A Personal Take from Chasity Lattimore, Owner of L.O.A. Travel Agency
If you’ve cruised with Carnival more than once, chances are you’ve proudly watched your loyalty grow with every sea day. Like many of my clients (and myself), you’ve worked your way up through the VIFP Club, collecting perks, priority boarding, and that sweet sense of recognition that you’re more than just a first-time guest.
But Carnival just dropped some big news — and it’s got the cruise world talking. Starting in 2026, the old VIFP Club will sail into the sunset and be replaced by a brand-new loyalty system called Carnival Rewards.
As a long-time supporter of Carnival and a travel advisor who books clients daily on their ships, I have a few things to say.
🚨 What’s Changing?
Here’s the rundown:
✅ Status will no longer be permanent — You must maintain it every two years, or it resets.
✅ Points are now based on spending instead of cruise days.
✅ Earn rewards via cruise fare, onboard purchases, the Carnival Mastercard, and casino play.
✅ New tiers and benefits system — Legacy status will convert, but the perks shift.
✅ A more customizable redemption process is coming (think choosing your rewards before sailing).
Sounds slick on paper, but…
😬 As a Loyal Cruiser, I’m Disappointed
Let me be real with you — I didn’t cruise for status points. I cruised for the experience, the value, and the joy of sailing with a company that felt like home. I’ve sailed with Carnival for years and encouraged my clients to do the same because of the loyalty love they used to show repeat cruisers.
This new system? It feels like it rewards big spenders, not loyal travelers.
And as a travel advisor, I’ve had more than a few clients already reach out saying:
“Wait, I worked so hard to earn my Platinum — and now I could lose it unless I spend more money?”
Exactly.
💳 Who Wins in the New System?
This is great for:
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High-rollers who spend big onboard.
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Guests who use the Carnival Mastercard.
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Anyone who cruises multiple times a year and doesn’t mind shelling out for extras.
But for:
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Budget-conscious families,
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Couples saving up for that once-a-year getaway,
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Or long-time cruisers who aren’t casino players…
This feels like a downgrade.
📣 What I Want Carnival to Consider
A hybrid model would make more sense. Reward those who spend and those who’ve sailed loyally for years. Why throw long-term loyalty overboard?
Carnival, your guests built those tiers with repeat bookings and brand advocacy. We wore our status like a badge of honor. Don’t erase that.
🧭 So, What Now?
I’ll still be booking Carnival cruises — I know the product inside and out, and for many, it’s still the most affordable, fun, and family-friendly option at sea. But I’ll be watching this rollout closely.
And if you’ve been building your status, here’s my advice:
✔️ Book another cruise before the switch (starting late 2025) to lock in more legacy benefits.
✔️ Ask questions about how your current tier converts.
✔️ Consider Carnival’s Mastercard only if it makes financial sense — don’t get it just for points.
✔️ Or, let me help you compare other cruise lines that offer consistent perks to loyal cruisers.
✈️ Need Help Booking or Understanding the New Program?
I’ve got you. Whether you’re a seasoned VIFP member or planning your first cruise, I’ll help you make the best choice based on your goals and budget.
📞 Chasity Lattimore
📧 loatravelagency2@gmail.com
📱 478-284-4660
🌐 www.loatravelagency.com
Let’s discuss what matters to you at sea, not just what you spend.
