cruise tiers carnival

This Cruise Life

Carnival’s vifp loyalty club changes (2024).

On March 21, 2024, Carnival Brand ambassador John Heald once again teased big changes coming to Carnival’s VIFP Loyalty Club. The loyalty club is Carnival’s way of recognizing and rewarding each Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) that sails with the cruise line. It’s been around in current state since 2012-2013 with few updates – and it’s become clear that changes are needed.

What does it take to earn status in the current VIFP Club?

Carnival’s VIFP Club is made up of 5 tiers. As a first-time cruiser, you’re in the Blue Tier. By your second cruise, you’ve already moved up in the club to the Red Tier. From here, the VIFP Club changes from number of cruises to number of nights. The Gold Tier is not far off from the Red Tier at only 25 nights. Then, the big jump happens: the fourth level in the club (Platinum Tier), requires 75 nights. Finally, and this one’s a whopper, to reach the top-level of the club – Diamond Tier – you need to sail 200 nights on Carnival Cruise Lines.

The table below summarizes each what you need for each tier:

Why change is necessary – and probably overdue

John Heald shared today that, “there is no doubt it needs a massive refresh” while speaking about impending changes. And while 75 and 200 nights may seem like a lot to some, the reality is the program has become overcrowded. When they give out the award for Youngest Cruiser at the Platinum and Diamond Party, it regularly goes to someone under the age of 10. In fact, we recently sailed with a Diamond cruiser that was just four years old.

More and more, we’ve seen Carnival limit the benefits to Platinum and Diamond cruisers as the cruise operator struggles to deliver based on the number of loyal cruisers on board. It’s really apparent with new ship launches, Journeys Cruises, and unique sailings, however, even on standard sailings, the Platinum/Diamond line for guest services sometimes is just as long as the standard line.

Not a huge shock… VIFP benefits around embark/debark and dining not honored on our upcoming Carnival Conquest Journeys cruise. This is standard protocol with unique sailings due to the overcrowding of Carnival’s VIFP Loyalty Program. VIFP changes coming late summer! 🤞 pic.twitter.com/dtutDyRiHN — This Cruise Life (@thiscruiselife) January 22, 2024

If you still wonder if change is needed or not – just read through any one of the many VIFP groups or message boards out there. Loyal cruisers have been requesting change for some time, and those voices are getting louder. For example, in today’s program there is very little to differentiate between Platinum and Diamond Tiers. Then, once you get to the top tier, there’s not a lot of incentive to keep you coming back. Sure, the free laundry is definitely a nice perk, but take a look at some of the top-tier benefits on the other cruise lines and you’ll begin to see why people are looking for change.

While we don’t have the specifics yet about what will change, we know that Carnival will target the overcrowding that leads loyal cruisers feeling not very “important.” As Delta execs famously said last year, when everyone has status, no one has status. This could mean the number of nights to reach a specific tier becomes larger, or, it could signal an overhaul of the tier system altogether.

Could we see new tiers introduced? A lot of cruisers ask for a level between Platinum and Diamond to help bridge the gap. However, what we’d most like to see is maybe a Double Diamond or Triple Diamond Level to really differentiate, recognize, and reward the most loyal cruisers to the line (free WiFi each sailing perhaps?).

What’s likely not to change, however, is how they measure the program in number of nights. With that said, there is some chatter that Carnival could add cruiser spend into the calculation, in addition to nights. For example, those who book a suite accommodation or spend more on board could get more VIFP points for a given sailing. Whether or not one believes $$$ equals loyalty is likely irrelevant to Carnival as they look to bring in as much income as they can to pay down debt taken on during the pandemic.

We also hope they keep the Diamond Lunch! 😉

Every time it seems there’s something new! Twitter, I need your help again – what do I get at the Diamond Lunch?? #VIFP #DiamondLunch #CarnivalConquest pic.twitter.com/73nymiXXGS — This Cruise Life (@thiscruiselife) January 30, 2024

When will VIFP Club changes roll out?

Today is the third time Heald has referenced changes to the program. It’s also the third timeframe he’s shared for when changes would roll out. Originally, changes were set to roll out in the spring of 2024. In a future update, that got moved to end of summer. But that, too, was short lived. In today’s live stream, Heald shared that we would see a new program before the end of the year.

We’re hopeful these changes reflect wanting to get the program right the first time. I’m sure they’re taking a lesson from the backlash against Delta Airlines received when they overhauled their status program. We’re ok with the cruise line taking a little extra time to make sure they get it right.

VIFP Club Grandfathering

There’s almost as much speculation about what happens to existing VIFP Club members as there is about changes to the program! When Carnival announced changes to the VIFP Club in 2012, they gave cruisers until the end of 2013 to achieve status within the then current framework.

Cruisers who sailed more than 10 cruises by December 31, 2013 became Platinum in the new Club whereas guests who were previously Platinum became Diamond! As for the rest:

“All guests who sailed with Carnival fewer than 10 times were placed in the level that corresponds with their VIFP Points (i.e., cruise days). Guests with fewer than 25 VIFP Points were placed in the new Red level. Those who have earned 25-74 VIFP Points were placed in the Gold level.”

Will Carnival grandfather once again? Will the cruise operator give those working on the next level time to get there? What about those cruisers that have cruise days that far surpass the Diamond Tier 200 night requirement, will they recognize their tremendous status?

Lots of questions, but very few answers. We’ll be waiting and watching.

What do you think?

Are you ready for Carnival to change the program? We’d love to hear what you’d want to see in the new VIFP Club. Be sure to leave a comment below.

4 thoughts on “Carnival’s VIFP Loyalty Club Changes (2024)”

My wife and I are very loyal to Carnival, in fact we have 4 cruises scheduled in the next year and a half. We have been scheduling cruises to reach diamond status for years. So, we are hoping that nothing changes to prevent us reaching this status by the end of these 4 cruises, or we get grandfathered in.

Sounds like you’ve reached the wonderful stage of Platinum with the awesome perk of free laundry!! And it also sounds like Diamond is well within reach. 🙂 Last time Carnival made the change, they gave cruisers time to reach the next level. I’ll be curious if they do the same this time. Thanks for your comment! -Mark

My husband and I have been working hard to reach the diamond tier. We took 5 cruises in 2023 and have 6 this year (2024). We already have 2 scheduled for next year (2025) and in February 2025 we will reach the Diamond level. I would surely hope Carnival would not change the rules for those who already have the required number of days scheduled.

Wow! It sounds like you’ve got quite a bit of FUN planned the next year and a half; hopefully we’ll see you on a future cruise! 🙂 The last time they did this, they had a grandfather period, so hopefully they will do that again. With that said, we don’t even know what the levels will be as John Heald shared the program needs a massive update to better recognize and reward. Fingers crossed for all of us. I’m about to hit Double Diamond myself; hoping for free wifi! 😉 -Mark

Carnival Cruise Card Colors Guide (Tiers and Perks EXPLAINED!)

Wondering about the color-coded Sail & Sign cards and perks of the VIFP Club on your Carnival Cruise? From Blue to Diamond, each tier represents a new level of benefits and rewards.

Explore the meaning behind each color, the point ranges, and how to activate your membership to make the most of your vacation.

Table of Contents

Carnival Cruise Card Color Basics

Purpose of the cruise card.

When you embark on a Carnival Cruise, you’ll be given a Sail & Sign card in a specific color. This card serves multiple purposes during your vacation.

Designed with both convenience and recognition in mind, the cruise card acts as your room key, payment method for onboard purchases, and identification for getting on and off the ship.

On top of that, the color of your card indicates your status in Carnival’s VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club.

Understanding Different Colors

As you cruise with Carnival and accumulate vacation days, you’ll advance through their VIFP Club and earn corresponding card colors.

Each color represents a different tier in the program, offering various benefits and perks for your loyalty.

To make sense of these colors, here’s a brief rundown:

Blue : This is the color you’ll receive on your first-ever Carnival cruise. It signifies that you are a cruise rookie and have yet to accumulate any VIFP Points.
Red : Once you have 2-24 VIFP Points under your belt, you’ll be upgraded to the Red tier card. This color reflects your second Carnival cruise and beyond, up until you reach 25 VIFP Points.
Gold : When you earn 25-74 VIFP Points, your Sail & Sign card will turn Gold in color, highlighting your growing Carnival experience and earned recognition.
Platinum : By accumulating 75 or more VIFP Points, you’ll receive a Platinum card, an indication of your significant time spent cruising with Carnival.
Diamond : This is the ultimate achievement for Carnival cruisers. To reach the prestigious Diamond tier, you need to have cruised with Carnival for an impressive amount of time, achieving the required VIFP Points as specified by Carnival’s program.

Keep in mind that every day you spend on a Carnival cruise earns you one VIFP Point, helping you rise through the ranks of the club and earn increasingly exclusive benefits.

As you progress, you’ll reap the rewards of your loyalty, enjoying a variety of perks, such as priority boarding, reserved seating, and even complimentary laundry services.

Card Color Tiers

Blue Tier – First-Time Cruisers

As a first-time Carnival cruiser, you will receive a blue Sail & Sign card, automatically registering you in the VIFP Club program.

However, the Blue tier of the program provides minimal benefits, with only two available: access to exclusive cruise offers for members and receipt of a members-only electronic newsletter.

This card is unique because you only get the blue card once. After your initial cruise, you’ll move up to the next tier – the Red Tier.

Red Tier – Second Cruise and Beyond

After your first cruise, you’ll enter the Red Tier of the VIFP Club program. This tier applies to your second cruise and up to 24 points.

Your Sail & Sign card will change to red, indicating your new status.

The Red tier, on the other hand, offers the same two benefits as the Blue tier, along with an additional one: a free, one-liter bottle of water that will be delivered to your cabin during sailings. However, it’s best not to consume it all at once.

As you continue to sail with Carnival, you’ll accumulate more points and advance through the tiers.

Gold Tier – 25 to 74 Days At Sea

Once you reach 25 points, you’ll enter the Gold Tier and your Sail & Sign card will be in gold color.

This tier covers 25 to 74 points or days at sea with Carnival.

With the Gold tier, you get a complimentary drink that can only be ordered on the final night of a cruise, but this perk is only available for cruises lasting five nights or more.

We believe that Carnival’s decision to limit the free drink to the last night of the cruise is an excessive measure to deter customers from availing it.

Additionally, Gold level members receive a Gold VIFP pin on each sailing.

Platinum Tier – 75 to 199 Days At Sea

Upon reaching 75 points, you’ll move up to the Platinum Tier. Your Sail & Sign card will now be platinum colored, representing 75 to 199 points or days at sea.

This tier provides even more exclusive benefits, making your cruise experience even more enjoyable.

To sum it up, reaching the Platinum level grants you priority status from the moment you step onto the ship until the moment you disembark.

This is a significant advantage. Priority boarding enables you to board the ship faster than other passengers, allowing you to enjoy its amenities for a longer period on your first day.

Moreover, priority access to restaurant reservations ensures that you secure the best table times.

Diamond Tier – 200 Days or More At Sea

Finally, when you’ve spent 200 or more days at sea with Carnival, you’ll reach the highest tier – Diamond.

Your Sail & Sign card will now be diamond colored, and you’ll enjoy the best benefits and privileges available to VIFP Club members.

As a Diamond Tier member, your dedication and loyalty to Carnival are truly rewarded.

You get a complimentary cabin upgrade or the offer of free sailing for third and fourth passengers that come with achieving Diamond status. However, disappointingly this benefit is only available once.

Another noteworthy but one-time-only perk of Diamond status is a free meal for two at a specialty restaurant of your choosing.

Carnival Cruise Card Privileges

Exclusive Offers and Perks

As a member of Carnival’s VIFP Club, you’ll enjoy exclusive offers and perks that enhance your cruising experience.

As you move up through the different card colors, you’ll unlock even more benefits. The higher your tier, the more you’ll gain access to exceptional services and opportunities.

Keep an eye out for members-only promotions and join the VIFP Club today to start enjoying these advantages.

Discounts and Priority Services

Your Sail & Sign card makes your cruise smoother and more convenient. With it, you can enjoy various discounts and priority services on board. Carnival Cruise Line offers different card colors to help identify your level in their VIFP Club.

This means the more you cruise with Carnival, the more benefits you’ll be eligible for. For instance, higher-tiered members receive attractive discounts on spa treatments, internet packages, and shore excursions.

Plus, you’ll love the priority boarding, check-in, and embarkation processes that make your cruise experience even more seamless.

Onboard Benefits and Amenities

In addition to discounts and priority services, your card color signifies the onboard benefits and amenities that come with being a loyal Carnival cruiser.

Starting at the Blue tier, you’ll receive a complimentary welcome drink on your first day aboard.

As you progress to Red level, you’ll get a complimentary one-liter bottle of water in your cabin. The higher your tier gets, the more impressive your perks will become.

Each status level introduces new and exciting benefits to make your Carnival Cruise vacation truly memorable.

Remember to take the time to activate your VIFP Club membership at least eight weeks before your next sailing.

By doing so, you’ll ensure you receive the appropriate card color, reflecting your membership level and unlocking all the fabulous privileges that come with it.

Do I Earn Points For Booked Cruises?

Yes, you do earn points for booked cruises! As a member of Carnival’s VIFP Club, you’ll receive one VIFP Point for every day you’re at sea (aka cruise day).

This means that if you take a seven-night cruise, you’ll earn seven points.

You don’t have to worry about different earning levels for different cabin categories or types of bookings. It’s a simple one-to-one ratio – 1 VIFP Point equals 1 Cruise Day.

However, please note that certain charter sailings and nonrevenue fares may not earn you any points.

As you accumulate points, you’ll advance through the various levels of the VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club:

Blue : Cruise Rookies
Red : 2-24 VIFP Points
Gold : 25-74 VIFP Points
Platinum : 75-199 VIFP Points
Diamond : 200+ VIFP Points

Your VIFP status will advance on your next cruise after reaching the required number of points.

The higher you go, the more benefits you’ll enjoy, such as priority boarding, complimentary laundry service, and more.

How To Find Your Carnival VIFP Number

To find your Carnival VIFP number, head to the Carnival Cruise Line website and log in to your account. You have to use the email address associated with your cruises to ensure you see the correct information.

