Carnival Cruise Line’s new loyalty program, which is coming in 2026, has been making waves since it was announced, but not in a good way.
The new program, which takes effect in June of 2026 if nothing changes, has left many cruisers outraged because the “lifetime” loyalty status has been eliminated.
Instead, guests will earn “stars” based on how much they cruise and spend onboard and will maintain their loyalty tier for two years.
Current and long-time members of the VIFP program have been left feeling hurt and abandoned by the change and are now considering aligning their loyalties elsewhere.
In various online forums, now-former Carnival fans have been encouraging others to switch to MSC Cruises, which will match Carnival cruisers’ existing loyalty status in the MSC Voyager’s Club through the Status Match program.
“Our Status Match program allows you to join the MSC Voyagers Club by bringing your benefits from another cruise line with you and instantly enjoying comparable – or even better – privileges on your next MSC Cruises sailing,”reads the MSC website.
“Once approved, you’ll immediately qualify for a 5% discount on any future MSC Cruises sailing, where you’ll receive onboard discounts for photos, Wi-Fi, spa services, complimentary gifts, and other valuable savings,” continues the information.
While it’s not a new program, it’s quickly become very popular because it allows Carnival guests to maintain many of the perks they spent their time and money earning with the other brand.
However, the loyalty status at MSC Cruises can also expire, but only if guests go more than three years between cruises.
In order to apply for a status match, all guests need to do is submit a quick online form on the MSC website with their name, address, contact information, and information about the loyalty status they are trying to match.
The approval time seems to be quick, with many cruisers saying that they learned of their new loyalty status at MSC in 24 hours or less.
Other Status Match Programs
Although MSC Cruises is the program that has been popping up most in the forums, MSC isn’t the only brand to offer status match programs.
Virgin Voyages, which is an adults-only cruise line, is offering its own status matching option for its loyalty program, called the Sailing Club.
However, this will only be available through October 31, 2025, and the cruise line is accepting applications online.
Once accepted, guests will be put into the Blue Extras level, which is the middle tier that Virgin Voyages’ guests reach at three to four sailings.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
This will make them eligible for perks like an exclusive cocktail event, complimentary laundry service, and a dedicated Sailor Services (guest services) support system.
Ponant Cruises, which offers expedition cruises on yachts, also has a status matching program that comes with immediate discounts on future bookings, free laundry services, and onboard credits based on the tier.
Meanwhile, Carnival has been working to lessen the backlash and alleviate concerns about the changes to the VIFP fun club.
Lee Mason, a popular Fleet Cruise Director, responded to the feedback on Facebook: “Maybe I was living in a dream world, but I truly believed the bond between our crew and our guests came from those shared moments. The laughs, the conversations, the connections. That’s what makes cruising special.”
Heald has been reassuring his more than 600,000 followers that the cruise line does care about them and that the new program was announced well in advance to give it time to settle (and to possibly even make some more desirable tweaks).
Looking for the top cruise news stories of the week? We have them right here in Cruise Hive’s new edition of its weekly recap. Highlights include Carnival Cruise Line’s new rewards program getting panned by guests, and Royal Caribbean planning renovations to three mega-ships.
Make sure you stay well informed by signing up for Cruise Hive’s Daily Update, so the big cruise stories are delivered right to your inbox.
Mystery Jumper Makes A Splash in Juneau
Woman Jumps in Near Cruise Ship in Juneau (Credit: baileyy.bs)
A cruise passenger visiting Juneau, Alaska, witnessed a most unusual sight as she stood on the cruise pier on or around June 12, 2025 — a woman making a flying leap from the pier into the water.
Make that very chilly water, since the temperature in Juneau harbor at this time of year averages about 46 degrees Fahrenheit, according to data from Tideschart. The jumper wasn’t dressed for such an act, since she was wearing just shorts and a T-shirt.
It is unknown whether the woman was a local person or a cruise guest. The passenger who watched the jumper, Bailey Shelton, was a guest on a Royal Caribbean ship and filmed the puzzling event on her phone.
She posted the video on TikTok on June 12, 2025 and it has been seen roughly 470,000 times since then. There were no injuries reported in the vicinity of Juneau Harbor that day, so it seems the jumper completed her water jump safely.
If she was a cruise guest, she risked being banned from future cruises, since jumping into the water at harbors is frowned upon; it’s dangerous, and fraught with liability for the cruise lines.
When Politics and Travel Just Don’t Mix
Victoria Cruises’ Accommodations
In an unfortunate example of how politics can negatively impact tourism, a residential cruise ship cancelled its first world voyage because a number of booked guests from Canada refused to travel to the US embarkation port.
Victoria Cruises Line had planned to operate its 1,350-guest Victoria Majestic on a 29-month world cruise starting on July 26, 2025, departing from Florida’s Port Everglades. But in a notice on its website on June 16, 2025, the line revealed the sailing was indefinitely postponed.
