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Margaritaville's new cruise ship is kind of a mess; I loved it anyway
In addition to cruising, Ashley is obsessed with reading, lawn gnomes, pizza, cats, CrossFit, SEO and proper grammar.
June 27, 2024 • 17 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 note: TPG's Ashley Kosciolek accepted a free trip to sail on Margaritaville at Sea Islander for the ship's preview voyage. The views expressed below are entirely hers and were not subject to review by the cruise line.
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
Margaritaville at Sea's new Islander ship offers refreshed cabins, standout burgers and pizza, and creative entertainment options.
The ship features unique activities like pickleball and elaborate mini-golf, blending modern updates with whimsical original decor.
Notable drawbacks include persistent plumbing issues, inconsistent crew attentiveness and outdated or glitchy onboard technology.
Security concerns arise from keycards displaying cabin numbers, which is not standard practice.
What to consider
Some public areas and restrooms may experience cleanliness and maintenance issues, especially during peak times.
Passengers must rely on paper schedules and boarding passes due to the lack of a mobile app and limited digital systems.
Ongoing repairs and operational improvements are being made, but travelers should expect some unresolved glitches.
What you'll miss from the article
A detailed look at which features shine and which operational issues could impact your cruise experience on the Islander.
Generated by AI with support from our editorial team.
It wasn’t exactly cheeseburgers in paradise, but there were cheeseburgers — and they were amazing. So were the cabins, pizza, coffee and entertainment. Those are just a few of the draws on Margaritaville at Sea’s new ship, Islander, which I recently sailed for three days during a preview voyage.
But, despite all that it does right, the ship had some sizable glitches. I understand that Islander is a 24-year-old vessel purchased from Costa Cruises and refurbished, but I'm still surprised the issues weren't mitigated before the first sailings began.
From keycards that reveal too much personal information and empty hand sanitizer dispensers to larger issues like leaky ceilings and clogged toilets that give new meaning to the phrase “Bubbles Up,” what I experienced made me grimace as much as I grinned during my sailing.
With the addition of the vessel to its fleet, the Jimmy Buffett-affiliated oceangoing offshoot of the popular Margaritaville Resort brand has more than doubled in size. Should a sailing on this ship be your next Caribbean getaway? Here’s what made it a "Lovely Cruise" and what needs work before the ship is ready for prime time.
What I loved
The cabins
A Signature Grand Suite on Margaritaville at Sea Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
For two nights, "I Have Found Me a Home" in one of Islander’s Signature Grand Suites — the largest the ship offers. Although it’s small when compared with suites on newer vessels, it has plenty of space.
All cabins received gorgeous revamps, complete with plenty of nods to Jimmy Buffett and his love of the good life. They include touches like surfboard shelving in some cabins and phrases like “License to chill, and I believe I will” on the walls and mirrors in others. Suites are outfitted with “Livin’ on Islander Time” pillows, copies of Buffett’s books “A Salty Piece of Land” and “A Pirate Looks at Fifty,” and a make-your-own-margarita setup.
Passengers in Signature Grand Suites will find a make-your-own-margarita setup in their cabins on Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Everything is done up in a white, blue and teal color scheme, which makes most rooms feel light and airy — like you’re staying in a beachside Airbnb, rather than on a ship.
With their refreshed look, the cabins are some of the most impressive examples of refurbishment on the entire vessel.
Phenomenal burgers and pizza
A cheeseburger from Cheeseburger in Paradise on Margaritaville at Sea Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Flanking the ship’s Six String Stage near the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Pool are the aptly named Cheeseburger in Paradise and Mexican Cutie Cantina. It’s clear that they drew inspiration from Carnival Cruise Line’s pool deck eatery setup, which features Guy’s Burger Joint and the BlueIguana Cantina. I rolled my eyes at first, but I was completely stunned to discover that Margaritaville’s burgers are far superior.
Although the options are simpler than what you’ll find at Guy’s — there are no weird acronyms, nor are there tons of toppings — the burger quality is next-level. You know how everybody’s got that one grill-obsessed uncle who spends all day flipping burgers that are absolute masterpieces at family gatherings? Imagine that sort of flavor — but on a ship.
All patties are cooked well done (but still with tons of flavor), and you can choose simple accouterments like cheese, lettuce and tomatoes.
A crew member prepares to slice pizza at Frank & Lola's Pizzeria on Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
If you’d rather grab something indoors where it’s cooler, the Port of Indecision Buffet houses Frank & Lola’s Pizzeria. Besides the Margaritaville Coffee Shop and Sandwich Bar, the pizzeria is the only buffet venue that provides standout sustenance. Otherwise, the food is squarely mediocre.
Be sure to try the plain or pepperoni. After taste-testing pizza from all of the major cruise lines, I’m declaring Margaritaville at Sea’s pies the best pizza afloat.