If you haven’t created an account yet, you’ll need to do so by providing your past booking details and setting up a username and password.

Once you’ve logged in, look for your name in the top right corner and click on it. This will take you to your VIFP profile page, where you can manage your account and cruise information. You’re one step away from finding your VIFP number now.

Here comes the fun part. Click on the “My Cruises” section of your profile. This is where you’ll see a list of your previous and upcoming cruises, as well as any associated points.

Take a moment to review your cruise history and, more importantly, locate your VIFP number. It should be displayed prominently on this page, near your name and current status.

If, for some reason, you’re unable to find your VIFP number on the website, there’s still an option to retrieve it.

You can call Carnival’s customer service and provide your booking history details. They’ll assist you in locating your VIFP number, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of those fantastic benefits.

Remember, your VIFP number is your ticket to unlocking a world of rewards and recognition within the Carnival family.

Do I Get Special Fares For Being A Member?

While there are no specific discounts or reduced fares tied directly to the VIFP Club membership, you can still reap various benefits that can enhance your overall cruise experience based on the club’s different tier levels.

First off, remember that joining the VIFP Club is free and membership never expires. As soon as you join, you start earning points for every Carnival cruise you take.

Over time, these points will help you climb the club’s tiers – starting at Blue, followed by Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond levels.

Each tier comes with its own set of perks, some of which can indeed help you save money.

For example, after you complete your first sailing, you’ll be able to take advantage of members-only promotions that offer better deals on select cruises.

One way to earn additional rewards and save on your future cruises is by using the Carnival World Mastercard.

This card allows you to earn FunPoints when making purchases. These points can be redeemed for statement credits towards your next cruise or towards any onboard expenses such as shore excursions.

In fact, using the card for a Carnival shore excursion earns you a 10% statement credit, saving you a bit on your travel activities.

While there might not be direct, across-the-board fare discounts for being a member, the rewards, offers, and benefits you can access through the VIFP Club and Carnival World Mastercard will undoubtedly help make your Carnival cruise experience more rewarding and budget-friendly.

What Kind Of Cruise Deals Will I Receive With The VIFP Program?

With the Carnival VIFP Club, you’ll experience a loyalty program that rewards you for your continued vacation adventures.

As you accumulate points, you’ll progress through various status levels, each with their own perks and benefits to enhance your cruising experience.

Upon joining the VIFP Club, you’ll automatically be placed at the Blue level, which kicks in the moment you step on board your first Carnival cruise.

As a Blue member, you’ll have access to member-only fares and promotions, making it easier for you to start planning your next ocean getaway.

Even as a newbie, it’s nice to know that you’re recognized from your very first sailing.

As you continue sailing with Carnival, you’ll earn more VIFP points and progress through the Red (second sailing to 24 points), Gold (25 to 74 points), Platinum (75 to 199 points), and finally, the Diamond level (200 or more points).

The higher your status, the better the vacation deals you’ll receive, such as discounts on future cruises, priority boarding, room upgrades, and more.

Keep in mind that the number of VIFP points you accumulate is determined by the number of days you sail. This means that each day you’re on a Carnival cruise counts toward your point total.

Therefore, longer cruises or frequent shorter getaways will both contribute to your VIFP status and bring you closer to unlocking more amazing deals and perks.

The more you sail, the better the deals get, enabling you to make the most of your time on board and enjoy your cruising experience to the fullest.

And don’t forget that these benefits apply to everyone in your family or party who cruises with Carnival, making it a fantastic way for all to share in the excitement of your well-deserved ocean adventures!

What If I Have A Past Cruise Without Points?

Sometimes, you might have cruised with Carnival before the VIFP Club was introduced or in the early days when the recognition program had not yet started tracking points.

In these cases, you may be wondering if you can still earn points for those past cruises to improve your membership tier and get better perks during your future voyages.

First, let’s clarify the rules about earning points. You earn VIFP Points for all qualifying Carnival cruises from March 9, 1972, onwards. Non-qualifying cruises include charter cruises and non-revenue cruises.

If you’ve found that a past cruise with Carnival is not reflected in your VIFP Club account, don’t worry.

You can still receive points for past cruises by providing proof of your cruise history with Carnival.

To do this, start gathering any documentation you may have from that specific sailing, such as boarding passes, reservation confirmations, or even photographs from the cruise.

If you have sailed with sister cruise lines, such as Princess, your travel agent may have secured past passenger rates that Carnival does not account for since they occurred before 1990.

After collecting the necessary proof, contact Carnival’s customer service team and request to add the missing points to your account.

Be prepared to share your documentation and be patient, as it might take some time for the team to update your account and allocate the appropriate points.

Once your past cruise points have been added to your VIFP Club account, your membership tier may be updated accordingly – Blue for your first sailing, Red for 2-24 points, Gold for 25-74 points, Platinum for 75-199 points, and Diamond for 200 or more points.

With every tier upgrade, you unlock new perks and benefits that will make your future cruise even more enjoyable.

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Guest Recognition - Milestone Rewards Program

As part of Carnival’s Guest Recognition Program, Milestone Rewards was developed in appreciation of longtime Carnival guests. This milestone reward benefit is in addition to the wide range of amenities and privileges that guests already receive as part of the VIFP Club.

Milestone Rewards Program denotes a guest’s 25th, 50th 75th and 100th revenue cruise with Carnival. Guests will receive a special Milestone Sail & Sign card on their corresponding Milestone cruise. We want to distinguish guests on their Milestone sailing with a unique card so that we can make his/her Milestone experience extra special and memorable. After this milestone cruise, they will revert to the card that corresponds to their VIFP level.

In appreciation for their loyalty, the guest will also be granted the opportunity to redeem a future non-refundable onboard credit equivalent to 25%, 50% or 75% of the cruise ticket price, corresponding to the milestone reached. And when a guest reaches his/her 100th cruise, will qualify for a FREE Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska or Australia cruise of their choice (8 days or less, for 2 guests), in accommodations up to and including Ocean Suites (category OS/OT). This onboard credit may be applied to any future cruise in accordance with the terms and conditions below.

If you have questions regarding your Milestone rewards, please contact our Milestone's Desk at 877-CCL-VIPS. Terms and Conditions

Milestone Reward is valid for its stated value in U.S. dollars, only on Carnival Cruise Line and/or Carnival Australia cruise booking, to be used as a credit on board a ship. The Milestone Reward is not valid on any other cruise line, including any Carnival Corporation affiliate line. Milestone Reward is nontransferable, nonrefundable and has no cash value.
Milestone Reward must be redeemed at least 30 days prior to sail date and the OBC will be applied to the booking 2 to 3 days prior to the sailing.
Only one Milestone Reward is redeemable per guest, per booking; more than one guest per booking may redeem a Milestone Reward.

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Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP Club Loyalty Program

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Millions of passengers sail with Carnival every year. So, it’s no surprise that Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP loyalty program is one of the most popular in the industry.

Whether it’s your first cruise or 100th voyage, Carnival’s VIFP Club offers perks and benefits to all club members. And it’s free to join .

Joining the VIFP Club means you’re not just a passenger but a Very Important Fun Person . With each cruise, you’ll rack up points, climb the tiers, and unlock exclusive benefits designed to make your sea adventures even more memorable.

Table of Contents

Carnival Cruise Lines VIP Club Loyalty Program

Carnival Luminosa docked in Skagway Alaska with lush temperate rainforest and snow capped mountains in the background

What is the Carnival Cruise Lines VIP Club?

Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP Club—or Very Important Fun Person Club—is their exclusive loyalty program designed to reward you , for each time you set sail. The loyalty club offers exclusive perks for Carnival passengers , including coveted Diamond level benefits like priority water shuttle boarding and a complimentary dinner at a specialty restaurant.

Enrollment is simple and free of charge . You don’t even need to take a cruise to become a blue-tier member.

Once you’re a member, you start accruing points towards moving up in membership tiers—each offering its special blend of perks and privileges. Your tier level shines brightly every time you board, as reflected by the color of your Sail and Sign Card .

Ways to Earn Points

Passengers on the top deck of a carnival cruise ship with the iconic whale tale funnel in the background while docked at Queensway Bay

Carnival makes it simple to earn points. You earn one point every day you cruise on a Carnival cruise ship . It doesn’t matter if it’s a cozy 5-day Caribbean adventure or an epic 7-day Alaskan exploration, each day you’re aboard adds to your point tally.

With VIFP Club, you don’t need to worry about different earning levels, cabin categories, or different types of booking. You simply earn one point for every night you cruise with Carnival.

For example, if you take a four-night cruise, you’ll earn four points. If you sail on a seven-night cruise, that’s seven points.

The more you cruise, the faster you sail through tiers, and the sweeter the spoils.

Unlike some airline rewards programs, VIFP Club points don’t expire . So, if you earn 24 points with the program, you’ll always have those points. Even when you take a few years between cruises, you’ll keep the same points balance and status level.

VIFP Club points are exclusive to Carnival Cruise Line and don’t cross over to other brands within the Carnival Corporation family, such as Princess Cruises or Holland America Line.

Note: Some charter sailings and non-revenue fares don’t earn points.

Carnival Cruise Lines VIP Club Tiers and Benefits

Carnival's VIFP program levels and point requirements

There are five different status levels within the club.

Blue : Your first sailing
Red : Your second sailing to 24 points
Gold : 25 to 74 points
Platinum : 75 to 199 points
Diamond : 200 points or more

Your status level depends on the number of points you accumulate. The more points you have, the higher your tier.

Each tier has a color represented as the background of your Sail & Sign card.

Passengers on Carnival Panorama enjoying a day on the lido deck during a sea day with water slides in the background

Carnival is one of the only cruise lines that award passengers with membership status before they take their first cruise. All you have to do is sign up, and you’ll begin receiving perks as a Blue-tier member.

The Blue tier doesn’t have many perks worth getting excited about. But, being a part of the club is a nice feeling.

Unlike other cruise line loyalty programs, Carnival Cruise Line doesn’t provide a free cruise to the highest tier members. It’s a bit disheartening, but the Diamond level perks are still worth the wait.

Blue: First Sailing

Receive members-only offers, promotions, and discounts
Receive member e-letter

Red: 2nd Sailing – 24 Points

Receives all Blue VIFP perks
A complimentary 1.5-liter bottle of water

Gold: 25 – 74 Points

Receives all Red VIFP perks
A complimentary appreciation drink on sailings of five nights or longer. Available at any bar after 5 p.m. on the last evening of each cruise.
Gold VIFP pin on every sailing. Redeemable at the ship’s Photo Gallery no later than two days before the end of the cruise.

Platinum: 75 – 199 Points

Priority check-in and boarding
Platinum and Diamond VIFP party on five-night cruises or longer, with complimentary drinks
Complimentary beverage at sea day brunch (on ships where brunch is not available, complimentary beverage at breakfast or lunch in the main dining room)
A “Chocolate Delight” dessert plate on five-night cruises or longer
Unique, collectible pin received on each sailing (Redeemable at the Photo Gallery no later than two days before the end of the cruise)
Priority spa reservations
Priority tender boarding (from ship to shore only)
Buy one get one free entry at a casino tournament (Blackjack or slots only; for passengers 21 years or older)
$5 worth of complimentary arcade credits (guests 18 and under)
Carnival logo gift on every sailing (Redeemable at the Photo Gallery no later than two days before the end of the cruise)
Priority onboard Guest Services phone number
Priority line at the Guest Services desk
Priority debarkation
Priority selection at main dining room seating and specialty restaurant reservations
Complimentary wash-and-fold laundry services (Some restrictions may apply)

Diamond: 200+ Points

Receives all Platinum VIFP perks
Guaranteed seating time requested in the Main Dining Room for dinner only
Priority reservations at specialty restaurants
Unlimited complimentary wash-and-fold laundry services
Invitation from the Captain to a special event on each sailing
One-time free cabin upgrade or free third and fourth passengers sail free
One-time donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, given once upon reaching Diamond level
One-time complimentary meal for two at a specialty restaurant of choice
Complimentary VIFP Club luggage tag set, given once upon reaching Diamond level
A dedicated toll-free number for sales and services

Carnival’s VIFP Club FAQs

Do vifp club points expire, or does the status level drop.

Unlike some loyalty programs, your VIFP Club Points never expire. So, if you earn 36 points with the program and achieve gold tier status, you’ll still have 36 points when you take your next cruise, even if it’s several years later.

What if I Reach a New Status Level During a Cruise?

If you achieve a higher tier status during a cruise, you will enjoy the benefits of that tier for the whole trip.

For instance, if you start a 7-night cruise with 23 points at Red-level status and earn enough points to reach Gold status by the end of the cruise, you’ll enjoy Gold-level perks for the entire duration. In this scenario, although you board as a Red member, you’re upgraded to Gold status right from the start, allowing you to enjoy Gold privileges a cruise earlier.

Where Can I Find My VIFP Points?

To see the number of VIFP points you currently have on your VIFP profile, simply log into your profile at https://www.carnival.com/BookedGuest .

How Does The One-Time Donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Work?

Each year, Carnival will make a $100 USD donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital for every Diamond level member.

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Carnival VIFP Club: How It Works, Benefits, and More

With millions of passengers sailing the cruise line each year, Carnival’s VIFP Club lists as one of the most popular loyalty programs in the industry. No matter your status, the program offers perks to being a member. And with it being free to join, why wouldn’t you take advantage?

Still, you might have questions regarding the program, how it works, and the benefits for members. Here’s everything to know about the VIFP program.

The basics are simple. For each day you sail, you earn points within the program. Sail more and you’ll earn more points, putting you in a higher status level. From there, each status level comes with more benefits for your cruise.

For more details about the program and answers to common questions, we have you covered below…

In This Article...

What Is the VIFP Club?

The VIFP Club is the loyalty program for Carnival Cruise Line . (VIFP stands for Very Important Fun Person.) As a member of the program, passengers earn points for each day that they cruise with Carnival. The more a person cruises, the more points they earn, which leads to a higher status level in the VIFP Club.

With higher status, a passenger earns perks and rewards, including everything from special fares to freebies on the ship to expedited boarding and much more.

Why Should I Join the VIFP Club?

