Carnival
Cruise Line has announced the launch a new loyalty program, Carnival
Rewards.
The new program taking effect in June 2026 introduces a
points-based system featuring personalized perks and new ways to earn status,
including credit card spending. The current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP)
program will be guests’ entry point into the new program.
As a dual-earning structure, Carnival Rewards allows guests to
accumulate both Carnival Rewards points for redemption on Carnival purchases
and status qualifying stars determining a guest’s tier status.
In lieu of focusing on the number of nights guests sail, the
model Carnival follows under its VIFP program, Carnival Rewards offers more
opportunities to earn rewards and achieve higher status levels based on spend.
The new program will be closely tied to everyday spending on the co-branded
credit card with Barclays – the Carnival Rewards Mastercard.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line said in a
statement, “The evolution of our loyalty program to Carnival Rewards represents
our commitment to creating more meaningful recognition for our valued guests.
Our current VIFP program has served us well for many years and while we’ve
enjoyed truly extraordinary growth in our loyal customer base, it has become
challenging to deliver the exceptional experience our Diamond and Platinum
members deserve.”
She added, “By introducing a points-based system, we’re
enabling greater flexibility so guests can personalize their rewards in ways
that matter most to them. This transition honors our past while building a
future where loyalty is recognized through both cruising frequency and overall
engagement with the Carnival
experience, bringing Carnival Rewards into the top tier of travel loyalty
programs that provide our guests with ways to earn status and points through
their everyday spending on the Carnival Rewards Mastercard.”
Guests will earn Carnival Reward points along with status
qualifying stars on eligible Carnival purchases including cruise fares and
onboard spending. Points can be redeemed for onboard activities, spa treatments,
specialty dining and future cruises. Stars include four tiers: Red, Gold,
Platinum and Diamond. Status is earned over a two-year period and retained for
the following two years.
As part of the transition to Carnival Rewards’ launch on
June 1, 2026, members’ existing status will carry over and serve as an entry
point into the program for a two-year period through May 31, 2028.
Diamond
members will retain their status for a six-year period through May 31, 2032. Guests
will continue earning VIFP status as usual until the new program launches. Additionally, current
cardmembers along with new cardmembers between now and the launch of the
updates, will have the balance of their Fun Points converted to Carnival
Rewards points.
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