As the world’s first and largest vacation exchange network, Resorts Condominiums International (RCI) offers timeshare owners unparalleled flexibility when booking vacations. Within the RCI exchange network, 35,000 timeshare exchange options exist for members from over 100 countries. It doesn’t stop just there. RCI members can use their RCI membership for deals on flights, cruises, hotels, car rentals, and more. RCI cruises offer guests access to top locations and the most innovative ships on the water. Keep reading to learn how you can set sail with RCI.
About RCI
Before we dive deep into RCI cruises, we first need to talk about what RCI is. In 1974, RCI pioneered a new way for timeshare owners to use their timeshares. This unique idea changed the timeshare world forever. Now owners can get the most out of their timeshare and aren’t stuck traveling to the same location year after year. Instead, they can travel to thousands of resorts by joining a vacation exchange network. RCI is not an owner of any timeshare resorts. They are simply a network that affiliates with some of the biggest brands in the industry. So, owners can travel to other timeshare properties outside their brand’s portfolio.
To sum it up, when a timeshare owner becomes a member of RCI, they will have access to their entire catalog of resorts. They can also get RCI exclusive deals and discounts on things like RCI cruises. There are two memberships within RCI, RCI weeks and RCI points. It is essential to point out that they both have yearly fees for obtaining a membership.
Which Brands Affiliate with RCI?
at the Crane
As previously stated, RCI does not own resorts; they affiliate with brands, and those brands allow their resorts to be in the RCI vacation network. So, RCI members can trade their timeshare points or weeks to stay at a different resort. For example, if you have an RCI membership and own a timeshare in Myrtle Beach at Wyndham Ocean Blvd but want to visit Barbados at Hilton Grand Vacations at the Crane, you can do so. Then, you can stay in Vermont at Holiday Inn Club Vacations Mount Ascutney Resort the following year. Through RCI, you can travel wherever your heart desires! RCI works with many of the top vacation brands, including:
- Club Wyndham
- Hilton Grand Vacations Club
- Holiday Inn Club Vacations
- Bluegreen Resort Vacations
- Welk Resorts
It’s important to note that not every single resort from the brands above is affiliated with RCI. For more information about whether your resort is a part of RCI or not, contact your resort developer or RCI directly.
But what if you’re dreaming of something different than a resort stay? Many members wonder: “Can I use my Points or Trading Power toward a cruise vacation instead of visiting a resort?” The answer is yes! With RCI, you’re not limited to land-based getaways—your points or weeks can often be exchanged for spectacular cruise vacations, opening up a whole new world of travel possibilities. Whether you’re longing for Caribbean sunshine or European adventures at sea, your vacation ownership can take you far beyond the usual resort experience.
What is Cruise Exchange?
Cruise Exchange is a unique benefit that allows you to trade your timeshare ownership or points for a cruise vacation instead of a traditional resort stay. This means you aren’t limited to one type of travel—you can swap your timeshare week or points for a getaway at sea aboard leading cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, or Norwegian Cruise Line. Whether you want to sail through the Caribbean, explore Alaska’s glaciers, or bask on Bahamian beaches, Cruise Exchange opens up a world of new vacation possibilities. It’s a flexible, convenient option for travelers who want more variety and adventure from their timeshare ownership, letting you experience memorable destinations all from the comfort and excitement of a cruise ship.
Who Can Take Advantage of Cruise Exchange?
If you’re wondering whether you can book a cruise exchange, the good news is that most RCI members are eligible. As long as you have an active RCI membership—whether you participate through weeks or points—you can use your vacation ownership to trade for unforgettable cruise adventures.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Your membership must be in good standing (all fees paid and current).
- The value of your exchange (your deposited week or points) determines your cruise options.
- You’ll need to reserve your cruise through the RCI platform or with their cruise experts to unlock exclusive member perks.
- Occasional blackout dates or inventory limitations may apply due to high demand or seasonal fluctuations.
If you’re new to cruise exchanges, don’t worry—RCI’s support team is there to guide you through selecting the perfect sailing, from the Caribbean’s turquoise waters to Alaska’s scenic vistas. Just check your membership details or contact your vacation club or RCI for specific eligibility requirements.
