I’m just as excited as the next person when my coffee card gets stamped and I finally get my ‘10th coffee free’. So why can’t it be the same for cruises? (sad face).
Jokes aside, when it comes to cruising, loyalty programs seem to range from either pretty dire to not bad.
Perks range from bottles of water, invites to snazzy cocktail parties and, my favourite, free laundry.
Of course this all depends on your tier and how many nights you’ve cruised with a certain cruise line. The more ‘loyalty’ you’ve racked up, the bigger the perk.
However, in the ever-changing seas of cruising, not all loyalty programs are created equal. And they aren’t devoid of criticism and controversy.
For example, the recent announcement of Carnival Cruise Line’s revamp of its VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club – the second in a few months – has generated some discontent, especially among Australian cruisers.
Let’s break down the major cruise line loyalty programs, highlight their pros and cons, and dig into what Carnival’s shake-up means for those of us Down Under.
Carnival Cruise Line – From VIFP to Carnival Rewards
For years, Carnival’s VIFP Club was straightforward: cruise nights equalled points and points pushed you up tiers from Blue to Diamond. Rewards included priority boarding, complimentary laundry and access to exclusive events.
But starting June 2026, Carnival is charting a new course. The VIFP Club is being retired in favour of Carnival Rewards, a spend-based system.
Instead of nights at sea, guests will now earn Stars for every dollar spent – on fares, drinks, spa treatments, excursions and even everyday purchases through the Carnival Rewards Mastercard.
The perks: Stars can be redeemed for upgrades, shore excursions, onboard credit, drinks and other rewards.
Priority boarding and member-only offers remain, with status tiers tied to how much you spend. Platinum and Diamond statuses will still exist but are time-limited: Platinum lasts two years, Diamond six.
The controversy: Many loyal cruisers aren’t thrilled. Social media forums are awash with criticism. Long-time passengers feel years of loyalty are being devalued, especially since status resets over time rather than lasting indefinitely.
In short, it seems Carnival is rewarding big spenders over seasoned cruisers.
The Aussie perspective: For Australians, the change is a mixed bag. On one hand, Carnival has a growing presence here, making it easier to rack up Stars without flying overseas.
The Carnival Rewards Mastercard could also help regular cruisers accumulate points faster.
On the other hand, if you’re a thrifty traveller who hunts for cruise deals and keeps onboard spending low, you may find yourself slipping down the loyalty ladder.
Royal Caribbean – Crown & Anchor Society
Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society remains one of the most robust programs. Members earn points per night sailed, with double points for suites.
Perks include priority check-in, free drinks, internet minutes, laundry and at the lofty Pinnacle Club (700 nights), even a free cruise.
Criticism: The climb is steep. Casual cruisers might never get beyond the early tiers, leaving the most valuable perks to those with deep pockets and plenty of free time.
Norwegian Cruise Line – Latitudes Rewards
Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards keeps it simple: points equal cruise nights. Higher tiers unlock perks like free specialty dining, priority boarding and tendering privileges.
Criticism: Progression can feel slow and unless you book suites or cruise often, it can take years to reach Platinum or Ambassador levels, where the best perks live.
Celebrity Cruises – Captain’s Club
Celebrity offers a Captain’s Club program based on cruise nights and stateroom category. The top tier, Zenith, comes with laundry, premium internet and even a complimentary cruise.
Criticism: As with Royal Caribbean, you need serious mileage to reach the upper echelons. Most casual cruisers won’t see the biggest rewards.
Princess Cruises – Captain’s Circle
Princess’ Captain’s Circle rewards passengers with points for every cruise taken, with higher categories granting access to exclusive lounges, events and priority boarding. Elite members enjoy free internet and laundry.
Criticism: The early tiers feel underwhelming, so if you’re not planning multiple cruises the rewards won’t make much of a splash.
MSC Cruises – Voyagers Club
MSC’s Voyagers Club awards points based on cruise nights and package type. The highlight? MSC will status-match from other cruise lines, airlines and hotels, making it easier to jump tiers quickly.
Black Card members get spa discounts, free specialty dining and priority disembarkation.
Criticism: While appealing, MSC’s strongest itineraries are in Europe, so Aussies may find it harder to climb the ladder unless they travel long-haul.
Disney Cruise Line – Castaway Club
Disney’s Castaway Club is based on the number of completed cruises, not nights. Silver starts after your first sailing, Gold after five and Platinum after 10. Perks include priority booking for activities and special onboard gifts.
Criticism: Magical, yes, but unless you’re a Disney superfan, 10 cruises may be a stretch – particularly for Australians, given the line will not be returning to our shores.
So, where does this leave Aussie cruisers?
- Carnival’s changes: If you’re a frequent spender, you’ll benefit. But if you’re loyal and frugal, the new system may feel unfair.
- Royal Caribbean and Celebrity: Excellent for frequent cruisers who can clock serious sea time, but not as rewarding for the occasional traveller.
- Princess and Norwegian: Mid-tier programs with decent perks, but patience is required.
- MSC and Disney: Great perks, but harder for Australians to maximise without international cruising.
Cruise loyalty programs can absolutely elevate your holiday, but they also come with fine print and the value you get often depends on how often you cruise.
Carnival’s switch to Carnival Rewards reflects a broader industry trend: rewarding spending over longevity. So, if you prefer cruising on a budget, you might feel like your loyalty has been sent overboard.
At the end of the day, loyalty at sea isn’t just about sailing the most miles but about knowing which program suits your style.
Whether you’re a once-a-year holidaymaker or a full-fledged cruise addict, the right program can make you feel like the captain of your own rewards journey.