When it comes to Carnival’s loyalty program, there is really no reason not to join. Membership is completely free and can only benefit you by providing rewards. It’s also simple to sign up. Since you are going to be cruising anyway (which is exactly how you earn points toward higher status), not being a part of the VIFP Club doesn’t make much sense.

How Do I Sign Up for the VIFP Club?

You can sign-up to register as a VIFP member on Carnival’s website , whether you’ve taken cruises in the past or never sailed before. It is free to join and takes just seconds to sign up. As well, you can get an account when you book your first cruise. Having trouble signing up? You can also call Carnival at 1-888-227-6482 to register.

How Do I Earn Points?

Earning points is simple. For each night that you cruise, you earn one point. So a seven-night cruise earns you seven points. Take a three-night trip? That’s three points. Over time the points you earn add together to increase your status in the program.

In addition, you may see other opportunities to earn points, possibly without taking a cruise. According to the VIFP Club’s terms and conditions, Carnival may “offer opportunities to earn extra VIFP Points through participation in different promotions, contests or sweepstakes.”

The most common and reliable way to earn by far, however, is to sail on the cruise line.

Do I Earn Points for Booked Cruises?

No, points are earned for sailed nights only. So if you sailed a seven-day cruise last summer and have a five-day cruise booked for next year, then you will only have seven points as a member, not 12.

Do I Earn More Points for Spending More on a Room?

While you might think you’d earn higher status for spending more money on your cruise, that’s not the case. Whether you a sailing in an interior cabin or a top-of-the-line suite, they both earn you one point per day for your VIFP status.

That’s not to say that Carnival couldn’t do something like award double points to suite guests as an incentive to book a higher-grade cabin. For now at least, even if you book the cheapest room on the ship or the best cabin available, you’ll earn points just like everybody else aboard.

Do VIFP Club Points Expire or Does the Status Level Drop?

At least right now, VIFP Club points don’t expire. So if you earn 25 points within the program but then don’t sail for a few years, you’ll still have the same point level and status as before. This is different than loyalty programs like with airlines where the points you earn often “drop off” after a length of time. If you’ve earned Gold status, then you don’t have to worry about being dropped back to Red status just because you don’t sail for a while.

So even if you are only an occasional cruiser or only sail Carnival sometimes, there’s still a reason to be a member and rack up those rewards.

What Status Levels Are There in the Carnival VIFP Club?

Within the club, there are five different status levels for passengers to earn. Each is known by a color, which is shown as the background of your Sail & Sign card. (Around the ship, you might see people showing off their status with their card in a lanyard!)

Blue (First Sailing) : This status is earned on a person’s first cruise. It’s where everyone starts.
Red (Second Sailing-24 Points) : Earned from a second Carnival sailing through 24 points.
Gold (25-74 Points) : Gold membership is awarded to those with 25-74 points in the VIFP Club.
Platinum (75-199 Points) : The second-highest status, Platinum is awarded for 75-199 points.
Diamond (200+ Points) : Have more than 200 nights sailed? That earns Carnival’s highest status of Diamond level.

What Are the VIFP Club Benefits?

As you would expect, different membership levels provide different benefits. The higher your status, the more benefits you earn.

The good news is that no matter your status there are benefits to enjoy. You don’t have to be a Diamond member to get a freebie.

Perks and rewards range from a free bottle of water in your room to priority check-in/boarding, Carnival souvenir gifts, collectible pins, priority debarkation, and priority reservations.

Do I Get Special Fares for Being a Member?

Yes. As a VIFP member, you will often see pricing that is different from the headline prices advertised to the general public.

One thing to watch, however, is that we have personally seen rates actually be higher with the VIFP number entered than when searching without. While we are far from Diamond members, it was strange to see the higher rates. That’s why we would suggest searching with and without the club number entered, just to be sure you’re getting the best rate.

What If I Reach a New Status During a Cruise?

Say you have 20 nights sailed, giving you Red status in the VIFP Club, but you are embarking on a seven-night cruise. At the end of the cruise, you’ll have 27 points, enough to be granted Gold status.

In this case, Carnival grants passengers the higher status at the start of the cruise. So while you board with 20 points, you’ll still be given the Gold status at the start of the trip, giving you extra benefits.

According to Carnival’s website:

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event a Member books a Cruise in which such Member will attain the necessary VIFP Points to reach a new Level during or by the end of such Cruise (a “Crossover Cruise”), CCL may, in its sole discretion, offer such Member the Benefits offered to Members of the higher Level during the Crossover Cruise.”

What If I Have a Past Cruise Without Points?

Typically points are automatically applied to your account within 14 points of the end of the trip. Passengers normally don’t have to do anything.

There might be times where points don’t apply automatically or there might be cruises you took in the past that haven’t been added. In that case, you can login into your Carnival account. From there, click on “My Cruises” and scroll down to “Claim a Past Cruise”. Enter your information about your missing cruise, and it will be reviewed to add the trip to your VIFP profile.

Is Carnival’s VIFP Club Worth Joining?

The VIFP loyalty program doesn’t offer a ton of benefits until reaching Platinum status, which is reached only after 75 nights of sailing. Even so, there are some benefits to joining at lower levels. For instance, even Red status members receive a complimentary bottle of water in the cabin that would otherwise be a charge.

That said, given it’s free to join, there’s no real reason not to sign up. At the very least you can get a few freebies, while passengers that sail Carnival regularly can see some even bigger perks.

So in our opinion, it’s definitely worth joining Carnival’s VIFP Club. We don’t see a downside.

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Carnival VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Cruise Loyalty Program

Carnival Cruise Line's Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club is a five-tier cruise line loyalty program available to all passengers. The program is structured on a point system, in which members receive one VIFP point for each day cruised with Carnival.

The best part of the VIFP Club is that it's free to join, and even first-time Carnival cruisers reap some rewards. Benefits start with a free bottle of water and progress to include priority check-in, boarding, debarkation, tender boarding, and restaurant and spa reservations. At higher levels, perks also include VIFP parties, unlimited laundry services, casino discounts, complimentary specialty dining for two, and a one-time free cabin upgrade (or, alternately, free fares for third and fourth passengers in one cabin).

The biggest drawback of the VIFP Club is that true benefits don't really kick in until a member has sailed at least 75 days.

Carnival also offers the "Milestone Rewards Program" to its VIFP members. Passengers who sail on their 25th, 50th and 75th Carnival cruises receive onboard credits of 25, 50 or 75 percent of the cruise fare paid, respectively, as well as a special Milestone Sign & Sail card for the corresponding milestone. On the 100th cruise milestone, members receive a complimentary Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska or Australia voyage of up to eight days for two people in accommodations up to the Ocean Suite level.

VIFP Club Levels and Benefits

Vifp level blue.

Available on or before first sailing

Receive members-only offers, promotions and discounts

Receive member e-letter

VIFP Level Red

Available on second cruise, through 24 VIFP points

Receives all Blue VIFP perks

A complimentary one-liter bottle of water

VIFP Level Gold

From 25 to 74 VIFP points

Receives all Red VIFP perks

Complimentary appreciation drink on five-night cruises or longer, available after 5 p.m. on the last evening of each cruise

Gold VIFP pin on every sailing

VIFP Level Platinum

From 75 to 199 VIFP points

Priority check-in and boarding

Platinum and Diamond VIFP party on five-night cruises or longer, with complimentary drinks and appetizers

Complimentary drink at sea day brunch (on ships where brunch is not available, complimentary beverage at breakfast or lunch in the main dining room)

A "Chocolate Delight" dessert plate delivered to member's cabin on five-night cruises or longer

Unique, collectible ship- and year-specific pin on each sailing

Priority spa reservations

Priority tender boarding (from ship to shore only)

Buy one tournament entry at the casino, get one free (Blackjack or slots only; for passengers 21 years or older)

Complimentary arcade credits (a $5 value; for passengers 18 and under)

Carnival logo gift on every sailing

Dedicated onboard Guest Services phone number

Priority line at the Guest Services desk

Priority debarkation

Priority selection of main dining room seating (early, late or YourTime flexible dining) and priority specialty restaurant reservations

Complimentary wash-and-fold laundry services (two bags on three- to six-night cruises; three bags on seven- to 12-night cruises; five bags on 12-night cruises or longer)

VIFP Level Diamond

From 200 VIFP points

Receives all Platinum VIFP perks

Guaranteed main dining room and specialty restaurant reservations, in lieu of Platinum's priority reservations

Unlimited complimentary wash-and-fold laundry services

Invitation from the Captain to a special event (such as dinner, a bridge tour or a cocktail party) on each sailing

One-time free cabin upgrade, or free third- and fourth-passenger fares

One-time donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, upon reaching Diamond level

One-time complimentary meal for two at a specialty restaurant of choice

Complimentary VIFP Club luggage tag set, given once upon reaching Diamond level

Dedicated toll-free number for sales and services

Other Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

Cruise Advice

Carnival’s VIFP Loyalty Program and Benefits

Orlando Martinez

February 2, 2022

Set sail for serious perks with Carnival’s VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) loyalty program!

The more you cruise, the more Carnival spoils you get. We’re talking complimentary drinks, free laundry service, priority boarding, guaranteed dining times, and even cabin upgrades.

Read on to learn about the different tiers of Carnival’s VIFP loyalty program and the benefits you get to enjoy with each tier.

How to Sign Up For VIFP

The VIFP Club is a point-based program. There are five levels: Blue, Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Your level will increase as you complete more cruises, but first, you must enroll in the program.

Long cruises and spontaneous getaways will get you to the next level quicker than cruising once yearly.

You’ll need a member number to join the VIFP Club. Before you book your first Carnival cruise, visit the Carnival VIFP Club website and click the ‘Join’ button. Provide your email address and create a password, and you’re in.

You can access your account information and profile once you’ve signed up for an account. You can also find out what benefits you’ll get based on how much you’ve cruised.

You’ll immediately start receiving cruise offers from Carnival by email, and you may be eligible for discounts or special offers on your first cruise but can opt out at any time.

How to earn VIFP Loyalty Points

The real benefits kick in once you’ve sailed your first cruise!

You’ll receive one (1) VIFP Club point for each day you cruise. On a three-night cruise to the Bahamas? That’s 3 points. Are you enjoying a 14-night Carnival Journey cruise to Hawaii? You just scored 14 VIFP Club points.

Note: In 2012, Carnival changed its program. It used to be one point per cruise, and 10 cruises would have you at Platinum status.

Sailing on the Carnival Cruise Line is the only way to earn VIFP points.

While Carnival Corporation owns and operates other cruise lines, VIFP Club points and benefits are not reciprocal to Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, or any other cruise brand in the portfolio. They have their own loyalty programs.

READ MORE: Best Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

VIFP Tiers and Benefits

The VIFP Club has five membership tiers. You’ll move up to a higher tier with more earned points and enjoy more benefits.

Note: Your Sail and Sign Card will reflect the color of your VIFP tier at the start of each cruise.

As you climb the VIFP loyalty program, your privileges and benefits will improve. Priority boarding and disembarkation are only the beginning.

You’ll be able to access VIP lounges, priority terminal access, priority Captain’s Lounge entry, and even free drinks at cocktail receptions and VIP parties.

Blue Level (First Cruise)

When you initially sign up for the VIFP Club, you’ll be known as a “Blue Card,” a first-time Carnival cruiser. You’ll receive Carnival’s VIFP Club newsletter at this level and qualify for special cruise offers.

Red Level (up to 24 points)

After you’ve sailed on your first Carnival cruise, you’ll be upgraded to Red. In addition to the VIFP Club newsletter and special offers, you’ll receive a complimentary 1-liter bottle of water that you can pick up from any bar on the ship.

Gold Level (25 to 74 points)

Once you’ve sailed on Carnival for at least 25 days, you’ll receive Carnival Gold status and be eligible for a complimentary appreciation drink on cruises of 5 nights or longer.

You’ll receive a Gold VIFP pin on every cruise in addition to the Red benefits.

Platinum Level (75 to 199 points)

With increased cruise days come increased benefits, and this is where things start getting good.

Carnival Platinum benefits include a special event invitation to the Platinum and Diamond VIFP Party on cruises of 5 days or more, offering complimentary drinks and appetizers.

During the cruise, you’ll get a complimentary beverage at the Seaday Brunch. Do you love to indulge in chocolate while at sea? A complimentary chocolate delight will be delivered to your room on cruises for five nights or longer.

A complimentary Carnival logo gift on every sailing and a collectible pin. Past gifts have been Bluetooth speakers, blankets, headphones, tote bags, and mugs.

You’ll also be provided with a dedicated toll-free number for reservations and access to many services onboard, including priority check-in and boarding, priority spa reservations, a priority line at the guest services desk, priority debarkation, complimentary wash and fold laundry service, and priority tender boarding (water shuttle).

You’ll also get a buy-one-get-one-free tournament entry for blackjack or slots in the casino.

Diamond Level (200+ points)

Carnival rolls out the Diamond carpet for their most loyal passengers (figuratively, of course), with all of the Platinum benefits plus a host of other perks.

The benefits are generous once you reach the Diamond level (200 cruise days or more). One of the most unique perks is a $100 donation made in your name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Other Diamond tier perks include:

An invitation to a special event hosted by the Captain
A one-time free cabin upgrade
Priority reservations
A one-time complimentary meal for two at a specialty restaurant of choice
Priority specialty restaurant reservations
Guaranteed seating time of choice in the main dining room
VIFP Club luggage tag set

You can get a detailed look at the VIFP program and unique perks here .

Cruise line loyalty programs are typically about “what’s in it for me?” but Diamond cruisers on Carnival can help others just by cruising.

Carnival VIFP Club Login

You can look up your Carnival VIFP Club number by logging into your account on the Carnival website.

If you don’t know your login information or haven’t sailed on Carnival since the VIFP Club was created in 2012, you can access your account information by clicking here .

Tips to Maximize Your Perks With Carnival

Carnival makes it easy to earn VIFP points, where you get one point for each day sailed. That said, there are ways to accelerate the earning process and earn more perks!

