Carnival Cruise Lines review: – platinum vifp family concern regarding loyalty program changes and drone compliance issues

Dear Carnival Cruise Line Leadership Team,
I am formally escalating concerns regarding both the recent VIFP loyalty program changes and ongoing issues I have experienced as a compliant and licensed drone operator while traveling with Carnival.
My family and I have built a long-standing tradition of cruising with Carnival every spring break. As a public school teacher, I worked diligently—often making financial sacrifices—to achieve Platinum status. Our loyalty extends across our entire family:
• Tricia Marshall Micher – Retired Veteran (VIFP #[protected])
• Rovard Micher – Platinum Member (VIFP #[protected])
• Rovard C. Micher – Active Navy Veteran (VIFP #[protected])
• DeSean Micher – Dual Enrollment High School Student (4.6 GPA, VIFP #[protected])
• Zoe Micher – Honor Roll Middle School Student (VIFP #[protected])
We represent service, education, and achievement—and we have remained loyal to Carnival because we believed that loyalty was recognized and valued.
The announced changes to the VIFP program, effective in August, significantly devalue the time, financial investment, and commitment we have made. This shift undermines trust and sends a message that long-term loyalty is no longer a priority.
Additionally, I am a FAA Part 107-certified drone pilot who operates in full compliance with U.S. regulations and international guidelines. Prior to traveling, I:
• Conduct thorough research on destination-country UAV laws
• Contact port authorities directly to obtain operational clearance
• Follow Carnival’s stated policies for transporting drones onboard
• Attempt to coordinate through the maritime agencies responsible for port clearances, as advised
Despite these proactive steps, I have been denied the ability to remove and operate my drone at multiple ports. These denials occurred even after I was informed that the maritime clearance entities utilized by Carnival could assist in coordinating approvals.
This inconsistency reflects a lack of clear policy enforcement and coordination between Carnival, port authorities, and their designated maritime partners. As a compliant operator, this creates unnecessary barriers and diminishes the overall guest experience.
The combination of diminished loyalty recognition and inconsistent operational policies has significantly impacted my confidence in Carnival as a company that values its returning guests.
As a result, my family and I are now evaluating alternative cruise lines that demonstrate stronger commitments to both customer loyalty and clear, consistent operational policies.
I respectfully request clarification on both the loyalty program changes and Carnival’s official position and process regarding drone operations at ports of call.
Respectfully,
Rovard Micher
VIFP Member #[protected]
(On behalf of the Micher Family)