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Travel Documents & Check–in

Cruises to International Destinations

Passport Requirements: For all cruises to international destinations such as the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, USA and Singapore, all guests must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the end date of the cruise.

Please note: Cruises visiting Indonesia- It’s important to be aware that Indonesia has strict requirements relating to damaged passports. Emergency passports and passports with any kind of damage will not be accepted on these cruises. Guests with passports that are damaged in anyway or that contain any unauthorised markings may be denied boarding.

Some countries may also require one or more blank pages in the passport for visa purposes, so all guests will need to ensure they have adequate blank pages in their passport for any visas required for their cruise. Passports may also be required to be collected during some cruises for immigration processing. 

 

 

Australia Domestic Cruises

For Australian domestic cruises, Australian residents must travel with government issued photo ID or a valid passport. Accepted government issued photo ID includes any class of driver’s licence, proof of age card, high risk work licences, or other government identification cards such as Maritime Security Identification Card (MISIC) or Australian Defence Force identification.

For children under 18 years of age, a current Medicare card, passport or birth certificate can be used.

Digital driver’s licences and Medicare cards can be used, however we strongly recommend bringing the physical card in case there is any issue accessing the digital card.

International guests (non-Australian residents) travelling on an Australian domestic cruise itinerary must have a valid passport.

 

Visa and Other Entry Requirements

The below visa information should be used as a guide but is subject to change and the counties included below is not an exhaustive list. Guests should confirm their visa requirements for each country included in their itinerary by contacting the relevant government authority.

 

Some countries require guests to obtain a visa, even if you are not planning to go ashore.  Failure to have the required documentation at embarkation for your cruise, including any required visas, may result in being denied boarding.

  • Australia (entering or re-entering)Australian and New Zealand passport holders, and Australian residents, do not require a visa or ETA to enter Australia. All other nationalities must have a visa. Some nationalities may be eligible to apply for an ETA. For more details, click here.
  • Some Pacific Island and New Zealand cruises that depart from and return to Australia have a round-trip status. This means these cruises cannot be used to revalidate an Australian visa, and a visa or ETA is not required when returning to Australia on these cruises.
  • For international cruises that depart from and return to Australia that do not have round-trip status, such as those to Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, a valid visa to re-enter Australia is required for guests who are not an Australian or New Zealand passport holder, or an Australian resident.

 

  • Fiji Many nationalities, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders, do not require a visa for Fiji. If you are not an Australian or New Zealand passport holder, please check with the consulate to confirm your visa requirements for Fiji. Guests without the proper visa documents will not be allowed to sail and no compensation will be provided.

 

  • French Polynesia (Tahiti) Citizens of many countries, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders, do not require a visa for French Polynesia. If you do not hold a passport from Australia or New Zealand, we recommend you check the requirements for your nationality here. If a visa is required, please ensure you obtain one ahead of embarkation day.

 

  • IndonesiaAll guests are required to have a visa to enter Indonesia and passports must have at least two blank pages for entry and exit immigration processing (the number of blank pages required may change depending on your specific itinerary).
  • Citizens of certain countries are eligible to apply for either an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) ahead of the cruise or a Visa on Arrival (VOA). The VOA will be issued on board the ship and will cost approximately AU$53 (or US$35) per applicant, which will be charged to your Sail & Sign® account. The fee is subject to change and will be confirmed prior to embarkation. To determine your eligibility, please visit this link.
  • If obtained in advance of the cruise, the e-VOA must be printed and placed in the passport for immigration clearance. If a guest does not provide the printed e-VOA, immigration will re-issue the visa on board and guests will be charged the applicable fee per person to their Sail & Sign account.
  • All other guests (those not eligible for the e-VOA/VOA) must obtain a physical visa ahead of the cruise and present it at embarkation.
  • Itineraries that include Bali: Bali requires guests to complete an electronic customs declaration within three days prior to arrival in Bali. This process is free of charge and more details will be provided on board.

 

  • Malaysia – All guests, excluding those travelling on an Israeli passport, will be issued with a transit visa to allow them to visit Langkawi. There is no fee for this visa.

    Please note: As part of Malaysia immigration and entry requirements, Israeli nationals will not be permitted to go ashore and must remain onboard.

 

  • New Caledonia  Citizens of many countries, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders, do not require a visa for New Caledonia. If you do not hold a passport from Australia or New Zealand, we recommend you check the requirements for your nationality here. If a visa is required, please ensure you obtain one ahead of embarkation day.
  • New Caledonia also requires all guests to hold valid international travel insurance. This is a requirement even if you do not plan on going ashore in New Caledonia and proof of your insurance must be shown at embarkation.

 

  • New Zealand Some guests (excluding Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport, and New Zealand citizens and permanent residents) are required to obtain a New Zealand visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to visit New Zealand. 
  • To determine your visa requirements for New Zealand, click here or download the NZ ETA mobile app from the App store or Google play. New Zealand ETA requests can be submitted via the app (fee of NZ$17 applies) or on the New Zealand Immigration http://www.immigration.govt.nz/nzeta (fee of NZ$23 applies).
  • Guests who are required to obtain a New Zealand visa or ETA, must do so in advance of their cruise and present a printed copy at check-in. Guests who require one and do not present it at cruise check-in may be denied boarding. 
  • Visitors to New Zealand may also be subject to a $35 NZD International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). This fee enables multiple entries into New Zealand and is payable at the time you obtain your visa or NZ ETA.  Please note that all fees listed are subject to change.
  • All guests will be required to complete the digital New Zealand Travel Declaration (NZTD). The NZTD replaces the paper passenger arrival card, and includes customs, immigration, and biosecurity questions, as well as health risk assessments (if required). We encourage all guests do download the NZTD mobile app from the App Store or Google Play before embarking your cruise.

 

  • Papua New Guinea (PNG) Electronic visas will be issued to all guests upon arrival and a quarantine fee of PKG20.00 (approximately AU$10.00) will be added to the Sail & Sign® account of each guest. This fee is subject to change and will be advised prior to the cruise and again once on board.
  •  All guests will also need to complete the Incoming Passenger Declaration form for PNG and present this at check-in. A copy of the form will be emailed to guests just prior to their cruise departure date.
  • Papua New Guinea also strongly recommends that all guests hold international travel insurance.

 

  • United States of America – Depending on your nationality, specific travel documentation may be required to enter the United States. Citizens of countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program must possess an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval to travel. ESTA applications may be submitted any time prior to travel and must be completed for each qualifying member of the travelling party. Applications may be submitted by visiting www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta.
  • Citizens from countries other than those who are eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, must obtain a visa to enter the United States. Please visit the U.S. Department of State’s website here to determine your visa requirements for entry into the U.S. An ESTA or U.S. visa will need to be presented at check-in.

 

  • Vanuatu – Many nationalities, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa for Vanuatu. Guests who are of a nationality that does require a visa for Vanuatu, are permitted to go ashore but only for the duration of the ship’s visit. Should any guest need to terminate the cruise there, for any reason, a visa will be required

 

Traveling with Minors

The parent or legal guardian of the minor, along with the Guardian who will be responsible for the minor during the cruise, must complete the Consent Form for Minors travelling with a Guardian. To download a copy of the form, click here.

The Guardian must present the completed form at check-in on embarkation day, as well as carry the completed form with them during the cruise.

 

 

Completing the Online Check-In

Guests become eligible for online check-in 14 days prior to sailing. To check-in online please go here (you will need to enter your booking confirmation and last name to complete online check-in) or use the Carnival HUB app. After you check in you will be able to access your boarding pass.

 

Selecting an Arrival Appointment

Check-in times are staggered. Guests will only be allowed to check-in during their pre-selected arrival appointmentYour check-in time/arrival appointment can be chosen using the online check-in tool. This is to limit congestion and minimise wait times in the terminal.

