norwegian cruise lines refund policy

Payments & Refunds

To reserve your stateroom and lock in the final price, you will be required to place a deposit on your cruise. For this deposit, the cruise line will require that you pay either a flat rate, anywhere from $100 to $1,000 per person, or a percentage of your final fare, anywhere from 10% to 25%. After you have placed a deposit to secure your reservation, you will be asked to pay the remaining balance of your fare at the final payment due date. Depending on the cruise line, this final payment date can be from 45 to 120 days before sailing. If you book your cruise within the final payment period, you will be required to pay in full in order to secure your booking.

Cancellation and refund policies vary by cruise line, with penalties generally increasing as the sailing date approaches. You may be eligible for a full refund after cancellation only if you cancel within the cruise line's designated time period. Please notify your Vacations To Go cruise counselor immediately of any cancellations or changes.

Cruise lines do not make exceptions regarding cancellation charges, so we strongly recommend that passengers secure appropriate cancellation/ trip insurance. Click here for more information on insurance.

Deposit, payment and cancellation terms may differ for group bookings; please consult your Vacations To Go cruise counselor for the terms that apply. Changes to names or departure dates are treated as cancellations and new bookings by the cruise lines, and may incur cancellation penalties.

Click on the cruise lines below to learn about individual payment and cancellation policies.

• Cruise and Hotels
• Norwegian Cruise
• Understanding Norwegian Cruise Payment Policy: A Must-Know Guide for Smooth Sailings

Embarking on a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage is an exciting experience filled with unforgettable moments. However, before setting sail, it is essential to familiarize yourself with Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment policy to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to navigate the payment process effectively.

To make your Norwegian Cruise Line booking, you will need to pay a deposit and settle the remaining balance before your departure date. The deposit amount varies depending on the length of your cruise and the cabin category you choose. It is important to note that the deposit is non-refundable and subject to cancellation fees if you decide to cancel or modify your reservation. Therefore, it is advisable to review the cancellation policy before making any payments.

Below is a summary table of the key points to consider when understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment policy:

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment policy is crucial to ensure a seamless experience. It is highly recommended to review the full details on their official website or consult with a travel agent to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the payment policy details, exploring the final payment, cancellation policy, accepted payment methods, and the option for automatic billing. This guide aims to equip you with the necessary knowledge to confidently navigate Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment process and make informed decisions throughout your cruise journey.

1. Final Payment

The final payment for your Norwegian Cruise Line booking is typically due 75-90 days before your scheduled departure. It is crucial to be aware of this deadline to avoid any inconvenience or potential cancellation of your reservation. Failure to make the final payment on time may result in the cancellation of your booking and the loss of your deposit. Always refer to your specific booking details for the exact final payment deadline.

2. Cancellation Policy

Norwegian Cruise Line’s cancellation policy stipulates that the initial deposit is non-refundable. In addition to the non-refundable deposit, cancellation fees may apply based on the timing of your cancellation. The closer you are to the departure date, the higher the cancellation fees are likely to be. It is essential to thoroughly understand the cancellation policy before making any payments to avoid any unexpected financial implications. For more detailed information, refer to Norwegian Cruise Line’s official cancellation policy page.

3. Accepted Payment Methods

Norwegian Cruise Line accepts various payment methods to accommodate different preferences. The primary payment options include credit cards, debit cards, and alternative payment methods such as PayPal. It is crucial to ensure that the payment method you choose is valid and has sufficient funds to cover the required amounts. Always double-check with your financial institution to ensure any potential restrictions or limitations on your chosen payment method.

4. Automatic Billing

To simplify the payment process, Norwegian Cruise Line offers the convenience of setting up automatic payments. By opting for automatic billing, you can authorize the cruise line to charge your credit card or debit card automatically for the deposit and final payment. This feature helps ensure timely payments and eliminates the need for manual transactions or potential late fees. Be sure to review the terms and conditions associated with automatic billing to understand the implications fully.

By understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment policy, you can navigate the booking process with confidence and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Remember to review the specific terms and conditions associated with your booking and consult with Norwegian Cruise Line or your travel agent for any clarifications. Bon voyage!

Sources: – Norwegian Cruise Line’s Official Website: [https://www.ncl.com/](https://www.ncl.com/) – Norwegian Cruise Line’s Cancellation Policy: [https://www.ncl.com/cruise-booking-faq](https://www.ncl.

What payment method is the best to use in cruise?

When it comes to choosing a payment method for your Norwegian Cruise, it is best to opt for a credit card. Norwegian Cruise Line accepts major credit cards, making it a convenient and secure option for making payments on your cruise. By using a credit card, you can enjoy added benefits such as fraud protection and the ability to earn rewards or cash back on your purchases. Additionally, using a credit card allows for easy tracking of your expenses and provides a detailed record of your transactions. It is important to note that while cash and debit cards are also accepted, using a credit card offers the most flexibility and peace of mind during your smooth sailing experience. For more information on Norwegian Cruise payment policies, visit [Norwegian Cruise Line’s official website](https://www.ncl.com/faq).

When paying for a cruise when is it generally done and what payment is required?

When paying for a Norwegian Cruise, it is important to be aware of the payment policy to ensure a smooth sailing experience. Generally, the full payment for the cruise is required around 75-90 days prior to the departure date. Norwegian Cruise Line offers various payment options including credit cards, debit cards, and electronic bank transfers. It is recommended to review the specific payment deadlines and options provided by the cruise line to avoid any inconvenience. For more detailed information on Norwegian Cruise Payment Policy, you can refer to the official Norwegian Cruise Line website: https://www.ncl.

Do I have to pay gratuities on NCL?

When it comes to Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), understanding their payment policy, including gratuities, is essential for a smooth sailing experience. According to the Understanding Norwegian Cruise Payment Policy: A Must-Know Guide for Smooth Sailings, NCL applies a daily gratuity charge to guests’ onboard accounts. This charge covers the service provided by the ship’s staff, including stateroom attendants, dining room servers, and other crew members. The current gratuity charge per person per day can be found on NCL’s website, and it is automatically added to guests’ onboard accounts. While the gratuities are not mandatory, they are customary and greatly appreciated by the hardworking staff who strive to make every cruise memorable. To learn more about NCL’s gratuity policy and other important payment information, visit [NCL’s official website](https://www.ncl.com/about/onboard-policies).

How do you not pay gratuity on a cruise?

To avoid paying gratuity on a Norwegian cruise, it is important to understand the cruise line’s payment policy. Norwegian Cruise Line has a mandatory daily gratuity charge that covers various onboard services, but it is possible to have this charge adjusted or removed. One way to do this is by contacting the Guest Services desk during the cruise and explaining your reasons for wanting the gratuities adjusted. Another option is to prepay your gratuities before the cruise, which allows you to lock in the current rate and potentially avoid any future increases. It’s essential to review the specific terms and conditions of Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment policy to ensure a smooth sailing experience. For more detailed information, you can refer to the official Norwegian Cruise Line website: https://www.ncl.com/faq#line-item-fee.

Cruise payment plans no credit check

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Payment Policy: A Must-Know Guide for Smooth Sailings provides valuable insights into the payment plans offered by Norwegian Cruise Line, ensuring a stress-free booking process. Norwegian Cruise Line offers flexible payment options, including the option to pay for your cruise in monthly installments. This eliminates the need for a credit check, making it easier for individuals who may not have a credit history or prefer not to undergo a credit check. By spreading out the payments, guests can budget more effectively and enjoy their cruise worry-free. To learn more about Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment plans and policies, visit their official website at [norwegiancruiseline.com/payment-plans](https://www.ncl.com/payment-plans).

In conclusion, understanding Norwegian Cruise Payment Policy is crucial for a smooth sailing experience. By familiarizing yourself with the various payment options, cancellation policies, and refund processes, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation aboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

One of the key takeaways from this guide is the importance of reading and understanding the terms and conditions outlined by Norwegian Cruise Line. These policies can vary depending on the type of cruise, destination, and specific booking details. By carefully reviewing these policies before making a reservation, you can avoid any surprises or misunderstandings later on.

It is also essential to be aware of the different payment options available when booking a Norwegian Cruise. Whether you choose to pay in full at the time of booking or opt for a deposit and installment plan, understanding the payment schedule and deadlines is crucial. This guide has provided detailed information on the various payment options offered by Norwegian Cruise Line, ensuring that you can select the one that suits your preferences and financial situation.

Another important aspect to consider is the cancellation policy. Life is unpredictable, and circumstances may arise that force you to cancel or modify your cruise plans. By understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s cancellation policy, you can make informed decisions and minimize any financial losses. This guide has provided an overview of the cancellation policy, including the deadlines and potential penalties associated with canceling or modifying a reservation.

Lastly, it is essential to be aware of the refund process in case of cancellations or changes to your cruise plans. Norwegian Cruise Line has specific guidelines and timelines for issuing refunds, and understanding these procedures can help you navigate the process smoothly. This guide has outlined the steps involved in requesting a refund and highlighted the importance of contacting Norwegian Cruise Line’s customer service for further assistance.

To further enhance your understanding of Norwegian Cruise Payment Policy, it is recommended to explore additional resources and trusted sources. Norwegian Cruise Line’s official website, www.ncl.com, provides comprehensive information on their payment policies, cancellation guidelines, and refund processes. Additionally, reputable travel websites such as Cruise Critic (www.cruisecritic.com) and Travel Weekly (www.travelweekly.com) offer valuable insights and up-to-date information on Norwegian Cruise Line and its payment policies.

By utilizing the information provided in this guide and referring to trusted sources, you can confidently navigate Norwegian Cruise Line’s payment policies and ensure a seamless booking experience. Remember to always read the terms and conditions, ask questions if needed, and stay informed of any updates or changes to the payment policy.

Embark on your Norwegian Cruise with peace of mind, knowing that you have a comprehensive understanding of the payment policies in place. With this knowledge, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories, exploring exciting destinations, and enjoying all the amenities and activities offered onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. Bon voyage!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cruise Advice , Cruise News

Cancellations, Compensation and Refund Policies by Cruise Line

Orlando Martinez

• April 23, 2020

(Updated May 20, 2020 11:16 a.m. ET) The global cruise industry shut down in mid-March, with each cruise line making independent decisions on when they will return to service and each line crafting their own compensation and refund policies.

We have published a round-up of what you can expect from each cruise line.

READ MORE: How to Use A Future Cruise Credit

Azamara Cruises

• Service Suspension: All cruises through June 12, 2020
• Compensation: 125% Future Cruise Credit toward any Azamara cruise sailing on or before December 31, 2021
• Refund: Guests can elect to receive a 100% refund of the fare paid to be reimbursed to the original form of payment.
• Cruise with Confidence: Azamara allows passengers sailing through September 1, 2020, to cancel up to 48 hours prior to the cruise and receive a Future Cruise Credit for any non-refundable penalties that can be used for any Azamara cruise departing on or before December 31, 2021

Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line

• Service Suspension: Grand Celebration sailings through June 12, 2020 and Grand Classica sailings through July 9, 2020
• Compensation: 125% Future Cruise Credit toward any Bahamas Paradise sailing through December 31, 2021
• Refund: Guests can elect to receive a 100% refund to be reimbursed to the original form of payment.
• Sail With Ease Policy: The Sail With Ease Policy applies to any guests currently booked on non-canceled sailings through December 21, 2020, who wish to defer their sailing to a later date through December 28, 2020, up to 24 hours before departure.
• More Information: https://www.bahamasparadisecruise.com/

Carnival Cruise Line

• Service Suspension:   Carnival Breeze , Carnival Dream , Carnival Elation , Carnival Freedom , Carnival Horizon , Carnival Magic , Carnival Sensation , & Carnival Vista sailings through and including July 31, 2020. Plus, all Carnival Sunrise sailings from New York through 2020; all Alaska sailings through and including June 30, 2020; all San Francisco sailings through 2020; all Carnival Radiance sailings through and including November 1, 2020; all Carnival Legend sailings through and including October 30, 2020.
• Compensation: Valid for sailings booked by 12/31/2020 and sailed by 12/31/22. 5 Day or Shorter Cruises: Future Cruise Credit plus $300 per Stateroom Onboard Credit. 6+ Day Cruises: Future Cruise Credit plus $600 per Stateroom Onboard Credit
• Incentive to Sail/Flexible Cancellations: For sailings departing June 27 through September 2020, guests will receive a $100 per stateroom Shipboard Credit for sailing as scheduled. If guests choose to cancel their cruise, they can do so at least 30 days prior to sailing and receive a Future Cruise Credit for any non-refundable penalties
• More Information:   https://www.carnival.com/health-and-sailing-updates; https://cruiseradio.net/carnival-extends-cruise-cancellation-compensation-period/

Celebrity Cruises

• Service Suspension: All sailings through June 12, 2020; Alaska sailings through June 30, 2020
• Compensation: 125% Future Cruise Credit toward any Celebrity Cruises sailing on or before December 31, 2021
• Cruise with Confidence: Celebrity allows passengers sailing through September 1, 2020 to cancel up to 48 hours prior to the cruise and receive a Future Cruise Credit for any non-refundable penalties that can be used for any Celebrity cruise departing on or before December 31, 2021
• More Information: https://www.celebritycruises.com/travel-alert/voluntary-suspension-of-cruising 

Costa Cruises

• Service Suspension: all sailings through June 2, 2020; select ships have additional cancelled cruises
• Compensation: Future Cruise Credit
• Refund: No information provided. Contact Costa for details
• More information: https://www.costacruises.com/cruising-soon.html

Crystal Cruises

• Service Suspension: cruises through mid-May
• Compensation: A Future Cruise Credit for 125% of the cruise fare paid will be issued, valid for any Crystal cruise experience (Ocean, river, yacht or expedition) valid for sailings through December 31, 2022
• More information:  crystalcruises.com/health-and-safety-hub

Cunard Line

• Service Suspension:  all cruises through July 31, 2020; Alaska sailings on Queen Elizabeth through September 8, 2020
• Compensation: A Future Cruise Credit equal to 125% of the cruise fare paid will be issued, valid on any Cunard sailing through March 31, 2022, when booked by December 31, 2021
• Refund: Guests can elect to receive a 100% refund of the fare paid to be reimbursed to the original form of payment within 60 days.
• Revised Final Payment Due Date: Cunard has modified the final payment date for cruises sailing between August 1 and September 30, 2020 to be 60 days before sailing, and cancellation penalties do not apply until the new final payment date.
• More information: https://www.cunard.com/en-us/contact-us/travel-health-advisories

Disney Cruise Line

• Service Suspension: all cruises on cancelled through July 27, 2020.
• Compensation: 125% Future Cruise Credit for any Disney Cruise Line sailing within 15 months of the original sailing date
• More information: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/advisory/

Holland America Line

• Service Suspension: all cruises through June 30, 2020; all Alaska, Europe, and Canada/New England cruises in 2020; 79-night Grand Africa voyage sailing October 3, 2020
• Compensation: Guests will receive a 125% Future Cruise Credit for the base cruise fare paid, plus guests on cruises with an announced cancellation date prior to May 6, 2020, will receive a $250 per person Onboard Credit; guests with paid in full bookings on canceled sailings announced on May 6, 2020, will receive a 125% Future Cruise Credit for the base cruise fare paid; guests with bookings not paid in full will receive a Future Cruise Credit for double the amount of the deposit paid, with a minimum value of $100 and a maximum amount of the base cruise fare.
• Refund: Guests can elect to receive a 100% refund of the fare paid to be reimbursed to the original form of payment. For guests whose sailings were canceled on May 6, 2020, they have up to June 15, 2020, to select the refund option
• Book with Confidence: For sailings on or before July 31, 2020, guests can cancel up to 48 hours prior to sailing and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit in the amount of cancellation fees; guests sailing August 1 through October 15, 2020, who booked March 1 to April 30, 2020, can cancel up to 30 days before sailing to receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit in the amount of cancellation fees
• More information: https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/news/coronavirus-travel-advisory/BookWithConfidence.html

MSC Cruises

• Service Suspension: through July 10, 2020
• Compensation: Passengers can receive a 125% Future Cruise Credit for the entire cruise fare paid, valid on any MSC Cruise sailing on or before December 31, 2021.
• Cruise Assurance: Passengers sailing through September 30, 2020, can cancel their cruise up to 48 hours prior to departure and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit for the cruise fare paid, valid on any MSC cruise through December 31, 2021.
• More information: https://www.msccruisesusa.com/en-us/Cruise-Changes-COVID19.aspx

Norwegian Cruise Line 

• Service Suspension: all sailings through July 31, 2020.
• Compensation: All guests with current and active bookings through July 31, 2020, will automatically receive their refund in the form of a future cruise credit valued at 125% of the fare paid.
• Refund: Guests can elect to receive a 100% refund of the fare paid to be reimbursed to the original form of payment ninety days after the request for a refund has been submitted.
• Guests with active reservations on canceled Norwegian Sun Sailings from August 13 through October 18, 2020, will not be eligible for an FCC and will be automatically issued a 100% refund.
• Peace of Mind Guarantee : It has extended its temporary “Peace of Mind” policy through November 30, 2020. Guests are free to cancel anytime up to 48 hours in advance of embarkation. Anyone choosing to cancel will receive a full refund in the form of a future cruise credit to be used for sailings that embark through December 31, 2022.
• More information: https://www.ncl.com/why-cruise-norwegian/book-with-confidence#suspendedsailings

Oceania Cruises

• Service Suspension: through May 10, 2020
• Compensation: Guests with active reservations on these canceled sailings as of the dates listed above have been provided with a 125% Future Cruise Credit of the amount paid, which can be applied to an existing reservation or any new reservation made within one year for an Oceania voyage between now and December 31, 2022.
• Refund: Eligible guests may choose a refund equal to the amount paid.
• Cruise Assurance: for all existing and new reservations made by May 31, 2020, on Oceania Cruises voyages embarking on or before December 31, 2020, guests who have paid in full have the option to cancel up to 48 hours prior to the departure date and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit.
• More Information: https://www.oceaniacruises.com/assurance

P&O Cruises

• Service Suspension: all cruises through July 31, 2020
• Compensation: A Future Cruise Credit equal to 125% of the cruise fare paid will be issued, valid on any P&O sailing through March 31, 2022, when booked by December 31, 2021
• Holiday Flexibility: If you’re booked on a P&O Cruise sailing between August 1 and 31, 2020, you can cancel up to 48 hours prior to sailing and receive a Future Cruise Credit valued at 110% of the fare paid.
• More Information: https://www.pocruises.com/travel-health-advisories

Princess Cruises 

• Service Suspension : all cruises through June 30, 2020; all 2020 Alaska cruises; all summer 2020 Europe and Transatlantic cruises; Summer 2020 Caribbean cruises and all Canada & New England cruises on Caribbean Princes s and Sky Princess ; summer and fall cruises in Japan on Diamond Princess; Sapphire Princess and Sea Princess cruises in Australia through August 2020; July cruises from Taiwan on Majestic Princess ; Hawaii and French Polynesia cruises on Pacific Princess through November, 2o2o
• Compensation: Depending on their sail date, paid-in-full guests are eligible for a 100 percent future cruise credit, plus a bonus future cruise credit, good for sailings through May 1, 2022; for guests not paid in full, Princess will issue a Future Cruise Credit for “Double the Deposit” with a minimum value of #100
• Refund:  All guests have the option of a 100% refund.
• Cruise Assurance: Depending on their sail date, guests can cancel from 48 hours to 30 days before sailing to receive a future cruise credit.
• More information: https://princess.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3IPGcxcN0jSk6c5  

Regent Seven Seas 

• Compensation: Guests with active reservations on these canceled sailings as of the dates listed above have been provided with a 125% Future Cruise Credit of the amount paid, which can be applied to an existing reservation or any new reservation made within one year for a Regent voyage between now and December 31, 2022.
• Cruise Assurance: for all existing and new reservations made by May 31, 2020, on Regent Seven Seas Cruises voyages embarking on or before December 31, 2020, guests who have paid in full have the option to cancel up to 48 hours prior to the departure date and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit.
• More Information: https://www.rssc.com/request-refund/

Royal Caribbean

• Compensation: 125% Future Cruise Credit toward any Royal Caribbean cruise sailing on or before December 31, 2021
• Cruise with Confidence: Royal Caribbean allows passengers sailing through October 31, 2020, to cancel up to 48 hours prior to the cruise and receive a Future Cruise Credit for any non-refundable penalties that can be used for any Royal Caribbean cruise departing on or before December 31, 2021
• More Information: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/itinerary-updates
• Service Suspension : all sailings through June 30, 2020
• Compensation : 125% Future Cruise Credit, valid on any future Seabourn sailing through December 31, 2021
• More Information:   https://www.seabourn.com/en_US/news/pause-global-cruise-operations.html
• Service Suspension : Silver Cloud sailings through May 18, 2020; Silver Wind sailings through Mat 12, 2020; Silver Shadow sailings through May 13, 2020; Silver Spirit sailings through May 16, 2020; Silver Muse sailings through July 1, 2020; Silver Whisper sailings through May 24, 2020; Silver Explorer sailings through June 6, 2020; Silver Galapagos sailings through May 15, 2020
• Compensation : 125% Future Cruise Credit, valid for two years from the date of issuance
• Refund: Guests can elect to receive a 100% refund of the fare paid to be reimbursed to the original form of payment within 90 days.
• More Information:   https://www.silversea.com/information-on-itinerary-changes.html

Viking Cruises 

• Service Suspension : through June 30, 2020
• Compensation : 125% Future Cruise Vouchers
• Refund Policy : Guests may choose a refund equal to the amount paid by calling Viking at 1-833-900-0951 or your Travel Agent by April 6, 2020.
• More Information: https://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans/my-trip/current-sailings/index.html

Virgin Voyages 

• Service Suspension : through August 7, 2020
• Compensation : 200% in Future Voyage Credit, which you can apply to another sailing rather than a refund. That’s double the value of your existing voyage fare. If you use your Future Voyage Credit before June 30, 2020, we’ll sweeten things even more with up to $500 in onboard credit.
• Refund Policy : A full refund of your voyage fare and a Future Voyage Credit equal 25% of the booked voyage fare to be used on a future sailing. All refunds will be applied to your original form of payment within 30 days.
• More Information: www.virginvoyages.com

Windstar Cruises 

• Service Suspension : through September 1, 2020.
• Compensation : Guests on canceled cruises will receive the choice of (1) a Future Cruise Credit valued at 125% of all monies paid to Windstar Cruises; (2) on select canceled cruises, a Future Cruise Credit valued at 100% of all monies paid to Windstar Cruises plus an onboard credit for $300.
• Refund : A full refund equal to the amount paid on the Windstar booking to the original form of payment.
• Cruise with Confidence Policy : Travelers who cancel a cruise booking up to 15 days prior to departure will receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit to be used on another Windstar departure within one year of the issue date of the credit. The offer is good for the cruise fare only.
• More Information: https://www.windstarcruises.com/travel-health-advisory/

(Updated: April 24, 2020, 5:35 p.m. EDT)

Carnival Horizon Ship Tour

Recent posts, miami cruise port debuts shore power, eight easy ways to protect your belongings on a crowded cruise ship, ai powered face scanning expedites cruise ship boarding in vancouver, cruise passenger’s costly medical bill for seasickness goes viral, share this post, related posts.

Cruise Ship Faces Eviction from Philadelphia Dock

World Cruise Ship Delayed Yet Again, Steering Issues Persist

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

Cruising during COVID-19: Cancellation, refund policies vary by cruise line

• The CDC is advising travelers to avoid cruises, regardless of vaccination status.
• Options for canceling cruises vary by line. And canceling doesn't always mean a full refund.

Travelers may be weighing whether they want to proceed with their cruise plans or postpone them , as COVID-19 cases surge with the  highly transmissible omicron variant  and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people to  avoid cruise travel , regardless of vaccination status.

If you go, there could be changes to your itinerary, including port stops and more onboard restrictions when it comes to masks and vaccination requirements.

If you decide to cancel , here are some things to consider. 