The reason: Political and economic tensions between Canada and the US had prompted a number of Canadian guests to cancel their bookings, apparently because they decided not to travel to Florida.
The cruise line called it an “unexpected wave of cancellations,” which lowered the final occupancy count to an unsustainable level. The line indicated that a new departure date would be announced soon.
An undisclosed monetary compensation will be offered to booked guests, along with refunds. Victoria Majestic rents its staterooms to guests on a monthly fee basis, with a minimum booking of six months. The world cruise was to last 2.5 years and call at 703 global ports.
Cruise Guest Arrested on Embezzlement Charge
Police Vehicles Parked Next to Cruise Ship in Ketchikan (Photo Credit: Just dance)
The long arm of the law reached all the way to Ketchikan, Alaska, on June 12, 2025, when a cruise guest on an undisclosed ship was arrested on a charge of embezzlement in Laramie County, Wyoming.
Based on an arrest warrant issued by the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, Karen Bryan, 64, was arrested by Alaska authorities as she was boarding her ship and was set to be extradited to Wyoming. The woman allegedly embezzled money from a local church in Laramie County.
Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak posted details of the arrest on Facebook, explaining how his office worked in coordination with Alaska law enforcement.
The ship that the suspect was sailing on has not been named. There were five cruise ships calling to Ketchikan that day: Holland America Line’s Koningsdam and Eurodam; Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess and Sapphire Princess; and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss.
In Laramie County, deputies in the sheriff’s office were said to be fighting over who gets to travel to Alaska to bring the suspect back to Wyoming.
Should Carnival Cruise Line Rethink Its New Rewards Plan?
Carnival Rewards Launching June 2026
Carnival Cruise Line’s new Carnival Rewards program is going over like a lead balloon, as some loyalty club members are giving it a major thumbs-down for several reasons.
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the new program, which replaces the existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program and takes effect in 2026, is that loyalty levels are to be reset every two years, rather than accrue over a lifetime.
It means that Carnival guests must re-earn their benefits in a two-year time frame.
Another element of the new rewards plan requires guests to earn loyalty points based on spending, including the base cruise fare plus shore excursions and all onboard purchases, like spa treatments, for example.
This replaces the existing plan that bases loyalty club levels on the number of days a guest has sailed with the line. Currently, the days continue to accrue, enabling guests to attain higher and higher levels over many years.
The cruise line also is urging guests to use the Carnival Cruise Line branded credit card as a way to earn points faster. One guest likened the new plan to a rebate program rather than a loyalty club.
Big Renovations On Tap For Three Big Ships
Ovation of the Seas (Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean)
Royal Caribbean announced that Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas will be renovated in 2026 and emerge with new and improved public spaces and accommodations.
The upgrades are part of the Royal Amplified program, implemented in 2018 to re-energize the line’s older ships. Liberty of the Seas entered service in 2007, and Ovation of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas were launched in 2016.
Some of the planned enhancements include a refreshed pool deck with private casitas and new dining venues on Ovation of the Seas; the addition of the Ultimate Family Suite and an adults-only Solarium on Harmony of the Seas; and a new Royal Escape Room and redesigned pool deck on Liberty of the Seas.
The cruise line also revealed the ships’ deployments in 2026. The 4,200-guest Ovation of the Seas will sail her summer season in Alaska, while the 6,600-guest Harmony of the Seas will shift from Europe to Florida for a series of Caribbean voyages.
The 3,800-guest Liberty of the Seas will deploy to Southampton, UK, during summer 2026, then reposition to Galveston, Texas, for winter.
A Rude Awakening For a Couple on a Marella Cruises’ Ship
This story gives new meaning to the phrase “ick factor.”
Imagine sleeping soundly aboard the Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship and then, suddenly, you are doused with kitchen-waste sludge that literally came through the ceiling of your stateroom.
That’s what happened to passengers Pam and Ken Jackson, who hail from the UK and told their story to a local news outlet.
The two were covered in the foul muck and it ruined many of their belongings. Turned out that a waste pipe located right above their cabin had burst and the waste slid down the walls.
The Jacksons were moved to a new stateroom, but that came with other problems, including a broken bed and a malfunctioning air conditioner. Crew members did their best to help, but even after washing the guests’ clothes, the horrible smell remained.
The cruise ship entered service in 1995 and was last dry-docked for maintenance in 2023. TUI Cruises refunded part of the couple’s cruise fare and paid an additional £470 ($631 USD) for the damaged clothing.
More Cruise Headlines
Looking for even more cruise news? You’ll find it on Cruise Hive, where we have additional stories about MSC Cruises revealing new spaces aboard MSC World Asia; a new report showing how cruise ship anchors damage the Antarctica seabed; and Norwegian Cruise Line rolling out a big summer sale.
Also, Disney Cruise Line lowering its deposit to 10% of the cruise fare, and a Virgin Voyages ship experiencing ongoing engine issues.
