The AARP Rewards Program, which allowed members to purchase discounted Carnival Cruise Line gift cards to save on sailings, onboard packages, and excursions, has officially been discontinued.
No official explanation has been given for the program’s abolishment. A recent AARP announcement simply reads, “Carnival Cruise Lines has decided to discontinue offering their gift cards through the AARP Rewards Program. We understand that this may be disappointing news, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”
When the question was raised to Carnival Cruise Line Ambassador John Heald on Facebook, the social media personality only verified its end while reiterating the cruise line’s competitive pricing.
“Please don’t listen to rumors,” Heald wrote while trying to do damage control. “….I can confirm that we are as of January 1 not offering an AARP discount card. I can also confirm that we remain the most affordable cruise line with the most fun…”
Heald previously claimed that AARP made decisions regarding its gift card offerings independently of Carnival Cruise Line. “This has nothing to do with the cruise line; this is all decided by the people who distribute the gift cards,” he stated in a Facebook post last November.
However, this explanation was disputed by several AARP members who reported receiving conflicting information during inquiry calls.
Profits Over Loyalty?
Many passengers took to social media to vent their frustrations, with some accusing Carnival of prioritizing profits over customer loyalty.
“Loyalty means nothing to Carnival anymore. It’s all about the money. We love CCL but they have just about outpriced themselves. Not just in cruise fees but everything from their drink options to everything they sell. The greed of the almighty dollar.” remarked one Facebook user.
Another commenter remarked, “The people that saved the cruise company from going under five years ago and faced their own financial burdens over delayed cruise refunds receive this as a thank you. I’m done.”
“I think it’s because they are sailing at capacity. They don’t need to offer discounts to get people on the ships,” another speculated.
Meanwhile, another observer shared, “Carnival has gone wild about their revenue. I know they’re beholden to the stockholders but give me a break. The seniors aren’t the place to do it.”
Where To Get Carnival Gift Cards
Savings from AARP Carnival gift cards dropped significantly in late 2024 from 10% to 8% and finally 5% before the program was abruptly terminated.
Carnival gift cards can still be purchased at full price directly through Carnival’s website or from retailers like Target, Walmart, and Publix.
Other Carnival gift card sellers recommended by the online community are Newegg (up to 10% off), GCX (up to 8% off), and CardCash (up to 7% off). However, their promotions are seasonal and gift cards are subject to availability.
As Carnival enters Wave Season—a key booking period for the cruise industry—savvy cruise passengers can still enjoy savings through other gift card retailers and cruise lines.
