When booking a Carnival Cruise, you’ll come across different rate offers and promotions—each with its own rules, perks, and restrictions. Understanding these can help you save money or maximize flexibility depending on your priorities.

Most really great offers comes from guests who have cruised before and played in the casino. This opens the door to some really impressive offers and includes nice perks for casino gamblers.

Main Types of Carnival Cruise Offers

Early Saver Rate

• Lowest price guarantee (if Carnival drops the fare, you can get onboard credit or rate adjusted).
• Must book early (usually at least 3+ months in advance).
• Non-refundable deposit.
• Fees apply to any changes (up to $50/person).

Best for: Travelers sure of their plans and looking for the best price.

Pack & Go (Last Minute Deals)

• For sailings within 60 days or less.
• Deep discounts, but…
• No price protection, no upgrades, no changes.
• Full payment required at booking.
• No cabin choice—you’ll get what’s assigned. (They are filling up all available cabins.)

Best for: Flexible travelers looking for the cheapest last-minute cruise.

Super Saver

• Lower rates, but cabin is assigned later (you can’t choose your room).
• Non-refundable deposit.
• You choose cabin type (interior, oceanview, etc.)—Carnival picks location.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers okay with not choosing their exact room.

Early Saver with Reduced Deposit

• Similar to Early Saver but allows booking with a smaller upfront payment.
• Great for those planning ahead but wanting to secure a spot now and pay later.

Friends & Family Rates

• Private offers—you’ll only see them if you’re eligible (past guest, military, etc.).
• Often include special discounts for group bookings.

Rate Code Promotions (VIFP, Casino Offers, etc.)

• VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) rates for past guests or casino players.
• May include free upgrades, onboard credit, drinks, or discounted fares.
• Often sent via email, a mailed flyer or available through your VIFP Club account.

Carnival Sale Events (e.g., “BOGO”, “Sailabration”, 72-Hour Sale, the More the Merrier)

• Limited-time offers with bonuses like:
  
  • Reduced deposits
  • Upgrades
  • Onboard credits
  • Kids Sail Free (rare but occasionally offered)

Cabin Selection Notes:

• Some offers let you choose your cabin, others assign it.
• If location matters (near elevator, mid-ship, away from noise), don’t pick a rate that says “we pick.”

Flexible vs. Non-Refundable

• Most cheaper offers are non-refundable, meaning you lose the deposit or pay change fees.
• If you’re unsure, go for Flexible fares (usually labeled “Fully Refundable” but will cost more).

TIP:

Check for the “rate code” in your Carnival booking screen—it’ll tell you what type of deal you’re getting. You can also compare offers by clicking “rate details” before selecting a room.

As a travel agent it’s important to me to book the best offer for my clients. I compare each offer by reading through all of the details. Sometimes a price sounds great but there’s no OBC or price protection. I know how important it is to get the most value for your money. That’s why we always need to compare what benefits you receive with each offer before booking.

More information on casino offers:

Earn Casino Points and Benefits on Carnival Cruises

Here’s a group just for new cruisers and others! No judgement with correct answers to your questions. Lots of in-depth information, tips and personal advice! 

Carnival Cruising for First Timers & Seasoned Sailors