Carnival’s VIFP Loyalty Program Changes, Cruise Line Under Investigation

Editorial Summary

Doug Parker reports on several significant developments within the cruise industry. Carnival Cruise Line is implementing a major overhaul of its loyalty program, transitioning from the VIFP Club to Carnival Rewards starting next June. This new system eliminates lifetime status and requires passengers to re-qualify every two years based on total spending rather than cruise nights. The program will also remove the blue tier, meaning all guests will begin at the red tier, while higher tiers will require increased spending to maintain perks. Some existing benefits, such as gold pins and certain amenities for diamond members, are also being reduced. In another story, the United States Coast Guard has launched an investigation into a near collision in Juneau, Alaska. High winds caused the Celebrity Edge to break loose from its moorings and drift toward the Carnival Luminosa. While the Celebrity Edge deployed its anchor to prevent a crash, the Coast Guard is currently reviewing video footage of the incident. Finally, Royal Caribbean announced plans to modernize three ships next year, including Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas. These upgrades will feature new dining, entertainment, and pool area redesigns. The report concludes with an update on cruise industry stock performance.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.