Eating & Drinks

Enjoy ice-cold refreshments during meals, during shows, during, well... anytime you want with Bottomless Bubbles. This unlimited soft drinks program lets you indulge in all-you-can-drink soft drinks and juice for the full length of your cruise. Sweet! Bottomless Bubbles is available for purchase online pre-cruise or once onboard at the Lobby, Casino and Pool Bars.

 

  • Adults: $14.95 per day
  • Kids: $10.95 per day

CHEERS! is an all-inclusive beverage program that allows guests to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages by paying a flat daily rate. Guests must be 18 or older (or 21 or older on selected itineraries) to purchase CHEERS! and each adult assigned to the same stateroom must purchase the program.

 

Priced at $111 per person, per day if pre-purchased before you cruise OR $119 per person per day if purchased once onboard. CHEERS! is applicable to all cruises 7 days or longer departing from Australia. Our CHEERS! program can be purchased via our website before you board, or via our call centre. Alternatively, you can book CHEERS! once you're onboard.

 

WHAT DOES 'CHEERS!' DRINK PACKAGE INCLUDE?

  • All spirits, domestic and imported beer, wine and sparkling wine by the glass, hand-crafted cocktails and frozen cocktails with top shelf brands at a value of up to $20 AUD per drink.
  • Soft drinks, frozen mocktails, energy drinks, packaged water and other non-alcoholic bottled beverages.
  • Packaged Water in the Dining Room and Specialty Restaurants.
  • 25% off selected spirits or wines outside of the program.
  • 25% off beverage seminars and classes.
  • 25% off bottles of wine in Fahrenheit 555.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE CHEERS! DRINK PACKAGE?

  • Beverages promoted and sold in souvenir glasses.
  • Bottles of liquor.
  • Beverages offered at gangway.
  • Beverages offered through room service, in-stateroom beverage programs, and apps.
  • Sharing cocktails, floaters, pitchers, tubes and buckets.
  • All other beverage-related programs including merchandise and cigarettes.
  • Food items.
  • Fresh pressed and squeezed juices.
  • Specialty coffee and tea.

You can find out more about CHEERS! here.

Guests may choose from three different dinner seating options. By popular request, all dining rooms are smoke-free.

Assigned Seating - Early Dining and Late Dining
This dining option offers guests a pre-set dining time for the duration of the cruise as well as the same table assignment each evening in the Main Dining Room. On Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, guests who select Assigned seating will receive pre-set dining times across the three main restaurants – Waterfront, Angelo’s and Dragon Lady. Guests who choose this option will not be able to reserve 'Your Time' open seating once on board.

 

Dining time guide for Assigned Seating:

Early – 5:15pm (Splendor & Luminosa) and between 5pm & 5:45pm (Adventure & Encounter)

Late – 7:30pm (Splendor) and 7:45pm (Luminosa) and between 7:30pm & 8:30pm (Adventure & Encounter)

 

'Your Time' Open Seating Dining (not available on Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter)
'Your Time' open seating is offered on Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa between 5:00pm and 8:30pm. Guests are seated on a first come, first served basis depending on party size and are able to request a specific waiter. Pagers are provided if there is a modest wait time so guests may relax elsewhere on the ship until their table is ready; in most cases, guests are accommodated within 20 minutes. Advance table reservations are not accepted, and all guests must be present before the party is seated.

 

Dining times are subject to change due to conflict of time with port stays or other scheduled activities. Accurate times are listed in the daily 'Fun Times'.

 

 At time of booking, guests will be able to confirm their preferred dining choice. If their preference is not available, they may confirm an alternate time and be waitlisted for their preferred choice - there is no guarantee a waitlist will clear. When possible, waitlists will be cleared prior to the sailing and guests will be notified by email. Parties traveling together who are waitlisted together will be cleared on the same dining time.

 

 Cross-referencing bookings does not guarantee parties will be eating together. They must be confirmed on the same dining time to ensure they will be able to dine together.

 

 For those guests who choose Early or Late dining, the assigned dining room and table number will be printed on the guests' Sail & Sign® card which they receive when they check-in on embarkation day.
 
In addition, guests may opt for casual bistro dining in the Lido Marketplace (Splendor & Luminosa) or The Pantry (Adventure & Encounter), or an elegant dinner in Fahrenheit 555 or Luke’s Bar & Grill. Guests may also want to indulge their taste buds in an unforgettable culinary journey offered at The Chef's Table. Please note, specialty dining options have an additional charge. 

 

Parties greater than 8 guests may need to be accommodated at several tables and the wait can sometimes be more than one hour. We highly suggest that parties of 8 or more guests choose an assigned seating (6:00pm or 8:15pm) to assure sitting together at one table or several tables close together.

Drinking Alcohol On Board:

The minimum age for the purchase and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the bars, lounges and gift shops is 18 years of age. Please note that for some itineraries, the minimum age is raised to 21 years of age. In the event that Bar/Restaurant/Gift Shop staff are in question that a guest is less than 18 years old (or less than 21 years old on selected itineraries), they shall request picture identification, prior to serving the drink or selling the bottle of liquor.

Carnival reserves the right to refuse the sale of alcoholic beverages to anyone.

 

Bringing Liquor and Beverages On Board - Embarkation

Guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages that are packaged in glass or plastic bottles.

On embarkation day, a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., sparkling water, sodas, energy drinks, juice, and milk), packaged in cans or cartons, may be brought on board and must be in the guest's carry-on luggage. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 375-ml each or less, per person.

 

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board with the following exception - at the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day only, guests (18 years of age and older) may bring one 750-ml bottle of sealed/unopened wine or champagne, per person, in their carry-on luggage. *This does not include Port, Vermouth, Sherry and other fortified wines, over 15% alcohol by volume (ABV), which cannot be brought on board. Outside this exception, all liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage and such items will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided. Guests sailing with us on back-to-back cruises are entitled to bring the same quantity as stated in this policy, per cruise. The additional quantities will be stored for safekeeping at the start of the first cruise and will be given to the guest as each following cruise begins.

 

Corkage Fee: Should guests wish to consume their wine or champagne in the main dining room, specialty restaurant or bar, a $25.00 AUD corkage fee, per 750-ml bottle, will be charged. A corkage fee is a charge that is assessed, at time of service, for every bottle that is served and not bought on the premises.

 

Large cooler restrictions: Carnival Cruise Line does not allow guests to bring large coolers on board its ships. However small, personal-sized coolers, no larger than 30x30x30cm for the purpose of housing small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications are permitted as carry-on luggage. Screening and movement of large coolers through embarkation is an impediment to the boarding and security screening process. Therefore, large coolers are not permitted as carry-on or checked luggage.

 

Ports-of-Call: Alcoholic beverages of any kind purchased in any Port-of-Call will be retained at the gangway, stored on board and held by Carnival until the end of the voyage.

Getting to and from Port

Carnival Cruise Line offers ground transportation between select airports and cruise ship terminals. These services are only available on the day of the cruise and immediately after the cruise. 

 

We do not offer airport transportation for cruises sailing from the following embarkation ports: Norfolk, Virginia: Baltimore, Maryland; Jacksonville, Florida; Mobile, Alabama; Charleston, South Carolina; Brisbane, Australia and Sydney, Australia (post-cruise transfers may be offered from Sydney’s White Bay Cruise Terminal to Central Station or Sydney Airport)

 

For more information on available to transfers and to purchase, visit Airport Transfers | Carnival Cruise Line and log in to your account to Manage your Booking. Alternatively, contact Carnival Reservations up to 2 days prior to the sail date.  You will need to provide your flight information in Online Check-in at the time of purchase. Your flight details are provided to the transportation company to assist in expediting your transportation to the pier.  It is your responsibility to update Carnival with any changes to your flight schedule to ensure you are met by the transportation company.