Take Longer Cruises: Booking cruises of 7 nights or longer will quickly boost your point total compared to taking only short weekend getaways.
Book Multiple Cruises Per Year: Cruising at least twice a year rather than just once can make a huge difference over time.
Join the Casino Program: Joining the Players Club casino program allows you to earn casino points. The more points you earn, the more benefits you get.
Check Out Cruise Packages: As a VIFP member, you can unlock big savings and add to your points by opting for trending and limited-time offers

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what happens if i reach a new vifp tier in the middle of a cruise.

Guests who change to the next VIFP tier, even if it is the last sailing day, will be entitled to the perks associated with the new tier for the duration of the voyage. That means that if you were to go from Gold to Platinum during your voyage, your card would be Platinum for the entire voyage.

2. What kind of cruise deals will I receive with the VIFP Program?

Past guests will receive some special cruise rates, but those will vary from guest to guest. If you are enrolled in Carnival’s casino program Player’s Club, you should check to ensure there aren’t better deals.

3. Does the cruise fare I pay impact my VIFP points?

Most cruise fares will not impact the sailing days associated with the VIFP levels. The main exception is for those who have won a free cruise or are given a complimentary cruise for some special event/gathering onboard.

4. Is Carnival’s VIFP program worth it?

Yes! From complimentary drinks to priority check-in, boarding, and reservations, Carnival’s VIFP program is definitely worth it. And the best part about it is that it’s free to join, even for first-timer Carnival cruisers!

5. How do I check my Carnival VIFP status?

To check your Carnival VIFP status, simply log into your account, load your VIFP profile by clicking on “Your Name,” and then click on “My Cruises.”

Your current VIFP level will be displayed, in addition to how many points you have and how many you need to get to the next level.

Alternatively, you can check the color of your Sail and Sign Card as the start of each cruise.

Final Thoughts

VIFP member Becky Smith says, “It is certainly nice not to have to pay for the Faster to the Fun program, as it is included as a platinum/diamond member.

And when on a longer voyage, having the complimentary laundry perk is a big help, as it lets you avoid having to spend money on having laundry done or going to the self-serve laundromats on the ships.”

She continued, “As a Diamond guest, sometimes there are “unofficial” perks that go along with it. It might be a special invitation to go up to the bridge [and] several other things that are not publicized. These will vary depending upon the ship and officers on board.”

Are you looking for another cruise line loyalty program? You can find a detailed overview of each cruise line program here .

This article was initially published in October 2020. It was updated and republished in July 2023.

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Home » Carnival Cruise Loyalty Programs: Sailing Towards Rewards and Benefits

Carnival Cruise Loyalty Programs: Sailing Towards Rewards and Benefits

Last updated on January 29th, 2024 at 03:08 pm

Carnival Cruises , one of the most recognizable names in the cruise industry, understands the value of building lasting relationships with its passengers. To achieve this, Carnival has developed a comprehensive loyalty program known as the “ VIFP Club ,” which stands for “Very Important Fun Person Club.”

Enrolling in a reward program, even if you are unsure how often you may use it, is a good idea. Just as it is a good idea to get travel insurance regardless of which cruise line you intend to sail with. You never know when you will benefit from either a rewards program or insurance , so it is better to have the peace of mind of being covered by both benefits.

This program is designed to reward and recognize the loyalty of Carnival cruisers, offering a range of benefits and perks based on a passenger’s level of loyalty to the cruise line. In this article, we will explore the Carnival Cruise Loyalty Program in detail, covering its various levels, benefits, and how it enhances the cruise experience.

The Levels of Membership

The Carnival Cruise Loyalty Program features several membership tiers, each with its own set of perks and rewards. As passengers continue to cruise with Carnival, they progress through these levels. Let’s delve into each level:

1. Blue: All guests are automatically enrolled in the VIFP Club at the Blue level after their first Carnival cruise. At this entry level, members start experiencing the program’s basic benefits, including members-only offers, setting the stage for further rewards.

2. Red: (24 points) After completing their second cruise with Carnival, guests move up to the Red level. Here, they begin to enjoy additional privileges such as early boarding, which can significantly enhance the embarkation experience.

3. Gold: (25-74 points) Carnival rewards passengers who complete their sixth cruise with the cruise line by promoting them to the Gold level. At this stage, members can access more significant benefits, including onboard discounts and special offers.

4. Platinum: (75-199 points) The Platinum level is achieved after completing 25 Carnival cruises. Platinum members receive even more valuable perks, such as priority reservations for specialty dining and spa treatments, which can enhance the overall cruise experience.

5. Diamond: (200+ points) After an impressive 50 cruises with Carnival, passengers reach the Diamond level. This elite tier grants access to exclusive member events and parties, providing opportunities for socializing and celebrating with fellow Carnival enthusiasts.

Program Benefits and Rewards

The Carnival Cruise Loyalty Program offers a wide range of benefits and rewards, making it an attractive proposition for repeat cruisers. Here are some of the key benefits associated with the program:

1. Priority Check-In and Boarding: Members of the VIFP Club enjoy priority check-in and boarding, reducing wait times and allowing them to embark and disembark more quickly and efficiently.

2. Complimentary Gifts: Carnival shows its appreciation to members through various complimentary gifts, including pins, tote bags, and other exclusive items.

3. Exclusive Member Events: Carnival hosts special events and parties exclusively for VIFP Club members. These gatherings offer a chance to connect with fellow cruisers and create lasting memories.

4. Discounts on Carnival Merchandise: Members can enjoy discounts on Carnival-branded merchandise, providing opportunities to purchase souvenirs and memorabilia at reduced prices.

5. Priority Reservations: Platinum and Diamond-level members can secure priority reservations for popular onboard experiences, such as specialty dining and spa treatments, ensuring they get the best availability and timing.

6. Complimentary Cabin Upgrades: When available, Carnival may offer complimentary cabin upgrades to loyal passengers, enhancing their cruise experience by providing more spacious accommodations or better views.

7. Priority Tender Service: For destinations where ships anchor offshore, members can benefit from priority tender service, allowing them to disembark and explore ports of call more promptly.

Earning Cruise Points

The progression through the VIFP Club levels is based on the accumulation of cruise points. Typically, passengers earn one cruise point for each cruise day, and certain promotions or suite bookings might offer additional points.

The more cruises you take, the more points you accumulate, and the higher your membership level becomes.

Milestone Rewards

In addition to the benefits associated with each level, Carnival Cruise Line offers milestone rewards to celebrate significant cruise achievements. These rewards can be particularly enticing for those who have a deep affection for Carnival and have sailed with the cruise line numerous times.

Milestone rewards may include complimentary cruises, onboard spending credits, and other special perks that recognize and reward loyalty.

Program Accessibility

Joining the VIFP Club is easy and automatic. All guests who take their first cruise with Carnival Cruise Line are enrolled at the Blue level. However, it’s advisable for members to create an online account on the Carnival Cruise Line website to manage their VIFP Club membership and stay informed about their benefits.

Additionally, contacting Carnival’s customer service can provide assistance and answer any questions regarding the loyalty program.

Enhancing the Cruise Experience

The Carnival Cruise Loyalty Program plays a significant role in enhancing the cruise experience for passengers. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Carnival enthusiast, the program offers something for everyone.

For newcomers, it provides a glimpse into the perks and rewards that await them as they continue to cruise with Carnival. For loyal passengers, it’s a way to be recognized and rewarded for their dedication to the cruise line.

The benefits of the program, such as priority check-in and boarding, help to streamline the boarding process, reducing stress and allowing passengers to start enjoying their vacation sooner.

Complimentary gifts and exclusive member events create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among passengers, fostering a community of Carnival cruisers who share a common love for sea travel.

Discounts on Carnival merchandise provide opportunities to take home souvenirs and mementos, while priority reservations for specialty dining and spa treatments ensure that passengers can enjoy the onboard experiences they desire without the hassle of long wait times.

For those who have reached the Platinum and Diamond levels, the Carnival Cruise Loyalty Program truly shines. These members benefit from exclusive events and parties, allowing them to celebrate their loyalty with fellow cruisers and Carnival staff.

Complimentary cabin upgrades, when available, can transform a standard cruise into an even more luxurious experience, and priority tender service ensures that they can make the most of their time in port.

Final Thoughts

Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP Club Loyalty Program is a testament to the cruise line’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for its passengers. It not only rewards loyalty but also enhances the overall cruise experience by providing a range of benefits and perks that make every voyage with Carnival even more enjoyable.

From priority check-in to exclusive events and discounts, the program caters to passengers at various stages of their cruising journey. It’s a way for Carnival to express its gratitude to its passengers while fostering a sense of community among its loyal cruisers.

As the cruise industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for cruise lines to build strong relationships with their passengers, and loyalty programs like the VIFP Club are a key part of that strategy. For those who have experienced the joy of cruising with Carnival, the loyalty program serves as a reminder of the fun and adventure that awaits them on their next voyage at sea.

For more information go here: VIFP Terms And Conditions

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

Joy is the Co-Founder & Content Manager/Expert for CruisePortAdvisor.com and one of the founders of the site. She loves to travel, sing & bake.

The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

If the United States has a national cruise line, it's Carnival .

The self-described "fun ship" line is the king of short, affordable, fun-focused cruises from U.S. ports to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico and other nearby destinations. No matter where you live in the U.S., you're probably within a few hours of a Carnival ship.

Where you won't find Carnival ships, notably, is in Asia, South America or, for the most part, Europe. Unlike other big cruise brands such as Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises , Carnival doesn't spread its vessels around the world to draw a fly-in crowd. Aimed squarely at Americans, its trips are all about cruising close to home at a reasonable price.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Indeed, if you're going on a Carnival cruise , the odds are you're driving to the ship, not flying, and you're probably not paying much more than you would for a trip to a local beach town.

You're also not going for anything too highbrow. Carnival ships are all about fun in a very laid-back, unpretentious, nothing-too-fancy sort of way.

Entertainment, at times, is as lowbrow as the line is low-cost. This is, after all, the brand that for many years held a Hairy Chest Contest around the pool deck on every voyage, to a standing-room-only, hooting and hollering crowd.

The fun comes in many ways, though. While Carnival's ships for the most part aren't quite as big as the giant ships operated by Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, they're packed with a wide range of fun features, from waterparks with multiple waterslides to cooking classrooms where you can learn how to make the line's signature chocolate melting cake.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

3 things TPG loves about Carnival

The "fun" focus that oozes into everything.
The food (really — see below).
The kids' programs.

What we could do without

The smoke in the casino.

The Carnival Cruise Line fleet

Carnival is one of the world's biggest cruise lines by passenger capacity, with 25 ships that together offer nearly 80,000 berths.

In general, these are big ships. However, with two exceptions, they're not giants by today's standards.

Carnival has just begun operating its first truly giant ships in years, the 181,808-ton, 5,282-passenger Mardi Gras and the 183,521-ton, 5,374-passenger Carnival Celebration . However, the line's next-biggest vessel, the 4,090-passenger Carnival Venezia , measures just 135,225 tons. That's about 40% smaller than the biggest ships operated by Royal Caribbean .

Seven of the line's 25 vessels measure less than 100,000 tons, which makes them almost midsize by today's cruise ship standards.

Related: Every Carnival ship ranked from biggest to smallest

This is a notable change for the brand from just a couple of decades ago. There was a time when Carnival operated some of the biggest cruise ships in the world.

However, for many years it chose not to follow rivals such as Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises in building ever-bigger ships . Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration are now the only Carnival ship on the list of the 50 biggest cruise ships.

The arrival of Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration over the past two years has marked a major turning point for the line. At around 180,000 tons, they rank at No. 15 and No. 13, respectively, among the world's largest cruise ships — the only Carnival ships to crack the Top 20. They are roughly 35% bigger than the line's next-biggest ship. One more ship in the series — Carnival Jubilee — will arrive in December 2023.

The 25 Carnival ships currently in operation can be broken down into eight classes: Fantasy, Spirit, Conquest, Splendor, Dream, Sunshine, Vista/Venezia and Excel. Many of those classes have a lot in common. Unlike Royal Caribbean, Carnival doesn't always drastically change the design of its ships from class to class.

Note that the Carnival fleet is scheduled to grow over the next year with two more new vessels. As noted above, the line has ordered another sister vessel to Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration that will be ready to sail in late 2023.

In addition, the line in 2024 will begin operating a ship in the fleet of its sister line Costa Cruises : Costa Firenze. It'll sail from Los Angeles.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival ships, explained

Destinations and itineraries

Carnival is all about cruises from U.S. ports. You'll find at least one of its ships sailing out of pretty much every major port city around the country. It's rare to find them based anywhere else.

Carnival's biggest operations are out of PortMiami and Port Canaveral in Florida; Galveston, Texas; Long Beach, California; and New Orleans — all major cruise hubs. You'll also find Carnival ships in such secondary cruise ship ports as Baltimore; Charleston, South Carolina; Mobile, Alabama; and Jacksonville, Florida.

The overarching idea for Carnival's ship deployments is that a large percentage of the U.S. population can reach one of the line's ships by car, saving the cost of flights.

For the most part, Carnival ships sail relatively short voyages of three to eight nights.

Carnival vessels based on the East Coast and along the Gulf of Mexico mostly sail to the Caribbean and Bahamas. Some East Coast ships also head to Bermuda, New England and Canada. On the West Coast, sailings to Mexico, Hawaii and Alaska are the norm.

Carnival also offers some Panama Canal voyages.

Occasionally, Carnival will deploy a ship to Europe for a few weeks or months. This often takes place when a vessel needs to go to a European shipyard for an overhaul.

In recent years, Carnival also has deployed two of its vessels to Australia to operate voyages from Sydney and Brisbane. In a departure from Carnival's American-focused business model, the Australia sailings are aimed mostly at the local Australian market, though they are open to American travelers.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Carnival cruise

Who sails Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is the undisputed leader among North America-based cruise brands when it comes to affordability, which makes it popular with vacationers on a budget.

It's also popular with a fun-seeking crowd. Carnival trips are all about letting loose and having a good time. Maybe you'll drink a little too much, eat a little too much, play a little too much — but in the end, you'll say it was your best trip ever.

At one level, Carnival can best be described as a working man's or working woman's vacation. The typical Carnival customer is a teacher, a nurse, a firefighter, a contractor or the like, either still working or retired. This isn't a line for Wall Street bankers or white-shoe lawyers.

Carnival also is huge with families. The "fun" is for all ages, from 2-year-olds to retirees.

