Each port is different. Some are obviously better than others, but we have never had a problem.
VIP status is given to 3 people:
1. Platinum members = 10 cruises are more. Yes, all cruises count (even cruises to nowhere) and the perks (listed by someone above) start ON your 10th cruise.
2. CVC members - even though now all the Carnival Vacation Club offices on the 6 ships that had them are closed and they are not selling any more packages, the current members will still get VIP Check In and Debarkation until their contract time is up (3 - 5 years). They don't get all the perks of Platinum folks. (no free wash and fold for instance) Remember, that you get this perk regardless of whether you use points for your cruise or pay cash through a Carnival PVP or TA. Just call the CVC number to let them know when you have a cruise booked. FYI, for those who are not up on CVC - it was a minimum of $1,000 skimmed off the $3,500.00 package you had to buy to get this perk.
3. Book a Cat 11 or 12 cabin - which means you get VIP Check In only. No other perks. VIP Check In basically replaced the "Skippers Club".