OREANDA-NEWS. United Airlines today unveiled new cruise-travel benefits for members of the carrier's MileagePlus loyalty program, enabling members who live in the 50 United States to set sail using miles or a combination of miles and money.

With MileagePlus Cruise Awards, more than two dozen cruise lines are available for mileage redemption for exciting journeys to destinations around the world, including the Caribbean, South America, Europe, Mexico, Alaska and Hawaii.

"Our cruise-travel redemption program provides MileagePlus members a unique new way to use their miles for exceptional travel experiences," said Praveen Sharma, United's vice president of loyalty. "The program is an excellent addition to the other diverse options we offer to redeem miles, including hotel stays, car rentals, merchandise and auctions for once-in-a-lifetime adventures."  

MileagePlus members also may earn miles for cruise travel by booking through United Cruises, which launched in 2011.

United offers its MileagePlus cruise-travel programs through a partnership with World Travel Holdings, the world's largest cruise agency.

MileagePlus is United's industry-leading loyalty program. Members earn award miles by flying United, United Express, Star Alliance airlines or other airline partners, and by purchasing products or services from partners around the globe. United also offers members a host of options to redeem their miles.

According to the fifth annual Switchfly Reward Seat Availability Survey, published by IdeaWorksCompany in May 2014, MileagePlus offers the most "Saver" award-seat availability among the largest U.S. global airlines. Additionally, Global Traveler magazine has named MileagePlus the "Best Frequent-Flyer Program" for 11 consecutive years.