Hilton Honors Launches Explora Journeys Cruise Benefits
Hilton Honors has officially launched its new partnership with luxury cruise line Explora Journeys, giving members a new way to earn and redeem points at sea.
Members who book eligible Explora Journeys sailings through Hilton can now earn Hilton Honors points, receive a discount on cruise fares, enjoy benefits based on their elite status, and have eligible journeys count toward Hilton Honors status. The partnership was first announced in late 2025 and is now live.
Hilton Honors Benefits With Explora Journeys
Hilton Honors members who book through Hilton receive:
- 10 Hilton Honors base points per $1 spent on eligible cruise fares
- The ability to redeem Hilton points toward Explora Journeys bookings
- An exclusive 5% discount on Explora Journeys fares
- Bonus points and onboard benefits based on Hilton Honors status
- Eligible journeys that count toward Hilton Honors elite status
- Access to a dedicated Explora Journeys customer service line
These benefits are available across all Explora Journeys itineraries booked through Hilton’s direct channels. Destinations include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, the Caribbean, Central America and parts of North America’s East Coast.
Elite Status Benefits
Hilton Honors elite members receive additional benefits during their journey:
- Gold members receive a complimentary welcome cocktail party with Explora Journeys ship leadership.
- Diamond members receive additional Journey Experience Credits.
- Diamond Reserve members receive the full suite of benefits, including a behind-the-scenes bridge tour, subject to availability, and private port transfers.
The exact bonus-point earning rates and value of certain onboard credits were not detailed in Hilton’s announcement.
About Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is a luxury ocean travel brand owned by the MSC Group. Its ships feature oceanfront suites, multiple dining venues, wellness facilities, pools and extended itineraries designed around longer stays in port.
EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II are already sailing, while EXPLORA III is is set to launch on July 24, 2026. Additional ships will join the fleet through 2028.
Guru’s Wrap-up
This is an interesting expansion for Hilton Honors, especially for members who already have large Hilton point balances or elite status.
Earning 10 base points per dollar and receiving a 5% fare discount adds some value, while the ability to redeem Hilton points for a luxury cruise creates another option beyond traditional hotel stays. The real value will depend on the redemption rates Hilton offers, which will determine whether using points for Explora Journeys is competitive with Hilton hotel redemptions. My guess is that these redemptions will not yield good value, but hopefully we see some specific deals or promotions that make it worthwhile.