Still, it's just as much psychographics as demographics that define the typical Carnival customer. Carnival executives have often used the word "spirited" to describe the people who are drawn to the line, and that's as good a word as any.

Carnival draws a lively, outgoing crowd looking to be part of the action. The typical Carnival customer is the sort of person who shoots up a hand when an entertainer asks for a volunteer to come on stage or jumps up to dance during midmeal music shows in the dining room starring the waiters (yes, on Carnival, this is a thing).

Cabins and suites

Unlike some of its biggest competitors, Carnival isn't known for a huge range of cabin categories on its vessels. The vast majority of the accommodations on Carnival ships fall into one of three broad buckets: windowless inside cabins, oceanview cabins and balcony cabins.

You'll find relatively few suites on Carnival ships. Each of the vessels in Carnival's recent Vista Class series, for instance, offers fewer than 75 suites. Each of the line's earlier Conquest Class ships has around 50 suites. The oldest Fantasy Class vessels have 28 suites and 26 junior suites.

This is in part due to Carnival's focus on affordability. The typical Carnival customer isn't in the market for a super fancy, high-priced suite.

That said, Carnival has seen the success that some of its competitors have had with a bigger range of upscale accommodations, and it's eyeing more suites for future vessels. The new Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration each have 180 suites — more than twice the number of Carnival's other recent ships.

Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration have 11 different categories of suites in all, four of which are part of a new premium Excel category of suites that come with extra amenities and access to a new-for-the-line, resort-style enclave at the top of the ship called Loft 19.

Design-wise, Carnival's cabins and suites are fairly basic and comfortable, if not super stylish. Cabins on recently unveiled or overhauled vessels have a soothing palette of creams and blues. Cabinetry in these rooms is a crisp and clean faux wood, and cabin bathrooms are neutral.

Note that Carnival's two oldest ships — those that are part of the 1990s-built Fantasy Class — have relatively few balcony cabins by today's standards. (After retrofitting, several have around 150 balcony cabins, out of a total of more than 1,000 cabins in all.) In part because of this, Carnival has been phasing these ships out of its fleet in recent years.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Carnival ships

Restaurants and dining

Like other big-ship operators, Carnival packs a lot of dining options onto its vessels — some included in the price, some at an extra charge.

Every vessel has two main dining rooms and a casual buffet eatery where meals are included in the fare. The buffet is called the Lido. For dinner in the main dining room, you must sign up for either Your Time dining (you go whenever you want) or Traditional Dining (you have a fixed table and time for dinner).

Other included-in-the-fare options found on most ships include what may be the two best quick-serve poolside dining venues at sea: BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint.

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

BlueIguana is a Chipotle-style restaurant, with yummy made-to-order burritos and tacos. Created in partnership with Food Network's Guy Fieri, Guy's Burger Joint offers burgers that beat anything you'll find around the pool on other mass-market ships and even most luxury vessels.

In addition, every ship has at least one — and usually several — extra-charge eateries. The most common ones found across the fleet are Fahrenheit 555, the line's signature steakhouse, and Italian cuisine-serving Cucina del Capitano (if you're a Carnival fan, you know this as the place where waiters sing and dance between courses). The two venues have flat fees of $49 and $24 per person, respectively.

Other extra-charge eateries often found on Carnival vessels include Bonsai, an a la carte sushi restaurant (now on 14 ships), and JiJi Asian Kitchen, which costs $24 per person (now on four ships).

Six of Carnival's newest ships — Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, Mardi Gras, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Horizon — also have teppanyaki eateries called Bonsai Teppanyaki (priced at a flat $42 per person for dinner; $38 at lunchtime). Most of these six ships (all but Carnival Venezia) have an a la carte barbecue-and-beer joint called Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, too.

The latter venue was created in partnership with Food Network's Guy Fieri and serves a free lunch on embarkation and sea days, with all items smoked on board.

Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, notably, has its very own in-house brewery you can see behind glass walls — something still relatively rare on cruise ships. It makes house beers including Parched Pig West Coast IPA and Parched Pig Toasted Amber which you'll find on many Carnival vessels in kegs and cans. Carnival is the only cruise line to keg and can its own beer.

The quality of the food (and drink) on Carnival ships always surprises us, given the budget pricing of the brand. Despite being one of the industry's lowest-cost operators, Carnival manages to pull off one of the best steakhouses at sea in Fahrenheit 555, and even the no-extra-charge main restaurants get the basics right.

In general, the food isn't gourmet. For the price point of the line, it's quite impressive.

Related: The best meals you can have at sea

Entertainment and activities

For the most part, Carnival ships don't have quite as many features on board as Royal Caribbean or Norwegian vessels, in part because they're not as big. They're still packed with a variety of attractions, including multiple entertainment venues, casinos, spas and lots of deck-top fun zones such as water parks and ropes courses.

Theaters and shows

There's seemingly always something playing on a Carnival ship, whether it be a glitzy singing-and-dancing production in the main theater, a comedy show in a secondary lounge, a magical act or a call-you-up-on-stage interactive game show.

Every Carnival ship has one big theater where you'll often find flashy, fast-paced production shows that string together a medley of loosely related tunes. Designed to be quick and digestible, they typically last around 30 minutes and have relatively small casts (just eight on some ships).

In general, the production shows aren't nearly as sophisticated — or as long — as what you'll find on Royal Caribbean or Norwegian ships. But they're lively.

Carnival also uses its big theaters for lots of interactive shows that involve you, the passenger, getting a little silly. They include Lip Sync Battle Carnival — a shipboard adaptation of the Paramount Network TV series — and Hasbro, the Game Show.

With the latter, you can team up with your friends and family to play giant versions of Connect 4 Basketball or Simon Flash in front of a live audience.

Carnival is also well known for the Punchliner Comedy Clubs on its ships, which draw quality comedians and can get a little raucous late at night with adult-only performances.

When it comes to raucous, though, nothing on Carnival ships quite compares to the frequent karaoke nights on board. On Carnival, it's a thing. Sometimes held in a secondary lounge or a shipboard pub, karaoke on Carnival draws a big crowd. Passengers come prepared with rehearsed songs and sometimes even their own guitars.

Insider tip: Get to the comedy shows early to snag a good seat — or any seat at all. These shows on Carnival ships are hugely popular.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Carnival ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a wide range of bars, lounges and nightspots.

Every Carnival ship has a casino, usually smack in the middle of the main entertainment deck.

Also, there are always several music venues where you'll find live performers in the afternoons and evenings, including — on some ships — the Atrium Bar and a secondary hub area called Ocean Plaza. There's almost always a piano bar that's home to lively singalongs.

Other popular venues found on some Carnival ships include RedFrog Pub, which serves up Carnival's tasty housemade beers on tap, as well as plenty of other choices.

On one of Carnival's newest ships, Carnival Panorama, there's no RedFrog Pub, but the Smokehouse Brewhouse has a stage that's home to live music nightly and some of the ship's karaoke sessions.

Carnival Panorama also houses Carnival's first cooking classroom. Dubbed Carnival Kitchen, it's located near the ship's main restaurants and is a seriously tricked-out venue complete with nine state-of-the-art, marbled granite cooking stations for two and a dedicated dining area.

Passengers can learn to cook everything from Carnival's classic warm chocolate melting cake to its popular saffron risotto during one- to two-hour classes that cost $30 to $59 per person.

One other new-for-Carnival attraction on Carnival Panorama is the first Sky Zone trampoline park at sea.

Near the ship's tween and teen clubrooms, it has two padded trampoline areas where you can jump around and take part in games like jousting on a balance beam or shooting baskets while bouncing. There's even trampoline dodgeball and, at one end of the room, a climbing wall augmented with interactive game elements.

Deck-top attractions

The top decks of Carnival vessels are covered in family-focused attractions – pools, waterslide areas and bustling fun zones with such draws as ropes courses and miniature golf.

Waterslides, in particular, are a big thing. In fact, when it comes to waterslides on ships, Carnival is the cruise world's king. The line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978. There's now at least one waterslide on all but one ship in the Carnival fleet (Carnival Luminosa) — something no other line can say.

On the vast majority of Carnival ships, there's not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Dubbed WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel. They typically have one or two big waterslides (sometimes three!), a play zone with interactive water features and a large, continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

On some Carnival ships, there's also a SportSquare area with such gee-whiz attractions as the high-flying, pedal-powered SkyRide (something that first debuted in 2016 on Carnival Vista and is now on four ships), a suspended-in-the-air ropes course, a basketball court, miniature golf, miniature bowling, ping-pong tables and other outdoor games.

It's a fun-at-sea focus that has gone to new levels over the past two years with the debut of Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, each of which has — get this — a roller coaster on the top deck . Really. We're not making that up. At 800 feet in length, these aren't the biggest roller coasters ever. However, they're real ones — the first ever on a cruise ship.

Meanwhile, for passengers hoping for quiet time away from the kids, many Carnival ships also have an adults-only Serenity retreat area on their top decks with padded loungers, daybeds, hot tubs and often a bar.

In short, there's a ton to do up top on Carnival vessels — and it's almost all available to every passenger on board the vessels at no extra charge (the roller coaster is the only exception).

Unlike some lines, Carnival has resisted the trend of big-ship operators carving out whole sections of deck-top areas for the exclusive use of passengers staying in suites or willing to pay hefty access fees.

Related: The 12 cruise ships with the most spectacular attractions at sea

Children's programs

Carnival claims to draw more children than any other cruise line. So perhaps it makes sense that it has one of the most extensive children's programs at sea. The line has formal children's programming and activities for children as young as 2 years old through the age of 17.

The heart of the program, called Camp Ocean, brings free, supervised activities daily for children aged 2 to 11. The line splits children here into three age groups — Penguins (aged 2-5 years), Stingrays (aged 6-8 years) and Sharks (aged 9-11 years).

Each group has its own age-appropriate activities ranging from face painting to pirate adventures. On many ships there are extensive dedicated spaces for the different groups.

While the free programming ends at 10 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at Camp Ocean until 1 a.m. During those hours, Camp Ocean transforms into a supervised slumber party-type environment with games, movies, crafts and snacks, along with late-night parties called Night Owls.

Carnival also offers dedicated tween and teen programs on ships for children aged 12 to 17. The younger children in this age range (12-14) are grouped into what's known as Circle C and have their own dedicated lounge on ships. It's a place to get together to talk, watch movies, play video games and take part in other activities.

Older kids (aged 15-17) are grouped into what's known as Club O2 and have their own lounge for meeting up, listening to music, dancing, singing karaoke and other activities.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that starts and ends in a U.S. port, you'll need a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. A few other forms of identification, such as a passport card, also are acceptable.

Passports must be valid for at least six more months. For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. All this said, we recommend checking Carnival's website before sailing for the very latest on requirements.

Carnival adds an automatic service gratuity of $16 to $18 per person, per day to final bills, depending on the cabin category (children under the age of 2 are exempt). If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can adjust this amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking. Also, an 18% gratuity is added to bar bills and the cover charge of the Chef's Table.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Carnival has been rolling out faster Wi-Fi systems across its fleet in the last couple of years, such that you can now stream video on some ships. Pricing changes over time, but the fastest "premium" service on Carnival vessels was recently priced at $21.25 per day when bought in advance ($25 per day when bought onboard).

Carnival also offers a less expensive "social" plan that only allows access to key social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) and messaging services such as WhatsApp for $15.30 a day when bought in advance. A slightly more expensive "value" plan, at $19.55 per day when bought in advance, adds access to email and most websites.

The social and value plans cost $18 and $23 per day, respectively, when bought onboard a ship.

Related: Wi-Fi on ships really is getting better

Carry-on drinks policy

Carnival allows you to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne per person onto ships at boarding plus up to a dozen standard cans or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks such as sodas.

Nonalcoholic drinks in glass or plastic bottles are not allowed. Note that you'll be charged a $15 corkage fee if you want to bring the wine or Champagne to an onboard restaurant or bar to drink. Drinks brought on board must be carried in your carry-on luggage.

Smoking policy

On most ships, smoking (including electronic cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas and in casinos and nightclubs. It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. In casinos and nightclubs, only cigarette smoking is allowed. On Carnival ships in Australia, smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas.

Most Carnival ships have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. There's a $3.25-per-load charge to use a washer or dryer. The launderettes also have vending machines that dispense small boxes of detergent and water softener at $1.50 per box.

In addition, vessels offer extra-charge laundry and, on select ships, dry cleaning services.

Note that three of the line's newest ships — Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia — do not have launderettes. Carnival fans are quite peeved about this, and you should be, too. Write the line a letter.

Electrical outlets

Most vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets. A growing number of vessels also have USB ports in cabins.

The exceptions are the two Carnival ships that traditionally have sailed in Australia (Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Splendor), which are fitted with a standard Australian three-point plug or adapter providing 220/240 volt 60Hz. Adapters are available on these ships for purchase if needed.

The currency used on most Carnival ships is U.S. dollars. The exceptions are any Carnival ship based in Australia, where pricing is listed in Australian dollars.

All vessels operate on a "cashless system," with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a Sail & Sign card that you can use to make charges. This same card also gets you into your cabin.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on most Carnival ships. The drinking age on sailings on Carnival ships in Australia is 18.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine.

During the evenings, there is an official dress code, but it's pretty laid-back. Most nights are designated "cruise casual," which means just that — khakis or jeans, polo shirts, sundresses, etc. Super casual items such as cutoff jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, T-shirts and gym shorts aren't permitted.

One or two nights a cruise, there will be a more formal "cruise elegant" night where men are expected to turn out in dress slacks and a dress shirt, preferably with a sports coat, or even in a suit. The suggested attire for women on such nights is cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses.

Related: What to pack for your first cruise

Carnival Cruise Line loyalty program

Carnival has a point-based frequent cruiser program, the VIFP Club, that has five tiers, ranging from Blue (requiring no points) to Diamond (200 points).

Members earn one point for every night they sail on one of the line's ships. To hit the second tier, Red, takes one cruise. Reaching the third tier, Gold, requires 25 points.

There is one twist to the earning structure, and it's in your favor: If you're going to hit a tier cutoff during a voyage, you will receive the benefits of that tier from the beginning of that cruise.