SYDNEY OVERSEAS PASSENGER TERMINAL, AUSTRALIA

Off Argyle Street,
West Circular Quay NSW

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • No parking available at the terminal. A number of short-term parking stations are available nearby.
  • Drop off and pick up at terminal
  • Taxi rank
  • Circular Quay train station, Light Rail and bus stops within walking distance

Website: www.portauthoritynsw.com.au/cruise/sydney-harbour/overseas-passenger-terminal-frequently-asked-questions

 

SYDNEY WHITE BAY CRUISE TERMINAL, AUSTRALIA

James Craig Road
Rozelle NSW 2039

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Short-term parking and drop off/pick up area at the terminal

Website: www.portauthoritynsw.com.au/cruise/sydney-harbour/white-bay-cruise-terminal-frequently-asked-questions


BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Brisbane International Cruise Terminal
1 Cruise Terminal Drive (access via Marine Road)
Pinkenba, Queensland 4008

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • The cruise terminal is not currently serviced by public transport
  • Drop off/pick up area at the terminal
  • Long and short-term paid carpark managed by Wilson Parking (pre-booking essential)

Website: www.portbris.com.au/cruise

 

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

Station Pier
Waterfront Place
Port Melbourne VIC 3207

  • Limited public parking is available in Waterfront Place next to Station Pier (charges apply)
  • Taxi rank available
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Tram and buses to Melbourne CBD located within walking distance to Station Pier

Website: www.vicports.vic.gov.au/cruise-shipping/Pages/cruise-passenger-information.aspx

 

SINGAPORE

Marina Bay Cruise Centre
61 Marina Coastal Drive, Singapore.

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Taxi rank near the terminal
  • Short-term car parking
  • Marina South Pier train station
  • ATM at terminal

Website: https://mbccs.com.sg/

 

HONOLULU

Pier 2 Cruise Terminal,
Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu.

  • Banks close by
  • Easily accessible by bus or taxi.

Website: https://hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors/visitor/

 

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

Port of Seattle
Smith Cove Cruise Terminal 91
2001 West Garfield Street
Seattle, WA 98119

Website:  www.portseattle.org/places/smith-cove-cruise-terminal-pier-91

Parking:   www.cruiseseattleparking.com

Google Maps:  View Map

 

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

Port of San Francisco
The Embarcadero
Pier 27 | Pier 35
San Francisco, CA 94111

Website:  www.sfport.com/

Parking:   https://sfport.com/maritime/cruise#tab-12453-pane-2

Directions:  www.sfport.com/james-r-herman-cruise-terminal-pier-27-0

Google Maps: View Map

General Questions

Yes. To download the Carnival HUB™ App, look for the Carnival HUB App on Google Play and the App Store to download. You can also find out all the features and details of the HUB app and download it from Carnival's website by clicking here.

To help you plan, we suggest you limit your luggage to a maximum of one bag per person if you’re travelling on a cruise of 3-5 nights, and to no more than two bags per person, for cruises of 6 days or longer.

 

In addition, you must personally carry-on any boarding documentation (passports, Visas, I.D), valuables, medications and any items which require special handling.

 

To fit neatly in your stateroom, each bag should be no bigger than 140cm x 60cm x 40cm. Each checked suitcase and carry-on suitcase should not weigh more than 32kg.

 

Please note that airlines may have different luggage restrictions.

 

Carnival Cruise Line prohibits weapons, illegal drugs and certain items that could interfere with the safe operation of its ships or compromise the safety and secure environment of its guests and crew.  Carnival conducts security scanning of all luggage and reserves the right to confiscate any item, which in Carnival’s sole discretion, is deemed dangerous or can pose a risk to the vessel or its guests. 

At homeports (Sydney, Brisbane), certain items will be confiscated and disposed of, and no compensation will be provided. At port of calls (i.e. Port Vila, Noumea, Cairns, etc.) – items will be confiscated and held until the day of disembarkation.  
 
We suggest all luggage be unlocked before turning it over to the porters in order to avoid any inconvenience or delay in delivering the luggage to your stateroom. For additional information, please refer to the terms and conditions of the Cruise Ticket Contract.

Before you pack, please take the time to review the following.

Prohibited Items

  • Any illegal narcotics/drugs, including synthetic, designer drugs, and medical marijuana
  • All weapons and any item made, adapted or intended for use as an offensive weapon: firearms (including replicas, imitations and their components), spears or spear guns, crossbows, crossbow bolts and long bow arrows; blunt weapons, including knuckle dusters, brass knuckles, clubs, coshes, batons, flails or Nunchaku; sharp pointed weapons, including throwing stars; air, BB, pellet pistols or rifles, stun devices and tasers, any projectile-weapon, including paintball guns, etc.
  • All ammunition
  • All explosives, including imitation explosives and devices
  • Fireworks, flares, pyrotechnics 
  • Party Poppers
  • Helium-Filled Balloons
  • Knives, scissors and open razors (Recreational dive knives are allowed but must be held in the custody of the Guest Services Manager or Chief Security Officer and must be checked out/in by the owner for dive excursions during the cruise. Large scissors used by scrapbook and quilting enthusiasts are at times permitted with prior notification from the Security Services Department but are held on board in the same manner as dive knives.)
  • Skean, Dhus or Kirpans
  • Boom boxes / large radios and all types of speakers (including Bluetooth, portable and wireless types)
  • Satellite disk, routers and other internet related equipment
  • Curtains, drapes or hanging room dividers
  • Items containing incapacitating substances (e.g. gas guns, tear gas sprays, mace, phosphorus, acid and other dangerous chemicals that could be used to maim or disable)
  • Flammable substances and hazardous chemicals (e.g., petrol, methylated spirits, paint thinners etc.)
  • Handcuffs or other restraining devices
  • Large batteries
  • Any remotely controlled or autonomously flying devices, toys or drones
  • Self—balancing hover boards, air wheels, scooters, or segways 
  • Compressed gas tanks, bottles, cylinders including dive tanks, propane tanks and aerosol cans (Refer to Exemptions)
  • Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), communication scanners, wideband receivers, satellite phones, transformers, lasers and laser pointers. 
  • Electrical and household appliances containing any kind of heating element, such as irons, clothes steamers, immersion heaters, heating blankets, water heaters, coffee machines, hot plates, toasters, heating pads, humidifier, etc. (All Carnival ships provide facilities with ironing boards and irons; fleet-wide valet laundry service is also available for a nominal fee.)
  • Hookahs
  • Alcohol (hard liquor) and beer
  • Wine or champagne beyond the allowable limit of one 750 ml bottle per adult (18 years of age or older)
  • Non-alcoholic beverages in containers other than a can or carton including water; excessive quantities per person (over 12 cans/cartons per person); excessive size per can/carton (over 375 ml each)
  • Large coolers
  • Candles and Incense
  • Bicycles (including folding bicycles)
  • Surfboards, boats and canoes
  • Scooters (only permitted if used for mobility — must be stored in guest’s stateroom)
  • Inflatable Kiddie Pool
  • Any footwear with wheels, such as, Heely’s type shoes
  • Kava
  • Multi-plug box outlets/power boards/adapters/extension cords are not permitted on board. However, should you require a multi-plug box outlet/power board/adapter/extension cord, please ask your Stateroom Steward who will be able to supply you one for the duration of your cruise.
  • Fish of any kind; if fish are caught during an excursion, they must be shipped home

 

