Carnival Cruise Line has just announced a major change for its loyal cruisers. Starting in June 2026, the cruise line will launch a brand-new loyalty program called Carnival Rewards, replacing the current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program.
This marks a significant shift in how loyalty will be recognized, with a new structure that rewards not only cruise frequency but also how guests engage and spend with Carnival.
If you’re a returning Carnival guest or planning to sail with them in the future, here’s what you need to know about how this new system will work and what it means for your perks at sea.
What Is Carnival Rewards?
Carnival Rewards is designed to modernize the cruise line’s loyalty experience. It introduces a two-part structure that gives guests more ways to earn and enjoy rewards.
First, guests will earn Carnival Rewards points, which can be used for various purchases including onboard activities, spa services, specialty dining, and even discounts on future cruises. Second, they’ll collect Status Qualifying Stars, which determine their loyalty tier: Red, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond.
The program also connects with the Carnival Rewards Mastercard, issued by Barclays. With this credit card, guests can earn points and stars through everyday purchases, giving them more opportunities to work toward valuable benefits whether they are onboard or on land.
New Ways to Earn: Not Just by Cruising
One of the biggest updates is that the program is no longer based only on the number of nights sailed. Guests will now earn rewards through a combination of cruise fare, onboard purchases, and daily spending using the Carnival Rewards Mastercard.
This shift allows more flexibility and personal choice in how loyalty is earned and how benefits are used.
For example, someone who books a suite and spends more on spa services and specialty dining might move up faster than someone who cruises often but keeps spending to a minimum. The system allows both types of cruisers to be recognized, depending on their engagement with the brand.
What Happens to Current VIFP Members?
Carnival is making the transition as smooth as possible. If you are currently part of the VIFP program, your existing tier will become your starting point in the new Carnival Rewards system. Guests will continue earning status in the VIFP program until May 2026. Then, beginning on June 1, 2026, Carnival Rewards will take over.
Your status at the time of the switch will be locked in for two years, until May 31, 2028. Diamond members will enjoy an even longer grace period, maintaining their elite status until May 31, 2032. If you are a Carnival Mastercard cardholder, your current FunPoints will automatically convert to Carnival Rewards points in your new account.
What’s Next?
In the lead-up to the launch in 2026222, Carnival will provide tools, updates, and support to help guests understand the new program and track their progress. Loyalty members will receive email updates, and more information will be available at carnivalrewards.com. This includes how to track your points and stars, understand your tier status, and get tips to maximize your rewards.
This update represents a major shift in Carnival’s loyalty philosophy. It honors the cruise line’s long-time guests while creating space for more personalized and flexible ways to engage.
Whether you cruise often or just enjoy the occasional sailing with some extra indulgences onboard, Carnival Rewards aims to recognize and reward that loyalty in new and meaningful ways.
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What do you think about Carnival’s new loyalty program? Do you prefer the traditional cruise-night model or are you excited about earning perks through spending too?
Happy Cruising!
Ethan