In other words, if you are sailing seven-night cruises, you will be Gold level on your fourth sailing, as you will be passing the 25-day mark on that sailing.

As is typical with cruise line loyalty programs, lower tiers don't bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits.

In fact, the lower tiers of the Carnival program are among the most stingy in the entire cruise universe. You'll receive things like a single complimentary bottle of water (at the Red tier) and a single free drink that only can be ordered on the last night of a cruise (at the Gold tier). Higher levels of the program are more enticing.

Related: Everything you need to know about Carnival's loyalty program

The second-to-highest tier, Platinum (75 points), brings such perks as priority check-in and boarding, priority debarkation, priority dinner reservations, priority spa reservations and priority water shuttle boarding. Platinums also get complimentary wash-and-fold laundry service (with a limit of two to five bags, depending on the length of the cruise).

The top Diamond level (200 points) brings such added perks as unlimited free wash-and-fold laundry service, a guaranteed seating time in the main restaurant, a dedicated toll-free number for sales and service and a one-time room upgrade.

Note that, in contrast to airline frequent flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. So, yes, the perks with lower tiers aren't great. However, it's not as difficult as it might at first seem to hit the more rewarding higher-level tiers in just a few years if you're cruising a lot.

A Carnival passenger taking seven-night cruises will hit the Platinum level during their 11th sailing. Sail a few longer voyages, like a transatlantic sailing, and you could reach it even sooner.

In case you're curious, VIFP stands for Very Important Fun Person.

Related: The TPG guide to cruise line loyalty programs

How much does a Carnival cruise cost?

In general, Carnival ships are among the most affordable at sea. It's not uncommon to find Carnival voyages to the Caribbean, Bahamas or Mexico starting well under $100 per person, per night including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

As of this story's posting, six-night Eastern Caribbean sailings from Miami in 2024 were starting at $339 per person, not including taxes and fees of $170.19. That works out to just $85 per night, per person, with taxes and fees for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October and parts of November.

The timing of when you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing is often available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Carnival ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things — unless you've bought a package for some of these items in advance. Most onboard activities such as shows and deck-top attractions are included in the fare.

Related: 15 ways that first-time cruisers waste money on a cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to Carnival.com to book directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process; trust us — we recommend you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure Carnival is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who understands all the little quirks that are unique to Carnival's cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see the cabins firsthand.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points on dining.

Bottom line

Carnival ships are all about fun, in a lively, let's-not-take-this-too-seriously sort of way. They're also incredibly affordable. Just don't expect anything too fancy or highbrow.

This is a budget vacation, not a luxury product, and one that is sometimes a bit over the top in its keep-the-party-going formula.

If the idea of crew members dancing during your meal in dining rooms or rowdy karaoke parties makes you cringe, this isn't the line for you. However, if you're ready to let loose and be a little goofy, it may be a perfect choice.

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A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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What Cruise Lines Match Loyalty Programs

Don't miss, where do cruise ships dock in reykjavik iceland, what cruise lines depart from charleston sc, cruise line not requiring vaccination, how much is cruise insurance, do cruise lines require vaccines, how to get from rome to cruise ship terminal, dinner cruise in key west, cruise line loyalty: elite status reciprocity and matching.

Thinking about a cruise line status match? Historically, cruise lines have not matched elite status the way the airline programs you may be more accustomed to have. However, elite status reciprocity is a term loyal cruisers should get to know, especially if they frequently cruise with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. subsidiaries Azamara Club Cruises , Celebrity Cruises , and Royal Caribbean International . Elite status reciprocity simply means that if you are elite with a cruise line owned by a parent company, another cruise line owned by the same company will honor your elite status.

Onboard Activities And Entertainment

Like other large-ship cruise lines, MSC Cruises features big production shows, with lots of colourful music and dancers. The ships also have small combos that provide live music in some of the lounges. The main theatre on each vessel is large and has modern facilities and equipment equal to almost any theatre venue found ashore.

Msc Voyagers Club Cruise Loyalty Program

The MSC Voyagers Club is a multi-level loyalty program for MSC Cruises’ past passengers. Points are determined by your chosen cruise “experience” , plus length of cruise. Bonus points are also awarded to passengers who spend â¬/$150 on onboard extras like spa treatments, shore excursions and shop purchases. Other perks include a members-only cocktail party, discounts and onboard freebies.

Visit our page on the MSC Voyagers Club for more loyalty program details.

Recommended Reading: Marriott Points For Cruises

Holland America Line: Mariner Society

Nieuw Statendam

Holland America Line automatically enrolls you in their Mariner Society program, and you can earn points not only for each day spent sailing, but also on purchases made onboard.

Enrollment is automatic after your first cruise with Holland America, however, if youve sailed with any ship under the Carnival Corporate umbrella you are also automatically enrolled. Those who book a suite often earn additional points.

There are five tiers in The Mariner Society from Star Mariner to 5-star Mariner. Even at the lowest level, members receive special offers and the ability to save 50 percent off the fare paid by third and fourth guests in the same cabin.

As one moves up the five-tier ladder, perks include such things as discounts in the onboard shops , onboard receptions and complimentary cooking studio classes at the Five-Star level. Perks extend to the home, with those whove reached the highest two levels eligible for a free subscription to either Food & Wine or Travel & Leisure magazines.

Carnival’s Very Important Fun Person Club

The Very Important Fun Person Club — also known as the “VIFP” Club — is Carnival’s five-tier cruise line loyalty program. Structured on a point system, the club offers members one VIFP point for each day cruised with Carnival. Perks range from members-only deals and a free bottle of water to a complimentary meal in a specialty dining venue and a free one-time cabin upgrade.

Check out our page on Carnival’s Very Important Fun Person Club for more program details.

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What Types Of Perks Do I Get If I’m A Member Of A Cruise Line Loyalty Program

Perks can include extras like branded gifts , bottled water delivered to your stateroom, free or discounted alcoholic beverages, cabin upgrades, priority embarkation and debarkation, free or discounted Internet use and laundry service, free casino plays, discounts on photos, free or discounted meals in alternative restaurants, dedicated cruise planners and, as mentioned above, free cruises when you reach the highest levels.

You might also have exclusive access to special “welcome aboard” parties, lunches or dinners with ship staff, meetings with ship officers, invitations to exclusive reunion and president’s cruises and members-only lounges. There are a few eye-popping perks out there, including an invitation to a ship christening when you reach Regent Seven Seas’ Diamond level or legacy rights to hand down your status in expedition cruise line Linblad’s by-invitation-only Friend for Life program.

Status Match To Diamond From Hotel/cruise/casino Status

This is the aspect of the MSC Voyagers Club that caught my eye. You can status match all the way to top-tier Diamond status from several different loyalty programs most of them not even competing cruise line loyalty programs. There is a dedicated enrollment page for new MSC Voyagers Club members that want to status match. There is a drop-down box on the website showing all of the different programs you can status match from.

I used my Hyatt status and filled out the form on the website, uploading a screenshot of my Hyatt account page showing my Globalist status. About a week later, I received an email welcoming to the Voyagers Club and giving me my membership number along with confirmation that I was now a Diamond member. On my first MSC cruise, I received all Diamond benefits. Its really quite astounding they do this and there is no reason not to try and status match.

Recommended Reading: Best Time For Cruises To Bahamas

Is There A Credit Card Tied To My Cruise Line’s Loyalty Program

No. Of the eight cruise lines — Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, Viking and Royal Caribbean that offer branded credit cards , none are tied to a line’s loyalty program. While purchases made with these cards won’t affect your loyalty status, they can earn you points toward some of the same perks you can receive from your line’s loyalty program. These include discounted cruises, onboard credit, upgrades, cruise line merchandise and other perks.

Get Matched For Great Rewards

Almost all cruise lines offer a loyalty scheme, from Cunard Lines Cunard World Club to Royal Caribbeans Crown and Anchor Society.

MSC Cruises are no different and their loyalty scheme is the MSC Voyagers Club . What is different is they have a fantastic status match scheme that almost anyone that has cruised before will benefit from, better yet they even accept memberships from hotel loyalty schemes too!

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Insider Tip: Power Up Points

Celebrity Cruises recently launched its Power Up Points program . Captains Club members can join to earn points by filling out online surveys, participating in certain ways on social media or booking specific promotions. Be sure to subscribe to Celebritys email list.

When sailing with Celebrity Cruises, its important to know the difference between its three types of points.

Captains Club points are what you earn for taking a cruise.
Power Up Points, mentioned above, can be converted to Captains Club points but you earn them in a different way.
MyCruise points are separate and wont count on your quest for elite status. Instead, this type of loyalty currency can be applied toward onboard credit, cruise discounts, upgrades, companion fares and vacations for Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Azamara cruises. You can earn MyCruise bonus points with the Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature card.

The information for the Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Captains Club points are what you want to achieve status in Celebritys loyalty program.

Viking Explorer Society Cruise Loyalty Program

Viking’s loyalty program, called Explorer Society, is a simple program to reward past passengers who book subsequent cruises on its river and ocean ships. Members are automatically enrolled following their first sailing. Perks are limited to travel credits, though the line’s referral program can earn you a free cruise.

Go to our page on Viking’s Explorer Society program for full details.

Also Check: Mobile Cruise Ships

What Is The Msc Status Match

MSC Status Match is a program from MSC Cruises that allows guests to match a loyalty status from another cruise line. It is available worldwide, free to use and guests will immediately start receiving benefits.

When you cruise with MSC you will be given the perks that the equivalent loyalty program on MSC would provide.

I matched my Platinum status with Norwegian Cruise Line To MSCs black and now enjoy loads of perks each time I cruise. I would definitely recommend you take the time to read this post if you are cruising with MSC, its well worth doing!

If you do not cruise with MSC within three years of matching the status you will lose your loyalty status completely.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Latitudes Rewards

Private islands like Norwegian Cruise Lines Great Stirrup Cay

All cruisers are automatically registered for Norwegian Cruise Lines Latitudes program, with benefits beginning on your second sailing. Points are earned on a one-point-per-day-sailed basis, although the line often offers additional ways to earn points.

For example, during some promotions, they will offer two points for each day sailed. Extra points can also be earned when booking an Insider Offer as promoted to members.

This program offers six levels ranging from Bronze to Ambassador level. Unlike some programs, Norwegians offers some pretty decent perks right from the start. Bronze level members receive discounts in the onboard shops, free internet minutes with a package purchase and a bottle of sparkling wine.

Things really kick in at the Platinum level, at which point guests receive a free bag of laundry service, two complimentary meals for two in a specialty restaurant and a behind-the-scenes ship tour. Make it to the Ambassador level, and you even get a one-time-only free cruise.

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Celebrity Cruises Captains Club

Celebritys Captains Club loyalty program breaks down into 6 different tiers: Preview Level , Classic Level, Select Level, Elite Level, Elite Plus Level, and Zenith Level.

Points for these loyalty levels are earned based on 2 things: the stateroom category and the length of the sailing.

Inside and oceanview sailings earn 2 points per night. Veranda staterooms earn 3 points per night. Concierge and Aquaclass sailings earn 5 points per night. Suites can earn anywhere from 8 to 18 points per night depending on the category.

Lets take a look at what perks are awarded for each level in Captains Club.

Preview Level is earned for anyone who has booked a cruise with Celebrity and provides complimentary access to Captains Club Loyalty Desk and the programs newsletter.

Classic Level is earned after just one cruise with Celebrity. This level is for any cruiser with 2-149 points. Perks include the following:

Exclusive Captains Club Celebration
Access to Presidents Cruises and Reunion Cruises special events
One category upgrade applicable through Aqua Class
$50 discount off The Studio digital package
Complimentary scoop of gelato
10% discount on internet

Select Level is earned for having 150-299 points. Perks include the above in addition to the following:

Senior Officers cocktail party
Complimentary pressing of 2 items
Discounted bag of laundry for cruises 12 nights or more

Elite Level is earned for having 300-749 points. Perks include the above in addition to the following:

Does Being Loyal To A Cruise Line Get Me Cruise Discounts Or Free Trips

Discounts on cruises and onboard activities and amenities abound in all of the cruise line loyalty programs, but free cruises are becoming increasingly harder to find, even at the top tiers. Lines that offer free cruises to their top-tier cruisers include Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Azamara, Norwegian, Oceania, Silversea and Crystal.

Recommended Reading: Cheap Cruises From Mobile Al

Regent’s Seven Seas Society Loyalty Program

Based on the number of nights sailed, Regent’s Seven Seas Society is a multi-tier loyalty program. Passengers are automatically enrolled after their first completed Regent cruise of seven nights or longer. Member perks include private member events, discounts and complimentary onboard services.

Visit our page on Regent’s Seven Seas Society for full program details.

P& o Peninsular Club Cruise Loyalty Program

The Peninsular Club is P& O’s six-tiered cruise loyalty program for past passengers. Structured on a point system, cruisers are eligible for membership once they’ve accumulated 150 points, where each cruise night on P& O counts for 10 points. Member perks include discounts on cruise bookings and onboard purchases, exclusive member events and complimentary drinks and services.

For full program details, check out our page on P& O’s Peninsular Club .

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Carnival Cruise Line Vifp Program

9 cruise lines fall under the umbrella of Carnival Corporation, and the parent company operates over 100 cruise ships around the world. Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most recognized lines in the world. Its loyalty program is called VIFP Club, since the line sees every cruiser as a Very Important Fun Person, especially if they keep coming back for more cruises.

You can sign up for the VIFP Club before your cruise even begins and start enjoying member-only fares and specials.

Carnival has a 5-tier loyalty program . The points for each status are based on the number of days sailed and not on how many cruises have been taken.

Every first-time cruiser with Carnival has Blue status and becomes Red after the 2nd sailing. Red will include a free bottle of water in your stateroom. Gold status is reached after 25 days at sea with Carnival and will include a free appreciation drink on a 5-night sailing or longer.

But its not until youve sailed with Carnival for at least 75 days that the real perks start making a difference. This is where Platinum status is reached, and these perks are included:

After youve sailed on a Carnival cruise ship for more than 200 nights you will have reached the top tier of Diamond . The perks will include everything you received with Platinum with the additional perks listed below:

About The Programme Tiers And Benefits

You can attain one of five tiers in the VIFP Club: Blue , Red , Gold , Platinum and Diamond when you attain 200 or more points.

