Big Changes Ahead: Carnival Launches New Loyalty Program
Is loyalty still loyalty if it’s based on how much you spend—not how often you sail? That’s the big question as Carnival Cruise Line rolls out its brand-new Carnival Rewards program, replacing the long-standing VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) club starting June 1, 2026.
What’s Changing?
The new program introduces a major shift in how guests earn and maintain loyalty status:
🌟 Status Tiers Based on Spending
Instead of earning status based on the number of cruise nights, Carnival Rewards will now calculate your tier—Red, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond—based on total spending over a rolling two-year period. This includes:
- Cruise fares
- Onboard purchases (spa, dining, excursions)
- Casino play
- Purchases made using the new Carnival Rewards Mastercard
💳 Dual Earning System
Guests will earn both:
- “Stars” – used to determine your loyalty status
- “Points” – redeemable for future cruises, upgrades, onboard experiences, and more
🔁 Status Expiration
Current VIFP members won’t lose their status immediately:
- Red, Gold, and Platinum status holders will retain their tier through May 2028
- Diamond members keep their status until May 2032
After that, requalification will be required every two years based on spending activity.
Why Is Carnival Making This Change?
Carnival cited a huge increase in elite status holders since cruising resumed post-COVID:
- Platinum members have doubled
- Diamond members have tripled
This growth has diluted the exclusivity of higher tiers. The new system is designed to better recognize high-spending guests and align with trends seen across airlines and hotel chains.
The Guest Response: Mixed
Not surprisingly, reactions from cruisers have been split:
- Some say it’s a fair, modernized approach that rewards deeper engagement.
- Others feel it’s a disappointment—penalizing loyal guests who sail frequently but spend modestly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a frequent Carnival cruiser, now’s the time to take stock of your future travel plans and consider how your cruise habits may impact your rewards under this new structure.
What do you think?
Will this make you more selective about how and when you cruise with Carnival—or are you ready to maximize your perks with smarter spending?
📩 Need help booking your next Carnival cruise or want to make the most of your loyalty rewards? Email us at fsauceda@dreamvacations.com, or call 949-738-0800. We're here to help you sail smart!
