Explora Club, the loyalty program of luxury expedition cruise line Explora Journeys, is celebrating its first anniversary. To mark the occasion, the program has expanded its partnership with Hilton Honors, offering new benefits to members. In this exclusive interview, Explora Journeys president Anna Nash shares the program's growth, new benefits, and future plans.
One year ago, Explora Club was launched to recognize and reward loyalty to the brand. Nash says it has exceeded expectations, with members returning to sail with Explora Journeys, booking further in advance, and exploring more of the brand's growing collection of journeys. The program has also seen a genuine community develop around Explora Journeys, with guests choosing the brand as their preferred way to experience the ocean.
The partnership with Hilton Honors has introduced new benefits to Explora Club members. They can now earn 10 base points for every U.S. dollar spent on cruise fares, redeem points for cruises, and enjoy a 5% discount on cruise fares. Award rates have not been released yet, but Nash says they will be pricey. Travelers will also receive enhanced benefits based on their Hilton elite-status tier, such as a welcome cocktail party with ship leadership for Gold members and above.
Nash says the reaction to the various perks and privileges at all levels of the program has been incredibly encouraging. Guests don't talk about Explora Club in terms of points or perks, but rather feeling recognized. The strongest brands create genuine emotional connections with their guests, and Nash sees that connection developing with Explora Journeys.
Explora Club members can earn points on cruises booked through Hilton and redeem points for cruises. They can also enjoy exclusive benefits while sailing, such as a welcome cocktail party with ship leadership for Gold members and above. Diamond members will receive additional Journey Experience Credits toward things like spa treatments, a la carte wine tastings, and bridge tours. Diamond Reserve members will receive private port transfers.
Nash says the partnership with Hilton Honors is a natural one, as both brands share a commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and creating lasting relationships with guests. The partnership has entered an exciting new phase, with members now able to earn Hilton Honors points when sailing with Explora Journeys and redeem their points toward an Explora Journeys experience while enjoying exclusive benefits.
The initial response to the partnership has been very encouraging, with Nash saying it's already achieving exactly what they hoped. The partnership aims to introduce Explora Journeys to a highly engaged global community of luxury travelers, many of whom may never have considered an ocean journey before.
Nash says the program will continue to evolve alongside its guests, remaining meaningful, relevant, and a true reflection of the relationship they are building together. The future plans for Explora Club include hosting the first President's Cruise in December, which will provide an opportunity for Nash to spend more time with guests and Explora Club members, listen to their experiences firsthand, and hold informal roundtable discussions.