Options for canceling cruises vary by line, and canceling doesn't always mean a full refund. It may mean a cruise credit. Some lines are stricter than others, while some have more flexible options as a result of the pandemic. 

►Canceling a cruise: Should you cancel your cruise as COVID-19 surges? It comes down to personal choice

►CDC monitoring 90+cruise ships for COVID: How to check whether your ship is on the list

Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises

Royal Caribbean Group's " Cruise with Confidence " program has been in place since March 2020 and applies to flagship line Royal Caribbean International, Silversea Cruises and Celebrity Cruises, Lyan Sierra-Caro, spokesperson for the cruise line, told USA TODAY   in December.

"It allows guests to cancel up to 48 hours before their departure –  for any reason at all – and get 100% of the value back in a future cruise credit that they can use towards any sailing," Sierra-Caro said.

If passengers test positive for the coronavirus before the cruise is set to depart, they can get a 100% fare refund.

►Royal Caribbean COVID-19 news: Royal Caribbean halts bookings for cruises departing through early January

Carnival Cruise Line cancellation policy

Carnival Cruise Line is providing an option for passengers with cruises scheduled to sail this month to cancel.

"Currently, we are providing guests with cruises booked through Jan. 31, 2022, who may want to consider sailing at a different time, the option to rebook at a later date or receive a full refund," spokesperson Chelsea Stromfeld told USA TODAY Tuesday evening.

The  line has had options in place for passengers affected by COVID-19 who need to cancel.

►Cruise COVID-19 policies: Carnival Cruise Line updates onboard mask requirements as omicron spreads

Holland America Line cancellation policy

Holland America Line , a Carnival cruise line, has a "flexible" cancellation policy in place for cruises booked by March 31 for ships departing through Sept. 30.

"You can cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure and automatically receive a Future Cruise Credit with our Flexible Cancellation," the cruise line said on its website. "Additionally, you may cancel up to your sailing date if you test positive for COVID-19 and will also receive a Future Cruise Credit."

Princess Cruises cancellation policy

Princess Cruises, another Carnival line, has its own "Book with Confidence" policy.

"We don't think finances should affect decisions about your health, so if you feel ill and need to change your plans, we'll protect your cruise investment," the cruise line said on its website.

As part of its policy, passengers can cancel up to 30 days before sailing and receive cancellation fees as a cruise credit on voyages departing through April 30 and bookings made through Feb. 28.

Within 30 days of sailing, the cruise line has options under its "COVID-19 Protection Program"  for passengers who may be affected by COVID-19. 

Norwegian Cruise Line cancellation policy

Norwegian Cruise Line  has a "Peace of Mind" policy for pandemic bookings.

For cruises departing through April, passengers can cancel up to 61 days before sailing for a full refund, including fees. 

And for new and existing bookings created by Jan. 31 for any sailing departing through May 31 passengers can cancel for a full refund in the form of a Future Cruise Credit to use for a sailing embarking through Dec. 31.

MSC Cruises cancellation policy

For bookings made through March 31 for MSC cruises through March 31, 2023, passengers can change their cruise up to 48 hours before departure.

"They can move their money to another cruise that sails on or before March 31, 2023 (any ship, any sail date without penalty)," Stephen Schuler, vice president of communications for MSC, told USA TODAY in December. "The only exception to this is guests booked on MSC World Cruise or World Cruise segments."

Disney Cruise Line cancellation policy

Through Sept. 30, Disney Cruise Line has relaxed its cancellation fee schedule . 

"The cancellation fee schedule has been temporarily relaxed from beginning as early as 119 days prior to sailing to beginning 59 days prior to sailing for Guests booked in non-Suite and non-Concierge categories," Disney said on its website. 

For passengers who booked in the Suite and Concierge categories on Disney ships and for passengers who are booked to sail on Disney Wish's maiden voyage scheduled to depart June 9, cancellation fees "in excess of the deposit amount will temporarily begin at 59 days prior to sailing."

Some other reservations, such as those for "Inside, Outside and Verandah Categories with Restrictions," remain nonrefundable and nontransferable, according to Disney.

Check your cruise line's cancellation policy

If you're nervous about getting on a ship and want to cancel or postpone your trip, check your cruise line's website for cancellation policies, call customer service or your travel agent.

• Norwegian Cruise Line

Has anyone received their refund from NCL?

By CarolinaMamma , May 28, 2020 in Norwegian Cruise Line

Recommended Posts

CarolinaMamma

I know they said it could take up to 90 days. I submitted my refund request on March 23rd, the first day I could, for a Haven 2-bedroom family villa on an April 2020 cruise that was cancelled. Since then my PCC has called both me and my teenage son about booking with our future cruise credit, which makes me doubt NCL’s internal communication practices. I told my PCC I had requested the refund, not the FCC, but she was unable to check the status because her job is to book cruises. I tried not to push it because I’m sure these folks are stressed out and a lot of them are losing their jobs, but pointing me in the direction of someone who could help might have been nice.   

