Carnival Cruise Line has officially bid adieu to its partnership with AARP, pulling its gift card offering from the organization’s rewards program. While this move has left some cruise enthusiasts reeling, others are dusting off their deck shoes and looking for alternative ways to save on their next voyage.
Let’s unpack what’s happening, why it’s caused such a stir, and how you can still score discounts on Carnival cruises (because who doesn’t love cruising for less?).
A Discount That Sailed Away
For years, AARP—a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for individuals aged 50 and up—offered Carnival Cruise Line gift cards at a sweet discount of 10%. This perk made it a favorite among cruisers looking to stretch their budgets.
But then, in a move that felt like taking the fun out of fun ship cruising, the discount started shrinking. By November 2024, the once-generous 10% discount dropped to 8%, and then to a paltry 5% by late December. Cue the collective groan from the cruise-loving community.
Still, a 5% discount was better than nothing, and many AARP members were happy to use the gift cards to save a little on sailings, onboard packages, and shore excursions. That is, until January 1, 2025, when Carnival officially pulled the plug on the entire program.
According to a notice on the AARP website, “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.”
Disappointing? Oh, you bet. The decision sparked heated debates across cruise forums and social media platforms.
The Blame Game: Carnival or AARP?
The cruise community was quick to point fingers. Many blamed Carnival for what they perceived as a cash grab. One particularly salty cruiser wrote online, “This was pure greed from Carnival. They’ve been nickel-and-diming us for years, and now this?!”
However, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, attempted to deflect the blame, suggesting AARP made the call independently. In a social media post, he shared, “This has nothing to do with the cruise line. This is all decided by the people that distribute the gift cards.”
So, who’s really to blame? Carnival later issued a brief, almost cryptic statement: “Effective Jan. 1, Carnival gift cards are no longer available for purchase through AARP.” That’s it—no further explanation, no apology, just a line that left cruisers scratching their heads.
Whatever the case, the end result is the same: no more discounted Carnival gift cards through AARP.
How to Save on Carnival Cruises Without AARP
Sure, losing the AARP discount feels like missing a port day, but it’s not all doom and gloom. There are still plenty of ways to save on your next Carnival adventure, if you know where to look.
1. Wave Season Deals (Cruising’s Best-Kept Secret)
We’re officially in Wave Season—the January to March bonanza of cruise discounts and promotions. Think of it as Black Friday for cruising, with many lines offering reduced fares, onboard credits, and other perks.
For example, Carnival is currently running a sale with up to 40% off cruise rates and reduced deposits on select voyages. This includes itineraries to their new private island destination in the Bahamas, Celebration Key, set to open in July 2025.
2. Check Out Retail Gift Card Offers
While AARP is out of the game, you can still snag Carnival gift cards through retailers like Target, Walmart, and Publix. Keep an eye out for sales or promotions where you might score a small discount or cashback.
Costco and AAA are also worth a look. These organizations have been known to offer discounts on travel packages and gift cards in the past.
3. Leverage Travel Agents
Travel agents aren’t just for booking cruises—they’re also treasure troves for deals and perks. Many agents have access to discounts, group rates, or special promotions that aren’t available to the general public.
4. Other Cruise Line Discounts
If your heart isn’t set on Carnival, consider exploring AARP’s discounts on other cruise lines. Brands like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line (both owned by Carnival Corporation) still offer AARP perks, including discounted gift cards and package deals.
Why Did Carnival Pull the Plug?
The million-dollar question remains: why did Carnival decide to cut ties with AARP’s gift card program? While no official explanation has been given, the move aligns with other cost-cutting and revenue-generating measures Carnival has implemented in recent years.
Some speculate that offering discounted gift cards through AARP simply wasn’t profitable enough. Others believe Carnival is doubling down on direct sales via its own website and retail partners to maintain tighter control over pricing and promotions.
Whatever the reason, the decision serves as a reminder that discounts, like ocean breezes, don’t last forever.
Final Thoughts: Adjust Your Sails
The end of Carnival gift cards through AARP is undoubtedly a bummer for budget-savvy cruisers. But as every seasoned traveler knows, the key to cruising on a budget is flexibility. Deals may disappear, but new ones always pop up—if you’re willing to look for them.
So, while the AARP partnership may be dead in the water, don’t let it sink your travel plans. Shop around, get creative, and embrace the hunt for savings. After all, the best part of cruising is the journey—and maybe a few extra dollars saved for that cocktail by the pool.
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