If you’ve been a dedicated cruiser or are new to experiencing the joy of sailing, there’s exciting news on the horizon! The Carnival Rewards™ program is getting an incredible update in June 2026, promising more perks, customizable rewards, and new ways to elevate your cruising experience. This marks a significant evolution in Carnival’s approach to guest recognition and benefits, ensuring every traveler feels valued and rewarded.
This blog explores everything you need to know about the upcoming Carnival Rewards™ program, its features, and why it’s time to start planning your adventures.
A fresh take on loyalty with Carnival Rewards™
Carnival’s VIFP Club® has long been a favorite among cruisers, offering status and benefits based on the number of nights sailed. But as cruising has grown in popularity, so has the number of travelers reaching the top Platinum and Diamond levels. Recognizing the need for a more personalized and flexible reward system, Carnival is launching the updated Carnival Rewards™ program.
This new system doesn’t just reward frequency; it now combines cruise fares and onboard spending into a points-based program, giving guests greater choice in how they earn and use their rewards. Think of it as a tailor-made experience where your loyalty gets recognized in even more exciting ways.
How does the Carnival Rewards™ program work?
At the heart of this new system is flexibility. Starting June 1, 2026, guests will earn points for both booking their cruises and spending onboard, including purchases in retail shops, specialty dining, shore excursions, and spa services. Here’s what makes the Carnival Rewards™ program a game-changer:
- Points-based system: Earn points through cruise fares, onboard purchases, and spending with a Carnival Rewards™ Mastercard. These points can be redeemed for a range of rewards, from cruise fares to unique onboard experiences.
- New status qualifiers: Accumulate “stars” based on your total spend and reach new levels of status faster than before.
- Credit card perks: Keep earning outside of your cruise! The Carnival Rewards™ Mastercard allows you to collect points year-round, accelerating the way you vacation.
- Points that last: Unlike many loyalty programs, your points won’t expire as long as there’s activity on your account within three years. Whether you’re saving for a big experience or incremental upgrades, your points are there when you need them.
It’s a program designed to reflect not just how often you cruise, but how you choose to enjoy your time while aboard.
Transitioning from VIFP Club to Carnival Rewards™
For current members, the road to Carnival Rewards™ is straightforward and rewarding. If you’re already part of the VIFP Club, you have until May 31, 2026, to finalize your existing status. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:
- Starting June 2026, your VIFP status will carry over for up to two years in the new Carnival Rewards™ program.
- Platinum and Diamond members will retain their elevated status during this transition, with Diamonds enjoying a six-year period to maintain their perks.
- The existing levels (Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond) are here to stay, but the way status is earned has changed to reflect a mix of cruise days and spending.
This seamless transition ensures you keep enjoying the benefits you’ve worked for while exploring new ways to maximize your rewards.
Unlocking value with Carnival Rewards™ points
One of the standout features of the Carnival Rewards™ program is the ability to customize how you use your points. Whether you’re planning your next dream vacation or elevating your onboard experience, you have the flexibility to make your rewards work for you. Here are just a few of the ways you can redeem Carnival Rewards™ points:
- Apply points toward a future cruise fare.
- Enhance your vacation with specialty dining, spa services, or shore excursions.
- Shop in onboard retail stores to find keepsakes or gifts.
With endless options, every Carnival cruise becomes more rewarding and personalized.
The Carnival Rewards™ program is more than a simple update; it’s a complete re-imagining of how loyalty should feel. Book your next Carnival cruise today and double the rewards with Cruises.com Rewards.
Set sail with Cruises.com Rewards! Unlock exclusive member-only pricing and earn 10 points per $1 on every booking. Earn twice by stacking your savings with your cruise line loyalty status and perks! Redeem your rewards for cash on the same upcoming cruise. Let’s book your next adventure — and make it more rewarding! Join Cruises.com Rewards for free today. Book your dream vacation now or call us at 800-288-6006 to start earning.
Related: Carnival Loyalty Program: Make the Most Out of Being a VIFP