You can and should enrol in the VIFP Club before you even take a cruise because youll then be eligible to receive members-only specials. Why not grab any discount you can? Most other cruise lines only offer members-only pricing after a passenger has sailed a voyage on one of its ships.

Red elite status is a bit lacklustre. The only additional perk you get beyond Blue status is a free 1-litre bottle of water delivered to your stateroom.

Gold isnt that much more interesting either. In addition to the perks you get as a Blue or Red, you get an appreciation drink on a five-day or longer cruise . And, you get a Gold VIFP Club pin.

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Insider Tip: Status Match Into Mgms M Life Rewards Program

If youve got plans to visit one of MGM Resorts properties Las Vegas Bellagio, Aria, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Delano or others you should status match your Crown and Anchor Society status to MGMs M life Rewards.

Note that M life Platinum elites get a free cruise annually aboard Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises. Depending on your vacation profile, the easier path to free cruises may be devoting your attention to the M life program instead of Royal Caribbeans Crown & Anchor Society.

Classic Msc Voyagers Club Benefits

Casinos At Sea Rewards Program Expands to All NCLH Cruise ...

5% cruise discount valid all year round. Not valid on Tandem and MSC Grand Tours 5% + up to 15% cruise discount on Voyages Selection departures Pre-board MSC Voyagers Club special e-newsletter MSC Voyagers Club personalised luggage tags for embarkation in the e-ticket MSC Voyagers Club card

You then receive an email confirming successful registration with details of the MSC Voyagers Club membership number. The tier level you are assigned Classic, Silver, Gold or Black will match as closely as possible with the level of benefits you enjoy from your loyalty program.

Your Membership Card is available to you on your first MSC cruise.

Be aware that the MSC Status Match can only be done once. Make sure you pick the membership with the highest level to avoid missing out. If you later realise you have a higher level on another line, you cant match again.

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Holland America Line Mariners Society

The Mariners Society has five tiers:

Star Mariner one cruise completed

2-Star Mariner 30 cruise day credits

3-Star Mariner 75 cruise day credits

4-Star Mariner 200 cruise day credits

5-Star Mariner 500 cruise day credits

The Mariners Society is for the wine lovers. Beginning with a Mariner Champagne Brunch for all, to complimentary wine tasting at discounts of up to 50 per cent on their wine packages for 3-Star Mariners and up.

The line also entices members to get fellow cruisers on board with discounts on cruise fares for 3rd/4th guests on select sailings. 4-Star Mariners and up even get to bring them on board for free.

The 5-Star Mariners are rewarded with opportunities to create memories on board with a complimentary Culinary Arts Centre cooking class and day pass to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon Thermal Suite.

Click here for full perks list.

How Can I Find Out More About Cruise Line Loyalty Programs

This Cruise Line Matches Your Loyalty Status From Other Cruise Lines/hotels

One of the best perks of cruising with the same cruise line is moving up the loyalty ranks. This gets you awesome perks every time you step on board one of their cruise ships.

From priority boarding to discounts and freebies, its no wonder why so many cruisers sail on just one cruise line.

However, there is one cruise line that will match your loyalty status. MSC Cruises will not only match your loyalty status with other cruise lines, but also hotel and tour operators . This is how it works.

In order to qualify for MSCs Status Match program, you must apply no later than 7 days before your cruise start date. You will need to allow up to 4 7 business days for your status match request to be completed. MSC Cruises will match your currently loyalty status from your favorite cruise line to an equivalent one that is part of MSCs Voyager Club.

You will be assigned an MSC Voyagers Club level, from Classic to Black, guaranteeing you a 5% discount on any future cruise booking and a similar or higher privilege status than your current loyalty program.

Here are some of the privileges for MSC Voyagers Club members during the cruise:

Priority boarding
Bottle of spumante in stateroom
Courtesy towel bathrobe
Access to the thermal area in the MSC Aurea Spa
Complimentary dinner in a specialty restaurant
View Prices on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises also has the sweetest new cruise ship sailing to the Caribbean from Miami. Take a video tour of MSC Seaside:

Cruise ship with central park, norwegian jade greek isles cruise, dinner cruise orange beach al, popular articles, american cruises on the mississippi, do aaa members get discounts on cruises.

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Carnival Cruise passengers airlifted by Air Force in dramatic rescue

The rescue of a mother and her child from a carnival cruise line ship in the atlantic by helicopter took eight hours and three refuelings, the air force said.

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A mother and her child in crisis were airlifted by helicopter from a Carnival Cruise Line ship on Saturday in a hair-raising Air Force rescue.

Two HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters, two HC-130J Combat King 11 aircraft and two teams of combat rescue officers and pararescuemen based at Patrick Space Force Base in Brevard County, Florida, flew 350 nautical miles off the U.S. eastern coast to reach the Carnival Venezia, the 920th Rescue Wing said Tuesday.

The ship had set sail on April 26 from Port Canaveral, Florida, for a 10-day cruise to the Bahamas and Caribbean. To reach the Venezia's location, rescuers needed three air-to-air refuelings, the Air Force said.

Dramatic photos show the unnamed woman and her son being hoisted up into the helicopter from the ship's deck.

WWII VETERAN, 100, FINALLY RECEIVES HIS COLLEGE DIPLOMA NEARLY 60 YEARS AFTER GRADUATION

The mother and child were hoisted into the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing's helicopter from the deck of the Carnival Venezia. (920th Rescue Wing via SWNS)

6 CRUISE SAFETY TIPS TO KEEP YOU PROTECTED AND AT EASE DURING YOUR VACATION AT SEA

"The patient was successfully transferred to a hospital in the United States," a U.S. Air Force spokesperson said. "After 8 hours, and more than 1,200 miles flown, the mission was complete when all of the aircraft returned to Patrick SFB."

U.S. Airforce rescue from Carnival Cruise ship on Saturday, May 4

The pair were transported from the ship in the Atlantic Ocean to a hospital in eight hours, the Air Force wrote. The nature of their medical emergency is unclear. (920th Rescue Wing via SWNS)

The nature of the medical emergency was not immediately clear. Fox News Digital has reached out to Carnival Cruise Line for comment.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE SHIP RESCUES 27 MIGRANTS ADRIFT OFF CUBA COAST

The Carnival Venezia had set sail from Port Canaveral on April 26 for a 10-day cruise to the Bahamas and Caribbean. (SWNS)

The rescue group's commander said the mission showed "what ready now looks like."

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"These real-world missions are what our countless hours of training have prepared us for. Rescue was able to plan and execute this mission without hesitation," Lt. Col. John Lowe said. "This combined arms team is highly trained in their field while understanding what role they play in the bigger picture and led to the successful completion of the mission."

Christina Coulter is a U.S. and World reporter for Fox News Digital. Email story tips to [email protected] .

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MSC Cruises adds attraction Royal Caribbean, Carnival don't offer

M SC Cruises has been expanding its presence in Florida, steadily adding more ships including some of its higher-end hardware. The company isn't as well known as its rivals including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian.

With cruises in the Caribbean selling very well, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian have been able to raise prices. In addition, Royal Caribbean and Carnival sell a la carte cruises with drinks and internet costing extra, at least on their namesake brands.

Related: Carnival Cruise Line warns passengers about a pricey mistake

MSC has generally been offering lower prices and offers packages that include its mid-range beverage package, which includes well liquor cocktails, as well as multiple wines and beers. It's generally cheaper to get on an MSC ship with an adult beverage package and a single internet device than it is to get on any Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian ship with similar add-ons.

Having sailed MSC multiple times, I've found lower prices to be its strongest offering. The food, at least in the free venues, has been inferior to Royal Caribbean, the company I sail with most often. Specialty dining has generally been better and the crew has the same dedication and friendliness offered by its rivals.

MSC Cruises does seem to listen to complaints because, over three sailings across the past two years, my most recent one seemed to address the food issues. The MDR offerings were still well below Royal Caribbean, but they're now closer to what Carnival serves.

MSC Cruises has a new U.S. flagship planned

MSC Cruises has been building its latest megaship, MSC World America, which will sail out of Miami. The new ship is a not so subtle attempt to rival Royal Caribbean's Oasis and Icon-class ships as well as Carnival's flagship Excel-class ships.

To help its new ship stand out, MSC will debut a striking new onboard attraction.

"Cliffhanger, the only over-water swing ride at sea, will debut exclusively aboard MSC World America when the ship enters service in April 2025. The ride structure will tower above the new U.S. flagship’s top deck, nestled in the heart of the ship’s Family Aventura district and beckoning thrill seekers who want a rush of excitement," the cruise line shared.

The biggest challenge may be meeting passenger demand as the ride has a very limited capacity.

"Cliffhanger’s four seats start off close to the deck before powered arms lift them into the starting position — up and out over the edge of the ship. From there, riders are propelled back and forth, high above the waterline and dangling 160 feet above the ocean below. The one-of-a-kind, edge-of-your-seat thrill ride will have guests feeling the wind in their hair as their view oscillates between the water below and the sky above," MSC Cruises added.

MSC expands its Florida presence

MSC Cruises will sail out of both Miami and Port Canaveral (as well as New York) for the summer 2025 season. That will include MSC World America sailing out of Miami which will also serve as home to MSC Seascape.

"As the second in MSC Cruises’ trailblazing World Class, the ship will be MSC Cruises’ largest U.S.-based vessel and redefine the cruise experience for her guests. The LNG-powered MSC World America will offer 7-night sailings departing on Saturdays to both eastern and western Caribbean ports, including San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; and Ocean Cay," the cruise line shared.

MSC Seascape will sail from Miami offering a mix of 7-night itineraries in the eastern and western Caribbean along with new 3- and 4-night sailings to The Bahamas and Ocean Cay. That puts the ship in competition with some of Royal Caribbean top-tier ships which are sailing short cruises that stop at its Perfect Day at CocoCay provate island.

The cruise line seems to be following a similar playbook to Royal Caribbean.

"This marks the first time a Seaside EVO Class ship will offer short cruises from Miami. Select 3- and 4-night itineraries will stay overnight at Ocean Cay," according to the cruise line.

MSC Seascape's sister ship, MSC Seashore will spend the summer of 2025 in Port Canaveral.

Want the latest cruise news and deals? Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter.

"From Port Canaveral, MSC Seashore will sail a range of itinerary options, including short 3- and 4-night escapes to The Bahamas. Some of the ship’s 7-night itineraries start out with two days at Ocean Cay followed by stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya," MSC Cruises shared.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

An MSC cruise ship. MSC Cruises Lead JS 102522

Nude cruise to set sail from Florida next year: Here are the starting costs, itinerary

The "Big Nude Boat" cruise, which allows passengers to bare all − yes, even at the buffet − is set to sail from Florida next year.

The "11-day adventure" to the Caribbean is set for the first two weeks of February on the Norwegian Pearl, according to the Bare Necessities Tour & Travel website.

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner!" the company wrote on its website.

The trip which embarks from Miami, includes "an exclusive visit to an idyllic private island" in The Bahamas as well a another exclusive stop on the way back to the Port of Miami.

"Two opportunities to enjoy a new slice of Bare-adise, coupled with a beautiful selection of Eastern Caribbean island stops, will make this a can’t miss Big Nude Boat experience," the travel company posted.

Why cruises are popular with swingers: 'What happens on the ship ... stays on the ship'

A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

Big Nude Boat cruise sailing dates and destinations:

The ship departs from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14.

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

How much does the Big Nude Boat cruise cost?

Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person.

They stretch as high as $33,155 for the top room on the ship: a Haven three-bedroom garden villa.

Laws of the land (and sea)

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

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Carnival Cruise Line brings new ship to New Orleans, celebrates 30th anniversary in Port N.O.

Carnival Liberty arrives in the Port of New Orleans.

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Norwegian cruise worker arrested in Alaska for allegedly stabbing 3 people onboard: report

South africa’s ntando sogoni reportedly held in norwegian encore’s jail until arrest by fbi in juneau.

Carnival cruise passenger catches video of Freedom on fire again

A fire broke out aboard the Carnival Freedom cruise ship about 20 miles away from Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, on March 23, the cruise line announced. Courtesy: @breezebreeze_ via Storyful

The FBI has arrested a Norwegian cruise ship worker in Alaska after he allegedly stabbed three people with medical scissors while onboard, reports say.

The suspect, identified as Ntando Sogoni from South Africa, was recently hired by Norwegian and boarded its Encore cruise ship in Seattle on Sunday, the Juneau Empire newspaper reports, citing an affidavit filed by FBI Special Agent Matthew Judy. The ship left that day for a weeklong, round-trip excursion to Alaska with stops including Glacier Bay National Park and Victoria, British Columbia.

"According to court documents, on May 6, 2024, Ntando Sogoni, 35, was working on the cruise ship when other ship employees observed the defendant attempting to deploy a lifeboat," the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Alaska said in a statement. "Sogoni was contacted by ship security and escorted to the ship’s medical center for an assessment.

"Upon arrival, Sogoni physically attacked a security guard and a male nurse inside an examination room and proceeded to enter another examination room where a woman, who is a U.S. citizen, was being examined," the statement continued. "He grabbed a pair of scissors and stabbed the woman multiple times in the arm, hand and face. He also stabbed two security guards who intervened -- one in the head and one in the back and shoulders."

NOROVIRUS OUTBREAKS LINKED TO 2 CRUISE SHIPS WITH OVER 150 INFECTED

A view of the Norwegian Encore cruise ship during its inaugural sailing from PortMiami in November 2019. The FBI arrested Ntando Sogoni when the ship docked on Tuesday in Juneau, Alaska. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Sogoni, who officials say was detained in the ship’s jail, was arrested by the FBI on Tuesday in Juneau, Alaska.

He is now facing a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon within maritime and territorial jurisdiction.

CARNIVAL FREEDOM PASSENGER ONBOARD DURING FIRE RECOUNTS ‘DANGEROUS, TERRIFYING’ EXPERIENCE

The Norwegian Encore cruise ship is pictured in Miami, Florida, in March 2020. Sogoni recently was hired by Norwegian, the Juneau Empire newspaper reports, citing an affidavit filed by an FBI agent. (Eva Marie Uzcategui/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

If convicted, he faces a maximum 10-year prison sentence and a $250,000 fine.

