What Is the Cancellation Fee for Carnival Cruise Line?

Carnival Cruise Line offers a range of cancellation policies depending on when you cancel your booking and the type of fare you purchased. Understanding these policies can help you make informed decisions if you need to cancel your cruise.

Standard Cancellation Fees

Carnival's cancellation fees are structured based on the number of days before your scheduled sailing date. The closer you are to the departure date, the higher the penalty:

• Up to 76 days before sailing: Fully refundable, except for non-refundable deposits or certain promotional fares.

• 75–56 days before sailing: Forfeiture of the standard deposit amount.

• 55–30 days before sailing: Forfeiture of 50% of the total fare or the standard deposit amount, whichever is greater.

• 29–15 days before sailing: Forfeiture of 75% of the total fare or the standard deposit amount, whichever is greater.

• 14 days or less before sailing: Forfeiture of 100% of the total fare.

Non-Refundable Deposits and Promotional Fares

If you booked a specific promotion with a non-refundable deposit or cruise price, Carnival's standard cancellation policy may not apply. In such cases, you may not be eligible for a refund. It's essential to review the terms and conditions of the promotion at the time of booking to understand the cancellation policy.

Cancellations Due to Exceptional Circumstances

Carnival Cruise Line may review cancellation requests due to exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or family crises. However, these requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. It's advisable to contact Carnival directly to discuss your situation and provide any necessary documentation.

Booking Through Third Parties

If you booked your cruise through a travel agent or third-party website, the cancellation policy may differ from Carnival's standard terms. In such cases, you should contact the agent or website where you made the booking to understand their specific cancellation policy.

Contacting Carnival for Cancellations

To initiate a cancellation, you can contact Carnival Cruise Line's customer service. It's important to have your booking number ready when you call. Additionally, requesting a cancellation confirmation email or code can help ensure that your cancellation is processed correctly.

Refund Processing Times

If you're eligible for a refund, Carnival typically processes it to the original payment method. Refunds can take several weeks, depending on the payment method used and the nature of the cancellation. It's advisable to monitor your account and contact Carnival if you don't receive your refund within the expected timeframe.

Travel Insurance Considerations

Travel insurance can provide coverage for cancellations due to unforeseen events. If you purchased travel insurance, review the policy to understand what situations are covered and how to file a claim. Keep in mind that travel insurance policies have specific terms and conditions that must be met for coverage.

Future Cruise Credit (FCC) Options

If you're not eligible for a refund, Carnival may offer a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for the value of your canceled cruise. The FCC can be applied to a future cruise booking and typically has an expiration date. Be sure to use the FCC before it expires, as any unused portion is usually forfeited.

Special Circumstances and Exceptions

In certain situations, such as a cruise cancellation by Carnival due to operational reasons or a significant itinerary change, passengers may be eligible for a full refund or alternative compensation. It's important to stay informed about any changes to your cruise itinerary and contact Carnival for clarification on your options.

Staying Informed About Policy Changes

Carnival Cruise Line's cancellation policies may change over time. It's essential to stay informed about any updates to the policy, especially if you're considering booking a cruise or need to cancel an existing reservation. Regularly check Carnival's official website or contact customer service for the most current information.