Is Aloft Part of Marriott? (2026 Brand Guide & Bonvoy Benefits)

Is Aloft Part of Marriott? The Complete Brand Breakdown

Yes, Aloft Hotels is a core brand within the Marriott International portfolio. Aloft officially became a Marriott brand in September 2016, following Marriott's $13.6 billion acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Today, Aloft operates as a prominent member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, falling under the "Distinctive Select" category. This means guests enjoy full Marriott benefits, including point redemptions, elite status perks, and a seamless booking experience through the Marriott app.

The History: From Starwood Vision to Marriott Heavyweight

Aloft was not always a Marriott property. It was originally conceived in 2005 by Amal Abdullah and the team at Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

• The "W" Connection: Aloft was famously dubbed "A Vision of W Hotels." The goal was to take the trendy, music-focused, and design-led energy of the luxury W Hotels and make it accessible at a lower price point for business travelers and younger "early adopters."

• The First Opening: The brand debuted at the Montreal Trudeau International Airport in 2008.

• The 2016 Merger: When Marriott acquired Starwood, they didn't just keep Aloft—they accelerated its growth. By 2026, the brand has grown to over 240 locations globally, including the massive Aloft Singapore Novena, the world’s largest Aloft property.

Where Does Aloft Sit in the Marriott Hierarchy?

Marriott organizes its 30+ brands into four main tiers: Luxury, Premium, Select, and Longer Stays. Aloft is officially categorized as a "Distinctive Select" brand.

• "Select" refers to the service level; unlike a full-service "Marriott" or "Sheraton," Aloft offers a streamlined, "select" range of amenities (like a bar and 24/7 grab-and-go food) rather than multiple fine-dining restaurants or extensive room service.

• "Distinctive" refers to the brand’s personality. While a "Classic" brand like Courtyard is built on consistency and tradition, a "Distinctive" brand like Aloft is built on a specific lifestyle—in this case, urban design, live music, and high-tech features.

Marriott Bonvoy & Aloft: Perks for 2026

Since Aloft is a Marriott brand, staying here is one of the most efficient ways to climb the Bonvoy ladder.

• Earning Points: You earn 10 points for every $1 spent on qualifying room rates at Aloft.

• Elite Benefits: Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador Elite members typically receive a Welcome Gift (choice of points or a $10 F&B credit) and late checkout (subject to availability).

• Pet-Friendly Travel: Aloft is famous for its Arf® (Animals are Fun) program, offering dog beds and bowls, making it a favorite for Marriott loyalists traveling with pets.

Aloft vs. Moxy vs. Courtyard: Quick Comparison

Feature	Aloft Hotels	Moxy Hotels	Courtyard by Marriott
Vibe	Tech-forward & Musical	Playful & Social	Professional & Functional
Check-In	Aloha Desk (Modern)	Bar Moxy (Cocktail included)	Traditional Front Desk
Primary Guest	Tech-savvy Biz Traveler	Young Socialites/Tourists	Corporate Professionals
Food Style	24/7 Re:fuel Pantry	24/7 Snacks/Flatbreads	The Bistro (Sit-down)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Aloft considered a luxury hotel? 

No. While it has high-end design elements, it is a "Select" service hotel. It offers a more affordable, tech-focused alternative to luxury brands like W or St. Regis.

Can I use my Marriott Bonvoy credit card at Aloft? 

Absolutely. Spending at Aloft hotels will earn you the maximum multiplier on any Marriott co-branded credit card (from Amex or Chase).

Does Aloft have a gym? 

Yes, almost every Aloft features a Re:charge℠ fitness center, which is typically open

24/7.

Conclusion: Why the Marriott Connection Matters

Knowing that Aloft is part of Marriott is the key to maximizing your travel value. It offers the perfect middle ground: the reliability and points-earning power of the world’s largest hotel company, combined with a boutique, high-energy atmosphere that feels anything but "corporate."