Exemptions

  • Aerosol containing personal grooming products are allowed
  • Personal grooming devices such as hair dryers, flat irons, curling irons, shavers, and other electrical devices, such as fans (no larger than 12" in diameter), power strips, multi plug box outlets/adaptors, and extension cords (without surge protectors) are allowed when used with proper caution.  However, if such devices are determined to pose a hazard, they will be removed and returned on debarkation morning.
  • Electronics such as laptops, cameras, cellular phones, etc. are allowed on board when used with proper caution. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones must be turned off and disconnected from any charging equipment while on board.
  • Medical gas bottles/oxygen cylinders are allowed in connection with a certified medical condition but cannot be packed in baggage. Oxygen cylinders must be delivered to guest services and stored in a designated safe area.
  • If you use a CPAP machine, please note you will need to pack your machine with your carry-on luggage. Should you wish to bring your own distilled water with you to use with your CPAP machine, it must be hand carried along with your CPAP machine. For your convenience, distilled water is sold on board by contacting Room Service.
  • Coolers: Small, personal-sized coolers no larger than 12” x 12” x 12” for the purpose of housing small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications are permitted as carry-on luggage.
  • Pets/Live Animals: Only qualified service animals once approved by Guest Access Services at time of booking. Assistance dogs also required approval from the Department of Agriculture, Fishery and Forestry and will only be authorized on Australian cruises.
  • Flowers and Plants: Only permitted on board if ordered through Carnival’s Fun Shops or delivered by a florist in the port of embarkation but are not permitted to be taken off the ship in Australia or Ports of call.
  • Musical Instruments: We will allow musical instruments on board, however, if a noise complaint is received, the instrument will be confiscated by shipboard security and returned to the guest on the morning of debarkation.
  • Guests must use earphones when listening to music or watching shows/movies on personal devices in public spaces. 
  • Ham Radios/Amateur Radio Equipment: Permitted to be used on board after inspection and only if they do not pose a safety risk.
  • Google Glasses are permitted on board in public areas but cannot be worn at any gangway operation.
  • Wrapped Gifts: Guests may bring wrapped gifts on board; however, due to heightened security, the gift may have to be unwrapped, upon request.
  • Digital Cameras/Camcorders, DVDs/VCRs, USB sticks, iPods, Nintendo/X—Box Play Units cannot be used with the TV in the guest’s stateroom or suite as the connection ports are disabled.
  • Food Items must be pre-packaged and unopened; homemade items or pre-cooked foods will not be permitted on board. Limitations on permitted food items are directly related to concerns for food safety and contamination prevention. We are unable to provide food preparation, refrigeration or storage for personal food or beverage items.

 

Exemptions (Items for Port Use Only)

The following items may be brought on board but can only be used off the ship, for port use only. All items must be stored in the guest’s stateroom.

  • Snorkel gear
  • Skateboards
  • Golf clubs
  • Fishing rods for tag and release only
  • Tennis rackets
  • Kites
  • Roller blades or skates
  • Collapsible wagon. For the safety of our guests, the wagon cannot be rolled onto/off the ship during embarkation and debarkation and cannot be rolled off/onto the ship while in port.  
  • Metal detectors
  • Boogie Boards (max. 42 inches/106cm in length)
  • Beach chair
  • Beach tent
  • Umbrella
  • Floatation Devices: For the comfort of all our guests, rafts, tubes and floatation devices other than those used as life preservers (water wings) cannot be used in the swimming pools on board.

Please Note: It is the responsibility of the guest to check the local laws of each port as Carnival will not be responsible for confiscated items by foreign Governments.

 

Other Considerations (Items that cannot be taken off the ship)

The following items cannot be taken off the ship during the cruise or on debarkation day.

Agricultural Authorities perform agricultural inspections to protect from potential carriers of animal and plant pests or diseases that could cause serious damage to their Countries’ crops, livestock, pets and the environment.

  • Animal products
  • Unsealed food items
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Agriculture and Horticulture products
  • Plants / cut flowers
  • Seashells

Carnival Cruise Line is dedicated to the safety of all guests and crew. We want all our guests to have a safe, fun and memorable vacation.

 

Smoking is a fire and safety hazard on a ship. Consequently, it is strictly limited to specific exterior deck areas.  All guests are expected to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

  • All staterooms and suite accommodations, including outside balconies, are NON-SMOKING. This policy applies to all forms of smoking, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vaporizers (vapes), electronic cigarettes and marijuana.
  • Carnival recognizes that some Australian states and territories may permit the use of medicinal marijuana under certain circumstances. However, Carnival Cruise Line’s policy strictly prohibits possession and use of recreational/medicinal marijuana and other illegal controlled substances.
  • Any violation of this policy will result in a $500 charge, per violation, posted on the guest’s Sail & Sign® account and may also result in the disembarkation of all guests in the stateroom. 
  • Guests who are disembarked for violating our policy will be responsible for all financial charges and expenses to return home, and no refund of their unused cruise fare will be provided. Additionally, they may be prohibited from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future.
  • Guests must be 18 years or over to purchase, possess or smoke including tobacco, e-cigarettes, vapes or the like on board. On selected itineraries, the minimum age may change to 21 years of age.

 

Our smoking policy is included in Carnival's Cruise Ticket Contract. Follow the link for ship specific smoking areas.

We strongly recommend you purchase appropriate international travel insurance for your Carnival cruise, even for Australian domestic cruises as these are outside the scope of Australian Medicare.

 

If your cruise itinerary includes New Caledonia, you will be required to show printed proof at embarkation that you hold valid international travel insurance. New Caledonia requires all visitors, including cruise guests, to have international travel insurance.

  • This is a mandatory requirement, even if you don’t plan on going ashore in New Caledonia, and the insurance must be valid for the duration of the cruise and provide coverage for all the countries included in your itinerary, including New Caledonia.
  • When travelling to New Caledonia, if you intend on using insurance provided through your credit card, please ensure the insurance coverage has been activated and bring a copy of the policy. Alternatively, written confirmation of insurance from your bank may be presented.

 

For more information on travel insurance, see our travel insurance page.

Cruisers love the fact they “only have to unpack once”.  And while your destination, itinerary and personal style will dictate which outfits you bring, we want to share our guidelines and suggestions.  A Carnival ship has it all, from fine dining to casinos and shows to sunbathing, so here are some tips on how to dress to play or party.

Daytime:  Casual and Comfortable

Casual attire is the order of the day when the sun is up, which can include:

Shorts, capris, khakis, jeans, summer dresses and skirts
T-shirts, polo shirts, blouses and tops
Exercise, athletic gear, hats, swimwear and cover-ups such as lightweight dresses, sarongs or kaftans
Lightweight jumpers, cardigans and jackets
Comfortable rubber-sole flat shoes, such as sneakers, water shoes or non-slip boat shoes with traction

Please note: Select activities and shore excursions may require closed-toe shoes. Wet swimwear should not be worn in indoor venues. Please cover up when heading inside. Footwear with wheels is prohibited on board our ships.
 
Evening:  Cruise Casual

As we head into the evening, the dress code takes on multiple definitions, depending on your plans, the venue or the event.

Most nights, the dress code in the main dining room(s) for everyone is Cruise Casual, including:

Trousers, pants, khakis, jeans, dress shorts, summer dresses, casual skirts, and capris and collared dress shirt, casual or polo shirts
Collared dress shirts, casual or polo shirts, blouses and nice tops
Not permitted: cut-off jeans, men’s sleeveless shirts, t-shirts, gym or basketball shorts, exercise and athletic gear, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suit attire
For cruises 3 nights or more, don’t forget to bring your legwarmers, shoulder pads and neon-coloured outfit for the ‘80s Rock-N-Glow Deck Party. For more details on theme nights, parties and events, click here.

