Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® from Barclays Bank Delaware Review

Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® Review

As a financial expert with years of experience in the credit card industry, I frequently get asked about travel rewards credit cards, especially those tied to specific brands or experiences. One such card that has caught the attention of many travelers is the Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® from Barclays Bank Delaware. This credit card is particularly appealing to frequent cruisers and those who enjoy the luxury and convenience of Princess Cruises. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the details, benefits, and potential drawbacks of this card to help you determine if it aligns with your financial goals and travel plans.

Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® Key Takeaways

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, here are the key takeaways for the Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa®:
1. Rewards Structure: This card offers 2x points per $1 spent on all Princess purchases, including onboard purchases, and 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
2. Bonus Points: New cardholders can earn 10,000 bonus points after their first purchase, which can be redeemed for a statement credit of up to $100 towards their next cruise purchase.
3. Annual Fee: The card comes with no annual fee, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Introductory APR on Balance Transfers: Enjoy a 0% introductory APR for the first fifteen billing cycles on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening.
5. Travel Concierge Service: Cardholders receive personal assistance via telephone for various needs, including dining, travel, and entertainment reservations.
6. Good to Excellent Credit Required: Applicants need a credit score ranging from 670 to 799 to qualify for this card.

Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® Pros and Cons

Pros

– No Annual Fee: One of the standout features of this card is the lack of an annual fee, making it an attractive option for those who want to earn rewards without incurring additional costs.
– No Foreign Transaction Fees: Travelers will appreciate the absence of foreign transaction fees, which can add up quickly when making purchases abroad.
– Introductory APR on Balance Transfers: The 0% introductory APR for balance transfers is a valuable feature for those looking to consolidate debt or manage their finances more effectively.
– Bonus Points: Earning 10,000 bonus points after the first purchase is a generous offer, providing a head start on accumulating rewards for future cruises.
– Travel Concierge Service: The travel concierge service adds an extra layer of convenience and luxury, ensuring that cardholders can access personalized assistance for their travel and entertainment needs.

Cons

– No Introductory APR on Purchases: Unlike some other travel rewards cards, the Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® does not offer an introductory APR on purchases, which may be a drawback for those planning significant expenditures.
– High APR Range: The variable APR for purchases and balance transfers ranges from 20.24% to 29.99%, which is relatively high and could lead to substantial interest charges if balances are not paid in full.
– Limited Rewards Categories: While the 2x points on Princess purchases is appealing for frequent cruisers, the 1x point on all other purchases may not be competitive with other travel rewards cards that offer higher earning potential in broader categories.

Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® Benefits

Rewards Program

The Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® features a straightforward rewards program designed to cater to the needs of cruise enthusiasts. Here’s a closer look at the rewards structure:
– 2x Points on Princess Purchases: Cardholders earn double points on all purchases made with Princess Cruises, including onboard purchases. This makes it easy to accumulate points quickly if you frequently sail with Princess.
– 1x Point on All Other Purchases: For every dollar spent on non-Princess purchases, cardholders earn one point. While this rate is standard, it may not be as competitive as other travel rewards cards offering higher earning rates on everyday expenses.

Bonus Points

New cardholders can jumpstart their rewards journey with 10,000 bonus points after their first purchase. These points can be redeemed for a statement credit of up to $100 toward your next cruise purchase, providing an immediate benefit and incentive to use the card.

Travel Concierge Service

One of the standout benefits of the Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® is the travel concierge service. This feature offers personal assistance via telephone, helping cardholders with a range of needs such as dining reservations, travel arrangements, entertainment bookings, and more. This service adds a touch of luxury and convenience, ensuring that your travel experiences are seamless and enjoyable.

Introductory APR on Balance Transfers

The card offers a 0% introductory APR for the first fifteen billing cycles on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening. This can be a valuable tool for those looking to consolidate existing debt or manage their finances more effectively. However, it’s important to note that the card does not offer an introductory APR on purchases.

No Foreign Transaction Fees

For travelers who frequently spend money abroad, the absence of foreign transaction fees is a significant benefit. This feature allows you to use your card internationally without incurring additional charges, making it easier to manage your travel expenses.

Purchase Protection and Fraud Protection

The Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® offers purchase protection and fraud protection, providing peace of mind when making purchases. These features ensure that you are protected against unauthorized transactions and can receive reimbursement for eligible purchases in case of damage or theft.

Conclusion

The Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® from Barclays Bank Delaware is a compelling option for avid cruisers and loyal Princess Cruises customers. With its no annual fee, attractive rewards structure, and valuable benefits such as the travel concierge service and no foreign transaction fees, this card is designed to enhance your travel experiences and help you make the most of your spending.
However, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the lack of an introductory APR on purchases and the relatively high variable APR range. If you plan to carry a balance or make significant purchases outside of Princess Cruises, you may want to compare this card with other travel rewards options that offer more competitive earning rates and introductory offers.
Ultimately, the Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® is an excellent choice for those who frequently sail with Princess and want to maximize their rewards and benefits. By understanding the card’s features, pros, and cons, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and travel preferences.