A reservation is still required for a fixed week. Fixed weeks become "floating" after some Marriott known event. (Deposit by owner, or other internal scheme) We have stayed in so-called fixed weeks at Maui Ocean Club many times. (Top floor or two of Napili Tower was designated as fixed originally), but floating week people are often in them. Don't know exactly how it works, but we have enjoyed the ninth floor almost all of the last six or seven years. To the OP, what Marriott sales will tell you is that for a weeks' owner, the only thing guaranteed is your room view type in your purchased season. Depending on the popularity of the resort, you may not be able to secure a DESIRED week....different than week in your season. And, even though it is a so-called guarantee, you have to work to secure a reservation. If you wait until March to make a February reservation in Hawaii, you're going to be disappointed, unless you're lucky enough to secure a trade. Points people have no such guarantee, but they have more flexibility and access to available inventory via website.
