American Cruise Lines revamps loyalty program

Small ship operator American Cruise Lines has re-launched its loyalty program with extra perks.

Frequent cruisers with the line who join the company's Eagle Society program now will receive:

-- A free cruise upon completion of 10 American Cruise Lines voyages.

-- Free shore excursions on all voyages after a member's third trip with the company.

-- Special Eagle Society gifts ranging from customized officers jackets to champagne.

-- Customized luggage name tags that indicate the number of cruises taken by each member.

-- Invitations to exclusive Eagle Society cruises hosted by company executives, which include special tours, receptions and entertainment.

-- Hometown VIP access. When an American Cruise Lines ship is in a port near a member's hometown, the company will extend an invitation to come aboard for lunch or dinner.

-- Non-guest visitation and dining rights. When in port, members may invite friends or family aboard for a tour of the ship or to join them for meals.

-- Eagle Society-only savings and promotions.

American Cruise Lines expanded notably in 2012 with the addition of its first vessel on the Mississippi River, the newly-built paddlewheeler Queen of the Mississippi, and its first ship in Alaska. The line also introduced a new itinerary around The Pacific Northwest's Puget Sound and San Juan Islands.