At 10:00 a.m. on June 20, 2025, the 1,964-passenger Westerdam officially crossed into the Arctic Circle.
Guests onboard are currently enjoying a 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice cruise, which arrived at the Arctic Circle on the Summer Solstice in the northern hemisphere.
During the longest day of the year in this particular location, the sun does not set, giving passengers the coveted opportunity to experience the midnight sun.
To commemorate the occasion, passengers were invited to gather and celebrate at the bow of the ship as it entered the Arctic Circle.
During this celebration, the vessel’s horn was sounded, and all of the guests were allowed to take a photo while on the bow.
Beyond that, passengers also got a chance to mingle with both the crew and the ship’s officers — and even received a commemorative certificate to remember the occasion.
“As we crossed into the Arctic Circle beneath the endless summer sky, it wasn’t just a line on a map—we hope it will be a memory for our Holland America Line guests that shines as brightly as the midnight sun,”shared Westerdam‘s Captain, Eric van der Wal.
Navigating the sea safely to enter the Arctic Circle comes with its fair share of challenges, mostly due to the extreme weather that can significantly impact ocean conditions.
Captain Eric van der Wal worked closely with his staff, making constant real-time decisions through the interpretation of shifting ice patterns and cloudy satellite images in order to make the passage possible.
While things were looking shaky for a while, the ice conditions improved enough at the best time possible to allow Westerdam to continue heading towards the Arctic Circle.
Having departed from Seattle back on June 8, 2025, this voyage is offering guests an opportunity to witness the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness while also giving passengers the chance to see a full day of sunlight on the longest day of the year.
This scenic cruise also includes viewing opportunities of the Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay and calls on several ports in Alaska, such as Nome, Dutch Harbor, Kodiak, Haines, and Sitka.
Guests will disembark when the vessel returns to the Pacific Northwest on July 6, 2025.
Where is Westerdam Deployed This Summer?
Currently, the 82,348 gross-ton Westerdam ishomeporting in Seattle, frequently doing 7-night itineraries around Alaska.
These voyages primarily call on Juneau, Tracy Arm Fjord, Sitka, and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, Canada.
When Westerdam arrives in Seattle on July 6 to disembark guests from the current 28-night solstice sailing, it will resume its shorter 7-night voyages later that same day.
There is only one more 28-night cruise available on Westerdam departing from Seattle, which is scheduled to depart on August 31, 2025.
Unlike the solstice sailing, this voyage is focused on glaciers and volcanoes, first calling on ports in Alaska and then Hawaii, all before heading back to Seattle one last time.
Westerdam at Hubbard Glacier (Photo Credit: Effy Jewelry)
After that voyage concludes, Westerdam is set to depart on September 28, 2025, for a 29-night repositioning cruise which will arrive in Tokyo on October 27.
Westerdam will then spend the rest of 2025 into early 2026 homeporting in Yokohama and Tokyo in Japan, as well as in Hong Kong and Singapore.
While the ship will return for more Alaskan sailings out of Whittier in 2026, there are no plans for the vessel to homeport in Seattle anytime soon.
For those cruisers interested in going on one of Holland America Line’s summer solstice cruises in 2026, Nieuw Statendam will be offering guests the opportunity to enjoy the solstice while in North Cape in Norway.
Noordam will also be doing a 2026 summer solstice voyage departing from Seattle, where it will cross over the Arctic Circle on the day of the solstice, just as Westerdam has done this week.
While Westerdam will be departing from Seattle in September, it is clear that Holland America Line has no intention of stopping its Alaskan voyages or summer solstice offerings anytime soon.
The second-largest city in the Bahamas and just a short distance from Florida, Freeport is a popular stop on cruising itineraries. While, yes, it’s not as popular as Nassau Cruise Port, some cruisers think this is a benefit.
You get fewer crowds and a more low-key vibe while still enjoying all the amenities you expect from a port visited by the major cruise lines. So, what can you expect if your cruise is stopping in Freeport, Bahamas? Here’s what you need to know.
Freeport is situated on Grand Bahama Island. It’s the island’s main city. The Freeport cruise port, though, is not located within Freeport Harbour.
Instead, it’s in Lucayan Harbour. The Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility can be found by searching for “Freeport Cruise Port, Wild Goose Town, Bahamas” in any navigation app.
Photo Credit: YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com
Both harbors are on the southwest portion of the island, about six miles from Freeport city center and 20 miles from Carnival’s new Celebration Key. They’re also about a 10-minute drive from the nearest beaches.
As it stands now, with no further development (more on that below!), the area that the cruise port is in is rather industrial and you’ll need to leave this immediate area in order to find something to do.
However, most visitors plan to visit a beach or book an excursion in Freeport, rather than simply wander around the city, as they might do in some other ports.
Freeport Cruise Terminal and Piers
View of Freeport Cruise Port Area (Photo Credit: Anya Douglas)
The Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility is rather basic, with some colorful buildings, outdoor space and room for up to three cruise ships to visit.