Cruise Elegant (Sharp & Chic)

On certain special nights, our main dining rooms celebrate our Cruise Elegant festivities and we invite guests to enjoy a special night out in a sharp and chic way.

5 days or shorter cruises will have one Cruise Elegant evening
6 days or longer cruises will have two Cruise Elegant evenings

On longer cruises, the first Cruise Elegant evening is scheduled for the second or third evening of the cruise.  Depending on itinerary, the next Cruise Elegant evening is the second or third evening prior to the end of the cruise. 

Cruise Elegant attire can include: 

Dress trousers/pants, pantsuit, cocktail dresses, and elegant skirts
Dress shirts, blouses and sports coats.  
Some guests may even choose to wear a suit and tie, tuxedo or evening gown
Not permitted: jeans, men’s sleeveless shirts, shorts, t-shirts, sportswear, exercise and athletic wear, shorts, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suit attire 
A good rule of thumb is to dress for a special occasion.
 
Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Luke’s Bar & Grill, Trattoria and Chef’s Table dress requirements follow the dress code specified for the main dining room(s). 
 
Lido Marketplace (Splendor and Luminosa) and The Pantry (Adventure and Encounter) are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a more relaxed dress code than the main dining room(s); however, please respect that the Lido Marketplace and The Pantry are not the pool area. Shirts, bathing suit cover-ups and footwear should be worn at all times.  Please dry off completely as wet floors are a safety hazard.
 
Casinos, bars, retail shops, lounges and theatres are frequented by guests who dress according to daytime to nighttime standards. Basic rules still apply no matter the time of day – no swimsuits, wet clothes, or bare feet.
 
Please Note:

All guests are expected to ensure their clothing and accessories are respectful to fellow guests and reflect our family friendly atmosphere. Specifically, items worn during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendos/suggestions. In addition, clothing and accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial commentary, hatred, or threats of violence in any form.    
We kindly ask guests to respect the local culture and rules in the ports we visit. Some destinations, such as Lifou which is a tribal island, are populated by proud indigenous people whose culture is based on respect, and in many cases are highly religious. In such locations, the wearing of swimsuits in markets, and other public areas that are not swimming locations, is not permitted. The communities in these locations also request visitors to wear traditional one-piece or full piece swimsuits and refrain from wearing bikini or monokini type swimsuits whilst at the beach.

Carnival Holidays

Carnival knows how to celebrate! Feel free to bring a special outfit for our “Grinchmas in July” cruises including our Ugly Sweater Contest, Christmas cruises or Halloween cruises. Please note that costumes with full masks are prohibited, but half masks are allowed.

 

Yes, we have a range of Wi-Fi internet plans available to purchase so you can stay connected during your cruise. For more information on available plans and to purchase, see our Internet Plans page.

VIFP Club®

What is the VIFP Club?
The VIFP Club stands for the Very Important Fun Person Club, Carnival’s guest recognition program. The program recognises you for your continued loyalty to Carnival with increasing recognition and benefits as you cruise more and more. New to Carnival? The VIFP Club is a warm welcome to the Carnival experience and gives you access to VIFP members-only rates and promotions.

How do guests enroll?

Guests who have never sailed with Carnival can join prior to cruising by creating an account at www.carnival.com.au/profilemanagement/accounts/register. First time cruisers who don't enroll prior to their cruise, will automatically be enrolled upon completion of the voyage. All VIFP members can access their account awww.carnival.com.au/profilemanagement/profiles/benefits.

How does the VIFP Club work?
Members of the VIFP Club earn one VIFP Point for every day they’ve been at sea (aka cruise day), so 1 VIFP Point= 1 Cruise Day.
There are five levels in the VIFP Club:


Blue: First sailing
Red: 1 – 24 VIFP points
Gold: 25 – 74 VIFP points
Platinum: 75 – 199 VIFP points
Diamond: 200+ VIFP points

What are the benefits for each VIFP level?
Review the benefits of each level 
here.

 

Benefits are subject to the provisions in the VIFP Club Terms and Conditions. All capitalized terms herein have the same meaning as those set forth in the VIFP Club Terms and Conditions. No substitution of Benefits may occur, except in the sole discretion of Carnival Cruise Line. Benefits are subject to change at any time without notice.    

What are the terms and conditions for the VIFP Club?
Review the Terms and Conditions 
here.

How will Carnival know my level when I sail?
Guests will receive a color-coded Sail and Sign card during each sailing, which will identify their levels in the VIFP Club. It’s recommended that all guests add their VIFP numbers to their booking prior to their next sailing to ensure they’re recognised as a member of their correct level.


How do I earn points on a cruise ending and starting in Australia?
In order to earn VIFP Points for Cruises that begin and end in Australia (each an “Australian Cruise”), Members must log into their Account and request that VIFP Points be awarded for Days earned on such Australian Cruise(s). Members must review their cruise history and submit a request by clicking on “Missing a Cruise?” and provide the requested information. CCL will not automatically award VIFP Points for any Australian Cruise.

I noticed that all of my cruises were not included. How long will it take for Carnival to adjust my level?
Carnival wants to ensure than all eligible cruises are captured in guests’ cruise history. It takes up to three business days after a sailing for the system to update a guest’s cruise history. If you notice a discrepancy, log into your account on
www.carnival.com.au/profilemanagement/profiles/benefits and submit a request form. The request form can be found at the bottom of My Cruises page in the Missing a Cruise section. Please note, Carnival cannot process requests over the phone. Carnival will review each request on an individual basis. Please be patient, the process may take 6-8 weeks to complete.

Will benefits change over time?
They might someday. Therefore,
Carnival Cruise Line® reserves the right to change terms/benefits at any time.

 

If a cruise is cut short or extended for reasons out of the guests control, how many points will the guests earn since we are basing it on the actual number of days sailed?
As a gesture of goodwill we will never decrease the number of cruise days earned as a result of the shortening of a cruise. In cases where a ship returns at a later date than scheduled, we will increase the number of cruise days.


If a guest is sharing a cabin with another guest in a different level (e.g. a Platinum and a Gold), how will benefits apply to the stateroom?
Benefits are meant to recognise individual members and are therefore not transferable to travel companions. Some priority benefits apply to the entire cabin.


Can a guest bring another guest to membership functions on board?
Generally, benefits requiring an invitation are designated per member. Certain events invite eligible guests to bring one additional person as space permits. Details are provided on invitations for each of the functions.

Will guests automatically receive recognition/benefits?
VIFP Club members will automatically move from one level to the next level based on their VIFP Points and will receive the benefits of their level on each sailing.


Guests graduating into a new level during a cruise will receive the benefits of the new level they are graduating into from the beginning of the cruise (e.g. those graduating to Gold on the 3rd day of a 5-day cruise will receive Gold benefits for the entire duration of their cruise). Please note that ‘debarkation day’ is not considered a ‘cruise day’, therefore, points are not earned for that day.


While guests are automatically eligible for their benefits, some Diamond level benefits must be requested at the time of booking. Please remember to always provide your VIFP number at time of booking.

Do VIFP Club members earn points when cruising with sister lines?
Benefits of the VIFP Club are unique to Carnival Cruise Line sailings only. VIFP Points may be earned only when sailing on Carnival Cruise Line. Cruises taken on Carnival Corporation’s other owned cruise lines will not earn VIFP Points and VIFP Club benefits will not be offered.

Which Carnival Cruise Line sailings count towards my VIFP Points?
VIFP Points will be earned for all qualifying Carnival Cruise Line sailings, except for non-qualifying sailings which include charter and non-revenue sailings.

How much does it cost to become a VIFP Club member?
There are no fees to join the VIFP Club.

Does each cruiser in a guest’s family/party/stateroom earn points and receive Club benefits?
Yes, each member of the VIFP Club earns VIFP Points and will receive the benefits of their VIFP Club level. However, some benefits are age-restricted.