Using Your Points or Trading Power for Cruises
If you’re wondering whether you can use all of your points or trading power toward booking a cruise vacation, here’s what you need to know. You can absolutely apply your points or trading power to help offset the cost of an exciting cruise getaway with RCI’s partners. Whether you’ve built up your rewards over time or just received a fresh deposit, you can put them to work toward your next high-seas adventure.
That said, keep in mind that while your points or trading power can cover a portion of your cruise fare, you may need to pay additional cash for government taxes, port fees, or upgrades. The exact amount of points or trading power you’ll need will depend on the specific cruise, travel dates, and current offers from cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian.
To maximize the value of your membership and points, it’s always a smart idea to browse available options online or speak directly with an RCI cruise expert. They can help you find the best voyages that fit your preferences and help stretch your vacation currency as far as possible.
Booking Deadlines: Timing Your Exchange
A common question among new and seasoned timeshare owners alike: How early do you need to book before your points or trading power run out? The key is to keep a close eye on your expiration dates. Your ability to exchange depends on having valid points or trading power that haven’t expired—once they’re gone, they’re no longer available for your next adventure.
To ensure you snag the vacation you want and make the most of your membership, it’s best to book as far in advance as possible—ideally several months before your points or trading power are set to expire.
For best results:
- Start planning early—at least six to twelve months ahead if possible.
- Check your points or trading power expiration dates through your membership portal.
- Contact member services if you’re unsure about your current status or need help with booking.
That proactive approach means more options and far less stress, especially for those bucket-list trips or special family getaways.
RCI Cruises Exclusive Benefits
When you book a vacation through RCI cruises, you get all the deals the cruise line offers and exclusive RCI member benefits. These additional benefits include a 110% best prices guarantee, up to $1,500 to spend on board, and cruise experts available for assistance 24/7. This means they will refund you up to 110% of the difference if you find a lower price. In addition, you have extra money that you can spend onboard on dining, drinks, shopping, etc. You are in good hands if you aren’t familiar with cruises and how they work. RCI cruise experts work around the clock to help guests book the voyage of their dreams. Make sure you book through the RCI website or with an RCI cruise expert to get these tremendous benefits.
Take RCI Cruises to Top Destinations
RCI cruises pair up with some of the industry’s most prominent cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Each ship offers incredible features that will take your vacation to the next level. Top locations for RCI cruises include the Bahamas, Alaska, and the Caribbean. The decision of where to go or which cruise line to take all comes down to your preferences.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean offers cruises to various locations and lengths of time. Spend four nights on a cruise to the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean CocoCay cruises. CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island which offers fabulous amenities, such as the tallest waterslide in North America and the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Other entertainment includes bars, fine dining, theme nights, and a spa. Another option is to hop on a 7-night Mexican Riveria Cruise. On board the ship Navigator of the Seas, you can work out in the fitness center, dance the night away at the different bars, or lounge by one of the multiple pools. You are in for a treat with Royal Caribbean.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is another option for fabulous cruises. RCI recommends guests set sail on Bahamas Carnival Cruises, Mexico Carnival Cruises, Caribbean Carnival Cruises, or European Carnival Cruises. Because they are all RCI-approved, you know you can’t go wrong with any of these locations. The European Carnival Cruise is the longest because you port at seven different cities across three countries. On this 10-night cruise, you visit Italy, Turkey, and Greece. On-boat entertainment includes pools, sports, shops, contests, family activities, and so on. If you are looking for a shorter trip that departs from the US, look into the Bahamas, Mexico, or Caribbean cruises.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Last but certainly not least is the Norwegian Cruise Line. Alaskan cruises are top-rated but for different reasons than those in tropical areas. Alaskan cruises get you up close to ice and wildlife. Guests love seeing all the scenic views and animals from the ship’s deck. Norwegian Cruise Line excels in traveling to Alaska in addition to warmer locations like Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas. The amenities onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line make each trip such a blast. Whether you relax at the spa, play a friendly game on the basketball court, or watch a show at the theater, you are bound to have a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Cruise Exchange Cancellations Work?
Life happens, and sometimes plans need to change—even your dream cruise getaway. If you need to cancel a cruise booked through the vacation exchange network, here’s what to expect:
- Cancellation Policies Vary: Each partnered cruise line, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian, has its own cancellation policies and timelines. Be sure to review these details carefully before booking.
