embarkment while in port, priority disembarkment, shoe polishing service, and complimentary laundry and cleaning service, as well as a complimentary mini-bar set-up, a special canapés selection, afternoon tea, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Latitudes Program

After your first cruise, Latitudes Program members receive complimentary access to the online Latitudes magazine, exclusive offers for future cruises, a members-only cocktail party onboard, and a special Latitudes representative to assist you.

After five cruises, you will also get to mix and mingle with other repeat NCL cruisers during a special onboard event and take advantage of special onboard offers. After your ninth cruise, members receive priority restaurant reservations, priority tender tickets, and priority disembarkation. After 14 cruises, you can tack on free laundry service, free dinner at Le Bistro restaurant, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship.

Holland America: Mariner Society

After one cruise, the benefits of Holland America's Star Mariner level include a "welcome back" lunch in the ship's dining room, a champagne brunch, a special gift, a free subscription to Mariners magazine, special offers on future sailings, and a 50-percent discount on third and fourth guests staying in your stateroom.

After sailing a total of 30 days, members reach the Two-Star Mariner level, with additional benefits that include a gift and photo, shopping discounts, an annual cruise planner and special lapel pin, special offers on future sailings, and a 50-percent discount on third and fourth guests in your stateroom on select future sailings.

The Three-Star Mariner kicks in after 75 cruise-day credits, adding to the list of perks such benefits as a 25-percent discount on specialty restaurant surcharges, wine packages, and mini-bar purchases, spa discounts, advance information on future cruises, and a waiver of air-deviation fees.

Members reach the Four-Star Mariner level at 200 sail days, with additional benefits including complimentary laundry and pressing service, a 50-percent discount on specialty restaurant surcharges, wine packages, and mini-bar purchases, a wine tasting, and complimentary cruise fare for third and fourth guests.

Before you get off your first cruise, see that special cruise representative and get your name on the "I've cruised before" list. Do keep in mind that some restrictions apply, so read the fine print on the application.