Carnival Cruise Line is launching a new loyalty program and a new name: Carnival Rewards.
It will have new features, new ways to earn status, and new reward categories.
The new program will go live in June 2026, and guests will continue earning rewards through the existing program Very Important Fun Person program until then.
Carnival Rewards is introducing a dual-earning structure where guests accumulate both Carnival Rewards points that can be redeemed on Carnival purchases and status qualifying stars that will determine a guest’s tier status.
Instead of focusing solely on the number of nights guests sail, Carnival Rewards will offer more opportunities to earn rewards and achieve higher status levels based on spend, including cruise fare and onboard activities.
The new program will be closely tied to everyday spending on the co-branded credit card with Barclays – the Carnival Rewards Mastercard – giving cardmembers the opportunity to earn points and status faster.
“The evolution of our loyalty program to Carnival Rewards represents our commitment to creating more meaningful recognition” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
“By introducing a points-based system, we’re enabling greater flexibility so guests can personalize their rewards in ways that matter most.”
Guests will earn Carnival Reward points as well as status qualifying stars on every eligible Carnival purchase, including cruise fares and onboard purchases.
The cruise line says the dual structure gives guests more control over their rewards and status.
As part of the transition to Carnival Rewards’ launch on June 1, 2026, members’ existing status will carry over and serve as a new entry point into the program for a two-year period through May 31, 2028.
Diamond members will retain their status for a six-year period through May 31, 2032.