At the terminal, you’ll find a range of services and amenities, including restrooms, a tourist information kiosk, places to get food, drinks and souvenirs, as well as tour and car rental providers. There’s also an outpost of popular chain Senor Frog’s.
Keep in mind that you will need some sort of taxi or car rental in order to see much of Freeport and Grand Bahama in general, and rideshare services are not available.
Cruise Lines that Visit Freeport and Where They Dock
Carnival Cruise Ship Docked in Freeport (Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas)
You can visit Freeport with a large number of different cruise lines, including:
Carnival Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Crystal Cruises
Princess Cruises
Windstar Cruises
Margaritaville at Sea
Of course, some cruise lines visit the port more often than others. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Margaritaville at Sea stop in Freeport fairly regularly.
While the cruise port can accommodate multiple ships, it’s rare that you’ll see multiple ships visiting on the same day. Additionally, it’s fairly predictable that fewer Carnival Cruise Line ships will visit the Freeport cruise port once the nearby Celebration Key opens up.
Parking at Freeport Cruise Port
The Freeport cruise port is very rarely an embarkation or debarkation point. As such, you’ll not find an abundance of parking options near the port. The closest, most readily available public parking lots are a short drive away, at the Grand Bahama International Airport.
Traveling From Nearby Airports
Bahamasair Flight Approaching Grand Bahama Airport (Photo Credit: TAH Media)
Speaking of airports, the Grand Bahama International Airport is just a 15-minute drive from the Freeport cruise port. If you fly into the airport, you can take a rental car or a taxi service from the airport to the port. Unfortunately, ride-sharing services are not an option on Grand Bahama.
Passenger airlines that fly into Grand Bahama International Airport include American Eagle, BahamasAir, Flamingo Air, Silver Airways, WestJet and Western Air. Private aircraft also fly into the airport.
How to Get to Freeport Cruise Port
Bus Station in Freeport (Photo Credit: Karshfilm)
You can get to the Freeport cruise port from elsewhere on the island by taking a rental car, public transportation or taxi.
If you’re driving a private or rental car, take the Queen’s Highway or Grand Bahama Highway until you reach Freeport and then follow the signage for the cruise port.
Again, you can find the port’s location on Google Maps and similar navigation apps by searching for “Freeport Cruise Port, Wild Goose Town, Bahamas.” Rental providers include Avis, Hertz, and Dollar Rent-a-Car.
If you’d prefer to take a taxi, you won’t have much trouble finding one throughout most of the island. A taxi will cost you around $20–$30, depending on where you’re coming from.
Overall, the government-set rates are $3 for the first fourth-a-mile, plus $0.40 for each additional mile. You’ll also pay $3 per each additional passenger after the first passenger (excluding infants). The port features convenient drop-off, pick-up areas, so your taxi can get you as close to your ship as possible.
Taxi companies include Freeport Taxi Company and Grand Bahama Taxi Union.
Lastly, local bus service is available to the port from Lucaya and Freeport. Public buses will not take you directly to the port’s drop-off, pick-up areas, but it’ll get you pretty close. Bus fare is $1.50 for adults and $0.50 for children.
Previously, shuttle service was available from the port, but that is no longer the case.
Best Beaches Near Freeport Cruise Port
Xanadu Beach
Xanadu Beach, Freeport, Grand Bahama (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
The closest beach to the cruise port is Xanadu Beach, about a 10-minute drive away. It’s a perfectly nice beach for spending a day off the cruise ship, with few crowds, calm waves and the opportunity for water sports.
Taino Beach
Another, similarly close beach is Taino Beach, which has amenities such as beach bars and picnic areas. You can likewise enjoy water sports here and it’s a popular pick for families.
Silver Point Beach and Lucayan Beach
Lucayan beach (Photo Credit: Izodron)
If you’re willing to travel a bit further away from the port, though, you can find even more great beaches on Grand Bahama.
Silver Point Beach and Lucayan Beach are both just a little further away than Xanadu Beach. Popular with tourists, these beaches may be a bit more crowded, but with more visitors come more amenities and activities.
Gold Rock Beach
Gold Rock Beach (Photo Credit: Lisa5189)
For something more secluded, try Gold Rock Beach, which is more of a locals spot (though you might recognize it as a setting from “Pirates of the Caribbean”!).
It’s also right next to Lucayan National Park, so if you want to visit this landmark during your day on Grand Bahama, you can combine both into one excursion.
The national park, which is 30 miles from the port, is one of the top things to do and see while you’re on the island. With 40 acres, it’s small by national park standards, but it packs a lot into that small space.
There are three different ecosystems and, the park’s main attraction, one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world.
Paradise Cove
Lastly, Paradise Cove is a good pick for those specifically wanting to snorkel during their port day. Many cruise ships offer snorkeling excursions here, but other water sports are also on tap, such as paddle boarding, kayaking and fishing.
