Carnival’s Loyalty Program Changes: A Stormy Sea for UK Cruisers
Carnival’s recent changes to its upcoming Carnival Rewards program have stirred up quite a storm among loyal passengers. Despite efforts to address concerns, many cruisers remain frustrated. Social media and travel forums are buzzing with disappointment. The new program, set to replace the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club in June 2026, has been a hot topic since its announcement.
Diamond Safe, Platinum Left Behind
Carnival’s decision to permanently secure Diamond status for those who achieve it by 31st May 2026 was a relief for some. However, Platinum members feel left out. They receive a 10,000 “star” bonus every two years, which only grants automatic Gold status and a slight advantage towards requalifying. For many, this concession falls short. One long-time cruiser expressed their disappointment, urging Carnival to grandfather in both Diamond and Platinum statuses.
Frustration Over Deadlines and Access
The timing of the transition has also upset many guests. Some have milestone sailings just days after the May 2026 cut-off. One traveller shared their frustration, noting that their husband would have reached Platinum status on a June 2026 cruise, just seven days after the deadline. An extension, they argue, would be beneficial. Canadian and Australian guests feel particularly excluded, as the program remains limited to U.S. residents. A Canadian Platinum member highlighted their inability to collect points due to the unavailability of the Mastercard.
Value of Loyalty in Question
Beyond the technicalities, many guests feel the new structure undermines the essence of Carnival’s loyalty program. The shift towards a money-spent model has left some feeling that days at sea are undervalued. One cruiser lamented the loss of working towards different colours, stating that the focus now seems to be on spending rather than time spent cruising. This change, they argue, diminishes their loyalty to Carnival.
In conclusion, Carnival’s new loyalty program has left many UK cruise holidaygoers feeling adrift. The changes have sparked a wave of dissatisfaction, with many questioning the value of their loyalty. As the transition approaches, it remains to be seen how Carnival will address these concerns and whether they can calm the turbulent waters.
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