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Deal breakers? 10 must-have amenities you won't find on all cruise ships
Donna Heiderstadt, a New York-based freelance travel writer and editor, has visited 99 countries (and counting), taken 70-plus cruises and written about her global experiences for the past 25 years.
February 25, 2025 • 14 min read
The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don't cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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By commenting, you agree to our Community Guidelines to help create a positive space for conversation. The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser, our partners, or The Points Guy (“TPG”). They have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these parties. All responses are submitted by individual contributors, and neither the bank advertiser, our partners, nor TPG are responsible for ensuring that all posts and/or questions are answered.
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Quick summary
Not all cruise ships offer popular amenities such as casinos, self-service laundry, waterslides or balcony cabins, so it's important to check before booking.
Amenities like libraries, indoor pools, pickleball courts and suite enclaves vary widely by cruise line and ship class.
River, expedition and luxury ships often lack features common on larger mainstream vessels, including waterslides and standard balcony cabins.
Some amenities, such as spas and fitness centers, are nearly universal, but their size and offerings can differ significantly.
What to consider
Older ships and smaller vessels may not have features like balcony cabins, waterslides or full-service spas.
Self-service laundry is not standard on most ships, and even when available, often incurs a per-load fee or requires bringing your own supplies.
Suite enclaves and exclusive areas for premium accommodations are only offered on select ships and may not be fully self-contained.
What you'll miss from the article
A detailed breakdown of which cruise lines and specific ships offer or lack each major amenity, helping you match your preferences to the right vessel.
Generated by AI with support from our editorial team.
Cruise ships offer a staggering array of amenities — but they don’t always cover all the bases.
Planning to double down on excitement at the blackjack table on your cruise vacation? Make sure your ship has a casino. Prefer to pack light and wash your clothes while on board? You’ll pay more unless your cruise line offers self-service laundry. And if you’re traveling with kids, what will you tell them when the ship you booked doesn’t have waterslides?
Before you book, make sure the amenities you require will actually be on the ship you choose. Here are 10 must-have amenities you won’t find on all cruise ships.
Casinos
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
Casinos are a hub of activity on large mainstream ships, where they’re given ample real estate filled with whirring slot machines and assorted gaming tables. On premium and luxury vessels, casinos are typically much smaller and are sometimes even tucked away for only the most determined players to find.
Some cruise lines, however, have chosen not to put casinos on their ships or ditched them during refurbishment. For example, family-focused Disney Cruise Line ships do not include casinos. Also, Pride of America is the only vessel in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet without a casino because it exclusively cruises in Hawaii, where gambling is illegal.
You also won’t find casinos on most expedition and river ships. Such is the case with Viking, which operates a fleet of adults-only ocean, river and expedition ships.
Some premium lines, such as Azamara, Windstar Cruises and Paul Gauguin Cruises, removed casinos when they refurbished their ships.
It might surprise you to learn that not all ships offer standard balcony cabins. Cruise lines began designing vessels with more balcony cabins and suites about 25 years ago, so some ships built in the 1990s and earlier might not have them — or only offer a small number of suites with balconies.
Of the mainstream cruise lines, Holland America is the only one with ships lacking standard balcony cabins. Volendam and Zaandam, both built in 1999, only feature private verandas in their Vista Suites and Neptune Suites. Most rooms are ocean-view cabins. However, Volendam offers Lanai Staterooms with glass doors that open onto the promenade deck (as do a handful of other Holland America ships).
Among small-ship luxury cruise lines, Windstar’s masted sailing ships lack balconies. And while its motorized yachts do feature two top suite categories with private outdoor space, most of the balcony suites only have French balconies (sliding doors with a railing for letting in fresh air but without actual outdoor space).
Most expedition vessels lack standard balcony cabins (although some have floor-to-ceiling infinite veranda-type windows or French balconies). National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition Cruises’ National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution and UnCruise Adventures' Safari Endeavor and Safari Explorer are among the exceptions.
River ships sailing Europe’s waterways have a mix of balcony and French balcony rooms, depending on the cruise line. AmaWaterways and Viking offer full balconies, for example, while Avalon, Uniworld River Cruises and others have French balconies. Many cabins on Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours ships feature an indoor Sun Lounge with windows that can convert to a balcony. However, many smaller vessels cruising the Nile, Mekong and Amazon rivers feature just French balconies. Exceptions include Viking Saigon and Aqua Mekong on the Mekong and AmaWaterways and Viking ships on the Nile, all of which have true balcony cabins.
One of several free self-service laundry rooms on Viking Cruises' Viking Mississippi. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
If you like to travel light, it helps to know if your ship offers free self-service laundry (though you’ll often pay for detergent and fabric softener unless you brought them from home). Valet-type laundry services are widely available for a fee.
