Can I Change a Passenger Name on a Carnival Cruise Line Cruise?

When planning a dream vacation on the open seas, life doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes, the unexpected happens — a family member can’t travel, a friend decides to join, or someone’s name was entered incorrectly during booking. That’s when many travelers wonder: “Can I change a passenger name on a Carnival Cruise Line cruise?”

The answer is yes, but with important rules, conditions, and potential fees to keep in mind. Carnival Cruise Line does allow passenger name changes, but only within certain limits and timelines. Understanding how this works can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress before you set sail.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about name changes on Carnival cruises — including eligibility, fees, process, restrictions, and practical tips to handle it smoothly.

Understanding Name Changes on Carnival Cruise Line

A passenger name change means updating or replacing a guest’s name on an existing booking. This could happen for two main reasons:

1. Correcting a misspelling or typo (for example, “Jonh” instead of “John”).

2. Replacing one traveler with another (for instance, transferring your spot to a friend or family member).

While the first case is simple and often free, the second involves more rules, as it technically means changing the person traveling — and that can affect documents, pricing, and security information tied to the booking.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Official Policy on Name Changes

Carnival Cruise Line recognizes that name errors or changes happen, but it also follows strict security and booking rules. Their policy allows minor corrections and limited substitutions under specific conditions:

• Minor corrections (e.g., fixing a typo or adjusting initials) are usually free of charge if requested early.

• Full name changes (replacing one person with another) may incur a fee or require rebooking, depending on timing and fare type.

• All name changes must be completed before final documents are issued — usually no later than 72 hours before sailing.

Once the ship’s manifest (passenger list) is finalized, no further changes are allowed.

When You Can Change a Passenger Name

You can request a name change or correction at different stages of your booking. The earlier you act, the better.

Here’s how it typically works:

Before Final Payment

If your cruise balance isn’t fully paid, Carnival usually allows name changes with minimal restrictions.✅ Fee: Often free or small administrative fee (if replacing a passenger).✅ Flexibility: High — you can switch passengers easily.

After Final Payment

Once your booking is paid in full, changes become more complicated.⚠️ Fee: A name change fee may apply (usually between $50 and $150 per person, depending on the case).⚠️ Restrictions: Some fare types (like Early Saver or promotional fares) may not allow passenger substitutions at all.

Within 72 Hours of Departure

At this stage, name changes are rarely accepted. Carnival must finalize its passenger manifest for security and customs clearance. Only small typo fixes (with proof) may be approved.

The Difference Between a Name Correction and a Name Change

It’s crucial to understand the distinction — it affects whether you pay a fee or not.

Name Correction

• Minor spelling fix or typo.

• Example: Changing “Sara” to “Sarah.”

• Usually no cost if done early.

Name Change (Substitution)

• One guest is being replaced with another.

• Example: Replacing “John Doe” with “David Smith.”

• May involve a fee and approval from Carnival.

• Possible re-fare adjustment if cabin occupancy or rates change.

How to Request a Passenger Name Change on Carnival

Carnival makes the process fairly straightforward, though it must be handled carefully to avoid errors.

Here’s the step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Gather Booking Information

Keep your reservation number, sailing date, and ship name ready.

Step 2: Contact Your Booking Source

• If you booked directly through Carnival, contact Carnival’s Customer Service or your online account.

• If you booked via a travel agent or third-party website, contact them directly — Carnival will only process requests through the booking source.

Step 3: Explain the Reason for the Change

Be specific — whether it’s a typo correction or replacing a traveler entirely.

Step 4: Provide Documentation (If Required)

For spelling corrections, no documents may be needed.For full name replacements, the new traveler’s passport or ID details must be provided.

Step 5: Pay Any Applicable Fees

If a substitution fee applies, it must be paid before the change is finalized.

Step 6: Confirm the Updated Booking

Once approved, Carnival or your agent will send an updated confirmation reflecting the new passenger details.

Name Change Fees on Carnival Cruises

The cost of changing a passenger name on Carnival depends on timing and booking type. While there isn’t a flat, universal fee, here’s a general breakdown:

Stage of BookingType of ChangeEstimated FeeNotes

Before Final PaymentSpelling correctionFreeSimple changes only

Before Final PaymentPassenger substitution$0–$50Based on fare conditions

After Final PaymentPassenger substitution$50–$150Subject to approval

Within 72 Hours of SailingAny changeNot permittedManifest already submitted

Keep in mind:

• Promotional fares (like Early Saver) have strict rules — once booked, name changes may not be allowed at all.

• Always confirm with your travel agent or Carnival representative before assuming the change is possible.

Why Carnival Restricts Passenger Name Changes

Cruise lines follow maritime security laws and customs regulations. Every guest’s name, ID, and passport information must match exactly with the cruise manifest and port records.

Allowing open name changes could create issues with:

• Security verification

• Travel insurance coverage

• Visa or document requirements

Hence, Carnival’s policy ensures safety, compliance, and fairness for all passengers.

What Happens After a Name Change

Once your name change is processed:

• The new passenger receives updated cruise documents, including boarding passes.

• The old passenger is removed from the reservation and refund policies (if applicable).

• If the change affects cabin occupancy (for example, going from 3 guests to 2), pricing may adjust accordingly.

Carnival will reissue all relevant travel documents with the new information.

Common Scenarios for Name Changes

Here are real-life examples of when passengers might need to update names — and what to expect:

Scenario 1: Typo in Name

You noticed your last name was misspelled.✅ Carnival will correct it for free if you contact them early.

Scenario 2: Friend Replacing Another

One traveler can’t join, and another is taking their place.⚠️ Expect a name substitution fee. Approval depends on your fare type.

Scenario 3: Legal Name Change

A traveler legally changed their name after booking (e.g., marriage).✅ Provide legal proof (like a marriage certificate), and Carnival will update the name at no cost.

Scenario 4: Last-Minute Correction

You realize a name error 48 hours before sailing.⚠️ Carnival may decline or require urgent documentation; success not guaranteed.

Important Tips for Smooth Name Changes

To avoid stress and extra costs, follow these practical tips:

1. Double-check names immediately after booking.Always review confirmation emails for spelling and ID accuracy.

2. Act early.The earlier you make corrections, the easier and cheaper it will be.

3. Keep documentation handy.Have passports or legal name documents ready before requesting changes.

4. Work through your booking channel.Carnival cannot alter reservations made through third-party sites directly.

5. Understand your fare rules.Some promotional or discounted fares are “non-transferable.”

6. Confirm final approval in writing.Always request an updated confirmation email from Carnival or your agent.

What If the Name Change Isn’t Allowed?

If your booking type doesn’t allow passenger substitution, your only option may be to cancel and rebook.

However, cancellation fees may apply depending on how close you are to sailing:

• 90+ days before departure: Minimal or no fee.

• 60–30 days: Partial refund.

• Less than 30 days: Little to no refund.

Sometimes, travel insurance can help recover costs if cancellation is unavoidable.

Contacting Carnival Cruise Line for Help

If you’re unsure about eligibility or need guidance, reach out to Carnival Guest Services directly.

You can contact them via:

• Phone: (Available on Carnival’s website under “Contact Us”)

• Email: Customer support or Guest Administration Department

• Online Chat: Through the Carnival website or app

For travel-agent bookings, always contact your agent first — they have direct access to your booking file and can make authorized changes.

Name Changes and Travel Documents

Your cruise name must exactly match your government-issued photo ID or passport. Even minor differences can lead to boarding delays.

Before sailing, check that:

• Your name on your cruise documents matches your passport or driver’s license.

• You bring original legal documents if you’ve recently changed your name (e.g., marriage certificate).

Frequently Asked Questions?

Q1: Can I transfer my Carnival cruise ticket to another person?

A: Yes, but only through a name change or substitution request, depending on fare rules and timing.

Q2: How much does a name change cost?

A: Fees vary — minor corrections are free, while full replacements may cost between $50–$150.

Q3: Can I change a passenger’s name after final payment?

A: In some cases, yes, but it depends on the fare type and time before sailing.

Q4: Can I make changes online?

A: Most name changes must be requested through Carnival’s customer service or your travel agent — not online.

Q5: What if I only misspelled one letter in my name?

A: Small typo corrections are free and easy if you contact Carnival early.

Q6: Can I swap passengers in my cabin?

A: Yes, but only before final documents are issued, and a substitution fee may apply.