Loading Page...

Can you change a cruise once booked?

Changing Dates: If you need to change the dates of your cruise, the cruise line may be able to accommodate your request, depending on availability. However, there may be fees associated with changing the dates, especially if you are changing to a more expensive time of year.



Yes, you can generally change a cruise after booking, but the flexibility depends entirely on how close you are to the departure date and the specific fare type you purchased. In 2026, most major lines (like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian) allow you to change your ship or sail date without a full "cancellation" if you are outside the Final Payment Window (usually 90 days before sailing). If you booked a "Non-Refundable Deposit" fare, you may have to pay a change fee (typically $100 per person). If you are within the 90-day window, changes are often treated as cancellations, meaning you could lose a percentage of your fare. It is always easier to "upgrade" your cabin (since the airline or cruise line wants more money) than to "downgrade" or change dates. Purchasing "Cancel for Any Reason" travel insurance is the best way to ensure maximum flexibility.

People Also Ask

The unexpected death, illness, or injury of you and/or a traveling companion that deems you unfit to travel, by order of a licensed physician. The hospitalization or death of a non-traveling family member. Weather or common carrier related issues (varies by policy) Unforeseen natural disasters at home or the ...

MORE DETAILS

For most cruise lines, as long as you cancel before your final payment date, there is no penalty. After final payment, you will lose your deposit or the deposit and a portion of your cruise fare, depending on when you cancel in relation to your sail date.

MORE DETAILS

New federal rules require a refund whenever a cruise that starts in the U.S. is cancelled or delayed at least three days. You can voluntarily agree to a credit. Otherwise, you get your money back.

MORE DETAILS

For further modification, such as changes in date, time or party, you can either cancel and rebook the reservation or visit Guest Relations once onboard. Was this content helpful?

MORE DETAILS

Multiple adjustments to the ship and/or sail date of a booking will result in the assessment of a $100 per guest change fee for each qualifying change made to the reservation. There is no limit on the number of change fees that can be incurred.

MORE DETAILS

Booking Your Next Cruise Onboard Saves Time and Money Remember, once you are off the ship, the offer will no longer be available. With the reduced deposit, extra shipboard credit, and flexible change policy, it's really a no-brainer to place a future cruise deposit, and look forward to your next exciting voyage!

MORE DETAILS

Can you cancel a cruise for medical reasons? Yes, only if you have travel insurance and can have the illness documented. Andi if it is a pre-existing condition you would have to have purchased insurance within 14 days of your first deposit on the trip.

MORE DETAILS

Trip Cancellation Insurance will reimburse you for the amount of pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses (e.g. airline, cruise, train, hotel, etc.) that you have insured, should you cancel your trip before departure for an unforeseen covered reason.

MORE DETAILS

Cruise ships can treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries on board. Some onboard medical facilities look like urgent care centers, while others are more like doctor's offices. Health insurance often does not cover medical care on cruises, but travel insurance might.

MORE DETAILS

When shopping for cruise insurance, make sure to look for coverage that offers the following:
  • Trip delay and cancellation.
  • Medical expenses, including emergency evacuation.
  • The option to cancel for any reason (including COVID-19).
  • Adventure activities if you're planning certain onshore excursions.


MORE DETAILS