Twenty-five years after pioneering timeshare as part of a hotel brand, Marriott took another leap forward last month with the launch of a new points-based program to complement its standard fixed program. Current owners of Marriott Vacation Club timeshares retain their full rights and privileges but also have the option to join the new program, called Marriott Vacation Club Destinations.

“We’ve looked at this concept for a number of years, and from customer feedback we realized people want more flexibility,” says Ed Kinney, vice president. “But that’s not unique to timesharing or Marriott Vacation Club. We recognize as a general consumer trend people want flexibility in their lives and choices.”

As with other points-based vacation ownership programs, owners receive a lump of points that can redeem for a variety of vacation options. They can also save, borrow or purchase points to qualify for more exotic trips and experiences.

“For existing owners, the program is truly elective. If they choose, they can continue to have their traditional weeks of ownership,” says Kinney. “Those who choose to enroll will have the luxury of more tailored vacations. They may want to take two or three days at a time, or move up or down in types and sizes of accommodation. The program opens up a world of possibilities.”

Members can use their points to select travel from within four Vacation Collections:

• The Marriott Vacation Club Collection, 50-plus resorts already in the Marriott timeshare system.

• The Marriott Collection, the more than 3,000 Marriott-branded hotels.

• Explorer Collection, a set of land or cruise packages.

• World Traveler Collection, access to the more than 2,500 resorts in the Interval International system.