Time 2 Cruise

 Carnival released the details of the new Rewards Program on June 18th 2025. It will replace the current VFIP starting June 1st 2026. I have seen many people say it's bait and switch, scam or a money grab(this one has some merit). Personally, I think it's just poorly thought out and rolled out.  Where Carnival got it right. Well, other than half heartedly trying to be transparent, nowhere. They haven't even been able to answer questions. The FAQ page is full of "captain obvious" questions and answers.  Carnival was "somewhat" transparent on why they are doing it. There are so many Platinum and Diamond level members now that the perks aren't "special" anymore. But we all know if this new program works, it will be a huge money maker for them assuming people chase the status.  Beating a dead horse. It will now be Point based(called stars) and time limited. I am not opposed to this, and trust me other Cruise lines are watching carefully to see ...

 Two days ago Carnival made a huge announcement on their new Rewards Program.  The reactions are pretty much what I was expecting.  What Carnival does with this is anyone's guess at this point.  Sounds like they did not think through that people can do math.  In fact, John Heald, had to answer over 500 questions on his Facebook page yesterday alone, and that's not going to end anytime soon for him I believe. One question John answered, which I even mentioned in my last post was on how points get split if one person in the cabin is paying for everything (which I would assume is the norm most of the time) for a couple.  He said that the total will be split between those in the cabin.  I am going to assume that's true if more that 2 people are in the room. Now remember to obtain and maintain Platinum (just double everything for Diamond basically) you have to reach 50,000 stars before the 2 year window to do so is up.  From the time you reach that thr...

 First I need to say that I understand and agree that with how many Platinum level cruisers are on board, that some perks have been lost recently, but not to the point I would complain. That being said, the new system seems expensive to maintain (from the cruisers side) if I understand it correctly.  A VERY basic breakdown on the new Rewards Program Platinum status from reading through everything. I chose platinum because my wife and I have been this status since the inception of the VFIP in 2012. First: It's very like airline points and Carnival admits that. The big difference is it's 2 years of acrural and a minimum of 2 years (more time if you meet level early) to use the perks of that level. I am fine with this breakdown and length altho with my occupation, 3 years would be more preferable  Second: Perks change slightly and I'm fine with this too. 2 free drinks instead of a party is going to upset some people, but I'm okay.  Now my confusion and not so happy part...