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Carnival Cruise Line Announces a New Loyalty Program in 2026

Carnival Cruise Line has exciting news for its dedicated guests. In a significant announcement made on June 18, 2025, the cruise line revealed that it will introduce a brand-new loyalty program known as 'Carnival Rewards'™. This initiative marks a milestone in the cruise industry by bringing a points-based system that accommodates various earning opportunities and personalized benefits for loyal travelers. The program is set to be implemented in June 2026, giving existing members ample time to transition from the current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP)™ program to the new structure.

Transitioning to Carnival Rewards

The new program is designed to enhance the guest experience significantly. It will operate under a dual-earning system where guests can accumulate both Carnival Rewards points and qualify for status through stars. Points will be earned not only through cruise fares but also through onboard activities and purchases. This is a shift from the existing model, which relies heavily on the number of nights spent at sea.

According to Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, the evolution to Carnival Rewards represents a commitment to recognizing loyal guests meaningfully. “Our current VIFP program has served us well, but the time has come for a more flexible system that empowers our guests to shape their rewards,” stated Duffy. “Carnival Rewards will embrace both the frequency of travel and overall engagement, ensuring our top-tier members receive the rewards they truly deserve.”

How Carnival Rewards Operates

Under 'Carnival Rewards', guests will earn two distinct types of credits on eligible purchases: Carnival Reward points and status qualifying stars.

• - Carnival Reward Points: These can be redeemed for various cruise experiences, including spa treatments, specialty dining, or even applying towards the cost of future cruises.
• - Status Qualifying Stars: This new feature categorizes members into tiers—Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond—based on points earned over two years. Once reached, members retain their status for another two years, ensuring a robust loyalty experience.

Carnival’s branding will also integrate a co-branded credit card in partnership with Barclays—the Carnival Rewards Mastercard. By utilizing this card, members can earn points and status even quicker, which ultimately enhances the overall loyalty experience.

Carrying Over Existing Status

As Carnival prepares for the implementation of its new program, all existing members of the VIFP program will find their current status applicable as an entry point into Carnival Rewards. For a smooth transition, members will retain their cruising status for a designated period—Diamond members, for instance, will keep their status for an extended six years. The existing points will also be converted into Carnival Rewards points during this transition.

Current VIFP members can earn status and points until the launch of Carnival Rewards, ensuring a seamless upgrade and opportunity to explore the benefits offered by the new loyalty program.
For those looking forward to Carnival Rewards, information, tools to track progress, and tips on maximizing rewards will soon be accessible through the official Carnival Rewards website. Furthermore, existing members will receive updates via email throughout this transition period leading up to the 2026 launch.

About Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line holds the prestigious title of being America’s Cruise Line, and it boasts serving more U.S. homeports than any competitor. Since its inception in 1972, Carnival has transformed the cruise industry and made memorable vacation experiences accessible to millions. With an expanding fleet that is continually evolving, the introduction of Carnival Rewards presents yet another advancement in Carnival's legacy of excellence, aiming to strengthen the relationships it builds with its guests.

For more detailed information about Carnival Rewards and its features, visit carnivalrewards.com today.