It’s not every day that one of the country’s major airlines rolls out a promotion that actually feels like a genuine opportunity to score a high-end getaway without spending a dime.

For a brief window that’s quickly closing, one well-known carrier is giving travelers a chance to win not just a single trip, but an experience that comes with extra perks and more than a few surprises.

With a headline prize that’s grabbing attention and several additional awards that are nothing to overlook, this limited-time offer is moving fast and favoring those who act without hesitation.

So if this kind of thing lands on your radar, it might be one of those moments where waiting too long just isn’t worth the risk.



Southwest Airlines is running a sweepstakes through July 31 where one person will win 500,000 Rapid Rewards points and a $5,000 gift card valid for a Carnival cruise for two.

Five additional winners will receive 100,000 Rapid Rewards points each, with the winners chosen randomly about 30 days after the sweepstakes closes.

To enter, participants must be 21 or older and reside in one of the 50 states or Washington, DC Entry is free and takes place exclusively on the official Southwest Cruises website.


The contest is operated by Southwest Cruises, a division of the airline that allows users to book cruise vacations while earning Rapid Rewards points.

According to the rules, users should expect future promotional emails after entering the sweepstakes.

While that might be a trade-off, the value of the potential winnings may outweigh the inconvenience for most travelers. The top prize includes a massive points haul and a vacation package worth thousands.



Also read: Less is more? Why American Airlines’ new policy has travelers fuming!

Southwest Cruises offers voyages on major lines including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Disney, Norwegian, and Virgin Voyages.

The site also features higher-end options like Viking, Regent Seven Seas, and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Rapid Rewards members earn one point per dollar spent on cruise packages, excluding taxes, fees, and other surcharges. A 110% price match is available if a traveler finds a better price elsewhere.



Also read: Airfare alert as United Airlines rolls out a change that could impact all travelers

This promotion arrives as Southwest prepares for a major shift in its operations. The airline’s upcoming assigned seating system is set to launch in January 2026, with ticketing for those flights beginning July 29.

This follows recent fare changes and the phase-out of some long-standing perks like free checked bags. The sweepstakes seems aimed at bolstering loyalty and engagement during this transitional time.

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Have you ever booked a cruise through your favorite airline? Let us know in the comments whether you’d use the points for flights or a voyage at sea—and where you’d go first if you won.