Mixed responses from customers toward Carnival Cruise Line’s revamped Carnival Rewards loyalty program has seen the line make changes to its earning structure prior to launch.
Responding to criticism from some customers that their loyalty “was being overlooked”, the line will now enshrine its most tenured cruisers currently at the peak Diamond status and those who reach it prior to 31 May 2026 with membership for life.
Travellers who rise to Platinum before 31 May will now receive a bonus 10,000 Carnival Rewards status qualifying stars, effectively giving them a 20% “head start” towards retaining Platinum and a 10% boost to the Diamond tier.
This bonus will ensure current Platinum members drop no lower than Gold status for life, even if they stop sailing with Carnival.
Status benefits will also be shared to families, with children of Diamond or Platinum members to be gifted the same status held by their parents on 31 May 2026 once they turn 18 for their first two-year cycle if they opt-in.
The line also said it is exploring ways for travellers in Australia to earn Carnival Rewards points through everyday spending, similar to how US residents can do so through credit card spend.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy said the changes to the program have been made with customer feedback in mind.
“We’ve spent the summer talking with our guests, listening to their comments and taking in their feedback,” Duffy said.
“We believe these enhancements recognise our appreciation for the loyalty of our top-tier guests.”
The line was more conciliatory in an email to guests, saying the original program structure was designed to model other popular programs that align activity and spending with rewards and status.
“Unfortunately, the announcement left some of our most loyal guests with the impression that their loyalty was being overlooked,” the line said.
The new program will also feature a Carnival Rewards Milestones section for loyal guests, with all existing awards to be honoured and the associated recognition program to be based on days sailed, not spend.
Carnival Rewards formally launches on 01 Jun next year.