Should everyone join (all members of guests family or party)?
All guests who have cruised with Carnival will be automatically enrolled. Still, each guest should individually join and create their account to ensure data accuracy. For guests who haven’t sailed with Carnival yet, we recommend at least one adult within each family or party join the VIFP Club to see if you can take advantage of members-only offers or promotions that are offered from time-to-time.

 

Carnival Rewards

Effective November 20, 2025

 

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that it is updating its loyalty program to offer a more valuable and more rewarding experience for its guests. The new era of Carnival loyalty – Carnival Rewards™ – launches on September 1, 2026.

For the time being, there is no impact to the existing VIFP Club® program, guest status, account, or how we will deliver our existing onboard experience.  The preview of the changes is the start of a conversation about how Carnival Rewards will deliver guest benefits and recognition when it formally launches in September 2026.  With that in mind, here’s some information to get our guests and travel advisor partners up to speed.

 

General Program Questions

 

When do the loyalty program changes go into effect?

Our updated loyalty program, Carnival Rewards, will officially launch on September 1, 2026.

                                                                              

Will the loyalty program continue to be called the VIFP Club?

No, the Carnival guest loyalty program will instead be called Carnival Rewards to reflect the new ways we will recognize and reward our guests.

 

Do existing VIFP Club members need to do anything?

First, it’s important to stress that there is no immediate impact on our guests or how we deliver on current onboard offerings.  This announcement is the start of a conversation ahead of the new program that will launch on September 1, 2026.

 

When the new Carnival Rewards program launches, what will the transition process from the VIFP Club Program to the Carnival Rewards Program be?

Once Carnival Rewards launches, every guest’s existing VIFP number will transition to their ‘Carnival Guest Number.’ The ‘Carnival Guest Number’ is a number that every guest will receive regardless of their loyalty program involvement.

 

How do guests join Carnival Rewards once their VIFP member number has transitioned to their Carnival Guest Number?

To fully participate in Carnival Rewards, our guests will join by “opting-into” the program by accepting the new program’s terms and conditions, in accordance with applicable law and we will enable guests to accept these in advance of the September 2026 launch date.

 

What’s the concept behind the Carnival Rewards program?

The travel industry starting with airlines and hotels pioneered the popularity of loyalty and rewards programs, and as they have grown and evolved, brands have moved to linking spending, not just frequency, in the calculation of rewards and benefits.  By giving guests the ability to earn points on Carnival cruise purchases and credit card activity, we are creating a system where guests can save for and/or spend in whatever way best suits their travel plans.  Our guests will be able to use their points to pay for cruise fares and onboard experiences in ways they choose and when they want them.

From a guest perspective, the VIFP Club is easy to understand and seems to be working well.  What is the rationale for changing the existing program?

The Carnival VIFP Club was launched in 2012 as an update to the previous Carnival Guest Recognition program, and it indeed proved very popular as guests accumulated sailing days and achieved higher tiered status.  However, the rapid growth of our company, the popularity of cruising, and our growing customer base have combined to erode the recognition and rewards of the current VIFP offering.

 Furthermore, the way guests gain status in the VIFP Club is based on sailing days, and the status qualifying levels have not changed since 2012.  So, every month, more and more guests are achieving top tier Platinum and Diamond status, which is a positive as it relates to our guest loyalty, but is a challenge with regard to delivering meaningful rewards and recognition.  In just the last three years, we have doubled the number of Platinum guests and quadrupled the number of Diamond guests.  While we love that we have such a loyal customer base and that they are cruising more often, our ships and our team cannot offer special recognition when so many people on board are categorized as top tier guests.  On a typical ship, anywhere from a quarter to a third of our guests are Platinum and Diamond.  On our popular Carnival Journeys cruises, for example, we can no longer offer priority boarding and early stateroom access because essentially the entire manifest is populated with top tier guests. As the adage goes, when everyone is special, no one feels special.

 

How long do current VIFP guests earn status in the VIFP program?

 Guests will continue to earn status in the existing VIFP program until the launch of Carnival Rewards (through August 31, 2026).

 

Will guests earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars for bookings and pre-cruise purchases made prior to the launch of Carnival Rewards, for sailings on/after the launch date? 

Yes, because Carnival Rewards Points are earned and Status Qualifying Stars are received after a sailing is complete, any sailings that end on and after the launch date, will earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars. This includes the cruise fare, Vacation Protection Package and other eligible pre-cruise purchases made toward those sailings (and eventually eligible purchases made onboard).  

 

What were the changes to VIFP – Carnival Rewards transition that were announced?

While we announced the coming Carnival Rewards changes in June 2025, guests will continue to earn status in the existing VIFP program through Aug 31, 2026 (for cruises that have been completed by that date), and will carryover and retain their earned status in Carnival Rewards on Sep 1, 2026, based on the following schedule:

Diamond Guests: Based on your feedback, reflecting upon what it takes to achieve VIFP Diamond status, we are permanently extending Carnival Rewards Diamond level status to all guests who have earned VIFP Diamond Status by Aug 31, 2026.

Platinum Guests: All guests who are VIFP Platinum level as of Aug 31, 2026, along with extending Platinum status through Dec 31, 2028, 10,000 status qualifying stars will also be deposited into Platinum guests’ new Carnival Rewards account when the program launches next year.  That provides a minimum of Gold status in the subsequent Jan 2028 to Dec 2030 cycle and provides a boost towards maintaining Platinum status or earning Diamond status. Furthermore, we’re pleased to advise that this 10,000 status qualifying stars deposit will be a biennial gesture at the start of each new two-year earning cycle, providing Gold status and a nice head start each period towards Platinum and Diamond status. This deposit is limited to existing Platinum VIFP guests as of Aug 31, 2026.

All other guests will keep their status for two years, through Dec 31, 2028, unless their cruise activity and cruise spend qualifies them for higher status earlier.

As we roll out Carnival Rewards, there will be a fixed two-year window starting Sep 1, 2026 (next one on Jan 1, 2028, then Jan 1, 2030 and so on) for earning status, which will be honored for the next two years.

 

By eliminating lifetime status for guests, won’t some guests feel like you’re taking away something that they worked hard to attain?

Based on your feedback, reflecting upon what it takes to achieve Diamond status we are permanently extending Diamond level status to all guests who have earned it by Aug 31, 2026. Given the number of existing Platinum members, we are unable to extend Platinum status permanently due to all of the operational challenges we’ve previously explained. Therefore the new program is designed to allow guests to maintain their status if they choose and gives more opportunities to earn status and rewards.  It will, however, be tied to spending activity, consistent with loyalty rewards programs across the travel sector.  We recognize that change can be difficult, but the current program based on cruise frequency makes it difficult to properly recognize our loyal guests.

 

If I’m a Platinum or Diamond guest who has worked hard to achieve status – and qualify for valuable perks like priority boarding and early stateroom access – how am I supposed to like this change?

Reflecting upon what it takes to achieve Diamond status we are permanently extending Diamond level status to all guests who have earned it by Aug 31, 2026. Given the number of existing Platinum members, we are unable to extend Platinum status permanently due to all of the operational challenges we’ve previously explained.  In addition, in Carnival Rewards, Diamond and Platinum guests will continue to enjoy some of their most valued benefits including priority embark and debark when available.   Not all cruises offer priority boarding, especially on itineraries heavily booked with top-tier guests, like Carnival Journeys cruises.  And in the future, as guests earn points in Carnival Rewards, they will be able to use their points towards their cruise fare or to purchase experiences of value to them, including faster to fun priority boarding, if their status no longer qualifies them for that benefit.

