Planning a cruise vacation is exciting, but sometimes unexpected changes arise. If you’re wondering, “Can I change the dates of my Carnival Cruise?”, the answer is yes—but there are specific policies, fees, and deadlines to consider. This guide covers everything you need to know about modifying your Carnival cruise date, including the Carnival change cruise date call number, deadlines, fees, and procedures.
Understanding the Carnival Date Change Flexibility
Carnival’s change policies vary significantly by rate category:
| Fare Type | Change Fee Before Final Payment | Change Policy After Final Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Early Saver | $50 per person | Restricted changes, possible full penalty |
| Past Guest | Usually $0 | Subject to cancellation penalties |
| Pack & Go | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Flexible Rate | $0 | May apply fare difference only |
Can I Change My Carnival Cruise Date?
Yes, Carnival Cruise Line allows passengers to change their cruise dates, but the flexibility depends on your booking type (Early Saver, Past Guest, Flexible Rate, etc.) and how close you are to the sailing date.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility for Date Change | Most fares allow changes up to 75 days before departure. Closer changes may incur fees. |
| Change Methods | Online via “My Reservations” on Carnival’s website. Call 1-800-227-6482. Through a travel agent. |
| Fees Involved | Flexible Fares: No fees if changed within the allowed timeframe. Standard Fares: Fees may apply, especially near departure. |
| Timeframe for Changes | At least 75 days before departure for most fares. Beyond this period, penalties may apply. |
| Linked Arrangements | Flights, excursions, and other linked bookings must be adjusted separately. |
| Availability | Subject to availability on the desired dates. Fare differences may apply. |
Key Factors for Changing Carnival Cruise Dates:
- Booking Type – Some fares (like Early Saver) have stricter change policies.
- Time Before Sailing – Changes are easier (and cheaper) the earlier you make them.
- New Cruise Date – You may need to select a new sailing within a certain timeframe.
Carnival Cruise Date Change Policy
Carnival Cruise Line provides a flexible date change policy to accommodate travelers’ needs. Here’s a detailed overview of their policy:
| Change Deadline | More than 90 days before sailing: Most bookings allow free or low-cost changes. 90 to 56 days before sailing: Changes may incur a fee (typically $50 per person for Early Saver rates). 55 days or less before sailing: Changes may not be allowed, or penalties may apply (up to full cancellation fees). |
| Change Fees | Flexible Fare Rates: Usually allow free changes up to the final payment date. Early Saver & Super Saver Rates: Charge $50 per person for changes made before the final payment due date. After final payment, changes may not be permitted. Past Guest & Other Promotional Rates: Vary—check your booking terms. |
How to Change Your Carnival Cruise Date?
You can modify your cruise date through:
| Call Carnival Customer Service | The easiest way is to call the Carnival change cruise date call number: 1-800-CARNIVAL (1-800-227-6482) A Carnival representative will help you check availability for new dates and process changes. |
| Online via Carnival’s Website | Log in to “Manage My Booking” on Carnival’s website. Select “Modify Booking” and choose a new sailing date. Pay any applicable difference in fare or fees. |
| Contact Your Travel Agent | If you booked through a travel agent, they can assist with date changes (may involve rebooking fees). |
Can I Change My Carnival Cruise to a Different Date Without Penalty?
You can change your Carnival cruise date without penalty, based on different scenarios:
| Scenario | Possible Without Penalty? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Before Final Payment (75-90 days before sailing) | Yes (Most fares) | – Flexible fares: Free changes – Early Saver: $50 fee per person |
| After Final Payment but Before Penalty Phase (56-90 days before sailing) | Sometimes | – Depends on fare type – May incur $50+ fee or fare difference |
| Within Penalty Phase (55 days or less before sailing) | No | – Full cancellation penalties may apply – Possible future cruise credit (varies) |
| With Carnival’s “Cruise with Confidence” Policy (If available) | Yes (Credit only) | – Must cancel before sailing – Receive Future Cruise Credit (no refund) |
| Due to Emergency (With Travel Insurance) | Possible | – Covered reasons only (illness, job loss, etc.) – Requires documentation |
| Military/First Responder Discount Bookings | Case-by-case | – Some waived fees – Must provide proof of eligibility |
Smart Strategies to Minimize Carnival Cruise Change Fees
- The Price Drop Advantage: If your new sailing costs less, Carnival typically issues the difference as future cruise credit rather than refunding.
- Military & Senior Discount Flexibility: Special rate categories often have more lenient change policies – always ask!
- Consider a Name Change Instead: For 50−50−100, you might transfer the booking if you can’t travel versus changing dates.
- Travel Insurance Claims: Covered reasons (illness, job loss) may allow penalty-free changes – keep documentation!
What Carnival Doesn’t Tell You (But You Should Know)
- Weekend vs. Weekday Changes: Customer service wait times are often shorter mid-week
- Wave Season Perk: January-March bookings frequently come with enhanced change flexibility
- Group Booking Exception: Groups of 8+ cabins often negotiate custom change terms
- VIFP Club Benefit: Higher loyalty tiers sometimes get fee waivers
When Carnival Cruise Changing Dates Isn’t Your Best Option
Consider these alternatives if:
- You’re within 30 days of sailing (penalties may exceed 100%)
- You have non-refundable add-ons (drink packages, excursions)
- Airfare changes would cost more than cruise penalties
Your Action Plan for Smooth Carnival Cruise Rescheduling
- Review your booking confirmation for fare rules
- Identify 3 potential alternative dates that work for you
- Calculate total cost impact including:
- Change fees
- Fare differences
- Ancillary costs (air, hotel changes)
- Contact Carnival during business hours for fastest service
Remember: Carnival’s policies can change seasonally. For the absolute latest information before making changes, visit their official Booking Conditions page.
Final Thoughts
If you need to adjust your cruise dates, act as early as possible to avoid fees. For immediate assistance, call the Carnival change cruise date call number (1-800-227-6482) or modify your booking online. By understanding Carnival’s policies, you can smoothly reschedule your cruise and keep your vacation plans on track!
FAQs on Carnival Cruise Date Change
Can I change the dates of my Carnival cruise after booking?
Yes! You can modify your sailing date, but fees apply depending on your fare type and how close you are to departure.
How late can I change my Carnival cruise date?
Changes are allowed up to 48 hours before sailing, but steep penalties apply inside 55 days.
What if I need to change my cruise date last minute?
Options:
Pay cancellation fees (up to 100%)
Claim through travel insurance (if covered)
Request future cruise credit (case-by-case)
Can I change my Carnival cruise date and keep my promotions?
Maybe. Promotions are tied to original booking dates—ask Carnival or your travel agent before changing.
What happens if my new cruise date costs more?
You’ll pay the fare difference. If it’s cheaper, you’ll typically receive the balance as future credit.
Does Carnival offer free date changes for emergencies?
Only with:
Carnival’s travel protection
Documented emergencies (e.g., medical, military orders)
Special policies (e.g., hurricanes)
Can I change my Carnival cruise to a different date without penalty?
Only if:
You have a flexible fare
You’re before final payment
Carnival offers a waiver (e.g., “Cruise with Confidence”)
What’s the Carnival change cruise date call number?
Dial 1-800-CARNIVAL (1-800-227-6482) to speak with a representative about date changes.
Can I change my Carnival cruise date online?
Yes! Log in to Carnival’s website, go to “Manage My Booking,” and select “Modify.”
Is there a fee to change my Carnival cruise date?
It depends:
Flexible fares: Free changes before final payment
Early Saver: $50 per person fee
Within 55 days: Full penalty may apply