Dining Options Near Freeport Cruise Port
Dining at the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Anya Douglas)
If you’re a traveling foodie, you can’t miss out on the chance to explore authentic Bahamian cuisine. Bahamian staples include conch fritters and conch salad, fried fish, fried plantains, johnnycake, peas and rice, and rum cake.
So where can you go to try foods like these?
Robinson’s Seafood Delight
You don’t have to walk far at all. Robinson’s Seafood Delight is right inside the cruise ship pier and it offers homemade bites from a walk-up window.
Place your order from the small menu — expect plenty of shellfish and conch, plus some tacos, wraps and sandwiches — and then sit down at one of the outdoor tables to chow down.
Senor Frog’s
Senor Frog’s Freeport (Photo Credit: Eric Glenn)
As mentioned, you’ll also see a Senor Frog’s location at the terminal. If you’re not familiar with Senor Frog’s, this is a popular Mexican food chain that can be found in many cruise destinations around the Caribbean.
The restaurant is known for its large cocktails, party-centric atmosphere and accessible menu filled with items like nachos, wings and quesadillas.
Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience
If you’re already making plans to visit Taino Beach, be sure to stop by Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience, where you can try a variety of conch-based dishes, plus other fresh seafood.
Billy Joe’s Restaurant
Another beachside spot is Billy Joe’s Restaurant on Lucaya Beach. This is a good option for those with a pickier eater in their midst, as the restaurant serves the classic conch dishes that the island is known for, but also classic American fare like burgers, fries, hot dogs and wings.
Flying Fish GastroBar
If you’re seeking something a little more upscale than a casual restaurant at the cruise port or a beach-side eatery, head over to Flying Fish GastroBar, an award-winning restaurant on the water that offers appetizers like the signature grilled calamari; lots of tapas options; wings; burgers; and the signature 72-hour beef short rib. Save room for dessert, such as the creamsicle bread pudding.
Bahamian Brewery
Want to enjoy both a drink and an experience? Visit Freeport’s Bahamian Brewery, where you can take a brewery tour and taste some of the local beer. The brewery is just a short drive away from the cruise port.
Shopping Near Freeport Cruise Port
Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
There are some shopping options right within the cruise terminal (namely, the port’s straw market), but those who like to more thoroughly explore the local wares during their cruises often travel a bit further afield, to the Port Lucaya Marketplace.
Here, you’ll not only find lots of shopping options, with souvenirs and locally produced items galore, but also dining, drinks and entertainment such as live music.
The marketplace stretches out over nearly 10 acres next to the water. The open-air market features more than 40 specialty stores, more than 120 vendors, 11 restaurants and seven bars. In short, no matter what it is that you’re hoping to find while you’re shopping, you can probably find it at Port Lucaya Marketplace.
Lucaya Beach is also nearby, so you can pair visits to both in one afternoon.
Best Time to Visit Freeport
Carnival Ship Docked in Freeport (Photo Credit: YES Market Media)
The best time to visit Freeport is all about what you’re looking for! Peak visitor season is in the winter and early spring, December to April, just as it is all over the Caribbean. This is when you’ll find the best weather. Lots of cruise ships will take you to Grand Bahama during this period.
However, if you’d rather avoid the crowds, and maybe even get a great deal on your cruise fare, consider looking for a cruise that visits Freeport in the late spring or late fall. Think May or November.
It’s usually best not to visit Freeport during mid-summer or early fall, June through October, as this is hurricane season and the weather just in general is a little less agreeable, with extra-high temperatures and high humidity.
Even with no hurricanes in the Atlantic basin, it’s been a stormy week for Carnival Cruise Line with intense, Category 5 reactions to the line’s announcement of the new Carnival Rewards program.
Due to replace the existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) loyalty program from June 1, 2026, the new rewards program has proven to be immediately controversial.
The cruise line, however, is urging guests to be patient and understand that the transition is still a year away and there may yet be tweaks and refinements.
Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, answered hundreds of questions about the new program immediately following the announcement, and even made an extra daily video to reassure guests.
“There are lots of things happening,”Heald noted.“Let me just say two important things. Number one, today I have written with and spoken to people at the very highest level of Carnival Cruise Line and they all want me to say the same thing, and here it is: We announced this new program, the Rewards program, a year before it comes into place.”
“The reason we did this, and it’s really important that you understand this, the reason we did this is so that it has time to settle.”
Heald readily acknowledges that there are things many guests like about the new program, which includes a spend-based rewards system to earn points.
At the same time, there are things guests do not like, such as the expiration of those points and the loss of loyalty status in relatively short time frames.
“We have a year to look at it, possibly, maybe, fine tune it and change some things around,”Heald said.“That is what I was told today by somebody at the very highest level who I promise, cares about all of you, every single one of you, whether you’re a Blue card or a Diamond card.”