Norwegian did not immediately respond to a request for comment from FOX Business.

The stabbing allegedly happened as the Norwegian Encore was sailing a round-trip journey from Seattle, Washington to Alaska. (Photo Illustration by Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)

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The alleged stabbing happened as the ship was passing west of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, on the way to Alaska, The Associated Press reports.

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Cool Breezes and Warm Seas: Planning Your Perfect Summer Cruise in 2024

By Carnival Cruise Line

Ready to dive into the world of summer cruise planning? Whether you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun in the Caribbean , exploring the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean , savoring fresh tacos in Mexico or setting sail to the glacial frontiers of Alaska , it’s time to gear up for a journey you won’t ever forget.

Summer cruise scheduling and planning is an adventure all in itself, which is why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate these waters with ease while you’re having a blast on your Carnival vacation. Discover the ins and outs of planning shore excursions, the kinds of fun summer activities you can expect on board a Carnival cruise, our top summer destinations and more! Let’s get started.

Summer Fun On Board

Okay, imagine it— you’ve just stepped on board your summer Carnival cruise. The entire ship is now yours to explore and enjoy! If you want to cool off, dive into fun with Carnival’s thrilling onboard waterparks , relax by one of your ship’s pools with a refreshing drink in hand, or sit on deck and enjoy the ocean breeze.

When it’s time to refuel, choose from delicious dining experiences across the ship. And don’t worry about the kids— Carnival has you covered with kid’s clubs , exclusive teen hangouts and dining options the whole family can enjoy , guaranteeing an unforgettable vacation experience for all!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Carnival also hosts special summer events like the Memorial Day celebration— a fun and festive start to the summer— the 4th of July, summer solstice and tropical themed dance nights on the deck.

How to Plan Your Summer Shore Excursions

Let’s talk off-ship adventures! If you’re wondering how to book your summer shore excursions, you’ve come to the right place. First of all: if you prefer to relax and enjoy the quiet moments on board, you really can’t go wrong. However, we do highly recommend them! We partner with top-tier tour operators across the world to bring you some of the most incredible shore excursions and experiences that you absolutely won’t want to miss.

Reserving your summer cruise excursion is as easy as browsing through our selection of available excursions , then booking directly through Carnival.com ! Before you book, make sure you have the following:

Internet access
An email account
A fully deposited cruise booking
Your cabin level booking number
Registration through Carnival.com

You can book your shore excursion before you set sail up until the “Pre-Sail cut-off time,” which is the night before your departure at 11:59pm Eastern Time (around the same time you’re so excited that you can’t sleep). After this time, excursion booking will be available on departure day on board your ship. We strongly suggest making Pre-Sail reservations so you can nab a spot on your dream adventure!

Still have questions about how shore excursions work? Click here to read our Shore Excursion FAQs .

Best Time to Start Planning for a Summer Cruise

It probably goes without saying that when it comes to cruise planning, timing is everything. It’s generally considered best to book around 6 – 12 months before you want to set sail so that you have your pick of itineraries, sailings, excursions, cabins and more. You can also keep an eye out for cruise deals that may pop up during the planning period!

6 Summer Cruise Packing Tips

Whether you’re a type-A planner, a spontaneous adventurer or something in between, packing the right items for your cruise is an absolute must. Here’s are some quick tips to remember next time you’re packing for a summer cruise:

Sun Protection is Essential : It’s fun soaking up the summer sun, but a sunburn isn’t! Always remember to pack sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, plus hats, sunglasses and cover ups to protect your skin.
Don’t Forget a Backpack : No matter what you’ll be doing on your summer cruise, one thing is for sure: you’re going to need a backpack. It’ll be your trusty sidekick for all kinds of adventures, and your stash for essentials like sunscreen, water, electronics and more.
Bring Any Over-the-Counter Medications You May Need : While you’re exploring the world, you may encounter ailments like headaches, allergies or an upset stomach. Never fear! You can come prepared with travel-sized versions of any over-the-counter medications you use regularly, or might need during your trip. We recommend keeping them in a travel-friendly pouch so they’re easily accessible if you need them. Your future self will thank you!
Roll, Don’t Fold : Rolling your clothes can help you avoid unsightly wrinkles and maximize your luggage space, allowing you to pack that extra outfit for unexpected occasions. For items that tend to wrinkle easily, try rolling them with tissue paper to keep them smooth and wrinkle-free upon arrival.
Bulky Items First : Rolling clothes is a game-changer, but let’s face it—some things just won’t roll! Start packing with the bigger items like your tennis shoes (perfect for your outdoor adventures) and layer them at the bottom of your suitcase. Don’t let them sit empty! Stuff those shoes with small essentials like socks, belts, and other accessories to maximize room in your luggage.
Wear your Layers : To save valuable packing space, think about layering your travel outfit. Even when heading to a warm destination, packing a denim jacket or cozy sweater is a good idea for cooler evenings or chilly air-conditioned restaurants!

Click here for more summer cruise packing tips .

Summer Destinations You Can’t Miss

Not sure where to sail? Check out these popular destinations to help with your summer cruise scheduling!

Ready for a Caribbean cruise that promises all kinds of fun in the sun? Celebration Key , a dreamy Carnival exclusive destination, boasts a mile of white sand beach and the largest fresh water lagoons in the Caribbean (based on publicly available data of surface area measurements as of 01/22/24) for all your aquatic adventures. At Mahogany Bay , located on Roatán Island, you can dive deep into the island’s colorful culture and explore its stunning coastline. Last but certainly not least, exclusive destination Half Moon Cay is a slice of tropical paradise that invites total relaxation with warm shores and crystal-clear waters.

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is where history meets elegance, a breathtaking blend of beauty and discovery around every corner. Málaga , one of Spain’s oldest cities, was influenced by both the Romans and Moors to create a city budding with character. Santorini’s dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and iconic architecture tell their own stunning story– and it’s one you definitely don’t want to miss. Over in Malta , this little-yet-lively island packs a punch with its bustling historic streets and unique flair. Prepare for the journey of a lifetime through some of the most enchanting spots in the Mediterranean!

Maybe you’d rather cruise to the sparkling shores and ancient wonders of Mexico? We wouldn’t blame you! Cozumel offers a large variety of entertainment for all who visit, but especially for divers— it boasts some of the best coral reefs in the entire world! Ensenada , known for its stunning coastline and delicious cuisine, also features charming streets and bustling markets. Meanwhile, Costa Maya has an irresistible blend of beaches and fun-filled excursions that suit every traveler’s preferences.

Alaska’s awe-inspiring wilderness and lively communities await! This summer, think about cruising to Alaska and getting a taste of this stunning northern frontier. Ketchikan , known as the salmon capital of the world, is famed for its historic waterfront and passionate fishing community. Larger than NYC, Sitka stands as the largest city-county in the country, jam-packed with mountains, green forests and a blooming community. Don’t forget Juneau , surrounded by ice-capped mountains, and offering a perfect path to fresh air and the great outdoors.

Your Summer Cruise Planning Checklist

Ready to set sail this summer? Let’s just make sure you have everything you need for smooth sailing. Here’s a checklist to guide you through your summer cruise scheduling and planning:

Choose your destination
Choose your travel dates
Set a budget
Select a cabin
Book your cruise!
Research & book shore excursions
Prep your packing list

Ready for the summer cruise of a lifetime? No matter how and where you decide to soak up the sun, the real secret to an epic cruise is making the most of every single second. We hope this guide to summer cruise scheduling and planning sets you up for success with some excursion and packing tips, plus destinations you absolutely can’t miss. Whether you’re diving into adventure or lounging in relaxation, always remember to embrace the fun and let the good times roll! Ready to find your dream summer cruise vacation? Click here to get started !

Plan for fun.

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Princess Cruises Sails to Prime Viewing Spot for 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in Europe

Sky princess departs southampton on august 8, 2026;  bookings open may 23, 2024.

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FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., (May 3, 2024) – Astrotourism is top of mind for travelers making special trips for phenomenal experiences in the sky—and with the recent “take-your-breath-away” total solar eclipse, thousands of cruisers onboard Emerald Princess and Discovery Princess off the coast of Mexico caught a glimpse of the astounding total darkness event.

The next, not-to-be-missed total solar eclipse takes place on August 12, 2026, and once again a Princess cruise ship will be perfectly positioned, this time in northern Spain, to witness this bucket list event - two minutes and 18 seconds of totality. The 3,660-guest Sky Princess departs Southampton August 8, 2026, on a 14-day Mediterranean cruise, highlighted with total eclipse viewing while the ship is in its path at sea off the coast of Spain.

“The best way to see a total solar eclipse is via cruise ship, and our guests who recently experienced this rare occurrence on Discovery Princess and Emerald Princess were simply blown away,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “We make it easy for guests to come aboard, relax and meet other eclipse enthusiasts. It’s truly a special opportunity.”

The Total Eclipse Sky Princess Voyage goes on sale May 23, 2024, with rates starting at $2,199* per person. During the eclipse, Sky Princess guests will gather on the top decks with Princess safety glasses for viewing, as well as enjoy lectures from astronomy experts, themed treats and drinks, stargazing at night, solar system trivia and more.

This incredible, 14-day Mediterranean cruise sailing takes place August 8-22, 2026, roundtrip from Southampton (London), and visits seven historical and vibrant ports, including:

Cherbourg, France - one of France’s greatest ports with art and history museums, its basilica, the Ravalet castle and the Cité de la Mer maritime museum.
Bilbao, Spain – located in northern Spain, Bilbao is surrounded by green mountains and is the de facto capital of Basque Country, with a skyscraper-filled downtown. It’s famed for the Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
Malaga, Spain - famous as Picasso's birthplace and the gateway to Spain's Costa del Sol, Malaga mixes warm vacation vibes with Andalusia's indomitable spirit.
Cartagena, Spain - founded by the Carthaginians around 220 B.C., the city boomed during the Roman period. Among its many Roman ruins are a 1st-century B.C. theater and Casa de la Fortuna, a villa with murals and mosaics.
Gibraltar – this British Overseas Territory and headland is located on Spain's south coast. It’s dominated by the Rock of Gibraltar, a 1,398-foot limestone ridge.
Lisbon, Portugal – the capital and largest city of Portugal, Lisbon is mainland Europe's westernmost capital city and the only one along the Atlantic coast.
La Coruña, Spain – in the Galicia region of northwest Spain, it’s known for its Roman lighthouse, the Tower of Hercules, which has sweeping coastal views.

“Our recent solar eclipse cruises were completely sold out so interested guests should book this Sky Princess cruise as soon as it opens on May 23. It truly will be an experience to remember,” Padgett added.

More information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com.

*Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses not included

Media Contacts

Contact information for members of the media

Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]

Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Additional media information is available at princess.com/news

Not a member of the media?

More contact information is available on our Contact Us page

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COMMENTS

What You Get
Complimentary 1.5 liter bottle of water. Redeemable at any bar, restaurant or stateroom. . . . . Appreciation drink on 5+ day cruises. Redeemable at any bar on the last evening of the cruise after 5 p.m.
Carnival Cruise Line VIFP Club loyalty program: The complete guide
Getting to the Platinum tier takes 10 cruises, assuming you always sail seven-night voyages. If you do shorter trips, it'll take longer. Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Carnival cruise. Best elite perk. Even at the highest Diamond level of its VIFP Club program, Carnival still is a little stingy with the perks.
Carnival's VIFP Loyalty Club Changes (2024) › This Cruise Life
Carnival's VIFP Club is made up of 5 tiers. As a first-time cruiser, you're in the Blue Tier. By your second cruise, you've already moved up in the club to the Red Tier. From here, the VIFP Club changes from number of cruises to number of nights. The Gold Tier is not far off from the Red Tier at only 25 nights.
Carnival Cruise Card Colors Guide (Tiers and Perks EXPLAINED!)
This color reflects your second Carnival cruise and beyond, up until you reach 25 VIFP Points. Gold: When you earn 25-74 VIFP Points, your Sail & Sign card will turn Gold in color, highlighting your growing Carnival experience and earned recognition. Platinum: By accumulating 75 or more VIFP Points, you'll receive a Platinum card, an ...
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Carnival Cruise Line VIFP tiers. Image. There are five different levels within the VIFP Club. The entry-level tier is Blue, and this is where you'll remain until after you've completed your first Carnival cruise, whether it's 3-nights or 7-nights. Following the Blue level is Red, which is where you'll remain until you accrue 24 points.
Guest Recognition
This milestone reward benefit is in addition to the wide range of amenities and privileges that guests already receive as part of the VIFP Club. Milestone Rewards Program denotes a guest's 25th, 50th 75th and 100th revenue cruise with Carnival. Guests will receive a special Milestone Sail & Sign card on their corresponding Milestone cruise.
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Carnival Cruise Lines VIP Club Tiers and Benefits. There are five different status levels within the club. Blue: Your first sailing. Red: Your second sailing to 24 points. Gold : 25 to 74 points. Platinum: 75 to 199 points. Diamond: 200 points or more. Your status level depends on the number of points you accumulate.
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Ready for a Caribbean cruise that promises all kinds of fun in the sun? Celebration Key, a dreamy Carnival exclusive destination, boasts a mile of white sand beach and the largest fresh water lagoons in the Caribbean (based on publicly available data of surface area measurements as of 01/22/24) for all your aquatic adventures.At Mahogany Bay, located on Roatán Island, you can dive deep into ...
Elektrostal
In 1938, it was granted town status. [citation needed]Administrative and municipal status. Within the framework of administrative divisions, it is incorporated as Elektrostal City Under Oblast Jurisdiction—an administrative unit with the status equal to that of the districts. As a municipal division, Elektrostal City Under Oblast Jurisdiction is incorporated as Elektrostal Urban Okrug.
Princess Cruises Sails to Prime Viewing Spot for 2026 Total Solar
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., (May 3, 2024) - Astrotourism is top of mind for travelers making special trips for phenomenal experiences in the sky—and with the recent "take-your-breath-away" total solar eclipse, thousands of cruisers onboard Emerald Princess and Discovery Princess off the coast of Mexico caught a glimpse of the astounding total darkness event.