Big Waves Made By Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line has made a splash this summer with a series of policy updates, program overhauls, and new destination launches that have the cruise world buzzing. Since July 1, 2025, several changes have gone into effect, sparking excitement, questions, and even a bit of controversy among longtime cruisers and first-timers alike.

Perhaps the most talked-about development has been the swirl of social media rumors suggesting Carnival had banned rap music, restricted drink packages, and introduced new curfews. Carnival was quick to clear the air—stating that most of these policies have been in place for years and are simply being reinforced more consistently across sailings. The only genuinely new rule? A ban on loud, handheld “clack fans” in dance venues. This clarification, however, didn’t stop criticism from passengers, particularly Black travelers—who voiced concerns that the enforcement of certain policies seemed culturally biased, especially around music preferences and behavior in nightlife settings. Carnival, for its part, insists the measures are about safety, guest experience, and ensuring inclusive fun for all.

In a move welcomed by many, Carnival also reintroduced Coca-Cola products onboard, ending a multi-year partnership with PepsiCo. Guests can now enjoy a wider range of Coke beverages, including Sprite, Fanta, and Powerade, just in time for summer heat and Caribbean vibes. But not all updates were met with celebration. As part of their continued modernization, Carnival increased prices on both their CHEERS! drink packages and Wi-Fi plans. Guests now pay upwards of $88 per day for drinks if purchased onboard and nearly $28 for the premium internet package. These hikes have prompted some to rethink onboard spending, though many still appreciate the convenience and value Carnival provides overall.

One of the most significant and lasting changes is Carnival’s complete overhaul of its loyalty program. The long-standing “Very Important Fun Person” (VIFP) program has been officially retired and replaced by Carnival Rewards, a tiered, points-based system designed to better reflect guest engagement and spending habits. Under the new structure, guests earn 3 “stars” for every $1 spent on cruise fare, onboard purchases, and even casino play. As guests accumulate stars, they advance through five tiers: Blue, Gold, Platinum, Ruby, and Diamond, unlocking new perks such as priority boarding, exclusive event access, cabin upgrades, and even cruise discounts.

Existing VIFP members will retain their current tier status through a generous grace period, with Diamond-level benefits protected through 2028. However, the shift from days sailed to dollars spent has sparked mixed feelings across the community. While newer cruisers and big onboard spenders may rise through the ranks more quickly, loyal guests who accumulated status through frequent short cruises worry about falling behind. Carnival maintains that the new system offers a more inclusive and transparent way to reward overall guest value, especially in an era of personalized service and premium offerings.

On the destination front, Carnival is raising the bar with the grand opening of Celebration Key! A brand-new, private Bahamian resort launching on July 19, 2025. This $600 million investment features five themed zones including a luxury adults-only beach club, a family lagoon, and a vibrant marketplace, all designed to offer a Perfect Day-style experience similar to those offered by competitors like Royal Caribbean. The destination is expected to host up to 4 million visitors annually by 2028 and represents a major step forward in Carnival’s push for unique, elevated experiences.

Fleet-wise, Carnival has expanded operations in Australia by absorbing two ships, Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, previously owned by P&O Cruises. These ships have been rebranded and now sail out of Sydney and Brisbane. While no brand-new ships have debuted post-July 1, upgrades to existing cabins (including USB-C charging ports and tech enhancements) are already rolling out fleet-wide, modernizing guest accommodations.

To cap off the list of updates, Carnival reaffirmed its policy on deck chair reservations, removing items from loungers left unattended for more than 40 minutes to ensure fair access. Although this rule has existed for some time, the renewed enforcement reflects Carnival’s larger commitment to guest equity and experience.

In summary, Carnival Cruise Line’s summer of 2025 has been one of evolution, balancing enhanced experiences and expanded destinations with more structured policies, higher onboard pricing, and a revamped loyalty approach. While the changes have stirred both applause and debate, one thing is clear: Carnival is steering confidently into the future, committed to making fun, safe, and rewarding cruise vacations accessible for all.

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