If you’ll be cruising on Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity, Holland America, Virgin Voyages or MSC, prepare to pay to have your clothes cleaned because none of these lines offer self-service laundry rooms.
Carnival does offer self-service washers and dryers (although you’ll pay a per-load fee) on most of its ships. However, only machine-less “ironing rooms” are available on its newest Excel Class ships (Mardi Gras, Celebration and Jubilee) and on the three ships it acquired from sister line Costa Cruises (Luminosa, Firenze and Venezia).
Princess also charges per load in its self-service laundry rooms.
Most river ships also do not offer self-service laundry rooms. Some exceptions include American Cruise Lines and Viking’s U.S.-based ship, Viking Mississippi.
Disney Cruise Line, Viking, Oceania and Azamara, among others, provide free self-service laundry facilities on their ships.
The Twist 'n' Spout waterslide on a Disney cruise ship. DISNEY CRUISE LINE/FACEBOOK
Waterslides create a theme-park-like vibe on the top decks of many megaships. So, if you’re a parent who doesn’t want to disappoint your thrill-seeking kids and teens — or if you enjoy an adrenaline rush yourself — know that some cruise lines don’t offer a single slide on their ships.
Those cruise lines include Celebrity, Princess, Holland America and Oceania. As you might expect, expedition vessels, yacht-style ships and river ships do not offer waterslides.
If you’re game for an adrenaline rush, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Disney and MSC are the waterslide kings. Many of these lines’ newer and larger ships offer at least one and as many as six waterslides, plus all the splashy top-deck fun you could possibly imagine.
That said, select Royal Caribbean vessels — all Quantum Class ships, plus significantly older and smaller Radiance Class ships — do not feature waterslides. Additionally, some older Norwegian ships lack waterslides.
Spas and fitness centers
A spa treatment room on Seabourn Venture. SEABOURN
Almost all ocean ships — from mainstream megaships to ultraluxury small ships and expedition vessels — feature a spa and a fitness center. However, the spa size, treatment offerings, thermal suite amenities and exercise equipment will vary.
Spa facilities will be the most basic on smaller adventure-style vessels and river ships. It might come as a surprise that Viking, known for ocean and expedition ships featuring some of the most impressive spas and thermal suites at sea, does not offer a spa on any of its 80-plus river ships. The line's ships also lack gyms and walking tracks (with the exception of Viking Mississippi, which has the latter).
That’s an anomaly among river cruise ships since other lines, including AmaWaterways, Tauck, Scenic and Uniworld, all feature a small gym and a spa treatment room on all or most of their ships. AmaWaterways and Scenic also provide wellness coaches who lead yoga classes and biking excursions.
Avalon Waterways, which operates on the rivers of Europe and Asia, and American Cruise Lines, which has coastal and river ships exclusively in the U.S., both feature fitness areas on all ships but do not have spas.
The library on Oceania Cruises' Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
As more cruisers tote reading tablets loaded with multiple books, libraries on mainstream cruise ships are doing a disappearing act, with take-a-book, leave-a-book exchanges sometimes taking their place.
The four most recent Princess ships (Sun Princess, Discovery Princess, Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess) do not have libraries. Norwegian’s six latest vessels (Prima, Viva, Aqua, Encore, Joy and Bliss) also lack libraries. However, older ships on both lines do include libraries.
Carnival has also ditched the library on its newer ships, Carnival Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee.
Royal Caribbean nixed the library on Icon of the Seas (and on the upcoming Star of the Seas), while a small selection of books is available in the Card Room on Oasis, Quantum and Freedom Class vessels.
Celebrity also jettisoned the library on its Edge Class ships (Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent and the upcoming Xcel). However, those seeking stacks of books and a cool place to read will find it on Celebrity’s five Solstice Class vessels (Solstice, Equinox, Eclipse, Reflection and Silhouette), all of which feature a two-level library on decks 10 and 11.
Which cruise lines do offer libraries on their ships? Cunard is known for its libraries (the one on Queen Mary 2 has more than 10,000 titles). Holland America recently added libraries back onto its ships; by the end of 2025, all vessels will feature refurbished onboard libraries with new decor and up to 1,700 books.
Oceania ships feature some of the most inviting libraries, from cozy, wood-paneled rooms on its older vessels to larger, chicly decorated spaces on newer ships. A handful of Azamara ships feature an elegant Drawing Room stocked with books. All Windstar ships have a library.
Luxury cruise ships from Regent, Silversea, Seabourn and Viking have dedicated library spaces. Those on Regent Seven Seas Explorer, Splendor and Grandeur are especially well stocked, and the “secret library” on Silversea’s Silver Nova and Silver Ray is a small but beautiful jewel.
