Carnival Cruise Line is charting a bold new course in cruise loyalty programs with the announcement of Carnival Rewards™, set to debut in June 2026. This next-generation, points-based program is a first-of-its-kind in the cruise industry and represents a major transformation of Carnival’s existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) loyalty system.
Backed by a growing community of millions of cruisers, Carnival’s updated loyalty approach brings a dual-earning structure that allows guests to accumulate Carnival Rewards points for redemptions and status qualifying stars to unlock tier upgrades. This structure will redefine guest recognition, making loyalty more rewarding, personalized, and flexible than ever before.
A Loyalty Evolution for Modern Cruisers
In a time when travelers crave more personalized benefits, Carnival Rewards introduces a framework that reflects cruising habits and real-world spending. Carnival Rewards points can be earned through cruise fares and onboard purchases—and even faster through everyday spending via the Carnival Rewards Mastercard®, co-branded with Barclays.
“We’re reimagining loyalty for today’s traveler,” said Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line. “The new Carnival Rewards system lets our guests earn in ways that match their lifestyles—both onboard and at home. This is more than a loyalty update; it’s a thank-you to our guests and a promise to deliver value every step of the journey.”
Flexible Tiers and Redeemable Perks
The program will offer four tiers: Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond, with status determined by stars earned during a two-year qualification period. Once earned, that status will be retained for an additional two years.
What makes Carnival Rewards standout is its broad reward redemption portfolio. Guests can apply Carnival Rewards points toward:
- Future cruises
- Spa treatments
- Onboard specialty dining
- Shore excursions
- Exclusive onboard experiences
Current loyalty members of the VIFP Club need not worry—their existing status will seamlessly carry over to the new program on launch day, with Diamond members retaining their elite standing through May 31, 2032. All other guests will retain status for two years through May 31, 2028.
Credit Card Integration: Cruise Loyalty at Home
Carnival’s partnership with Barclays on the new Carnival Rewards Mastercard deepens the connection between everyday spending and cruise benefits. Cardholders will earn both Carnival Rewards points and qualifying stars, helping them climb tiers faster and unlock greater privileges. Current and new cardholders will see their existing Fun Points converted to Carnival Rewards points automatically at launch.
While details on the enhanced credit card benefits are still under wraps, Carnival confirms that exclusive cardmember perks and faster status accumulation will be core to the offering.
Transition Timeline and Resources
Carnival Rewards will officially launch on June 1, 2026. Between now and then, guests can continue to accrue VIFP status as usual. Carnival will also initiate an extensive education campaign, including:
- Dedicated resources
- Email communications to VIFP members
- Status tracking tools and reward calculators
- Step-by-step guides for reward redemptions and status upgrades
This phased rollout ensures travelers are equipped and excited to take full advantage of the revamped benefits as they prepare to set sail in 2026 and beyond.
Expanding the Guest Experience Beyond the Ship
Carnival’s investment in loyalty is part of a broader strategic vision. The cruise line is also expanding its fleet, with five new ships scheduled through 2033—including two new Excel-class vessels and three from an entirely new ship class under development.
Additionally, Carnival’s Celebration Key, a highly anticipated private island experience on Grand Bahama, is set to open later this summer, providing more ways for guests to enjoy exclusive benefits tied to the loyalty program.
About Carnival Cruise Line
Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Miami, Florida, Carnival Cruise Line is a flagship brand of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE: CCL; LSE: CUK). The company is the first cruise line in the world to welcome over 100 million guests, with a fleet of 29 ships operating from 13 U.S. homeports, two in Australia, and seasonal operations in Europe.
With over 50,000 employees from 120+ nationalities, Carnival continues to lead the industry in accessible, fun-filled vacations for everyone. Its family-friendly cruises and affordable pricing have helped millions discover the joys of ocean travel.
Final Thoughts for Travelers
The launch of Carnival Rewards represents a new era of traveler-centric cruise loyalty. It’s a forward-thinking initiative that acknowledges modern guest expectations—whether they’re seasoned Platinum-level cruisers or first-time passengers excited by the Carnival experience.
For travelers planning their next voyage, the enhanced loyalty structure makes 2026 a particularly rewarding time to embark. Whether redeeming perks for a romantic dinner at sea or cruising your way to elite Diamond status, Carnival Rewards is set to redefine how loyalty works on the high seas.
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SOURCE Carnival Cruise Line
