Carnival Cruise Line is urging its loyal passengers to take action. With the upcoming launch of the Carnival Rewards programme, existing VIFP Club members must enrol to retain their status. The cruise line has announced that all current members will receive a personalised email with instructions on transferring their loyalty information. This process must be completed before the new programme begins on 1st September 2026. Failing to enrol by 31st August 2026 could result in losing current status levels, past sailing history, and associated benefits.
Carnival has linked this requirement to privacy regulations. Guests must personally complete the enrolment process, as privacy laws prevent others from doing it on their behalf. This includes travel advisors, who cannot accept terms or enrol clients. Each enrolment email is tied to an individual guest account and is non-transferable. Some Carnival guests have already taken to social media to warn others not to ignore the email notifications. One passenger confirmed the email’s authenticity and advised others to log into their Carnival account directly to complete the process.
New Loyalty Programme Continues To Divide Opinion
The enrolment requirement is just one of the challenges facing the new Carnival Rewards programme. Since its announcement in 2025, the programme has faced criticism and delays. Many long-time Carnival cruisers are questioning the shift from the current cruise day-based loyalty structure. Under the existing VIFP Club programme, passengers earn status based on the total number of cruise days sailed, with status levels lasting for life. The new system, however, will focus on passenger spending.
How Carnival Rewards Will Work
Carnival Rewards will introduce two separate systems: points and status stars. Points will serve as a redeemable currency for future cruises, onboard spending, and other travel-related purchases. These points will have a fixed redemption value. Status stars, on the other hand, will determine a passenger’s loyalty tier. Unlike the current VIFP structure, stars will be based on spending levels. The programme will also be linked to a co-branded credit card, allowing members to earn rewards through everyday spending, even when not on a cruise.
As the launch date approaches, Carnival Cruise Line is keen to ensure a smooth transition for its loyal passengers. By actively enrolling in the new programme, guests can continue to enjoy the benefits they have come to expect.
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