Pools and hot tubs
A hot tub on Norwegian Encore. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
Is a pool or hot tub a cruise vacation must? Almost all ocean and luxury expedition ships feature one or the other (or both) — with larger ships offering multiple spots to enjoy a dip. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the largest ship in the world, has seven pools and nine hot tubs.
River cruise ships, on the other hand, are inconsistent with pool and hot tub offerings. For example, none of Viking’s 60 identical Longships sailing in Europe feature a pool or hot tub. However, you’ll find pools on its vessels on the Douro, Nile, Mekong and Mississippi rivers. Additionally, none of American Cruise Lines' vessels have pools or hot tubs.
Pool and hot tub availability on other river cruise lines vary, with some AmaWaterways, Avalon, Scenic and Uniworld ships featuring pools or hot tubs, and others lacking them.
Most adventure and expedition lines only offer hot tubs on their vessels.
Indoor pools
The Lido pool on Holland America's Eurodam. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
An indoor pool is a welcome perk for cool-weather cruising. Unfortunately, they aren’t available on many ships, at least, beyond the smaller thermal pools or lap pools in the spa area. Indoor pools that are available to all guests (without an added fee) are missing on all ships from lines such as Norwegian, Virgin Voyages, Disney, Oceania, Regent and Ponant, among others.
Additionally, most river ships do not have indoor pools. A few exceptions include a handful of Emerald Cruises and Uniworld vessels.
However, some cruise lines do have ships with pools that are either indoors or feature a retractable roof. For example, all Celebrity ships (except Celebrity Flora in the Galapagos Islands) feature an indoor adults-only Solarium Pool.
Solarium spaces also vary across Royal Caribbean ships, with some featuring a fixed or retractable roof, while other Solarium areas are open.
Pools with retractable roofs are also on all Holland America ships, as well as on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and the new Queen Anne.
A handful of Princess ships offer indoor pools, while the line’s newest ship, Sun Princess, features an indoor-outdoor pool beneath a geodesic, glass-enclosed dome.
You’ll also find indoor pools on select MSC vessels and on luxury cruise line ships, such as Viking (ocean-going ships) and Explora Journeys.
Pickleball courts
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
You can get your pickleball game on at sea on almost every ocean cruise line except for Disney, Windstar, Viking, Azamara and Ponant.
Most river ships have yet to jump on the craze due to space limitations, but AmaWaterways has a full-size pickleball court on AmaMagna, which cruises the Danube.
Suite enclaves
The private pool area in The Haven suite complex on Norwegian Bliss. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
Some mass-market cruise lines offer a “ship-within-a-ship” space, but the layout varies from line to line. For example, some suite complexes are grouped together in a private area on the ship, with exclusive dining, a lounge, a pool and a sundeck situated nearby. Suites on other lines are located around the ship, with the designated restaurant, lounge and sundeck area elsewhere on the vessel. Alternatively, some lines offer suites but lack exclusive spaces for suite guests.
You will not find suite enclaves on Holland America or Carnival or on older Norwegian and MSC vessels.
Norwegian’s The Haven and MSC’s Yacht Club are self-contained suite enclaves, while Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class and Celebrity’s The Retreat are not. The latter two feature suite accommodations and exclusive spaces spread around the ship.
Disney ships feature concierge-level rooms that come with private lounge and sundeck access, plus perks like special onboard meals and offerings, early cabana booking at Disney's Castaway Cay private island and early theater seating, among other benefits.
Exclusive areas are also available on Cunard sailings when you book one of the higher-tier accommodations, including Britannia Club cabins, Princess Grill suites and Queens Grill suites. They come with access to exclusive lounge and deck spaces, private dining and other perks.
The newest Princess ship, Sun Princess, and all Virgin Voyages ships have added amenities and spaces for suite guests, but again, these spaces are located throughout the ships.
Bottom line
Before you hit the “book now” button, make sure the ship you choose has everything you need for your ideal cruise vacation. You might not have to go cold turkey when it comes to playing pickleball or getting a massage while at sea. However, if you require a well-curated library or a self-service laundry option when you cruise, choose your ship wisely.
By commenting, you agree to our Community Guidelines to help create a positive space for conversation. The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser, our partners, or The Points Guy (“TPG”). They have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these parties. All responses are submitted by individual contributors, and neither the bank advertiser, our partners, nor TPG are responsible for ensuring that all posts and/or questions are answered.
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Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
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Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
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Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
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Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
American Express® Gold Card
TPG editor's rating4
TPG editor's rating4
at American Express's secure site. Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
Rewards rate
Rewards rate
Rate
Category
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
2X
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
1X
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
Annual fee
$325
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Excellent to Good
Pros + cons
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
More details
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
at American Express's secure site. Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
Rewards rate
Rewards rate
Rate
Category
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
2X
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
1X
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
Annual fee
$325
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Excellent to Good
Pros + cons
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
More details
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
