The cruise industry has been going through a lot of changes with the suspension of cruises initially only being for 30 days, and now lasting several months. The policy with cancellations regarding refunds and future cruise credit with Royal Caribbean depends on when your sailing was cancelled.
Once Royal Caribbean resumes cruise operations on June 12th, there will be a 4 point process which is currently being worked on. They are collaborating with government health authorities, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and a team of medical experts to develop a future boarding screening program and updated health protocols.
Here are the answer to some frequently asked questions regarding Royal Caribbean future cruise credits.
How much of a future cruise credit am I getting?
To account for the inconvenience the cancelled cruises have caused, travelers are eligible for a 125% Future Cruise Credit (FCC). The 125% Onboard Cruise Credit offer window varies depending on when your sailing was suspended. Taxes and fees, as well as any pre-purchased amenities or onboard packages will be automatically refunded to the original form of payment within 45 days from the cancellation date.
The new Onboard Cruise Credit is based on the amount you paid, excluding any previously applied Onboard Cruise Credit, and will be based on a per person value.
- Example: John pays $400 on a Visa card for an excursion priced at $100 per person for his family of four
- Each person’s value is $100
- The new Onboard Cruise Credit issued will be $125 per person
- Example 2: John pays $200 in Onboard Cruise Credit and $200 on his Visa for an excursion for his family of four
- Each person’s value is $50
- The new Onboard Cruise Credit issued will be $63 dollars
There are some great deals for the fall currently as well as for next year. Click to browse Royal Caribbean cruises 2021. If you want to plan ahead, you can currently book several ships through 2022.
Is there an expiration date for my 125% Onboard Credit?
Yes, once issued, you have until April 30, 2022 to apply your Onboard Credit to a sailing that departs on or before September 30, 2022.
How long are my Royal Caribbean Future Cruise Credits good for?
Royal Caribbean future cruise credits are valid 12 months from the original cancelled cruise date (whichever is longer,) and can be used for any open sailings at the time of booking.
Can I change my mind and request a refund after selecting the 125% Onboard Credit?
Yes, you can change your mind and request a refund as long as you are within the Onboard Cruise Credit offer window. Once your Onboard Cruise Credit window closes, your selection is considered final and non-refundable. If you do not opt in for the 125% Onboard Cruise Credit offer, you will receive a full refund of any amounts paid for Cruise Planner purchases to your original payment method within 45 days of your offer window closing. Your refund will automatically begin processing after the Onboard Cruise Credit offer window closes.
Once my 125% Onboard Credit offer is applied to a new booking, is it refundable?
Once the Onboard Cruise Credit is applied to a new booking, it has no cash value and is non-refundable. Any amount you did not use prior to the end of your voyage will not be refunded. Once your Onboard Cruise Credit is applied to a reservation it is considered redeemed. As the Onboard Cruise Credit is non-refundable, we will not be able to reinstate it if you decide to cancel your sailing.
What is Royal Caribbean Cruise with Confidence program?
- Royal Caribbean’s cruise with confidence program now offers even more flexibility! Cruise with Confidence has been extended to allow cancellations up to 48-hours prior to sailing in exchange for a Future Cruise Credit valid to book by on sailings through April 30, 2022, and sail by September 30, 2022
PLUS, bookings made by this date also get…
- NEW! Lift & Shift option
- NEW! Best price guarantee
How do I redeem my Royal Caribbean future cruise credit?
We’ve designed a simple Royal Caribbean future cruise form to get you started.
What is Royal Caribbean’s best price guarantee policy?
Royal Caribbean’s Best Price Guarantee lets you take advantage of a better price up to 48 hours before your sail date. You’ll receive the difference as a non-refundable onboard credit inside final payment, or a rate adjustment outside final payment.
Please note that there are some restrictions. For example if you booked a regular fare, you cannot compare that price to a non-refundable fare.
Don’t worry about having to log in frequently to watch pricing. When you book with us you are automatically signed up for cruise price alerts. Both you and your travel agent will be advised via email if there are any changes in price or your itinerary.
Can I use my Royal Caribbean future cruise credit with a travel agent?
Yes! Many travelers found that they were frustrated with long hold times and handling the details of re-booking or cancelling their cruise vacation. From the time that the coronavirus began to affect the travel industry, we are proud to state that we had travel specialists available 6 days per week with no hold times. Keep in mind that travel agents do not cost you any additional money and you will receive extra amenities by booking with us.
What precautions have been taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while onboard?
We know Royal Caribbean will continue to thoroughly sanitize all terminal and ship access points before and after all sailings. In addition, over and above the normal procedures, they will continue to extensively clean high-traffic areas onboard, including restrooms and public areas. Daily announcements will be made to remind guests to wash their hands often, use recommended coughing etiquette, and report any illness symptoms immediately. Ships will initially sail with less guests and buffets will no longer be self serve. Also, additional medical staff have been added and will provide complimentary medical consultations during each sailing if needed.
We know that passengers over the age of 70 and those with chronic conditions are especially eager to understand what cruising will look like in the future. While subject to change, via the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), we have confirmed that the previous restriction requiring a doctor’s note was lifted in early April after cruise lines suspended service.
The information above is accurate as of March 19th, 2021. Please note that this information Royal Caribbean cruise policies can change at any time for any reason; with or without notice.
