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At The Points Guy (TPG), we have a profound appreciation for exclusive lounges. From relaxing before flights at the airport to enjoying upscale accommodations while traveling, these lounges add a touch of luxury to our journeys. For cruise enthusiasts, accessing a private “concierge lounge” can be one of the most coveted perks, often reserved for elite status members or those who book top-tier suites.
Concierge lounges offer a spectrum of amenities that can transform a voyage into a worthwhile escape. While some lounges may be cozy havens with minimal refreshments and reading materials, others provide opulent settings with around-the-clock complimentary dining, private pools, and dedicated concierge services that cater to booking dining, spa, and entertainment reservations. They serve as indispensable sanctuaries at sea, enhancing the overall cruise experience.
Guide to Concierge Lounges on Ships
Unlike airport lounges, gaining access to a cruise ship’s concierge lounge isn’t merely a matter of having a premium travel credit card or a Priority Pass membership. Instead, your best bet often involves booking a top suite, as some cruise lines strictly limit lounge access to suite guests. Lines like Holland America and Princess Cruises make this clear, as concierge lounges are often exclusive to passengers in their highest-tier accommodations.
Some cruise lines, however, have created unique viewing opportunities for those with concierge-level cabining. For instance, Disney Cruise Line offers concierge cabins that come with a variety of benefits, including private lounge access and priority reservations for onboard activities. While the cost might be higher, the rewards frequently justify the premium.
For many travelers, the allure of a concierge lounge represents the apex of shipboard luxury. Balancing personal choice and pricing, passengers need to weigh the perks—ranging from a more personalized travel experience to exclusive serenity—against the monetary investment involved.
Is It Worth Paying Up for a Room with Lounge Access?
Just as there are lounges on various cruise lines, the reasons for accessing these lounges vary based on individual traveler needs. While lines like Royal Caribbean allow top-tier loyalty program members complimentary access to concierge lounges, many others require a suite or concierge-level cabin upgrade. The question is whether the added cost is justified.
The answer lies in how much value you place on the experience. Perks that often accompany lounge access include early boarding, reserved seating for shows, and personalized assistance from concierges. Therefore, if you prioritize comfort and premium service, the expense may resonate with you. However, if you value adventure and exploration over luxury, you might find the upgrade less appealing.
The Ultimate in Concierge-Class Cruising
Cruise lines like Norwegian and MSC set themselves apart by encapsulating an elite experience characterized by their distinct “ship within a ship” concepts. On Norwegian Cruise Line, luxury seekers can enjoy The Haven, while MSC Cruises offers the Yacht Club—both of which feature their own exclusive lounges, customizing the cruise experience to an unparalleled degree.
Travelers who opt for accommodations in these exclusive areas benefit from a bevy of perks. In addition to private pool access and personalized butler services, pre-cruise concierges assist with planning, making advance bookings for spa treatments and specialty dining. This not only streamlines the experience onboard but also enriches the overall cruise journey.
Concierge Lounges by Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Name of lounge: The Retreat Lounge (transitioning from Michael’s Club). Available on: Most ships, excluding Galapagos. Access: Suite passengers and Zenith-level Captain’s Club members. Amenities: Continental breakfast, complimentary drinks and gourmet snacks, and a private restaurant. Services: Concierge available for reservations and questions.
Cunard Line
Name of lounge: Concierge Lounge. Available on: All ships. Access: Princess Grill and Queens Grill suite passengers. Amenities: Complimentary snacks, beverages, and newspapers. Services: Concierge for dining and excursion arrangements.
Disney Cruise Line
Name of lounge: Concierge Lounge. Available on: All ships. Access: Suite and concierge-level cabin passengers. Amenities: Complimentary food, beverages, private sun deck, and exclusive meet-and-greet experiences. Services: Concierge for reservations and special occasions.
Holland America
Name of lounge: Neptune Lounge. Available on: All ships. Access: Neptune and Pinnacle suite guests. Amenities: Complimentary breakfast, sweets, and sparkling wine. Services: Concierge for dining and shore excursion bookings.
MSC Cruises
Name of lounge: Top Sail Lounge. Available on: Select ships. Access: Suite guests in the exclusive Yacht Club. Amenities: Front-of-ship views, complimentary meals, and access to a private pool area. Services: Concierge for dining and excursion arrangements.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Name of lounge: The Haven Lounge. Available on: Select ships. Access: Passengers in The Haven suites. Amenities: Complimentary refreshments and exclusive access to a serene courtyard pool area. Services: Concierge for reservations and inquiries.
Oceania Cruises
Name of lounge: Concierge Lounge. Available on: Marina and Riviera ships. Access: Concierge Veranda-category guests. Amenities: Snacks and nonalcoholic drinks, along with a ready-to-use computer. Services: Concierge for reservations and port-related questions.
Princess Cruises
Name of lounge: Concierge Lounge. Available on: Select ships. Access: Suite guests. Amenities: Snacks and quiet reading areas. Services: Concierge for booking assistance.
Royal Caribbean
Name of lounge: Concierge Club. Available on: Select ships. Access: Top-tier Crown & Anchor Society members and suite guests. Amenities: Complimentary snacks and drinks during happy hours. Services: Concierge is present for reservations and party arrangements.
Featured photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises.