Carnival’s loyalty overhaul is official. Here’s what’s changing

Carnival Cruise Line launched its new rewards program this week, more than a year after it announced plans to overhaul its loyalty benefits structure.

Guests will earn status and perks via dollars spent on cruise fares, casino play and other purchases through Carnival Rewards, which went live on Sept. 1. The Milestone Recognition Program also bestows benefits based on how many days passengers have sailed with the line.

“We are not dictating or asking people (to change) what they do with their vacation,” Carnival’s Vice President of Loyalty, Sidharth Krishna, said during a media Q&A session ahead of the launch. “But the way they vacation, depending on if they are purchasing more cruises or if they are spending at the spa or the shore excursions or even playing at the casino, all of those activities will help them earn these points and achieve higher status in a new way.”

The new program is only for Carnival Cruise Line. It does not apply, nor is it reciprocal with other Carnival Corp. brands like Holland America Line or Princess Cruises.

Here’s how the new program works.

Passengers will earn three stars – which count toward loyalty status – for every $1 spent…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/travel/