How Do I Change a Name on a Princess Cruises Cruise Reservation?

Changing a name on a Princess Cruises reservation is a common request among travelers. Plans shift, schedules change, and sometimes the person originally listed on a booking can no longer travel. Fortunately, Princess Cruises does allow name changes on reservations, but the process, fees, and restrictions vary depending on the timing and the type of modification being made. Understanding these rules ensures a smoother transition and helps avoid last-minute surprises or unexpected costs.

This guide breaks down every aspect of changing a name on a Princess cruise reservation—from allowable changes to necessary steps, documentation requirements, deadlines, and special considerations.

Eligibility and Requirements for Name Changes

Princess Cruises considers name changes part of their broader reservation modification policy. The cruise line is fairly flexible early in the booking process but becomes increasingly strict as the departure date approaches. This is primarily due to security, compliance, and manifest requirements mandated by international regulations.

When Name Changes Are Allowed

Name changes are generally permitted up until the final stages of preparation for a cruise. However, the type of name change matters.

Simple Corrections

These include:

• Spelling mistakes

• Typographical errors

• Reversing first and last names

• Adjustments to match passport formatting

Such corrections are usually free and can be made at any time before sailing.

Full Name Substitutions

This refers to replacing one passenger with a new traveler. Substitutions are allowed, but only when certain conditions are met:

• Must be completed before the final manifest deadline

• Fees may apply depending on timing

• Fresh traveler information and documents must be submitted

Substitutions are more restricted the closer you get to the cruise date.

When Name Changes Become Difficult or Denied

Princess Cruises follows strict international security rules. Because passenger lists must be provided to authorities prior to sailing, names cannot be altered at the last moment.

Common Reasons for Denial

• Attempting a change within 72 hours of departure

• Changing the lead passenger after final payment (may require cancellation)

• Adding or substituting minors without proper authorization

• Incomplete or invalid travel documents for the new passenger

The earlier the change is requested, the more likely it will be approved.

Steps to Change a Name on a Princess Cruises Reservation

The process of changing a passenger name on a Princess reservation is straightforward if done early and with the proper information. The steps vary slightly depending on whether the reservation was booked through Princess directly or via a travel advisor.

Contacting the Appropriate Booking Channel

The first step is always to go through the original booking source.

If You Booked Directly with Princess Cruises

You can request a name change by:

• Calling Princess Cruises reservations

• Logging into your Princess account and requesting support

• Using the online chat feature to initiate the modification

A representative will guide you through the process.

If You Booked Through a Travel Advisor

Travel agents have full control over reservation modifications.

• Contact your advisor directly

• Provide updated traveler information

• Allow them to relay details to the cruise line

Princess will not modify a reservation directly if it was handled by a third party.

Providing Required Passenger Information

To process a name change, you must provide complete details for the new or corrected passenger.

Information You Will Need

• Full legal name (matching passport)

• Gender

• Date of birth

• Address and contact information

• Passport number and expiry date (if already available)

• Special accommodations or preferences

Changes may not be finalized until Princess receives all required details.

Confirming Fees and Payment

Depending on the timing of your request, a fee may be applied. You will need to:

• Approve the change

• Authorize payment

• Review updated documents

Once the payment is complete, the modification will move forward.

Fees, Deadlines, and Timing for Name Changes

Princess Cruises’ name change rules differ depending on the stage of the booking. Understanding deadlines helps you avoid unnecessary costs or denied requests.

Fees for Name Changes

Name change fees are not fixed—they vary depending on timing and the type of modification.

When Fees Are Typically Waived

• Spelling or minor corrections

• Early changes before final payment

• Adjustments that do not affect fares or cabin categories

Many travelers complete early adjustments without paying a fee.

Situations That Usually Incur a Fee

• Full passenger substitutions

• Changes after final payment

• Last-minute modifications within a few weeks of sailing

• Name changes on promotional or restricted fare types

Fees can range depending on the itinerary and region.

Deadlines for Name Changes

Deadlines are strict, especially near departure.

General Name Change Timeframes

• Before final payment: most changes allowed, often free

• After final payment: changes allowed, but a fee may apply

• Within 72 hours of departure: changes typically not allowed

These deadlines may vary by destination, especially for cruises visiting countries with tight security procedures.

Additional Considerations for International Sailings

Certain itineraries require passenger information well in advance.

More Restricted Name Change Windows

• Australia/New Zealand voyages

• Europe cruises with strict manifest rules

• Asia or Alaska cruises with sensitive border controls

For these sailings, substitutions may be denied earlier than the standard timeframe.

Special Situations and Documentation Requirements

Name changes sometimes require extra steps, especially when minors, married travelers, or legally changing names are involved.

Changing the Lead Passenger

The lead passenger is the primary account holder for the booking. Changing this role is more complex because it affects:

• Payments

• Contracts

• Room assignments

• Travel protection policies

When a Lead Passenger Change Is Allowed

• Before final payment

• When the new lead passenger assumes full financial responsibility

After final payment, a cancellation and rebooking may be required.

Minors and Family Bookings

Changing the name of a minor requires additional documentation.

Required Documents May Include

• Birth certificates

• Notarized travel consent

• Proof of guardianship

Princess is strict about child-related changes to comply with international child travel laws.

Legal Name Changes

If the traveler has undergone a legal name change, Princess may require:

• Marriage certificate

• Divorce decree

• Court-issued name change document

Providing these promptly prevents issues at embarkation.

Travel Insurance Considerations

If you bought travel insurance, make sure the name matches your reservation.

Reasons to Update Insurance

• Claims may be denied if names do not match

• Policies may need reissuance after passenger substitution

Your insurer may apply additional rules or fees.

Updating Your Travel Documents After Name Change

Once Princess processes the change, updated documents will appear in your account.

Items That Will Be Updated

• Cruise confirmation

• Boarding pass

• Luggage tags

• Travel summary