Getting a Cruise Refund: What to Expect
Whether you're owed a refund - and how much - comes down to a few factors: how far before the sail date you canceled, what type of fare you booked, and whether the cancellation was your choice or the cruise line's (for example, if a sailing itself was canceled or significantly altered).
If the cruise line canceled your sailing, you're generally entitled to a full refund or a future cruise credit, often with your choice between the two. If you initiated the cancellation, your refund depends on the tiered penalty schedule specific to your cruise line and fare type.
Refunds to the original payment method typically take a few weeks to process once approved, though future cruise credits are often issued faster. If you're waiting on a refund and it's taking longer than expected, call +1-800-406-8495 and we can help track down the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a cruise refund take to process?
Refunds to a credit card typically take a few weeks after approval; future cruise credit is often issued faster, sometimes within days.
Am I entitled to a full refund if the cruise line cancels my sailing?
In most cases, yes - cruise lines typically offer a full refund or future cruise credit, often letting you choose, if they cancel or significantly alter your sailing.
What if I'm not happy with a partial refund I received?
You can typically appeal or ask for a review through the cruise line's guest relations department, though outcomes depend on the specific circumstances and fare terms.
Does travel insurance affect my refund process?
Yes - if you have travel insurance, you may be able to recover costs beyond what the cruise line's own policy refunds, particularly for reasons like illness or emergencies.
Who can help me check on a pending cruise refund?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and our team can help follow up on the status of a pending refund.
How long does a cruise refund typically take to process?
Most refunds to a credit card take 7-14 business days after the cruise line processes the cancellation, though it can occasionally take longer.
Will I get a refund if the cruise line cancels my sailing?
Yes, if the cruise line cancels a sailing, passengers are typically offered a full refund or a future cruise credit, often with an added incentive.
What if I paid by gift card or onboard credit?
Refunds involving gift cards or promotional credit are often returned in the same form rather than as cash, so check your specific booking's terms.
Do I need to request a refund, or is it automatic?
For standard cancellations, refunds are typically processed automatically according to your fare's policy, though it's worth confirming timing with the cruise line or your advisor.
Can travel insurance speed up my refund?
Travel insurance claims run on a separate timeline from the cruise line's own refund process and can sometimes take longer, since they require documentation review.