Royal Caribbean Crystal Blocks: Trophies or Paperweights?
Some of you may be familiar with Royal Caribbean’s iconic loyalty program, Crown and Anchor Society, but do you know when you cruise enough, they reward you with a crystal block?
But crystal blocks? Don't you mean paperweights?
What is a Crystal Block?
Quantum of the Seas Crystal Block (PHOTO: VENSEN WONG (SCS)
The Royal Caribbean Crystal Block is awarded to guests as a milestone recognition when they accumulate 140 cruise points and subsequent blocks every 70 points.
These blocks are custom made for all 26 ships in the fleet. Guests can create their own 'crystal fleet' as they cruise on different ships around the world.
These crystals would be presented to eligible guests reaching the milestone on that voyage in your staterooms, along with a letter from the ships' loyalty ambassador onboard.
Different variations of the block
Pinnacle Club Crystal Trophy PHOTO: HO HSIN CHUN (SCS)
Throughout a member's cruising 'career' - their first eight blocks will be the standard-sized crystals with the imprints of the ships' profile. However, things change when you hit 700 points. As guests enter the elite and exclusive Pinnacle Club, they will be greeted with a sweet crystal trophy engraved with your name and ship you attained the tier with.
And as an added convenience, the company will ship it straight to your residence!
Occasionally, the company does come out with unique variations of the block. Back in 2018, when the company welcomes its new flagship vessel - the Symphony of the Seas, they brought on a special edition for the ship's Inaugural Season.
An Inaugural Season Block (PHOTO: SOURCED ONLINE)
The Crystal Block Saga
As part of the post-pandemic efforts to restructure and refine the programme, Royal Caribbean revealed that there were plans to remove the Crystal Block as many guests were starting to leave behind their crystals on board - as it was simply too heavy to be carried home! Following that, members around the world got together to convince the management to reverse the decision.
Within 48 hours, the President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, Mr Michael Bayley, shared on Facebook that the company has heard the feedback. They will be reversing the decision and establishing new ways for guests to state their preferences on whether they prefer to have it delivered on board, mailed to the place of residence, or not receive one at all.
Good Call, Royal Caribbean!
What do people do with their Blocks?
Most people will leave these crystals around their homes and perhaps use them as paperweights - or gaze upon them once in a blue moon. However, some of our followers shared with the Singapore Cruise Society that they have done more with these crystals than having them just lying around.
Mr Tok Soo Leng (Ace), Royal Caribbean's First Pinnacle Member in Singapore & Southeast Asia, shared his crystal block collection in his newly renovated apartment in Singapore. Showcased, he has nine crystal blocks of his most favourite ships. He went an extra step, building a custom-designed wall with LED lights to showcase his beautiful collection.
His most treasured piece? The Pinnacle Club Trophy.
So what do you think about the Crystal Blocks - do you know they existed? Would you be getting one soon?
Let us know in the comments!
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