Carnival’s New Loyalty Program Is Coming With Major Upgrades

Carnival Cruise Line is making changes to its upcoming Carnival Rewards program, giving its most loyal cruisers added perks ahead of the official debut on June 1, 2026.

Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said the updates were shaped by guest feedback gathered over the summer.

“We are so excited about our new Carnival Rewards loyalty program launching next year, and believe it will drive fantastic engagement with, and rewards for, our guests,” she said in a statement provided to Caribbean Journal. “At the same time, we greatly appreciate the loyalty of our passionate guests and the years of dedication many have exhibited in order to achieve higher tiered loyalty status with Carnival Cruise Line. We believe these enhancements recognize our appreciation for the loyalty of our top tier guests.”

Lifetime Status for Diamond Members

Guests who achieve Diamond status in the current VIFP Club by May 31, 2026, will now enjoy lifetime Diamond status in the new Carnival Rewards program. Their tier will be locked in for good, extending beyond the previously announced six-year window.

Boosts for Platinum Guests

Platinum members will see their benefits expand as well. Those who reach Platinum before the May 31, 2026 cutoff will receive a bi-annual bonus of 10,000 Carnival Rewards qualifying stars, starting at launch and repeating every two years. That bonus provides a 20 percent head start toward requalifying for Platinum, moving up to Diamond, or at minimum securing Gold status in every future cycle.

Benefits for Families

Carnival also confirmed that children will match the loyalty status of the adult on their booking. While minors cannot be directly enrolled until they turn 18, those reaching Diamond or Platinum with their parents by the 2026 cutoff will be invited to opt into Carnival Rewards with their earned status.

Expanding Access Internationally

The line said it is exploring options for guests in Canada and Australia to provide enhanced earning and reward opportunities similar to those available to U.S. guests through the Carnival Rewards Mastercard.

A First-of-Its-Kind Cruise Loyalty Program

When it formally launches next year, Carnival Rewards will be the first program of its kind in the cruise sector, drawing inspiration from airline and hotel models. Guests will earn status and rewards based on both travel activity and spending, with the ability to convert points into reward dollars. Those credits can be applied toward cruise fares, onboard amenities, excursions, and other vacation experiences.