I’ll give them another few weeks, the full 90 days, but if I don’t see the refund come through, I may have to ask Amex for help getting it back.   

Curious to know if anyone else has received their refund. 

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

put me on a ship

We cancelled the South America cruise that goes this December. We only paid the (reduced) deposit when we cancelled, and I was refunded yesterday. It took maybe 30 days from when I cancelled. 

AK Dreaming

There is a thread with a spread sheet showing people waiting for refunds from March, April and May.  So far I don't think anyone has seen anything yet with the exception of small deposit refunds for cancellations from cruises not past final payment.  I think the PCC are trying to get people to change their minds about the refunds and apply it to a future cruise.

ColeThornton

Here is the thread that AK Dreaming referred to:

I submitted my refund request on March 23rd and haven't received it yet. 

29 minutes ago, AK Dreaming said: There is a thread with a spread sheet showing people waiting for refunds from March, April and May.  So far I don't think anyone has seen anything yet with the exception of small deposit refunds for cancellations from cruises not past final payment.  I think the PCC are trying to get people to change their minds about the refunds and apply it to a future cruise.

Thank you. It sounds like they are refunding deposits, but no one has yet received a refund on a fully-paid NCL-cancelled Cruise.   

I did cancel prepaid gratuities, shore excursions, dining and premium beverage packages a few before NCL announced that our cruise was cancelled, and I got that refund for those extras in a couple of weeks.   

Why do I have this sinking feeling that they are going to drop a bomb on us June 23rd that our money isn’t coming? Everything else in our lives that got cancelled, kids’ summmer camps, etc. has been refunded. Really wondering if I should contact Amex now. 

i did buy travel insurance that covers financial default, so I may go and re-read my policy. 

NoobCroozer

1 hour ago, CarolinaMamma said: I know they said it could take up to 90 days. I submitted my refund request on March 23rd, the first day I could, for a Haven 2-bedroom family villa on an April 2020 cruise that was cancelled. Since then my PCC has called both me and my teenage son about booking with our future cruise credit, which makes me doubt NCL’s internal communication practices. I told my PCC I had requested the refund, not the FCC, but she was unable to check the status because her job is to book cruises. I tried not to push it because I’m sure these folks are stressed out and a lot of them are losing their jobs, but pointing me in the direction of someone who could help might have been nice.    I’ll give them another few weeks, the full 90 days, but if I don’t see the refund come through, I may have to ask Amex for help getting it back.    Curious to know if anyone else has received their refund. 

Just call Amex. My dispute was settled in 2 days and check was in the bank in a week. Just be up front with them. Since you went through the NCL process though (I didn't, I panicked when bankruptcy was being reported), they may tell you to hold tight the remainder of the 90 days.

Good luck and be well.

7 minutes ago, CarolinaMamma said:   Why do I have this sinking feeling that they are going to drop a bomb on us June 23rd that our money isn’t coming? Everything else in our lives that got cancelled, kids’ summmer camps, etc. has been refunded. Really wondering if I should contact Amex now.      

I did a dispute with my CC and was notified today that I lost. NCL has the time and resources to fight CC disputes, but cant handle/process refunds?? They have lost my business.

6 minutes ago, adamnoone said: I did a dispute with my CC and was notified today that I lost. NCL has the time and resources to fight CC disputes, but cant handle/process refunds?? They have lost my business.

Sorry to hear that. Just out of curiosity, did they have an explanation as to why you lost? Did you already go the refund route through NCL and then call Citi? 

Citi hasn't uploaded their findings online yet. All it says currently is "Dispute ruled in favor of Vendor, credit reversed". I could call and ask, but dont want to wait on hold for 2 hours. I will check tomorrow to see if the reason has been added

1 minute ago, adamnoone said: Citi hasn't uploaded their findings online yet. All it says currently is "Dispute ruled in favor of Vendor, credit reversed". I could call and ask, but dont want to wait on hold for 2 hours. I will check tomorrow to see if the reason has been added

That sucks. Hopefully NCL follows through on the 90 day window. Good luck.

14 minutes ago, adamnoone said: Citi hasn't uploaded their findings online yet. All it says currently is "Dispute ruled in favor of Vendor, credit reversed". I could call and ask, but dont want to wait on hold for 2 hours. I will check tomorrow to see if the reason has been added

I’m so sorry. That stinks. Let us know what you find out. Hoping it’s because your refund is on the way. 

1 hour ago, put me on a ship said: We cancelled the South America cruise that goes this December. We only paid the (reduced) deposit when we cancelled, and I was refunded yesterday. It took maybe 30 days from when I cancelled. 

It's pretty clear from other threads that the refund process is faster (more or less automatic) when the guest cancels a cruise prior to final payment, than when NCL itself cancels the cruise (in which case they are dealing with the variables of who wants FCC, who wants a genuine refund), etc.   I'm not defending them, just pointing out the difference.

