AARP Travel Rewards has slashed its discount on Carnival Cruise Line gift cards, dropping the rate from eight to five percent.
This change marks the second discount decrease in just over a month, frustrating loyal users relying on the program to save on cruises.
AARP Carnival Gift Cards by Value
| Gift Card Value | Previous Cost (8% Off) | New Cost (5% Off) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100 | $92 | $95 | $5 |
| $250 | $230 | $237.50 | $12.50 |
| $500 | $460 | $475 | $25 |
Many members noted the abruptness of the change, with some reporting that Carnival gift cards briefly disappeared from AARP’s site before reappearing at the lower discount. This mirrors the confusion during November’s reduction from 10% to 8%.
Carnival Blames AARP for Slashing Discount
In response to the November reduction, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, clarified that the cruise line does not control the discount rates.
“This has nothing to do with the cruise line,” Heald explained in a Facebook post. “AARP sets the discount percentage, not Carnival.”
However, an AARP support representative told Cruise Radio, “Unfortunately, this is not something we control. The terms of the discount are negotiated between AARP and the gift card provider. If a contract is renegotiated, the discount percentage can change.”
Reduced Savings and Purchase Limits
For some cruisers, this change significantly impacts their cruise budgeting. A $500 gift card now saves $25 compared to the $50 savings two months ago.
Additionally, the maximum number of cards members can purchase remains limited to five per month, down from 25 before the November adjustment.
How AARP Carnival Gift Cards Work
AARP membership, traditionally aimed at those aged 50 and older, is also available to Americans as young as 18. Membership costs $12 annually (increasing to $20 next year), and members gain access to various perks, including discounted gift cards.
For Carnival, AARP members can purchase up to five discounted gift cards per month. These cards can be used for cruise bookings and onboard purchases, making them a versatile savings option.
Other Cruise Lines and Discounts
While Carnival’s discount has been slashed, other cruise lines still offer higher savings through AARP. Royal Caribbean remains at 10%, and Celebrity Cruises currently holds steady at 10%.
However, Holland America Line’s gift card discount also dropped to 8% in November, reflecting an overall trend of shrinking savings.
Related: Carnival Corp. Rings in $25B in Revenue for 2025
