Carnival Cruise Line Announces Loyalty Program Overhaul Coming in 2026: Introducing Carnival Rewards

Big news from Carnival Cruise Line! If you're one of the many devoted cruisers who proudly flash your VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) loyalty card on every sailing, then get ready—because major changes are coming. Starting in early 2026, Carnival will be rolling out a completely revamped loyalty program called Carnival Rewards, designed to make cruising even more rewarding for repeat guests.

In this post, we’ll break down everything we know so far about the upcoming program, how it compares to the current VIFP Club, what you can expect if you're already a member, and why this change might be a game-changer for loyal Carnival cruisers.

What Is Carnival Rewards?

Carnival Rewards is the new loyalty program that will replace the VIFP Club beginning in January 2026. According to the cruise line, the revamped program is designed to be:

• More flexible

• More personalized

• And, most importantly, more rewarding

Carnival says this overhaul is based on years of passenger feedback and an in-depth look at how cruisers engage with loyalty perks—both onboard and online.

Why the Change?

Carnival’s President, Christine Duffy, explained in a recent press release:

“Our guests are at the heart of everything we do. After listening to feedback and observing how loyalty is evolving across the travel industry, we knew it was time to take our program to the next level.”

Translation? While the VIFP Club had its perks, many guests felt it lagged behind what other cruise lines were offering in terms of value and exclusivity. Carnival Rewards aims to address that.

How Carnival Rewards Will Work

Carnival Rewards is structured around a points-based system—similar to frequent flyer programs or hotel loyalty programs. Here’s what’s been announced:

1. Points Earned Per Day

Rather than counting cruises or nights sailed alone, points will be earned per day sailed, with bonus points for suite stays, longer voyages, and specialty spending onboard (like spa treatments or excursions booked directly with Carnival).

2. Tier Levels and Perks

While the exact names of the new tiers haven’t been confirmed yet, here’s what’s expected:

TierPoints Required Example Perks

• Blue 0–29 Welcome gift, early check-in access

• Sapphire 30–74 Priority boarding, complimentary drink coupon

• Ruby 75–149 Free Wi-Fi day, priority dining reservations

• Emerald 150–299 Free laundry, $50 onboard credit per cruise

• Diamond 300+ Complimentary cruise perks, VIP events, priority disembarkation

(Note: These tiers and perks are based on current speculations and past loyalty benefits; final structure to be confirmed.)

3. Spending Rewards

Carnival Rewards will reward spending, not just sailing. So if you book a suite, shop onboard, or book excursions through Carnival, you’ll earn bonus points.

This is a big shift and gives more control to the traveler on how they reach the next tier.

Will Your Current VIFP Status Transfer?

Yes! Carnival has confirmed that all existing VIFP members will be automatically transitioned into the new Carnival Rewards program in 2026. Your loyalty will not be lost.

They’ll evaluate your past sailings and onboard purchases to assign you a comparable status level in the new program. Plus, they’ll offer “transition bonuses” to thank longtime cruisers for their loyalty.

If you're already Gold or Platinum under the current system, expect a special update email in mid-2025 explaining your new Carnival Rewards tier and benefits.

What About Milestone Rewards?

Carnival also plans to expand milestone cruise celebrations. Guests reaching 25, 50, or 100 days will still be recognized, but Carnival Rewards will add new milestones, such as:

• First back-to-back cruise

• Multi-generational cruising

• Repeat itineraries

• Onboard anniversary or birthday celebrations

These moments may trigger bonus point offers, unique gifts, or invites to exclusive onboard events.

Exclusive Carnival Rewards App Features

With this relaunch, Carnival is also updating its mobile app to include real-time tracking of:

• Loyalty points

• Tier progress

• Exclusive member-only offers

• Personalized cruise recommendations

The app will also let you redeem rewards, like upgrades or spa credits, before you even board.

Carnival vs. Other Loyalty Programs

How will Carnival Rewards stack up against other cruise line loyalty programs like Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor, Princess Captain’s Circle, or Norwegian’s Latitudes?

What's Different:

• Points for spending and days instead of just days

• Expanded milestone tracking

• App-based real-time rewards

• More personalized offers and bonus opportunities

What’s Similar:

• Tiered system with growing perks

• Automatic enrollment after your first cruise

• Perks like priority check-in, onboard gifts, and Wi-Fi

If Carnival delivers on its promises, this overhaul could put it ahead of the pack—especially for budget cruisers who are looking to get real value from repeat sailing.

How to Maximize Your Carnival Rewards Points

If you're a die-hard Carnival cruiser—or thinking of becoming one—here’s how to earn more points under the new system:

1. Sail Longer Cruises

Seven-day or longer cruises offer more base points than short weekend getaways.

2. Book Suites or Balcony Cabins

Higher-tier cabins come with bonus point multipliers.

3. Use a Carnival Co-Branded Credit Card

Rumor has it Carnival will offer bonus points for cardholders starting in late 2025.

4. Book Directly Through Carnival

Booking your excursions, spa treatments, and specialty dining through the cruise line ensures your purchases count toward your point total.

5. Participate in Promotions

Carnival Rewards is expected to launch seasonal promotions where you can earn extra points for booking during certain windows or trying new ships.

Concerns and Criticisms

As with any loyalty program change, there are always a few concerns:

• Will perks be devalued? Some VIFP members worry that basic perks (like free laundry or chocolate-covered strawberries) may disappear.

• Too much focus on spending? Rewarding money spent may frustrate cruisers who sail often but on a tight budget.

• Will the transition be smooth? Members want assurance that their past loyalty will be fairly honored in the new system.

Carnival has promised ample communication and a smooth transition plan, so cruisers aren’t left in the dark.

When Will It Launch?

Carnival Rewards is expected to roll out fleetwide in January 2026, with testing on select ships during Fall 2025. Members will begin receiving updates and sneak peeks by mid-to-late 2025, including:

• Your new tier level

• Launch perks

• Limited-time earning opportunities

Final Thoughts: Is This a Good Thing for Cruisers?

In short—yes, especially if Carnival delivers on personalization and point value. This new system brings Carnival’s loyalty program up to date with current travel trends and rewards guests who sail frequently and intentionally.

It’s a win for:

• Frequent cruisers

• Big onboard spenders

• Guests who love perks and recognition

If you’re a longtime VIFP member, rest easy knowing your loyalty still counts. And if you’re new to Carnival, this may be the perfect time to start sailing and stacking up points.

Don’t Miss Out

To make sure you’re ready for the transition:

• Log in to your Carnival account and verify your past cruise history

• Sign up for email updates from Carnival

• Follow trusted travel advisors and cruise news sites (like this blog!) for updates

• Download the Carnival Hub app if you haven’t already

We’ll keep updating this post as more details roll in—so be sure to bookmark it and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest Carnival cruise news!