In early May, we cancelled an October TA, and received the refund of our deposit back to our credit card in three weeks.   But that's not what the OP is asking about.  

Our cruise was due to sail on the 26th Mch...nothing as yet!

FranknBeans

I too was told 90 days so I got my CC Amex to go after them and I had in money back in less than 2 weeks

I had two cruises that were canceled, waiting on refunds for one of them.

Had a cruise in August that only had the deposit paid, I cancelled the day before final payment was due 4/10 and received the $125 refund about 4 weeks later.

Had a cruise in April that was canned by Norwegian, filled out the refund form on 3/23 just like you and have not received anything back yet. Was obviously paid in full at that point for about $1,400 on a casino comp. I initiated a charge back with Visa the day they announced "going concern", immediately received a temp credit and got a letter in the mail about a week ago ask for more details about my dispute and to provide proof of booking and refund request. Still TBD at the moment. 

84 days and still waiting for refund. I cancelled on March 6 and have an email saying my full payment would be on my 2 credit cards.

8 hours ago, NoobCroozer said: Just call Amex. My dispute was settled in 2 days and check was in the bank in a week. Just be up front with them. Since you went through the NCL process though,...they may tell you to hold tight the remainder of the 90 days.

I had the same experience from Amex, the dispute was settled in 2 days and the check was in the bank in a week. And I disclosed upfront that I applied for a refund. All they asked was the date the cruise was cancelled.

On 5/28/2020 at 7:56 PM, Waquoit said: I had the same experience from Amex, the dispute was settled in 2 days and the check was in the bank in a week. And I disclosed upfront that I applied for a refund. All they asked was the date the cruise was cancelled.

Citibank sent me the reply from NCL stating that I "accepted" the FCC. This really ticked me off as the FCC was applied automatically to 4200 passengers and there was no option to opt out. The refund form wasn't even available for completion until several days later. I know covid is not NCLs fault but at least be up front with your communications. I replied with the above but I'm sure that I will lose. It seems that AMEX might be a better option in the future. 

Still waiting for NCL refund, applied May 7th as soon as allowed. This is off-topic but related. I learned that if a charge that you wish to dispute is made to a card more than recently, as in the case of my airfare and cruise fare, you have to download a statement (Costco Citibank from July, 2019) or ask for a paper copy (Alaska VISA, June & September, 2019), highlight the charges, explain why you are asking for the chargeback, and mail to their processing centers. Our airfare was self-booked with Delta in July, 2019 for our May 16, 2020 Jade trip. After our flight was cancelled by Delta and asking for the refund on Delta website and telephoning Delta (on hold for 55 minutes!), I was told that the refund might be available in 21, 30, or 60 days. On the 30th day, May 28,  I mailed the required paperwork to the Citibank address. On May 29, I received an email stating that the airfare refund had be returned to my card. The money has not appeared as a credit on my card, but I am hopeful! I am waiting for Alaska statements to pursue the NCL refund if 90 days arrive before the refund. 🙂 The NCL travel help was not helpful when the cruise was booked. Have since found a fabulous travel advisor for future cruises. 

1 hour ago, klscaz said:   Citibank sent me the reply from NCL stating that I "accepted" the FCC. This really ticked me off as the FCC was applied automatically to 4200 passengers and there was no option to opt out. The refund form wasn't even available for completion until several days later. 

I agree, that is dirty pool by NCL.

I love Amex Ive had numerous dealings mostly fraud issues in my days of business travel and Amex has always contacted me with the suspicious activities and have always credited the issue right away.

On 5/30/2020 at 8:54 AM, klscaz said:   Citibank sent me the reply from NCL stating that I "accepted" the FCC. This really ticked me off as the FCC was applied automatically to 4200 passengers and there was no option to opt out. The refund form wasn't even available for completion until several days later. I know covid is not NCLs fault but at least be up front with your communications. I replied with the above but I'm sure that I will lose. It seems that AMEX might be a better option in the future. 

I don't understand?  So you accepted the FCC, but I assume that you also applied for a refund when that was available?  All you would have to do is show Citibank your email that NCL agreed to give you a refund.  If they do not process the refund within a reasonable time frame (about 30 days)  after you applied for the refund, then Citibank should have no problem giving you a provisional credit.  I have a Citi card and that worked for me.

We cancelled before final payment and received a complete refund within 20 days . Our CruisNext certificate was refunded within 4 days .

On 5/28/2020 at 8:42 AM, adamnoone said: Citi hasn't uploaded their findings online yet. All it says currently is "Dispute ruled in favor of Vendor, credit reversed". I could call and ask, but dont want to wait on hold for 2 hours. I will check tomorrow to see if the reason has been added

Please keep us updated.  Unless you received a refund from NCL,  I don't see how this is possible?  You paid for a service and you didn't and won't get that service.  Do you have an email that confirms your request for a refund?  Is it possible that you chose the FCC instead?  

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail on Sun Princess®
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 05:58 PM

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 08:03 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 05:30 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 02:28 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...