Amex Renames Its Cruise Program With a New Focus on Luxury Yachts

American Express is giving its cruise program a new name and a refreshed online experience. Beginning October 22, the existing Cruise Privileges Program (CPP) will become the American Express Cruise & Yacht Collection.

The new name puts more emphasis on luxury yacht travel, alongside traditional cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Virgin Voyages.

But for American Express Platinum, Business Platinum, and Centurion cardholders, the benefits aren’t changing.

What Card Members Get With the Cruise & Yacht Collection

The Cruise & Yacht Collection will continue offering the same benefits currently available through Amex’s Cruise Privileges Program.

Eligible Platinum and Centurion Card Members can receive:

• $100–$300 in onboard credit per stateroom on eligible cruises of five nights or longer.
• An additional onboard amenity, such as premium wine or canapés, depending on the cruise line.
• 2X Membership Rewards points on eligible cruise bookings through Amex Travel.
• Complimentary trip planning through Amex Travel, with no booking fees.
• Access to exclusive offers from participating cruise lines and yacht operators.

To qualify, cardholders must book an eligible sailing through Amex Travel, either online or by calling the number on the back of their card. The cardholder must also be traveling on the itinerary.

Some ships, stateroom categories, and sailings are excluded. And while Amex says certain benefits can be combined with cruise-line offers and loyalty recognition, that depends on the participating provider.

What’s Actually Changing?

Well, not much beyond the branding and online experience.

Despite the new emphasis on yachts, Amex already includes several luxury yacht operators in its existing Cruise Privileges Program. The current lineup features 20 providers, including traditional ocean cruises, river cruises, and smaller luxury vessels.

The refreshed collection doesn’t add new benefits or participating brands. Instead, Amex is bringing its existing offerings together under a name that better reflects the range of cruises available.

For cardholders planning a voyage, those pre-existing benefits could be valuable. A $300 onboard credit, for example, could help offset the cost of dining, spa treatments, or other eligible onboard purchases.

However, it’s worth comparing prices and promotions before booking through Amex Travel. Other travel agencies or the cruise lines themselves may offer different incentives.