There’s been a lot reported on cruise line loyalty programs over the summer. With Carnival Cruise Line ending their popular VIFP Loyalty Program, we’ve received a lot of questions. One very common question we get is about the MSC Cruises Status Match Program. MSC Cruises is one of just two cruise lines that allows you to bring your status over via status match. In fact, the cruise line even matches some hotel chains!
You read that right! If you’ve worked your way up in another loyalty program, MSC will recognize that and reward you with similar perks. And these start right from your very first cruise! It’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy the perks of loyalty without having to start from scratch.
How the MSC Cruises Status Match Program Works
MSC Cruises Voyagers Club Loyalty Program has six tiers: Welcome, Classic, Silver, Gold, Diamond, and Blue Diamond. You can read our extensive breakdown of the Voyagers Club Loyalty Program where we answer the question: Is the MSC Voyagers Club Loyalty Program Worth It? Through the status match program, you can skip the entry-level tiers if you already have status with another cruise line, hotel chain, or even certain travel loyalty programs.
The process is straightforward:
- Check Your Current Status – You’ll need proof of your existing tier in another program. MSC matches Carnival’s VIFP program, Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program, and even Hilton Hotels, just to name a few.
- Submit the Application – MSC offers an online form where you upload your proof of status. If you need any help in submitting your form, or just prefer someone to take care of that for you, reach out to Rocky. He’ll be glad to help!
- Wait for Confirmation – Processing usually takes a few days, and you’ll receive an email confirming your matched status.
According to the MSC Cruises website, the cruise operator will “compare and match you as closely as possible to your current level of benefits. Once matched, you’ll receive the full benefits offered by the matched tier, including booking discounts.”
As you can see in the above email, my Carnival VIFP Diamond status matched over to the Gold level with MSC.
Who Can Qualify?
As mentioned, MSC Cruises matches more than just cruise line programs. They’ll also consider hotel loyalty programs (like Hilton Honors, MGM Resorts, etc.). The key is determining where you have the highest status to match and providing clear documentation of your current tier. The online submission form makes it super easy to do.
Why It’s Worth It
Depending on the level you are matching into, the perks can be pretty great right from the start! Both of our Carnival Diamond and Platinum statuses matched over to the Gold level in the MSC Cruises Voyagers Club. This level provides a branded gift each sailing, welcome back party, complimentary thermal suite session in the spa, early access to theater shows and reservations, priority debarkation, and a bunch of additional discounts, including 5% off bookings made 12 months in advance!
For frequent cruisers, jumping into MSC Cruises upper levels can mean both savings and a more premium onboard experience without years of sailing.
Things to Know Before You Apply
- Cruisers are entitled to ONE status match per customer, so make it count.
- Your matched status lasts for five years, giving you plenty of time to try out MSC. To maintain status, you’ll need to sail at least once every five years with the cruise line.
- Perks will likely be different from your current program, so check MSC’s current Voyagers Club benefits to know exactly what you’ll get.
- Status match requests must be approved before your first MSC sailing to receive the perks on that trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
MSC Cruises does a nice job providing answers to the most commonly asked questions on their website. However, if you have any questions remaining, leave us a comment and we’ll do some digging for you!
Bottom Line
If you’ve been recently burned by another cruise line dropping your lifetime status, or you’re just looking to try something new, MSC Cruises Status Match Program is pretty fantastic. For cruisers that have built loyalty with another cruise line or hotel chain, MSC’s Status Match Program is one of the smartest ways to elevate your experience at sea. It’s free, easy, and could have you sipping a cocktail at your exclusive “Welcome Back” party on your very first MSC voyage!