Solid Deal: Redeem Virgin Red Points on Cruises in the Caribbean and Mediterranean

This post is a quick heads up in case you’ve missed the news. Right now there is a special points deal going on, as first reported on AwardWallet blog

Here is the screenshot of the press release:

 

You can redeem 115k Virgin Red points on 5-night Caribbean cruises departing between June 1st and September 30th. Alternatively, you can redeem 160k points on a 7-night cruise in the Mediterranean, departing on certain dates this summer. It looks like using points on either deal yields at least 2 CPP, which is very good. There are also specials on transatlantic crossings, but those aren’t quite as compelling. And there are two Europe sailings leaving in the next two weeks costing only 120k points. if you don’t mind planning things last-minute.

The price is for two people, inclusive of all taxes, WIFI and gratuities. Only alcohol costs extra.

Edit: as one of our readers pointed out,  there are additional taxes of $150-$200 per person. Upon further investigation, it only applies to Caribbean cruises.

Space is limited, so if you are interested, I wouldn’t wait too long  to take advantage of it. Keep in mind, Virgin Cruises are adults-only. I’ve never sailed with this company, but I’ve heard really good things about food quality on board. Entertainment apparently tends to be on risqué side, which is most definitely not my cup of tea. But it’s not like you are required to attend, so it would not be a deal breaker. I love the fact that this price is valid for a balcony cabin, though Virgin Voyages uses a different term here. The company clearly targets those who wouldn’t ordinarily consider cruises. It’s a bit gimmicky, but whatever.

What makes this deal even sweeter is the fact that right now there are several transfer bonuses going on. Through May 31st you can get 30% bonus for transferring Amex points to Virgin Atlantic, and the same type of deal is offered by Chase Ultimate Rewards program through June 15th.

Virgin Red is the main rewards program for all things Virgin, and you can simply link your Virgin Atlantic account in order to use points towards cruises (see details here)

I won’t be taking advantage of this deal, as my husband and I already have two cruises coming up in the next year. Otherwise, I would absolutely consider this promo. Living in Florida means that we wouldn’t have to purchase airfare in order to sail to the  Caribbean. We try to take at least one trip without kids per year, and I strongly recommend it. Find family members who are willing to babysit, and treat yourself to a relaxing cruise by utilizing points.