Carnival Rewards Ends Lifetime Status in Loyalty Revamp

Carnival Cruise Line will launch Carnival Rewards in June 2026, replacing the VIFP program with a dual-earning structure based on spending on fares, onboard purchases, and through a Carnival Rewards Mastercard. The new system offers points and status-qualifying stars, expanding ways to earn loyalty benefits and moving away from cruise nights as the sole metric. Notably, lifetime statuses like Diamond will no longer be permanent, requiring members to spend tens of thousands of dollars over six years to retain top-tier status. All existing statuses will convert to the new program, but after a set period, continued recognition will depend on meeting the new spending requirements. The changes aim to reduce overcrowding in higher tiers and offer more personalized rewards, but have drawn criticism from loyal customers who feel their previously earned status is being devalued.