Carnival Cruise Line has announced modifications to its upcoming Carnival Rewards loyalty program that will benefit current Diamond and Platinum guests in the existing VIFP Club program. The changes affect guests who reach these status levels before the new program launches on June 1, 2026.
"We are so excited about our new Carnival Rewards loyalty program launching next year, and believe it will drive fantastic engagement with, and rewards for, our guests," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "At the same time, we greatly appreciate the loyalty of our passionate guests and the years of dedication many have exhibited in order to achieve higher tiered loyalty status with Carnival Cruise Line. We've spent the summer talking with our guests, listening to their comments and taking in their feedback. As a result, I am happy to share that we are making changes to improve the offering to our most loyal customers as we get ready for the program's launch in 2026."
Under the revised structure, guests who achieve Diamond status in the current VIFP Club by May 31, 2026, will receive lifetime Diamond status in the Carnival Rewards program, extending beyond the previously announced status period through May 31, 2032.
Platinum VIFP Club members who reach that level by May 31, 2026, will see their status extended through May 31, 2028, and will receive additional benefits. These guests will obtain a bi-annual boost of 10,000 Carnival Rewards status qualifying stars when the new program begins and in every subsequent two-year earning cycle. This provides Platinum members with a 20% head start toward earning Platinum status and progress toward Diamond status in the new program, while guaranteeing a minimum of Gold status in all future cycles.
The cruise line addressed enrollment policies for minors, confirming that children will share the same status as their parent or designated responsible adult on bookings. When minors turn 18, those who achieved Diamond or Platinum status by May 31, 2026, will be invited to join Carnival Rewards with their earned status and associated privileges.
Carnival is exploring options to provide enhanced earning and rewards opportunities for guests in Canada and Australia, similar to what the Carnival Rewards Mastercard will offer U.S. residents.
The Carnival Rewards program is scheduled to launch June 1, 2026. According to Carnival, it will be the first loyalty program of its kind in the cruise industry, modeled after airline and hotel loyalty programs. The program will allow guests to earn status and rewards through both travel activities and spending, including through a co-branded credit card. Points accumulated in the program can be converted to reward dollars and applied toward cruise fares, onboard experiences, shore excursions and other trip activities.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Carnival Cruise Line. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
