Embarking on a Carnival Cruise Line voyage is an exciting experience, and the Carnival® World Mastercard® aims to enhance that journey by offering rewards and benefits tailored for cruise enthusiasts. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the card’s features, benefits, earning potential, and how it compares to other credit cards suited for cruise travelers.
Overview of the Carnival® World Mastercard®
The Carnival® World Mastercard®, issued by Barclays, is designed specifically for Carnival Cruise Line patrons. With no annual fee and a straightforward rewards program, it appeals to those who frequently sail with Carnival and its affiliated brands.
Key Features:
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 20,000 FunPoints® after your first purchase or balance transfer, redeemable for a $200 statement credit toward your next cruise purchase. thepointsguy.com
- Earning Rates:
- 2 FunPoints® per $1 spent on Carnival Cruise Line and partner cruise brands.
- 1 FunPoint® per $1 spent on all other purchases. thepointsguy.com
- Additional Perks:
- 10% back as a statement credit when booking Carnival shore excursions through Carnival.com before sailing.
- No foreign transaction fees, making it convenient for international travel. thepointsguy.com
Redeeming FunPoints®
FunPoints® can be redeemed for various Carnival-related expenses, providing flexibility for cardholders. Redemption options include statement credits toward:
- Cruise bookings.
- Onboard amenities.
- Shore excursions.
- Other travel-related expenses.
Redemptions start at 5,000 FunPoints® for a $50 statement credit, equating to a value of 1 cent per point.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Benefits:
- No Annual Fee: Enjoy the card’s perks without the burden of an annual fee.
- Easy-to-Earn Bonus: The 20,000 FunPoints® bonus is attainable with just a single purchase or balance transfer.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for international travelers, ensuring no extra charges on overseas purchases.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Earning Potential: With only 2x points on Carnival purchases and 1x on all other spending, accumulating points can be slow compared to other travel cards.
- Restricted Redemption Options: FunPoints® are primarily valuable for Carnival-related expenses, limiting flexibility.
- Lack of Comprehensive Travel Benefits: The card doesn’t offer extensive travel protections or perks like trip insurance or airport lounge access.
Comparison with General Travel Credit Cards
While the Carnival® World Mastercard® offers specific benefits for Carnival cruisers, general travel credit cards may provide more versatile rewards and broader benefits. Here are five top-rated travel credit cards suitable for cruise enthusiasts:
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Earning Rates:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- 2x points on all other travel purchases, including cruises.
- 3x points on dining.
- Benefits:
- Comprehensive travel protections, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance.
- Points worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Ability to transfer points to various airline and hotel partners.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is favored for its robust rewards structure and flexible redemption options, making it a strong contender for travelers seeking versatility.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Earning Rates:
- 2x miles on every purchase.
- Benefits:
- Miles can be redeemed as a statement credit against travel purchases, including cruises.
- Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.
- No foreign transaction fees.
This card’s straightforward earning scheme and flexible redemption make it appealing for those who prefer simplicity.
3. Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Earning Rates:
- 2x points on travel and dining.
- 1.5x points on all other purchases.
- Benefits:
- Up to $200 in combined airline incidental and airport expedited screening statement credits.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Enhanced rewards for Bank of America Preferred Rewards clients.
Ideal for existing Bank of America customers, this card offers competitive rewards and additional perks.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Annual Fee: $695.
- Earning Rates:
- 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel.
- 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.
- Benefits:
- Extensive travel perks, including access to the Global Lounge Collection.
- Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits.
- Comprehensive travel insurance and purchase protections.
