Hilton and Explora Journeys have entered a new phase of their partnership that lets Hilton Honors members earn and redeem points toward luxury ocean cruises booked through Hilton.
Members booking Explora Journeys sailings through Hilton will earn 10 base points per U.S. dollar spent on fares and receive a 5% discount on all Explora Journeys fares. Bonus points and additional perks are tied to a member's elite status tier. Gold members receive a welcome cocktail party with Explora Journeys ship leadership; Diamond members receive extra Journey Experience Credits; and Diamond Reserve members receive a bridge tour (subject to availability), private port transfers and access to every tier benefit offered under the program.
Hilton states that all qualifying stays count toward Hilton Honors elite status and that a full breakdown of benefits can be found at Hilton.com.
Mark Weinstein, chief marketing officer and head of luxury brands at Hilton, described the arrangement as an extension of the company's approach to hospitality:
"At Hilton, we believe 'The Stay' defines the journey. Our partnership with Explora Journeys is, first and foremost, about giving Hilton Honors members new ways to dream and new ways to stay — unlocking the ability to redeem and earn Hilton Honors Points and receive unique perks and access. That's why we've partnered with Explora Journeys — a brand that aligns with Hilton in its vision for elevated travel and its dedication to design-led experiences, intuitive service and personalized hospitality."
Weinstein said the relationship works in both directions, noting that Hilton looks forward to hosting Explora Journeys guests across its portfolio of 28 brands including Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, NoMad and LXR.
"Today's guests seek enriching experiences, personal recognition and the freedom to explore the world in a way that is uniquely theirs," said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. "This next phase of our partnership with Hilton Honors reflects a shared commitment to exceptional hospitality and recognizing each guest as an individual. It offers Hilton Honors members an inspiring introduction to Explora Journeys and an opportunity to discover the Ocean State of Mind that shapes every Journey."
Three itinerary regions are included under the partnership. Mediterranean sailings feature islands villages, historic ports and coves. Sailings covering Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America's East Coast include fjords, northern landscapes and coastal cities. Caribbean and Central America itineraries include island destinations, turquoise waters and the Panama Canal. The agreement also covers the inaugural sailings of Explora III which is set to debut this month.
The partnership builds on an arrangement first previewed in late 2025 through the launch of Hilton Honors Adventures, a collection of partners providing members access to immersive travel experiences. Hilton Honors Adventures forms part of broader changes to the loyalty program which have also been designed to make reaching elite status more attainable.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Explora Journeys. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
