July 2024

AIRDA Member Feature

RCI’s Cruise Exchange Program
for members in India

For this feature interview, we are in conversation with William Hall, Vice-President of the Marketing and Digital team at RCI, overseeing the EMEA, APAC, and India regions. William is a passionate marketing leader with global experience spanning over 20 years in subscription-led business models. Known for driving customer-centric ideas that yield bottom-line benefits, he is committed to solving challenges and delivering profitable solutions.

William’s expertise encompasses product conceptualization, development, comprehensive marketing strategies, voice and digital initiatives, customer experience enhancement and retention strategies, and end-to-end P&L responsibility.

Having embarked on his journey with RCI in 2001, William has navigated through various roles within the business during his tenure. He has held pivotal roles, including his current position as Vice President of Marketing, Digital, Product Strategy, and Commercial Strategy, as well as Senior Director of Omni-channel. Throughout, his leadership he has consistently delivered impressive results and navigated numerous teams across the EMEA API region through the challenges of the COVID recovery, optimizing customer lifetime value and EBITDA margins.

Recently RCI celebrated its 50th anniversary by announcing the launch of its first-ever Cruise Exchange Program in India. This exciting program allows RCI members to leverage their timeshare ownership to access discounted rates on cruise bookings worldwide, thereby expanding their travel options and rewards.

Here is a summary of our interview with William on RCI’s specially curated Cruise Exchange Program for the Indian market. He expressed excitement, emphasizing how RCI has evolved from a timeshare exchange company to a full travel membership platform that caters to the evolving needs and preferences of contemporary travelers.

Can RCI members in India use their exchange options for cruise holidays?

In addition to resort accommodations, hotel accommodations, flight bookings, and other travel arrangements, RCI India now offers a Cruise Exchange Program for its members. You can now leverage your timeshare ownership to access discounted rates on cruise bookings worldwide, further expanding your travel options.

Whether you're interested in a luxurious Caribbean cruise, an adventurous Alaskan voyage, or a cultural Mediterranean journey, RCI's program includes options to suit all preferences and travel desires. The program's extensive network ensures members have the flexibility and convenience to choose from numerous cruise itineraries and plan their dream holidays.

Is there an initial access-at-a-discount offer on cruise bookings worldwide?

Yes, RCI members can enjoy special discounts on cabin bookings for cruises worldwide. This benefit is designed to enhance the travel options and rewards available to members. Specifically, standard RCI members can access discounted rates for booking up to 8 cabins, providing an excellent opportunity for family or group travel. For RCI Plus members, the benefits are even greater, as they can book an unlimited number of cabins at discounted rates. Members can maximize their savings and enjoy a wide range of cruise experiences around the globe.

Could you share Cruise Exchange highlights for RCI members in India?

Flexibility in Cruise Options: The RCI Cruise Exchange Program offers members remarkable flexibility when it comes to choosing their cruise vacations. Members have the opportunity to select from a vast array of cruise itineraries worldwide, covering different destinations, lengths, and cabin categories. Whether members prefer short getaways or extended voyages, tropical paradises, or cultural excursions, the program caters to diverse preferences and travel styles. This flexibility ensures that every member can find a cruise that perfectly matches their vacation desires.

Discounted Cabin Bookings: One of the significant benefits of the RCI Cruise Exchange Program is the ability to book cabins at discounted rates. This makes cruising a more affordable option for members. Standard RCI members can enjoy special discounts on up to 8 cabin bookings, allowing for substantial savings, especially for family or group travel. For RCI Plus members, the benefits are even more extensive, as they can book an unlimited number of cabins at these discounted rates. This feature enhances the overall value of the RCI membership by providing cost-effective access to high-quality cruise experiences.

Variability in Discounts: The discounts available through the RCI Cruise Exchange Program can vary based on the cruise liner. Different cruise companies offer varying promotional rates and discount structures, which means that members can benefit from a range of savings opportunities depending on their chosen cruise. It’s important for members to review the specific terms and conditions for each cruise line to maximize their discounts. This variability allows members to explore different cruise options and select the one that provides the best value for their investment, thereby enhancing their overall travel experience.

How can RCI members in India participate in the cruise program?

To participate in the RCI Cruise Exchange Program and enjoy the benefits of exploring multiple destinations aboard luxurious cruise liners, members must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Active RCI Membership: The primary requirement is to have an active RCI membership. Members need to ensure that their membership status is current and in good standing to take advantage of the program’s benefits.

Deposited Week: Members must have at least one week of their timeshare deposited in their RCI account. This deposited week is crucial as it can be exchanged for discounted cruise bookings. The deposited week represents the member's commitment and participation in the RCI exchange network.

Trading Power Points: Members need to have a minimum of 7 Trading Power points in their account. These points help facilitate the exchange process and ensure members receive appropriate value for their deposits.

By meeting these eligibility criteria, RCI members can seamlessly explore a variety of global destinations aboard some of the world’s finest cruise liners. They can enjoy the exceptional comforts and amenities of floating resorts, from luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining to diverse entertainment options and enriching shore excursions. This eligibility framework ensures that members have the necessary resources and access to fully leverage the RCI Cruise Exchange Program, thereby enhancing their overall travel experience.

A little bit of history

In 1974, Jon and Christel DeHaan changed everything. By letting owners exchange time at their home resorts for a stay at affiliated properties, members got better value, flexibility, and adventures to share. And the travel industry would never be the same – but that was just the start.

Today, RCI isn’t just the leader of vacation exchange. It’s an entire global travel network. One place to dream it, plan it, and book it all. Score a hotel stay in paradise. Get a road trip ready with a rental car. Find passes to must-see attractions. Or even pick a cross-country flight. With RCI you get it all while enjoying exclusive savings, perks, and services every step of the way.

This is The New Shape Of Travel. Say hello to 4,100+ resorts, 600,000+ hotels, 345,000 activities, 30+ popular cruise lines, and access to major car rental brands. Take your pick of the perks that come with RCI Weeks® and RCI Points® membership options, plus elevated travels with the RCI Platinum® tier.

Let’s look back at some of the key milestones that have helped RCI solidify its status as the industry’s leading exchange company – and the ultimate travel companion for timeshare owners. Here’s to 50 years of more. More dots on the map. More milestones. More memories.