Understanding Cruise Cancellations: A Guide to Carnival’s Policy
Cruise cancellations can be a stressful experience, but knowing the ins and outs of Carnival’s cancellation policy can help minimize the financial impact. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
*Cancellation Policy Overview*
Carnival Cruise Line’s cancellation policy varies depending on the length of your cruise and the timing of your cancellation. The policy is divided into two main categories: 2-5 day cruises and 6-day or longer cruises.
*2-5 Day Cruises*
– *Up to 76 days before departure*: Fully refundable, no charges (except for fares with non-refundable payments)
– *75-56 days before departure*: Partially refundable, deposit charge
– *55-30 days before departure*: Partially refundable, deposit or 50% of total fare, whichever is greater
– *29-15 days before departure*: Partially refundable, deposit or 75% of total fare, whichever is greater
– *14 days or less before departure*: Non-refundable, 100% of total fare
*6-Day or Longer Cruises*
– *Up to 91 days before departure*: Fully refundable, no charges (except for fares with non-refundable payments)
– *90-56 days before departure*: Partially refundable, deposit charge
– *55-30 days before departure*: Partially refundable, deposit or 50% of total fare, whichever is greater
– *29-15 days before departure*: Partially refundable, deposit or 75% of total fare, whichever is greater
– *14 days or less before departure*: Non-refundable, 100% of total fare
*Important Notes*
– *Total Fare*: Includes cruise fare, transfer services, pre/post cruise vacation packages, and air supplements (excluding restricted air)
– *Non-Refundable Deposits*: Certain promotional fares may include non-refundable deposits
– *Future Cruise Credit*: If you cancel before final payment due date, you may receive a non-transferable future cruise credit
– *Trip Cancellation Insurance*: Highly recommended to cover unforeseen events, including COVID-19 related cancellations
*How to Cancel Your Cruise*
– *Travel Agent*: Contact your travel agent directly for cancellation
– *Online Cancellation*: Log in to your account on Carnival’s website to cancel your cruise
– *Customer Service*: Reach out to Carnival’s customer service team for assistance
*Tips to Minimize Cancellation Fees*
– *Book Early*: Cancel well in advance to avoid steep cancellation fees
– *Travel Insurance*: Purchase insurance to cover costs related to cancellations
– *Rebooking*: Consider rebooking instead of canceling to minimize fees¹ ²