Creative entertainment
Members of the Islander entertainment staff finish a number during "Caribbean Heat Remix." ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Theater shows on Islander aren't over-the-top groundbreaking, but I enjoyed them immensely.
The first night’s show, “Caribbean Heat Remix,” included singing and dancing to snippets of popular songs from Pitbull, Gloria Estefan, Bob Marley, Justin Bieber and others. On the second night, I grudgingly attended “Conky Tonkin’” — an ode to country music, of which I am decidedly not a fan. I was pleasantly surprised that I knew most of the songs and couldn’t stop tapping my feet. The phenomenal acrobatic performances didn’t hurt, either.
An acrobat performs on Islander during "Conky Tonkin'." ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Unique props and a giant LED screen were also incorporated as elements that added to the intrigue, rather than distracting from the performers. Somehow, Margaritaville at Sea has found a way to do theater entertainment that’s engaging and enjoyable, even for people who don’t necessarily like certain musical genres.
Rounding out the entertainment were pop-up nightclub performances by some of the cast’s aerialists and live music — including steel drum concerts — throughout the bars and lounges.
Noteworthy drinks
A bartender makes two Bubbles Up Margaritas at the Bubbles Up Bar on Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
I’ll be blunt: If you think you know what it means to drink on a cruise ship, think again. With a name like Margaritaville at Sea, the line attracts folks who like to have a great time with an alcoholic beverage in hand.
That doesn’t necessarily mean your fellow cruisers will be sloppy, though. I didn’t see anyone who would have been embarrassed by their antics the next day, but what I did find were excellent bar menus throughout the ship.
Every bar has a margarita on its menu; for a photo-worthy concoction, try the Bubbles Up Margarita at the Bubbles Up Bar. Each bar also has a secret drink you can request; just know that it varies by the bartender.
You can roll the dice to choose your drink at the casino on Margaritaville at Sea Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
If you’re feeling lucky (or can’t decide what to order), head to the Margaritaville Casino Bar. The menu has separate lists of shots and cocktails, each numbered one through six. Ask the bartender for dice, and roll to see which one you’ll get. I ended up with the Moneyline Margarita (Margaritaville-branded tequila, pineapple and lime juices, and honey-infused simple syrup), which was delicious.
Amplified activities
Islander has a top-deck cornhole course with obstacles. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Like most cruise ships, Islander has a daily schedule of activities. What I discovered, though, is that they aren’t things you’ll necessarily find on other cruises. What showed up on the “Checklist to Chill” were origami classes and family circus workshops. The top deck even has a dedicated pickleball court and a cornhole course with obstacles — something I’ve never seen on a ship before.
Additionally, the miniature golf course, which includes some impressive and elaborate obstacles, was almost always crowded when I was on the top deck.
Overall, Islander receives a nod for coming up with creative ideas and cranking existing ones up a notch.
The throwbacks
The Joe Farcus-designed entrance to the Coral Reef Lounge on Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Margaritaville at Sea purchased Islander from Carnival Corp. brand Costa Cruises and did a wonderful job of melding new, modern touches with the whimsy of the bygone Joe Farcus era.
Farcus, an architect and interior designer, handled the decor on Carnival Cruise Line vessels and some of Costa’s for more than 30 years. What remains on Islander of his over-the-top decor are intricate mosaic designs, quirky staircases, a larger-than-life atrium space with glass elevators and a two-story nightclub with a hell theme.
The Joe Farcus-designed Hot, Hot, Hot Nightclub on Islander, which has a hell theme. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
The ship’s layout is also intriguing. It's a maze of semihidden hallways and staircases that lead to surprising places, making me feel like I was always discovering something new.
What needs work
Plumbing problems
Leaks sprung up in several places on Islander when it rained heavily. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Despite its $150 million refurbishment, the ship leaks. Unfortunately, there’s no "Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season," and we hit some torrential rain on the first day. Shortly after, water trickled into the atrium at a steady clip, and significant numbers of buckets and caution signs popped up in both public areas and cabin hallways.
One of Islander's public restrooms was leaking from under the floor. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
The plumbing had issues, as well. My cabin’s toilet clogged three times with light to normal use and no flushing of nonflushable items. A couple of people in my travel group experienced the same thing on the final night of our cruise, and every time I used a public restroom on board, I found several of the toilets were clogged. In one of the bathrooms, water bubbled up from under the floor tiles, which made squishing noises when I stepped on them.
The Magrodome — the retractable roof that covers the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Pool — also leaked. It’s not such a big deal if you’re planning to swim or lounge in the hot tubs because you'll get wet anyway. But it's annoying to dodge for people who want to stand near the stage and listen to music or who are passing through on their way to someplace else. I also didn’t see any crew members with squeegees clearing the walkways of water to make them safer for passengers.