 

Carnival cruisers are very loyal and they love collecting the pins and other logo gifts that have traditionally been offered.  And they also are very proud of achieving various milestones, like their 50th cruise.  How will these changes impact these VIFP Club features?

We still plan to recognize milestone moments in a newly revamped Milestone program. We will keep the cherished Platinum/Diamond ship-specific pin in the new program, but other means of recognition may change.  Even though the VIFP Club gift and gold pin will go away, there will be plenty of Carnival-branded items on board for sale that our guests can use their points for by converting them to onboard credits.

 

 

Carnival Rewards Points & Status Qualifying Stars 

What are Carnival Rewards points?

Carnival Rewards points are points that are earned as part of Carnival Rewards based on the spend you do on eligible cruise fares, onboard purchases, credit card activity and more that can be used to redeem for most things Carnival offers.

 

What are Status Qualifying Stars?

Status qualifying stars are what determines the progression in status in the Carnival Rewards program. Like points, stars are also earned based on the spend you do on eligible cruise fares, onboard purchases, credit card activity and more.

 

What categories of spend are eligible to earn points and receive stars? 

Guests will be able to earn points and stars on a variety of purchases made through Carnival.  Points and stars can be earned on spend towards eligible cruise fare, gratuities, transfers, Carnival Vacation Protection, pre-cruise and onboard purchases.  

 

What categories of spend are not eligible to earn points and receive stars?

The categories of spend that are excluded from earning points and stars include but may not be limited to cruise fare’s taxes and fees when booking a cruise (i.e., the “Required Cruise Fees and Expenses” as well as “Government Taxes and Fees” – both as defined in our cruise contract), air travel purchased through Carnival (Fly2Fun) and certain other fees.  In addition, certain fare types are excluded from earning points and redemption.

In addition, all forms of payment that are spent on eligible categories will qualify to earn points and stars with some exceptions.  Those exceptions are for purchases using your Carnival Rewards points, Onboard Credits (OBCs) that you may receive as well as Carnival-funded Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) that were not originally funded by guests’ own spend.

 

Do Carnival Rewards Points expire? 

Carnival Rewards Points are your way to pay for almost anything Carnival. Points do not expire as long as you have any eligible qualifying activity within a 3-year period. Eligible activity is defined as any activity with Carnival that leads to either earning of points or redemption of points. for example - completing a sailing and earning points from the sailing, earning points from a partner transaction, or redeeming points towards an onboard purchase. Once an eligible activity takes place, the points expiration extends to 3 more years from that activity date.  

 

What is the difference between Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars and how /where do I earn them?

Carnival Rewards Points: These are redeemable points that can be used like cash for various Carnival purchases

  • You earn 3 Carnival Rewards Points for every $1 USD spent on eligible Carnival purchases
  • You also earn 1 Carnival Rewards Point for every 1 casino point remaining at the end of the sailing
  • These points can be redeemed for almost anything Carnival offers, such as onboard activities, spa treatments, specialty dining, gratuities, or even applied toward a future cruise
  • Carnival Rewards Points will not expire as long as there is activity on your Carnival Rewards account at least once every three years

Status Qualifying Stars: These determine your Carnival Rewards status (Red, Gold, Platinum, Diamond) 

  • You earn 3 Status Qualifying Stars for every $1 USD spent on eligible Carnival purchases, including cruise fare, pre-cruise purchases, and onboard spend
  • You also earn 1 Status Qualifying Star for every 1 casino point earned 
  • Status is earned over a two-year period and retained for the following two years. Unlike the previous VIFP program, status will no longer be lifetime and will require requalification every two years (except for Diamond members who will receive lifetime status.)
  • The more Status Qualifying Stars you accumulate, the higher your status level, which unlocks exclusive benefits 

 

Where can I keep track of my Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars?

All Carnival Rewards Points earned, and Status Qualifying Stars received from eligible cruise fare purchases, pre-cruise purchases, onboard purchases, and casino play will be accredited to the Carnival Rewards member account at the end of the sailing. All Carnival Rewards members can access their account by logging in on Carnival.com after the program launches in Sep 2026.

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars  for single occupancy cruise fare spend?

Carnival Rewards Points (3 points per $1 USD) are earned, and Status Qualifying Stars (3 stars per $1 USD) are received from eligible cruise fare spend activity. Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars will be earned by the single guest traveling for the total amount of the eligible cruise fare. 

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars  for cruise fare if they are traveling with a group that has multiple eligible guests and minors traveling in the same stateroom?

Carnival Rewards Points (3 points per $1 USD) that are earned and Status Qualifying Stars (3 stars per $1 USD) that are received from eligible cruise fare spend activity will be divided equally among all eligible guests in the same stateroom. If one of the guests (or multiple guests) are minors, the minor’s responsible party will earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars for the minor’s portion of the cruise fare. 

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars for cruise fare if they are traveling with a group that has multiple eligible guests and minors traveling in separate staterooms?

Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars will be equally distributed among the eligible guests within the same stateroom for their portion of the cruise fare. The eligible guests staying in the second stateroom will earn Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars for their portion of the second stateroom cruise fare (equally distributed among eligible guests within the second stateroom). Same would apply for any additional staterooms within the same booking.    

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars for cruise fare if they are traveling with a group that includes non-members?

 A non-member traveling in the same stateroom with other eligible members will not earn their portion of points unless they enroll in Carnival Rewards within 180 days of sailing (or during the sailing). If the non-member does not enroll in Carnival Rewards, then the non-member portion of points will be forfeited and the forfeited portion of points will not be awarded to other members in the sailing and will be lost. This does not impact minors (guests under the age of 18 are ineligible to be members), Carnival Rewards Points earned, and Status Qualifying Stars received from the minor’s portion of the cruise fare will be awarded to the responsible party.  

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars for cruise fare if they purchase the cruise fare, but are not traveling?

Carnival Rewards Points are earned, and Status Qualifying Stars are received by the guests who are traveling (and distributed equally among eligible guests in the same stateroom), not the individual who makes the purchase.  

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars for pre-cruise purchases and onboard purchases excluding Casino spend?

Carnival Rewards Points (3 points per $1 USD spent) and Status Qualifying Stars (3 stars per $1 USD spent) will be earned for all eligible pre-cruise and onboard purchases that appear on the individual member’s folio. For eligible purchases made for the entire stateroom that appear on an individual member's folio, all associated Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars will be awarded to that member at the end of the sailing. Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars from folio spend on a minor’s account will be added to the responsible party’s Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars balance.

 

How will Carnival Rewards members earn Carnival Rewards Points & receive Status Qualifying Stars  for Casino play?

Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars will be earned at the individual member folio level and will be based on casino points earned from casino play. Members will earn 1 Status Qualifying Star for every 1 casino point earned. Members will also earn 1 Carnival Rewards Point for every 1 casino point remaining at the end of sailing (after any redemption of casino points for Fun Play). 

 

Can Carnival Rewards Points be gifted or transferred to someone else? Will Carnival Rewards Points be allowed to be shared among my family or household?

Upon the launch of Carnival Rewards, points will be non-transferable. 

  

Will I still earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars for bookings made through a travel agent or PVP?

Yes, guests will earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars for bookings made through a PVP or travel agent. Some exclusions may apply including specified fare types and rates codes that are considered ineligible spend.  

 

How does the new Carnival Rewards program impact guests who are part of the Carnival Player’s Club? Will this impact my Carnival Player’s Club benefits? 

Casino Players club benefits and offers will not be affected by Carnival Rewards program though Casino players will earn stars and points as explained above for the casino points they accrue. 

 

Does each guest have to use their own form of payment to earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars?

