Thursday, June 19, 2025
Carnival Cruise Line is set to introduce its much-anticipated loyalty program, Carnival Rewards, in June 2026, designed to offer guests enhanced perks and a more flexible way to earn rewards. The new program marks a shift from the existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program, taking it a step further by implementing a points-based system. This transition not only builds upon the success of the VIFP program but also presents a more personalized and modern approach to rewarding loyal guests.
The Carnival Rewards program introduces a dual-earning structure, where guests can accumulate Carnival Rewards points on various purchases made with Carnival, including cruise fares and onboard spending, such as specialty dining, spa treatments, and activities. In addition to earning points, guests will also earn status qualifying stars, which determine their tier level. This new system moves away from the VIFP’s focus on the number of nights sailed, instead rewarding guests based on their overall spending, both on and off the ship. This shift will provide guests with more opportunities to advance to higher status levels.
One of the standout features of Carnival Rewards is its integration with the co-branded Carnival Rewards Mastercard, issued by Barclays. This partnership allows guests to earn points not only through their Carnival purchases but also through everyday spending with the card. By linking the program to everyday expenditures, Carnival is extending the loyalty experience beyond just the cruise, allowing guests to benefit from their financial engagement with the brand even when they are not onboard. This connection between everyday spending and rewards is expected to make the program more accessible and rewarding for a wider audience.
The new loyalty program introduces four distinct status tiers: Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Guests can accumulate status stars over a two-year period, with their earned status remaining active for an additional two years. This gives guests ample time to enjoy the benefits associated with their status before needing to requalify. The new program will help deepen guest loyalty by providing more frequent and personalized recognition for their engagement with the Carnival brand.
What makes Carnival Rewards especially appealing is its flexibility in redeeming points. Guests can use their points not just for cruise fares but also for a variety of onboard experiences, such as exclusive dining options, spa treatments, shore excursions, and even future cruise bookings. This broad array of redemption options ensures that each guest can tailor their rewards to suit their preferences, adding greater value to their cruise experience.
To ensure a smooth transition, Carnival has announced that existing VIFP members will have their current status carried over into the Carnival Rewards program. Those with Diamond status will enjoy an extended status, lasting until May 31, 2032, while all other members will have their status remain valid through May 31, 2028. This thoughtful transition allows guests to continue enjoying their benefits without disruption, even as the new program comes into effect.
Another key feature of the Carnival Rewards program is its inclusivity. Guests who are current Carnival Mastercard cardholders, as well as new cardholders, will see their existing Fun Points converted to Carnival Rewards points. This ensures that all loyal guests, regardless of when they join the program, will benefit from the updated rewards system, without losing any of the value they’ve accumulated over the years.
The launch of Carnival Rewards promises to redefine guest loyalty within the cruise industry. By offering more opportunities to earn rewards, greater flexibility in redeeming points, and a seamless connection with everyday spending, Carnival Cruise Line is positioning itself as a leader in the travel loyalty space. As the program rolls out in 2026, it will undoubtedly set a new standard for customer engagement and satisfaction in the cruise industry, providing loyal guests with a more personalized and rewarding experience.