Margaritaville at Sea representatives initially told me these problems were fixed, but reports in a Margaritaville at Sea Islander group on Facebook indicate otherwise. When I inquired again, the line told me the leaks are being addressed and that the clogs are the result of passengers flushing items — wipes, feminine products, etc. — that they shouldn’t.
"The plumbing system was tested, upgraded, and performed fine before the June 11 cruise," a Margaritaville at Sea representative told me via e-mail. "The issue with the plumbing points to passengers disposing of items that shouldn’t be flushed on a cruise ship, which caused back-ups. We are working to make sure proper toilet usage is communicated to all passengers, so this doesn’t continue to happen.
"During our sailing from Belfast to the U.S., we didn’t encounter any significant rain to test for abnormal leaks beyond what we identified and repaired in dry dock," the statement said. "As you know, we hit some severe weather leaving Mexico on the inaugural voyage, which alerted us to some additional areas that had leaks when under intensive wind and rainfall. We are in the process of mitigating this and have corrected the spots on the ship already."
Crew attentiveness
The line at guest services on Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Crew members were friendly and pleasant, but many seemed underprepared. Public restrooms were a mess every time I went in, including the aforementioned clogged toilets and empty soap dispensers. On two occasions, I also experienced empty hand sanitizer dispensers when I entered the buffet. The second time, I told a nearby attendant, and she seemed unconcerned.
Also in the buffet, the crew members were quick to clear up the tables, but they often failed to wipe them clean. I put my plate down on top of stickiness and crumbs more than once. Empty drink glasses accumulated on tables and railings in other public spaces, as well.
The line says it has assigned additional crew members to address these problems.
Beyond cleanliness, several times when I asked crew members if they could point me to the places I was looking for, they weren’t able to do so. I had to ask three people where the teen clubs were before I found one who even knew teen clubs existed on board.
Because the cabin phones weren’t yet programmed with numbers for the front desk, housekeeping and room service — something the line says it’s working on — I was unable to phone guest services to report my clogged toilet. I went down to the guest services desk twice to alert someone and ask for assistance. When I reached the front of the line, the two crew members behind the desk just stood there, not acknowledging me. Finally, I stepped up to the counter to get their attention.
Glitchy or nonexistent technology
The line for dinner outside the Islander Dining Room on Margaritaville at Sea Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
You'll find a lot of paper on Islander. Because the cruise line has no mobile app, passengers must print boarding passes for embarkation (or take screenshots on their phones or wait to check in at the desk when they arrive) and rely on physical copies of the daily schedule to plan their days on board.
Wi-Fi problems on my sailing made both the basic and premium packages nearly useless. The connectivity issues have been fixed, but passengers are still reporting cabin TVs aren’t receiving a signal (a problem I also experienced). That means cruisers can’t view their onboard accounts unless they have them printed at guest services.
Reservations for the JWB Prime Steakhouse are taken down on paper instead of a computer system — which the line says it is in the process of adding and improving — and receipts at several for-fee venues are handwritten. The analog approach also makes it nearly impossible for hosts in the main dining rooms to look up passengers’ dinner reservations and slows down the check-in and seating process.
I waited in line for 25 minutes to reach the check-in stand at the Islander Dining Room, and when I asked where my group was sitting, the host was unable to locate the reservation by my cabin number. Because the Wi-Fi wasn’t working, I couldn’t text anyone from my group to ask, so I ate alone.
The line tells me it’s currently working on getting those systems up and running.
Keycards with too much information
My keycard from the Islander sailing, displaying my name and room number, 7200. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
When you cruise, your keycard serves as an onboard charge card and also allows you to enter your room. Normally, these cards have passenger names, folio numbers, dining assignments and muster stations on them but don’t include cabin numbers for security reasons.
The cards on Islander list passenger cabin numbers, which is unsafe; if a card is lost or stolen, whoever finds it can locate the room and use the card to enter. There’s a "Pencil Thin Mustache" line between helpful and dangerous, and it’s something I hope the line considers changing.
Bottom line
A view from above the LandShark Pool area on Islander. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Any ship, regardless of whether it’s new or has just found a new home, will have bugs to eradicate when it first sets sail. Once the cruise line works out some of the considerable kinks, passengers will be able to better appreciate the cozy cabins, excellent entertainment and some standout food and drink on a value-driven getaway that’s just plain fun.
I’m crossing my fingers the cruise line will have Islander’s issues fixed before the ship’s next "Trip Around the Sun." In the meantime, set your expectations if you book a sailing (or wait a few months before setting sail), and prepare to "Breathe In, Breath Out, Move On" if you encounter an issue. If you’re looking for a luxury sailing, this isn’t the ship for you.
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 on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
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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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Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
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Valuable dining and food-related credits
Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
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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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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.
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$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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
