Carnival Cruise Line passengers are outraged following the announcement of its revamped loyalty program, Carnival Rewards, which is set to launch in June 2026.
While many devoted Carnival cruisers knew that an overhaul of the loyalty program was anticipated, they were unprepared for just how drastically different the new offering would be from the existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program.
Carnival Cruise Line Passengers Outraged
Departing entirely from the VIFP structure, Carnival’s new loyalty strategy mirrors that of airline reward programs. This updated points-based framework focuses on expenditure rather than cruise duration.
However, that’s not the only significant adjustment.
VIFP Loyalty Program
Carnival has removed lifetime status after the VIFP system became overly weighted in recent years, leaving many cruisers bewildered and infuriated. Instead of enjoying lifelong benefits, passengers will accrue their status over two years and maintain it for an additional two years under the new Carnival Rewards program.
This transition feels like a betrayal for numerous Carnival cruisers who have diligently worked over the years to accumulate their VIFP status and attain the top tiers, Platinum and Diamond.