From the negative reactions from hundreds of Carnival guests, many of whom have set sail for years in order to earn their higher levels of loyalty status, it is clear that some fine-tuning of the new program may indeed be necessary.
Why Does the VIFP Program Need to Change?
Heald has been noting for years that changes were coming for the VIFP program, but there were no hints about what those changes could be.
“We had to do something with the program, it was massively top-heavy with millions of people joining the program since its first inception,”Heald said.
Previously, Carnival offered loyalty based solely on the number of sailings – a 3-night weekend cruise had the same loyalty consideration as a week-long sailing or even a 15-night crossing.
Carnival Rewards Tiers and Perks
In 2012, the VIFP program was introduced and changed loyalty accounting to individual days spent with the cruise line. Guests who achieved 75 days were at the Platinum level, while 200+ days defined the Diamond level.
In announcing the Carnival Rewards program, the cruise line noted that the number of Platinum VIFP guests has doubled since 2022, and the number of Diamond guests has quadrupled in those three years.
This had made it increasingly difficult for Carnival to honor the promised benefits, particularly on highly sought-after sailings such as transatlantic cruises and longer Carnival Journeys cruises. These types of cruises might often have 50% or more of the passengers onboard at those highest loyalty tiers.
Despite this week’s reveal of the new rewards program, there are still many unanswered questions about who earns what points, how younger cruisers’ loyalty will be considered, if milestone awards are still earned, and more.
“We now have a whole year to fine tune everything and see what we can do to make sure you keep Choosing Fun!”Heald said.
It is promising that the cruise line is acknowledging that the program may not yet be finalized, though of course it will likely be some time before any further changes or tweaks could be announced.
Sometimes the simplest solutions really are that easy! One Carnival Cruise Line guest has shared an inexpensive, lightweight, safe, and relaxing option for the cruise cabin nightlight quandary, and yes, it’s cruise line-approved.
Cruise ship staterooms can have a lot of odd lights at night – a spotlight-like glare from an uncovered peephole (try a bit of wadded up tissue to block that), a smear of light from under the door, and random blinking or glowing lights from the thermostat, television, chargers, and other electronics.
What is truly dark, however, is the one spot you may really need a bit of light at night – in the bathroom. While they may be tiny, you certainly don’t want to miss wherever you are aiming during a nighttime visit to that littlest room.
There are a variety of different battery-operated, motion-sensor nightlights you can purchase to take along on a cruise, and I use one myself.
At just $24, it’s a great price and works very well – but it is also about the size of a baseball (taking up room in the luggage) and does turn off if you’re too still while you, ahem, do your business.
That’s fun, sitting in the bathroom in the middle of the night, suddenly plunged into darkness and now needing to wave your arms around to reactivate the nightlight. But I digress…
One cruise guest has shared a simple option – so simple, I’d never have thought of it – and it’s a safe, affordable, and much smaller solution.
“In my home I use battery-powered LED candles in my bathrooms as nightlights,”the guest explained to John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador.
“Would I be permitted to bring one of these on the ship for the same purpose? They are not real candles, just battery-powered LED lights shaped like candles. When used in a bathroom they reflect off the mirror and give a nice soft nightlight.”
Just reading that, I’m flabbergasted – such a simple, elegant solution, easy to tuck into the luggage, and they’re only about fifty cents each.
Forgot to pack them along? Just a quick stop at a dollar store and you can resupply your entire traveling party with nightlights for just a few dollars.
And while real candles are on Carnival Cruise Line’s prohibited items list, along with any sort of open flame, explosive, or flammable items, the guest confirmed that these simulated candles are perfectly acceptable.
“Yes, of course you may [bring them],”responded Heald.“I wish you the most fabulous time.”
I’m going to assume Heald isn’t wishing the guest a fabulous time in the bathroom, but the battery-powered candles are a great idea.
But Aren’t There Automatic Nightlights?
But don’t Carnival staterooms have automatic nightlights in the bathrooms? While some newer ships do have such a feature, most older ships do not.
Furthermore, the nightlights Carnival Cruise Line has added to some older ships during dry dock renovations are positioned underneath closet doors.
Some cruise guests may choose to leave the bathroom door open for a nighttime visit, but that isn’t always preferable or practical. Others may carry a small flashlight or even leave the television on the bridge view for some soft light.
Different solutions work best for different travelers, of course, but this simple and easy option is one I’m going to have to try.
Nicknamed the world’s “last frontier,” Antarctica is largely unexplored by people because of its extreme conditions and remote, difficult-to-access location.
Cruise ships – and primarily Polar Class ships that are built for the ice and weather – can usually only safely visitAntarctica during the summer, which lasts from late November until mid-March.
But despite the challenges, the cruise tourism industry has been expanding its presence in the chilly region.
Unfortunately for the creatures who live in Antarctica, researchers have found that cruise ship anchors and anchor chains are damaging marine ecosystems.
This is causing significant harm to some of the world’s oldest animals, such as giant volcano sponges, that have lived there untouched for centuries.
