After spending 150 days on Princess Cruises, I earned Elite status. These 4 perks have completely elevated my experience.

"It's often a confusing and irking part of the cruising experience because it takes time to load and maneuver these small boats to the pier, which can result in guests waiting hours to go ashore. Luckily, as an Elite member, I now receive priority access to these water shuttles. My last cruise had three ports where a water shuttle was required to go ashore, and this benefit alone saved me from waiting and worrying about how long it would take to leave the ship."

"In the past, I've woken up very early and waited in long lines for water shuttle tickets. I've also had my independent port plans ruined because of slow tender operations. With Elite status, though, I'm able to take my entire family on the first tender of the day without having to set an early alarm. I also have access to complimentary laundry services"

After spending 150 days on Princess Cruises over three years, I reached the highest Captain's Circle status, Elite. Elite status provides complimentary laundry services, discounted WiFi, and priority access to water shuttles. Priority access to water shuttles saves significant time at ports, avoids long lines for tender tickets, and enables taking family on the first tender without early alarms. Princess earns distinction for beautiful ships and interesting itineraries. Most major cruise lines operate loyalty programs similar to airlines, with credit earned toward status on each sailing. Chasing status was not the goal, but Elite significantly improved the cruising experience.

Read at Business Insider