Carnival Cruise Line has announced a major change to its loyalty program with the introduction of Carnival Rewards, set to launch on June 1, 2026. This new program replaces the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program, which has been in place since 2012, and is designed to provide a more dynamic and rewarding experience for guests. With a dual-earning structure, new redemption options, and a revamped tiered system, Carnival Rewards is designed to recognize past loyalty while fostering future engagement.
This guide takes an in-depth look at how to earn and redeem points, the transition from the VIFP program, and the benefits associated with each tier, sourced exclusively from Carnival’s official resources.
Overview of Carnival Rewards
Carnival Rewards introduces a dual-earning system where guests earn both Carnival Rewards points and status qualifying stars. Points are redeemable for onboard amenities, spa treatments, specialty dining, and future cruises, while stars determine a guest’s tier status, unlocking exclusive perks. Unlike the VIFP program, which focused primarily on nights sailed, Carnival Rewards is based on spending, including cruise fares and onboard purchases. The program also integrates with the Carnival Rewards Mastercard, co-branded with Barclays, to offer additional earning opportunities. Existing VIFP members will transition into Carnival Rewards, with their current status honored for at least two years, and Diamond members retaining their status until May 31, 2032.
The program’s launch in June 2026 allows guests ample time to familiarize themselves with the changes while continuing to earn under the VIFP program until the transition. For more details, visit Carnival Rewards.
Earning Carnival Rewards Points
Carnival Rewards offers multiple ways to accumulate points, making it easier for guests to earn rewards through both cruising and everyday spending. The earning structure is as follows:
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Carnival Vacations: Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible Carnival purchases, such as cruise fares and onboard activities.
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Carnival World Mastercard: Earn 2 points per $1 spent on all purchases, including gas, groceries, and other non-cruise expenses. New cardmembers receive a bonus, though exact points are not specified.
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Future Opportunities: Carnival plans to introduce additional ways to earn points on everyday, non-cruise spending, with details to be announced closer to the launch.
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Fun Points Conversion: Existing Fun Points from the VIFP program will convert to Carnival Rewards points at the program’s launch, ensuring continuity for current members.
Additionally, status stars are earned at a rate of 3 stars per $1 spent on eligible Carnival purchases and 1 star per casino point, contributing to tier progression. The Carnival Rewards Mastercard will also accelerate status earning, with more details forthcoming.
Redeeming Carnival Rewards Points
One of the standout features of Carnival Rewards is the flexibility in redeeming points, with no minimum points required to start. Guests can use points for a variety of onboard experiences and amenities, enhancing their cruise experience. Redemption options include:
| Point Range | Redemption Options |
|---|---|
| Up to 2,000 | Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast (per child) |
| 6-Pack of Soda | |
| Frozen Piña Colada (per drink) | |
| Internet Plans (per person per day) | |
| Snorkel Equipment Rental (per person at Princess Cays) | |
| Banana Boat Ride (per person) |
Note: Some exclusions may apply. For full details, refer to the FAQs or Ways to Redeem.
These options cater to a range of preferences, from family-friendly activities to relaxation and connectivity. Carnival’s website indicates that more redemption categories will be introduced, further enhancing the program’s appeal.
Transition from VIFP to Carnival Rewards
The transition to Carnival Rewards will occur in June 2026, based on members’ VIFP status as of May 31, 2026. Key aspects of the transition include:
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Status Carryover: Members will start at least at their current VIFP status level in Carnival Rewards for the first two years (through May 31, 2028). For example, a Platinum VIFP member will begin as a Platinum Carnival Rewards member.
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Extended Diamond Status: Diamond members will retain their status for six years, until May 31, 2032, recognizing their long-term loyalty.
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Opportunity for Higher Status: Members can earn a higher status level during the transition period by accumulating additional stars through spending.
Current VIFP status earning continues until the launch, and Fun Points will seamlessly convert to Carnival Rewards points. For more information on the transition, visit Status Transition.
Carnival Rewards Tiers and Benefits
Carnival Rewards features four tiers—Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond—each with specific star requirements and escalating benefits. The status qualifying period is two years, during which stars are earned, and the status enjoyment period is also two years, with early enjoyment possible if a higher tier is achieved sooner. A milestone reward of 5,000 points and a special sail & sign card is awarded after 50 nights sailed.
Below is a detailed breakdown of each tier and its benefits:
| Tier | Stars Required | Member Perks | Onboard Extras | Priority Access | Exclusive Experiences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red | Upon sign-up | Earn & redeem points, Member-only offers, Member e-newsletter | Complimentary 1.5L bottle of water | ||
| Gold | 10,000 | All Red benefits, Gold member support | One complimentary beverage (5+ day cruises), One complimentary 1.5L bottle of water | ||
| Platinum | 50,000 | All Gold benefits, Member collectible pin, Platinum member support | One complimentary 1.5L bottle of water, Two complimentary beverages, Complimentary Wash & Fold, Priority Specialty Dining and Main Dining reservations | Early online check-in (16 days), Embarkation priority, Onboard priority, Debarkation priority | |
| Diamond | 100,000 | All Platinum benefits, Dedicated diamond support (sales & service) | One complimentary 1.5L bottle of water, Two complimentary beverages, Complimentary Wash & Fold, Priority Specialty Dining reservations, Guarantee Main Dining time | Early online check-in (16 days), Embarkation priority, Onboard priority, Debarkation priority, Retail concierge services | Special event invitation from the Captain |
Earning Stars
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Carnival Purchases: 3 stars per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
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Casino Points: 1 star per casino point.
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Carnival Rewards Mastercard: Additional star-earning opportunities, with details to be announced.
Key Benefits Explained
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Red Tier: Ideal for new cruisers, offering immediate access to point earning and redemption, plus exclusive offers and a complimentary water bottle.
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Gold Tier: Adds a complimentary beverage on longer cruises and dedicated support, enhancing the value for frequent cruisers.
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Platinum Tier: Introduces significant perks like priority dining reservations, early check-in, and onboard priority, making the cruise experience smoother and more luxurious.
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Diamond Tier: The pinnacle of the program, offering personalized services like a guaranteed dining time, retail concierge, and an exclusive Captain’s event, ensuring a VIP experience.
Carnival Rewards is designed to enhance the cruising experience by offering a flexible, points-based system that rewards both spending and loyalty. With a seamless transition for VIFP members, a variety of redemption options, and tiered benefits that cater to all levels of cruisers, the program is designed to enhance guest satisfaction. For more details or to explore the program, visit Carnival Rewards or check the FAQs.