Carnival Quietly Removes Benefit from VIFP Loyalty Program

Carnival Cruise Line’s Diamond and Platinum VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) guests will notice a popular loyalty perk missing from the program the next time they cruise.

Effective this month, Carnival Cruise Line is removing its free casino credit for platinum and diamond guests.

Removing the $25 FunPlay Credit

The complimentary $25 FunPlay casino credit for Diamond and Platinum VIFPs will no longer be available. 

The free Fun Play was initially introduced to replace casino tournaments as cruises resumed operations after the pandemic. They had been canceled to maintain social distancing measures and prevent the spread of the illness. 

The FunPlay credits could be redeemed in the casino and used at the ship’s tables and slots. Diamond and Platinum guests, on the higher tiers of the loyalty program, only had to request that the amount be loaded into their casino accounts once they boarded the cruise ship.

On John Heald’s Facebook page, the Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador explained that Carnival’s Casino Department decided to remove it. He also mentioned a new rewards program that is in the pipeline.

“This is casino-specific,” Heald explained. “And please remember we are also going to be completing a new loyalty program by the end of this year.”

Carnival cruisers weigh-in

As people learn about the lost perks, they question the value of their repeat business.

“Loyal cruises are losing more and more. And more going to new cruisers. No longer worth it to us to chase loyalty points with them. We will continue to cruise when the offers get better but are starting to book with other lines as well,” posted a disappointed cruiser on Facebook.

“Come On!!! My husband loves that!” wrote Natasha, referring to the FunPlay credits. I use cash for casinos, and he uses the free play for card games. This is such garbage! Tell me again why he is Diamond and I am Platinum if they are going to take away the bonuses for being loyal?”

Before going on your next Carnival cruise, it’s best to check the VIFP loyalty program and benefits more closely in case anything else has changed.

As Carnival waves goodbye to the $25 FunPlay credit, guests can look forward to new, exciting ways to feel underappreciated in the next VIFP program update.