Carnival’s Latest Updates on Loyalty Benefits, Baggage Rules, and Onboard Comfort

Carnival Cruise Line has recently addressed several issues that have come up through the line’s Facebook page.

Among the changes, the cruise line has discontinued the one-time $100 donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for Diamond-level members of its Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program.

Brand Ambassador John Heald said, “This is something that we have stopped simply because it was a bit unmanageable with so many of our wonderful Diamond guests cruising. He went on to say, “It was just very hard to keep track of it all.”

Despite the challenge of managing its philanthropic efforts, Carnival continues to raise money for the children’s hospital through fundraising efforts like Groove for St. Jude. The line is still on track to raise $50 million for the charity by 2030.

Dropping your luggage off after boarding

Additionally, a note was issued reminding guests of its luggage drop-off policy for Platinum and Diamond VIFP members. Upon boarding, the top-tier guests can access their staterooms to drop off their luggage.

John also addressed guest concerns about “rude” cabin attendants on his Facebook page, saying that attendants simply adhere to the policy. “When a housekeeping crewmember says to you ‘D’ to please leave the cabin, he is not being rude. He is saying, ‘I still need time to clean your cabin,’” Heald said.

John reminded guests not to remain in the cabins, unpack, or use the space until all staterooms are officially open. This ensures cabin attendants can thoroughly clean and prepare the rooms for all guests.

Carnival‘s warm ships

Heald provided insights into why some ships’ staterooms are warmer, particularly on Conquest-class vessels.

These ships feature retractable roofs over the aft pool on Deck 9, which cannot be moved while the vessel is at sea. If the roof is closed due to poor weather, it must remain closed, potentially increasing temperatures in nearby areas.

Guests in staterooms on Deck 8 below the aft pool might experience heat transfer, making their cabins warmer.

This issue also affects other Carnival ships with retractable roofs, including the Venice-class (Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze) and the Spirit-class ships (Carnival Spirit, Carnival Pride, Carnival Miracle, and Carnival Legend).

Heald assured guests that the air conditioning systems on all Carnival ships function correctly.

For instance, open gangways on port days can allow heat to enter the ship, particularly affecting lower decks. Additionally, improperly closed balcony doors can deactivate air conditioning in staterooms, leading to higher temperatures.

Watching the game on Carnival ships

Heald also responded to guest inquiries about sports broadcasts on board various ships, advising travelers about what can and cannot be shown.

Broadcast licensing agreements, event timing, and satellite coverage can all impact what may be displayed on cruise ships. Heald urged guests to check with him about specific sports events before booking.

Carnival ships with sports bars or the Hereos Tribute Bar typically broadcast popular events. Guests can also ask bartenders to change the broadcast if a specific game is on.

Some events may also be shown on the poolside screen on the Lido deck, and in-cabin televisions can access a limited number of network feeds.

Travelers can also use onboard Starlink Wi-Fi packages to stream their favorite games.