Royal ONE or Royal ONE Plus? Here’s how to choose – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Miami has long served as a gateway for Royal Caribbean sailings, and now the cruise line has introduced two fresh credit cards that replace earlier versions tied to its brands. Loyal passengers face a practical choice between the no-fee Royal ONE Visa Signature card and the $99 Royal ONE Plus version. The decision hinges on spending patterns, cruise frequency, and how quickly rewards matter for upcoming trips.
Launch Details and Core Differences
Bank of America issued the new cards to update the previous Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises offerings. Existing cardholders receive the basic Royal ONE automatically, while those seeking the upgraded version can request a change after receiving the replacement. New applicants can apply directly for either card and qualify for welcome bonuses unavailable to prior holders.
The Royal ONE carries no annual fee and requires $2,000 in spending within 90 days for its 45,000-point bonus. The Royal ONE Plus charges $99 yearly yet delivers a larger 70,000-point bonus after $3,000 spent in the same window. Both cards share core Visa Signature protections such as trip delay coverage and concierge access.
Earning Rates That Reward Cruise Spending
Everyday purchases earn one point per dollar on both cards. The Royal ONE adds two points on groceries, gas, and electric vehicle charging, while the Royal ONE Plus extends that rate to dining, hotels, and airlines as well. Cruise bookings with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, or Silversea earn three points per dollar on the basic card and four points on the Plus version.
Points only accrue when purchases code directly to the cruise lines, so bookings through third-party advisors fall short of bonus rates. Onboard charges and pre-cruise packages bought with the card still qualify. The Plus card therefore builds balances faster for travelers who mix cruises with other travel expenses.
Perks That Improve Embarkation Day
Both cards provide priority boarding in a dedicated line. The Royal ONE Plus goes further by placing cardholders with suite guests and adding priority luggage delivery, which can free up time on sailing day. Anniversary cruise discounts also differ: $100 after $10,000 in annual spending on the basic card versus $200 after $20,000 on the Plus.
The Royal ONE Plus includes an extra non-cruise benefit in the form of a $120 statement credit every four years toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees. These layered advantages make the paid card more appealing for frequent cruisers who value smoother port experiences.
Redemption Options and Long-Term Value
Points from either card convert at one cent each toward cruise discounts or onboard credit across Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. A minimum of 5,000 points applies, and redemptions must be requested through a guest account or contact center before sailing. Points cannot cover taxes, fees, or gratuities.
For many travelers the Royal ONE Plus delivers stronger overall returns through higher earnings, larger welcome bonuses, and enhanced cruise-day conveniences despite its modest annual fee. Budget-conscious passengers who sail less often or book lower-category cabins may still find solid value in the fee-free Royal ONE, especially if they rarely use airline or hotel categories.
Key considerations: Match the card to your annual cruise spending and tolerance for the $99 fee. New applicants should confirm eligibility for welcome offers before applying.
Next Steps for Interested Cruisers
Those already holding older Royal Caribbean cards can still apply for the Royal ONE Plus directly to capture the larger bonus rather than waiting for an automatic upgrade. The cards work best as supplements for dedicated fans rather than primary travel rewards tools, since redemption stays limited to the three Royal Caribbean Group brands.
Review personal spending habits against the published rates and thresholds, then decide whether the added perks justify the step up. Either choice provides tangible cruise savings for responsible users who sail regularly with these lines.
