Carnival Cruise Line’s beloved VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) loyalty program, a cornerstone for millions of loyal cruisers, is facing a massive shake-up set for June 2026 — and the changes are sending shockwaves through the cruise community. The longstanding tier system that rewarded guests based on cruise nights sailed is being completely dismantled and replaced with a new points-based structure, sparking both confusion and outrage among longtime members.
For decades, VIFP members earned their way through tiers—Red, Gold, Platinum, and the coveted Diamond—simply by spending time aboard Carnival ships. These tiers came with coveted perks, including priority boarding, exclusive events, and even lifetime Platinum and Diamond status for the most dedicated cruisers. But all of that is about to change.
Under the new “Carnival Rewards” system launching in 2026, status will no longer be earned by cruise nights alone. Instead, it will be based on a combination of cruise fare, onboard spending, and even everyday purchases through the soon-to-be-introduced Carnival Rewards Mastercard. This means loyalty will be measured more like a credit card rewards program than the traditional cruising experience.
One of the most controversial changes is the end of lifetime status for Platinum and Diamond members. Now, tiers will be earned and maintained based on “Stars,” a points metric that requires continuous spending over a rolling two-year period. Longtime cruisers who have enjoyed permanent elite status feel blindsided, worried that their years of dedication are being wiped away.
The reaction among Carnival’s fan base has been fierce. Social media channels and cruise forums are flooded with complaints, many describing the overhaul as “a slap in the face” and a betrayal of loyal customers. Some are threatening to jump ship to competing cruise lines with more generous loyalty programs.
Carnival’s leadership, including Brand Ambassador John Heald, has acknowledged the backlash and pledged to listen carefully to guest feedback before the program officially launches. Existing VIFP members will retain their current tier benefits until 2028 or even 2032 for Diamond members, offering a grace period to adjust.
Experts say Carnival’s revamp aims to modernize its loyalty program to keep up with industry trends and appeal to a broader audience, especially younger cruisers who value points-based rewards. However, the challenge remains balancing new incentives with respecting the loyalty of veteran cruisers.
As the countdown to the overhaul continues, Carnival cruisers are urged to review their current status, track the upcoming changes, and consider how the new system may impact their cruising habits. For many, the question now is not just about earning perks — it’s about whether Carnival still values their loyalty at all.
