use the points for upgrades or for discounts on the cruise price? Thanks. :confused:

 

There have been several threads about this subject. You just need to do a search. You will some very good ideas on how to accumulate points and redeeming them.

 

We have used the certificates towards three cruises. You book a cruise through a TA for the best price and make a deposit. Then, you order the certificates (in $500 increments) and use them to apply against the remaining balance. If the amount of the certificates exceeds the remaining balance, you will receive a credit on your card for the difference.

 

The certificates arrive in about a week to 10 days from ordering them.

 

The value for the points is greater with discounts on a cruise instead of upgrades.

[JulieandPaul]

Thank you for the info. This is very helpful.

 

What about if you purchase your cruise on-line rather than with a local travel agent? Does that make any difference?

[immargaret]

It doesn't matter who you book the cruise with. Just check with your TA and find out if they want you to send the certificates directly to NCL or if they need to go to the TA first.

[candydane]

Remember that NCL Mastercard certificates are "payments" not "credits", like regular onboard credits from your TA or wherever.

 

The dollar amount of your NCL Mastercard certificate(s) is actually applied against your NCL fare like any other payment would be. I understand you can even use the certificates after final payment and the credit balance that results on your NCL fare is applied to your NCL Mastercard account just like any other "overpayment" would be.

[MagnoliaBlossom]

As has been suggested, do the search, there is much info out there from previous threads. I've done 4 cruises free with my credits. Best way to think of them is as gift certificates. They mail you the certificate and you use it as a gift certificate against the best deal you can find wither it is personal TA, online agency or NCL direct. No blackouts, etc.

Read the threads and if you still have questions let me know

MagnoliaBlossom