Hilton Honors Members Can Now Earn and Redeem Points on Explora Journeys in 2026

In 2026, the landscape of global luxury travel has reached a new pinnacle of convenience and reward. Hilton has officially expanded its world-renowned Hilton Honors loyalty program through a strategic partnership with Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group. This collaboration allows travelers to seamlessly blend their high-end hotel experiences with sophisticated ocean voyages, creating a unified ecosystem for the modern explorer.

Rewarding the Modern Traveler at Sea

For the first time, Hilton Honors members can earn and redeem points beyond the traditional hotel stay, diving into a portfolio of exquisite maritime itineraries. Under the new agreement, members who book Explora Journeys through Hilton channels will earn 10 base Hilton Honors Points for every US dollar spent on cruise fares. This integration ensures that the investment made in a luxury vacation continues to build value for future travels, whether they be in a city-center Waldorf Astoria or a private villa at an LXR resort.

In addition to earning potential, the partnership provides immediate financial benefits. Members are entitled to a five percent discount on all Explora Journeys fares when booked through the designated partnership platform. Furthermore, the ability to redeem accumulated points toward the cost of a voyage opens up new possibilities for loyal Hilton guests to experience the ultra-luxury cruise segment without the traditional price barrier.

Exclusive Perks for Elite Members

Recognizing the importance of status and personalized service, the partnership introduces a tiered system of onboard benefits that align with a guest’s Hilton Honors standing. These perks are designed to enhance the 'Ocean State of Mind' that Explora Journeys is famous for:

• Gold Members: Guests at this level will receive an invitation to an exclusive welcome cocktail reception hosted by the ship’s leadership team, providing an intimate look into the operation of these magnificent vessels.
• Diamond Members: In addition to the cocktail reception, Diamond members will be granted Journey Experience Credits, which can be used to enhance their time on board with spa treatments or specialized excursions.
• Diamond Reserve Members: The highest tier offers the most prestigious rewards, including behind-the-scenes bridge tours led by the ship's officers and private port transfers to ensure a seamless transition from ship to shore.

A Global Reach and the Arrival of EXPLORA III

The timing of this partnership coincides with a significant milestone for the cruise line: the debut of EXPLORA III. This latest addition to the fleet enters service in 2026, offering state-of-the-art environmental technology and a refined aesthetic that mirrors Hilton’s own luxury brands like Conrad and NoMad. The itineraries available through this partnership span the globe, covering the iconic coasts of the Mediterranean, the rugged beauty of Northern Europe, and the pristine landscapes of Iceland and Greenland.

For those seeking warmer climates, the program also covers sailings along the East Coast of North America, the vibrant Caribbean, and the lush shores of Central America. This expansion represents more than just a loyalty update; it is an invitation for travelers to explore the world’s oceans with the same level of trust and hospitality they have come to expect from Hilton’s 28 world-class brands. By counting these luxury cruises toward elite status qualifications, Hilton is ensuring that the journey at sea is just as rewarding as the stay on land.