- Potential Fees: Depending on how close to departure you cancel, cancellation fees may apply. These fees are typically outlined during the booking process and can vary by cruise line and fare type.
- Refund Process: If you cancel within the allowed time frame, your points or weeks used for the reservation may be returned to your account—sometimes with a small deduction for administrative fees. However, last-minute cancellations might result in forfeiting some or all of your points, weeks, or money paid.
- Locate your reservation details: Keep your booking confirmation number handy.
- Contact Support for Help: Cruise specialists are available to walk you through the process, answer questions, and explain the fine print so you know exactly where you stand.
It’s always a good idea to read all the terms and conditions or reach out to an expert before making changes. This way, you can reschedule your adventure smoothly or plan your next escape with confidence!
Are Cruise Certificates Eligible for Cruise Exchange?
Cruise certificates are not typically eligible for cruise exchange through RCI. In most cases, you’ll need to book using your available RCI points or weeks rather than a cruise certificate purchased elsewhere. These certificates often have their own terms and conditions, so they aren’t interchangeable with RCI’s vacation exchange program or accepted as payment toward RCI cruise bookings.
If you’re not sure whether a specific certificate can be used, it’s a good idea to check the fine print or reach out directly to RCI’s cruise specialists for clarification. This will help ensure you don’t miss out on any exclusive offers or benefits available to RCI members when planning your next adventure at sea.
Can I Book Multiple Staterooms for My Cruise?
Wondering if you can reserve more than one stateroom for your upcoming cruise adventure? Absolutely! Many travelers choose to book multiple staterooms—perhaps you’re planning a family reunion, traveling with friends, or just want a bit of extra space.
Whether you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian Cruise Line, booking multiple rooms is a breeze. You can select staterooms close together, on the same deck, or even suites for added luxury. Just be sure to let the booking agent—or your RCI cruise expert—know how many rooms you need when making your reservation. This way, your group can stay together and enjoy the voyage in style.
Keep in mind, early booking is recommended for larger groups to ensure your preferred stateroom types are available side by side.
Can I Gift a Cabin with Cruise Exchange?
Absolutely! When you book a cruise through RCI’s exchange program, you’re not limited to using the reservation for yourself. RCI members have the flexibility to gift a cabin to family members or friends. This makes it easy to treat a loved one to an unforgettable vacation at sea—whether it’s a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or just because!
Simply provide the necessary guest details when making the reservation, and your lucky recipient will be able to enjoy all the cruise has to offer. Just keep in mind that standard booking policies, such as minimum age requirements and travel documentation, still apply. Whether you choose Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian, your gifted cruise will set sail for an amazing adventure.
How Do I Transfer An Existing Cruise Reservation
If you’ve already booked a cruise but need to make changes, transferring your reservation is usually a simple process—just be sure to act quickly! Many cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line, allow guests to transfer their existing reservation to another travel agency or booking service if the request is made within a certain time frame (often within 60 days of the original booking and before final payment).
Here’s what you’ll want to do:
- Contact the cruise line’s customer service department as soon as possible. Have your reservation details handy.
- Submit a transfer request— this is typically done by filling out a transfer form or emailing the cruise line, indicating the new travel agency or contact you’d like managing your booking going forward.
- Check for eligibility: Some reservations (especially those with added promotions or booked with onboard credit offers) might have restrictions, so always ask what applies to your reservation.
- Follow up for confirmation: Most cruise lines will send an email or official notice to confirm your reservation has been successfully transferred.
It’s worth noting that transferring your reservation could let you take advantage of additional perks, deals, or expert assistance offered by different agencies. If your dream cruise vacation suddenly needs a little course correction, this simple process helps keep your plans smooth sailing.
How to Set Sail with RCI Cruises
If you want to set sail on one of the fabulous RCI cruise lines mentioned above, you must start by owning a timeshare that affiliates with RCI and pay yearly fees for membership. Since the RCI membership costs money, buying a timeshare on the resale market could be a great way to save some extra cash. At Timeshares Only, we have a wide variety of timeshares on our marketplace where you can find incredible deals. Simply make an offer once you have found the timeshare for you. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to assist! Give us a call at 1-800-610-2734.
