Pool view aboard Explora Journeys.
HILTON ISN’ T BUILDING A CRUISE SHIP. BUT ITS LOYALTY MEMBERS CAN SOON EARN AND BURN ON ONE.
By DAVID EISEN intentionally, and feel truly in tune with their surroundings; this is what we call‘ The Ocean State of Mind’. Together, we’ re offering Hilton Honors members a stay at sea that blends the freedom of the ocean with the warmth of genuine hospitality. Our goal is simple: to create moments that are effortless, personal, and crafted with care, always guided by our commitment to the wellbeing of our guests.”
“ Explora Journeys defines the pinnacle of luxury ocean travel and unparalleled experiences,” said Chris Silcock, president, global brands and commercial services at Hilton.“ This exciting new partnership creates the perfect moment to launch Hilton Honors Adventures, introducing new ways for our members to experience iconic destinations and hidden gems around the world.”
Beyond the sea, Hilton Honors
Adventures will also include Hilton’ s partnership with outdoor hospitality provider AutoCamp.
Cruising continues to draw heady demand from consumers. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2026, with some 20.7 million taking cruises in 2025, a number higher than AAA originally projected for the year. AAA is forecasting that the year-over-year increase will be an 8.4 % jump from 2024 to 2025
Explora Journeys in New York.
and a 4.5 % bounce from 2025 to 2026.
Hotel companies are seeking opportunities to keep their loyalty members engaged with the brand and are finding new avenues and extensions to do so. The adjacent cruise industry makes a good complement to that, with Hilton partnering with a luxury line to keep up with Marriott and its Ritz-Carlton brand.
Hilton says it currently has around 235 million Hilton Honors members.
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