How do I know if my cruise is non refundable?

When creating your reservation, simply select the fare that is labelled “Non-refundable deposit” to choose the non-refundable deposit option.



To determine if your cruise is non-refundable, you must first look at the fare type you selected during the booking process. Most cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian, offer "Non-Refundable Deposit" (NRD) programs that provide a lower price in exchange for stricter cancellation terms. You can verify this by checking your booking confirmation email for terms like "NRD," "Early Saver," or "Instant Savings." In 2026, many lines have moved toward digital contracts where you must explicitly check a box agreeing to non-refundable terms. If your deposit was non-refundable, canceling will usually result in the loss of that deposit, though some lines may offer "Future Cruise Credit" (FCC) minus a change fee. Additionally, if you are within the final payment window (typically 75 to 90 days before sailing), almost all cruise fares become non-refundable regardless of the initial deposit type. Always review the "Cancellation Policy" section of your guest ticket contract for the specific tiered penalty schedule.

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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. Check with your cruise line on its cancellation policy and final payment window, as each one can be different. Deposits are refundable unless otherwise indicated.

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Outside of final payment, when a non-refundable deposit cancellation occurs, the full deposit amount will be held in penalty. Any additional payments made will be refunded.

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So now, the commission is setting an industry-wide standard. 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.

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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 ...

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Customer may transfer their reservation at any time after booking (must be outside of final payment; customer will lose their deposit if it has already been paid to the cruise line).

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You can say, Here's what we agreed to. You'll see that the deposit is non-refundable.

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Generally, you have until 70 days prior to final payment to cancel without any penalty without a reason. After that period, the closer to cruise date the more they penalize you. So if you are thinking of booking a cruise for Jan./Feb. then you would probably still be able to cancel until early Nov.

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In most cases, refunds will post to the original form of payment about 7 to 10 days after they're fully processed. However, some refunds may take up to 30 days to post. Royal Caribbean International® doesn't control how long the refund process takes; your bank or financial institution determines the length of time.

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Non-Refundable Deposit Fare Non-Refundable Deposit (NRD) fare was introduced by the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. to provide the guests with the lowest available fare at the time of booking.

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With a non-refundable rate, guests pay the full price if they cancel, make changes or don't show up. Adding a non-refundable rate to your property can reduce cancellations and help you secure guaranteed payment for reservations.

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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.

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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.

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