Carnival Tweaks New Rewards Program After Guest Feedback

Carnival Cruise Line has announced changes to its new Carnival Rewards loyalty program for all current Diamond and Platinum guests and all guests who reach Diamond and Platinum level prior to the new program’s launch date of June 1, 2026.

“We’ve spent the summer talking with our guests, listening to their comments and taking in their feedback,”  said president Christine Duffy.

“As a result, I am happy to share that we are making changes to improve the offering to our most loyal customers as we get ready for the program’s launch in 2026.” 

Among the changes announced:

• Guests who achieve Diamond status in the current VIFP Club by May 31, 2026 will not only receive Diamond status through May 31, 2032, they will now receive lifetime Diamond status in the Carnival Rewards program.
• Guests who achieve Platinum status in the current VIFP Club by May 31, 2026 will have their status extended through May 31, 2028, as previously announced, but will also now receive a bi-annual boost of 10,000 Carnival Rewards status qualifying stars when the Carnival Rewards program starts on June 1, 2026, and in every two-year earning cycle thereafter. This will give Platinum VIFP members a 20% “head start” to earning Platinum status. 
• Carnival confirmed that children will enjoy the same status as their parent or adult that is designated as their responsible party on the booking for that sailing, and when minors turn 18, those who have achieved Diamond or Platinum status by May 31, 2026, will be invited to opt-in to Carnival Rewards with their earned status and the same privileges offered to all other Diamond and Platinum VIFP members. 

Carnival says the new program is inspired by the success and popularity of airline and hotel loyalty programs where guests can earn status and rewards that are tied to both travel activities and spending, as well as a co-branded credit card. 

Guests will be able to accumulate points that can be converted to reward dollars and used toward cruise fares, onboard experiences, shore excursions and other vacation activities. You can find out more about changes to the program here.