Carnival Wrecked its Loyalty Program
Key Moments
Editorial Summary
The creator discusses recent changes to Carnival's VIFP program, noting that the company has transitioned from a traditional loyalty program to a rewards program. According to the video, the new structure allows passengers to reach higher status levels more quickly by spending more money. The creator argues that this shift negatively impacts long term cruisers who have earned their status through consistent travel over time. This change specifically affects platinum and diamond level members. The creator explains that the new system requires earning points through a complex calculation. For example, a platinum member might need to spend over $16,000 every two years to maintain their current status. Because points reset every two years, passengers must continue spending to keep their standing. The creator notes that the program is scheduled to roll out next June and includes a two year grandfather period for existing members.
Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.
Source: Our analysis of the creator's lived experience, based on what they said in this video.
Creator's Key Takeaways
Carnival just overhauled its VIFP program and it's no longer a loyalty program, but it's a rewards program and it's basically paytoplay.
They're positioning it as you can spend your way to status faster. But what they're doing is slapping in the face all of their loyal cruisers.
The points reset every two years. So, to maintain that status, you have to keep spending.
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