The expedition vessels that sail to Antarctica primarily operate in the shallow coastal waters because this is where they are able to drop anchor and allow cruisers to go ashore – but this is unfortunately also where this vulnerable marine life lives.
A new study published in Frontiers in Conservation Science was conducted by scientists from Memorial University of Newfoundland and New Zealand’s National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research to assess the damage on video for the first time.
The team captured 62 hours of underwater video that shows what happens under the surface while cruise ships are anchored or drifting.
The video was filmed during 36 different underwater surveys taken throughout the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea, the South Shetland Islands, and South Georgia Island using 4K deep-sea cameras.
Sadly, the study team found crushed sponge colonies and obvious damage to the sea floor where cruise ship anchors had touched – whereas they found thriving, healthy marine ecosystems in areas that had thus far been untouched by cruise ships.
The damage was particularly significant at Yankee Harbour in the South Shetland Islands, which is a popular landing site for expedition cruises and is famous for its Gentoo penguins.
Ship tracking data showed that eight cruise ships visited that port in just 2023, which damaged a combined 1,600 meters (or just under a mile) of seafloor with their anchors and from dragging anchor chains.
Unlike more resilient ecosystems around the world, Antarctic marine life grows extremely slowly, and it could take more than 100 years for impacted areas to recover from anchor damage (and it might not fully recover at all).
How Can Antarctic Marine Life be Protected?
As Antarctica becomes an increasingly popular cruising destination, something will need to change in order to allow the cruise lines and marine ecosystems to exist in harmony.
The 2022-2023 season welcomed more than 70,000 cruise passengers – which was already a record – and an estimated 123,000 cruisers sailed to the icy shores during the 2023-2024 season. Final numbers have not been confirmed publicly yet for the 2024-2025 season.
Usually, small cruise ships are much more likely to sail to Antarctica, as the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) only allows vessels with 500 passengers onboard or less to make landings.
Taking Photo in Antarctica (Photo Credit: Sterling E)
As part of these guidelines, no more than 100 guests can go ashore at one time – a rule which is meant to limit the environmental impact.
Bigger cruise ships from Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises have been known to sail to Antarctica on occasion – with Majestic Princess sailing to the polar region for the 2026-2027 season.
That said, larger vessels usually offer scenic experiences only and cannot allow guests to go ashore because of their higher capacity.
Antarctica is undeveloped and does not have established cruise ports with piers, which means that even small ships have to rely on dropping anchor(and sometimes tendering) in order to allow guests to go ashore.
Thankfully, the researchers behind this new study had a solution for that as well. First, they suggested establishing permanent mooring zones at the most frequently visited destinations, creating areas where anchoring is permittedwithout doing too much harm.
In exchange, they would prohibit anchoring entirely from areas with particularly vulnerable marine habitats, which would be identified through further research.
Finally, most modern cruise ships have technology called dynamic positioning that allows them to stay in place without anchoring, which they hope could be used in place of anchoring more often going forward.
Sometimes an unexpected emergency can develop after a cruise ship seems to be safely docked in port. That was the case in Alaska just days ago and now a probe is underway to find out what happened and why.
The US Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the dangerous situation that emerged at the Port of Juneau on June 16, 2025, when a docked cruise ship’s mooring lines snapped during a powerful rain squall, sending it drifting toward other ships.
The alarming incident began with the National Weather Service issuing a severe thunderstorm warning for Juneau, where Celebrity Cruises’ 130,818-gross-ton Celebrity Edge was docked in the port’s Gastineau Channel.
The storm brought strong winds and heavy rain to the harbor area, and apparently caused the ship’s lines to snap. Videos posted on social media show the violence of the squall and Celebrity Edge drifting away from the dock.
Other ships berthed at Juneau that day included Holland America Line’s Eurodam and Koningsdam, Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess, and Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Luminosa.
It was the 2,800-guest Carnival Luminosa that was docked closest to the drifting ship, and videos show that vessel attempting to move out of Celebrity Edge’s way.
It did so successfully and no other ships were impacted. No one was injured and Celebrity Edge was eventually returned to her berth.
Later that night, US Coast Guard Sector Southeast Alaska posted an appeal on Facebook, asking anyone with video of the event to send it to Coast Guard officials.
Many people obliged, and the Coast Guard says it now has sufficient video to help with the investigation.
“We’re grateful for everybody who has submitted videos to us, and we are especially grateful that this did not end up being anything bigger than it was, with no injuries and no significant damage,” Lt. Matt Naylor, public affairs officer for the Coast Guard sector, told local media.
The Coast Guard added that it would issue another request if more video is needed by investigators. There was no stated timeline for the completion of the probe.
Celebrity Edge is sailing a 7-night “Alaska Dawes Glacier” cruise roundtrip from Seattle. The 3,000-guest ship departed Seattle on June 13, 2025 and had already called at Ketchikan and Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm before arriving in Juneau.
