Carnival Cruise Line is replacing its VIFP loyalty program with Carnival Rewards in June 2026. The new system bases status on spending, not just cruise days, and status will only last two years unless renewed. Many loyal cruisers are upset over losing lifetime perks, but Carnival says the change will improve recognition for top-tier guests.
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Carnival Cruise LineCarnival Cruise Line is set to launch a major revamp of its loyalty program in June 2026. The current program, known as the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club, will be rebranded as Carnival Rewards. Alongside the new name comes a significant shift in how loyalty is earned and maintained—changes that have stirred up strong opinions among longtime cruisers.
What’s Changing
The new Carnival Rewards program introduces two earning systems: “stars,” which determine status levels (Red, Gold, Platinum, Diamond), and “points,” which can be redeemed for rewards such as onboard purchases and future cruise credits.
Unlike the VIFP Club, where status was solely based on the number of days cruised, Carnival Rewards will consider both spending and activity. This includes cruise fare, onboard purchases, casino play, and use of the Carnival-branded credit card. Everyday purchases made on land using the Carnival Mastercard will also help customers earn points and stars.
Carnival says this shift is meant to better align with modern loyalty standards seen across the travel industry. Similar to major airlines and hotels, where loyalty tiers are based on customer spend and expire after a certain time, Carnival Rewards will introduce a rolling two-year qualifying period. Status earned during that time will be valid for the following two years.
Loyalty Status Under the New Program
All current VIFP members will transition into the new program. Those who hold Diamond status will maintain it until May 31, 2032. Other members will retain their status through May 31, 2028.
After that, maintaining or upgrading status will depend on how many stars are earned during the most recent two-year qualifying period. Points accumulated can be used for a range of onboard perks, upgrades, or discounts, but they won’t influence status levels.
Reaction From Carnival’s Loyal Fans
The rollout has not been universally welcomed. Longtime cruisers who spent years earning status based on cruise nights are voicing frustration on social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Reddit.
A common complaint is the removal of lifetime status. Under the VIFP Club, once a guest reached Diamond, they kept that status indefinitely. The new model effectively ends that benefit, causing many to feel as though their loyalty has been devalued. Some also argue that the new structure favors high spenders over frequent travelers.
There’s also concern over the complexity of the new system, which tracks both stars and points, with separate rules for earning and maintaining each. Many feel the program is harder to understand and places more burden on the customer.
Carnival’s Response
Carnival leadership has acknowledged the feedback. Brand Ambassador John Heald has been actively responding to thousands of messages and concerns posted online. He has stated that he is communicating guests’ frustrations directly to Carnival’s senior executives.
In its official messaging, Carnival has emphasized that the program won’t go into effect until June 2026, giving customers time to adjust. The company says it’s still reviewing feedback and will continue updating guests as details are finalized.
Carnival maintains that the new program will allow it to provide more meaningful recognition to its most engaged guests. Executives argue that the current system had too many elite members, making it difficult to deliver truly valuable perks.
Looking Ahead
While the reaction from many loyal customers has been critical, Carnival believes the new approach will create a more balanced and rewarding loyalty ecosystem. The changes also signal a broader shift in the cruise industry, moving away from cruise-night-based loyalty programs toward more dynamic systems centered on overall guest engagement.
For travelers planning to stay loyal to Carnival, the next year offers an opportunity to maximize current benefits while preparing for the new program. Those who frequently cruise or plan to increase their spending may find new advantages under the revised structure, while others may begin exploring other cruise lines that still reward loyalty by nights sailed rather than dollars spent.
Source: GLO
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