Members will earn Carnival Rewards Points and receive Status Qualifying Stars on all eligible purchases linked to their individual folio at the end of voyage, regardless of who made the purchase. A member simply charges any onboard purchases through their Sail & Sign card including purchases made through the HUB App. After completion of the sailing, members will earn Carnival Rewards Points and Status Qualifying Stars on all eligible purchases on their folio summary.  

 

Redeeming Carnival Rewards Points

 

Once I start earning Carnival Rewards Points, what will I be able to do with them?

Your Carnival Rewards Points are flexible! You will be able to redeem your Carnival Rewards Points for almost anything Carnival offers. 100 points ≈ $1 USD in value, depending on demand—similar to how cruise fares vary. There’s no minimum required to start redeeming.  

 

Cruise Fare

  • You can redeem your Carnival Rewards Points during the booking process, putting them toward your deposit, or even the cruise fare itself  
  • You will be able to pay for your cruise fare using a combination of cash and available Carnival Rewards Points 

Pre-cruise

  • You can redeem your Carnival Rewards Points for pre-cruise experiences including shore excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments, drink packages, WiFi and more 

    Onboard 

  • You will be able to redeem your Carnival Rewards Points during your cruise via Hub App adding fun and flavor as you go, with things like poolside drinks, shopping, activities, and more  

 

Status

What are the status levels in the Carnival Rewards program?

The status level categories for the Carnival Rewards Programs are Red, Gold, Platinum and Diamond.   All current VIFP Club Blue tier guests will be rolled into the Red tier status when Carnival Rewards launches once they opt-in to the program.

 

How is status determined in Carnival Rewards?

 The number of status qualifying stars a guest receives by the end of that ‘status earning window’ will determine what status they have in the subsequent two-year ‘enjoyment period’ -.  If a guest reaches the required number of stars for a given tier, they do not need to wait until the next ‘enjoyment period’ to begin enjoying that status.  For example, if a Gold guest earns enough stars to reach Platinum in the middle of the first two-year status earning window, they will be upgraded to Platinum status and get to enjoy it for the remainder of the status earning window and then the full subsequent two-year enjoyment period, for a total of three years.

 

What is the Status Earning Window? Is this dependent on when a guest enrolls?

The “Status Earning Window” is a fixed two-year period that applies to every enrolled member of Carnival Rewards, regardless of enrollment date. The first Status Qualifying Period is Sep 1, 2026, to Dec 31, 2028 (with exception of members who achieve VIFP Diamond status by Aug 31, 2026), the next window is from Jan 1, 2029 to Dec 31, 2030 and so on. 

 

For example, if a guest enrolls on Feb 1, 2027, they will have 23 months (until Dec 31, 2028) to qualify for status and if a guest enrolls on June 1, 2028, they will have 7 months (until Dec 31, 2028) to qualify for status based on how many stars are earned during this timeframe and to  retain this status for the next two-year Status Enjoyment Period (Jan 1, 2029 to Dec 31, 2030). 

 

When does the status earning window reset and how often?

  The Status Qualifying Stars will reset to zero and their activity during the subsequent two-year status earning window -, will then determine what status they will enjoy starting in the enjoyment period.  The approach is a very similar one to how airlines award their frequent fliers status where they have one year to qualify for status and then one year to enjoy it, however Carnival Rewards will give guests a two-year period to qualify and then a minimum of two years to enjoy that status, and even up to four years depending on how fast they earned that status in the prior qualifying period

 

How are existing VIFP Diamond and VIFP Platinum Guests in the Carnival Rewards Program being recognized?

Considering what it takes to achieve VIFP Diamond status, we are pleased to share that the Carnival Rewards program will allow us to permanently extend Diamond level status to all guests who have earned it by Aug 31, 2026.

 

For our Platinum members, we are pleased to share that we are offering a 10,000-status qualifying star boost to your account every 2-year status earning window.  This is designed to help our Platinum guests maintain their platinum status. The boost provides our Platinum guests with a head start at the beginning of the status earning window.

 

What happens if I am in the middle of a sailing when Carnival Rewards launches, and I am expecting to upgrade to a higher VIFP status during this sailing? What happens to my status?

If a guest is sailing on the Carnival Rewards launch date and, on this sailing, they are upgrading to a higher VIFP status, we will recognize the guest’s upgraded VIFP status as their new Carnival Rewards status for the program transition period (2 years for Gold and Platinum guests and permanently for Diamond guests). In addition, guests will earn Carnival Rewards Points for all their eligible purchases tied to any sailings that overlap with the Carnival Rewards launch date.

 

Minors

Will Minors be allowed to participate in the Carnival Rewards program? What will happen to the VIFP Club loyalty status of my children who are currently Platinum or Diamond members?

Due to evolving federal and state laws regarding tracking and marketing to minors, children under 18 cannot directly participate in Carnival Rewards. However, we have a plan to ensure their loyalty is recognized! Minors will sail with the same status and benefits as the responsible paying adult on their cruise (e.g., parent/guardian). (The responsible adult will also earn all points and receive stars from the minor's pre-cruise and onboard spend). However, when the current platinum or diamond minor turns 18, they will be invited to opt-in to Carnival Rewards and will receive status recognition based on the same two-year plan for Platinum members or permanent plan for Diamond members.

 

Will my children’s days continue to be tracked despite them not being able to participate in Carnival Rewards until the age of 18?

Once a minor turns 18 and enrolls into Carnival Rewards, the number of cruise days they have upon joining will carry over from when they were a minor and they will be recognized at the next Carnival Rewards Milestone. 

 

Carnival Rewards Milestone Benefits

 

How will Milestones be recognized in Carnival Rewards?

When Carnival Rewards launches, we will introduce the new Carnival Rewards Milestone Program that is designed to recognize our guests’ milestone moments in a newly revamped way.

The Carnival Rewards Milestones Program will be tied to the number of days sailed, and the milestone recognition will be made on the itinerary where the milestone is achieved. This means, Carnival Rewards members will be recognized for their 50th, 100th, 200th (and every subsequent 100 days of sailing) For each milestone moment.

More details on Milestone rewards to come soon.

 

Do I need to be a member of Carnival Rewards to receive Carnival Rewards Milestones?

Yes, you will need to be a member of Carnival Rewards to receive Carnival Rewards Milestones. 

 

Will days still be recognized as part of Carnival Rewards?

As part of Carnival Rewards, we will continue to track the number of cruise days sailed and members will receive recognition for achieving important milestones as part of our newly revamped Carnival Rewards Milestones. The total number of days a guest has sailed by the launch date, will carry-over to Carnival Rewards and will be part of calculating future Carnival Rewards Milestones.  

 

What's happening to the current VIFP Milestone Recognition program, and how will it change with Carnival Rewards?

The current VIFP Milestone Recognition program will officially end on the Carnival Rewards program launch date, when the new Carnival Rewards Milestones goes into effect. Any milestones you've already earned (25th, 50th, 75th, and 100th cruise) in the VIFP Milestone Recognition program can still be redeemed through August 31, 2030. The new Carnival Rewards Milestones will celebrate even more milestone moments (10+ milestones), based on number of days sailed instead of number of cruises sailed. These will be celebrated onboard and rewarded with Carnival Rewards Points, exclusive gifts on-board, a commemorative sail & sign card, and onboard recognition by our amazing crew. 

 

Will I be recognized and earn any benefits retroactively for Carnival Rewards Milestones that I have previously achieved prior to launch of Carnival Rewards?

At the launch of Carnival Rewards, your sailed days will carry over with you. You will be recognized and earn Carnival Rewards Milestones benefits starting at the next Carnival Rewards Milestone. For example, if a guest has 175 days sailed before the launch of the Carnival Rewards program, the guest will receive the benefits for the next Carnival Rewards Milestone, in this case, at 200 days.