The ship called as scheduled at Skagway on June 17, 2025 and will visit Victoria, British Columbia, on June 19, 2025 before concluding on June 20, 2025.
Celebrity Edge will continue with her Alaska deployment through mid-September and then reposition to Sydney, Australia for winter sailings in the South Pacific.
Windy Weather Causes Problems For Other Ships, Too
The Celebrity Cruises’ ship’s unfortunate experience wasn’t the only scary, weather-driven event in Alaska this season. On May 30, 2025, Holland American Line’s Westerdam experienced a similar problem due to high winds.
In that case, the ship was docked in Ketchikan when her mooring lines snapped, causing the gangway to collapse. Fortunately, no one was on the gangway at the time, and there were no injuries. The port was experiencing wind gusts up to 70 miles per hour.
It isn’t just Alaska where high winds have been problematic lately. On May 31, 2025, MSC Cruises’ MSC Seascape broke free from her mooring lines while calling at MSC Ocean Cay, the line’s private island in the Bahamas.
The ship’s gangway toppled into the water, but no one was injured.
Reactions to Carnival Cruise Line’s announcement of their complete loyalty program revamp have been fast and furious – literally.
Guests have wasted no time in expressing their disbelief, frustration, and outright rage over the vast changes as the current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program is to be sunsetted in 2026, replaced with a points-based, spend-based program with recurrent expirations.
There’s a lot to unpack in the new Carnival Rewards program, but guests are upset at one key factor the most – the loss of lifetime loyalty benefits and the years-long accrual of that status.
Loss of a Lifetime
The big – and not too pleasant – surprise that has many loyal Carnival guests reeling is that their loyalty status now has an expiration date. Every two years, Carnival Cruise Line will “reset” guests’ loyalty, and they will have to re-earn – in other words, re-spend – to keep their benefits.
“The lifetime status revocation is a deal breaker for me,”one guest noted.“Take away a few perks… No big deal. But this change was my personal deal breaker.”
Many travelers have expressed similar thoughts. It can take years to reach the higher levels of the VIFP program, years in which guests might have considered trying other cruise lines but remained loyal to Carnival in anticipation of eventually earning more benefits.
Carnival Rewards Tiers and Perks
To have those benefits revoked after just a couple of years (or in the case of Diamond-level cruisers, in six years at first, and then every two years thereafter) feels very much like a “what have you done for me lately” expression from Carnival Cruise Line.
Furthermore, it is the complete revocation of benefits that has angered many otherwise loyal Carnival guests. Other cruise lines do have loyalty clauses that require travelers to set sail once every 2-3 years to maintain their benefits, ensuring ongoing spending and loyalty.
Carnival’s new program, however, requires that guests re-earn ALL of their benefits in a limited two-year time frame. As many have noted, this isn’t always possible – particularly for the budget-friendly, family-oriented line that Carnival claims to be.
Buying Loyalty
The current program – which will remain in place through May 31, 2026 – counts a guest’s loyalty based on the total number of days they have sailed with Carnival Cruise Line. Once earned, that loyalty has been forever, with guests building to different tiers and their related benefits over years, or even over a lifetime.
The new Carnival Rewards program, however, is radically different. Beginning on June 1, 2026, guests will earn loyalty points based on their spending – from their cruise fare to shore tours, spa treatments, casino play, drink packages, onboard merch, and more.
Status Qualifying Stars
Okay, that’s not too bad. Many loyal guests have long since advocated for the ability to earn points based on spending rather than simply days at sea, as one’s spending does support the company just as much as long-term loyalty.
In what appears to be a miscalculated blunder, however, Carnival Cruise Line is pushing hard for guests to sign up for their branded credit card as a way to earn points even faster.
While this is a common tactic for loyalty programs for gas stations or individual stores, it is rubbing many cruise travelers – who often save for years to afford their vacations of choice – the wrong way.
“This is not a loyalty program. It is a rebate program,”one guest described.“The more you spend, the more you will be rebated – as long as it’s within a two-year period.”
More Losses
It isn’t just the loss of status that guests are noticing as well. Various benefits of the program will be permanently removed or curtailed.
For Platinum and Diamond level cruisers, there will be no more VIFP Club parties on sailings of five nights or longer, nor will there be any welcome treats available.
Guests under the age of 18 will no longer receive the $5 in complimentary arcade credits.
If guests do eventually reach the Diamond level of the new program, they will not be receiving a complimentary specialty dining dinner, a one-time free stateroom upgrade, or the exclusive luggage tag set as welcomes to the uppermost tier.
Some of the most popular benefits – the priority embarkation and debarkation, free wash-and-fold laundry, and early online check-in are remaining for Platinum and Diamond-level guests – so long as they spend enough to re-earn those benefits every two years.
What other benefits will stay or go, or whether or not Carnival Cruise Line further revises the Carnival Rewards program in the coming months, remains to be seen.
