Planning a cruise with Carnival but need to change a passenger’s name on your reservation? Understanding the Carnival Cruise name change policy ensures a hassle-free experience when updating guest details. Whether it’s due to a misspelling, legal name change, or transferring the booking to someone else, understanding Carnival Cruise’s name change policy is essential.
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Key Points of the Carnival Name Change Policy
Carnival Cruise Line allows name changes under specific conditions, but restrictions apply depending on how close your sailing date is and the type of booking.
- Minor Corrections: Small spelling mistakes can usually be fixed free of charge.
- Major Changes: Replacing a passenger’s name entirely may incur a fee.
- Transferring a Booking: Some reservations allow name transfers to another guest, but this depends on the fare type and timing.
- No Last-Minute Changes: Name changes are typically not permitted within a certain period before departure (often 14-30 days).
Types of Permitted Carnival Name Changes
| Change Type | Allowed? | Fee | Documentation Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spelling correction | Yes | Free | Sometimes |
| First name update | Yes | $50+ | Maybe |
| Last name change | Yes | $50+ | Yes (legal docs) |
| Complete passenger swap | Sometimes | $100+ | Varies |
How to Change a Name on a Carnival Cruise Reservation?
Changing a name on a Carnival Cruise reservation involves a few key steps, depending on the type of booking and fare conditions. Here’s how you can do it:
Online (via Carnival’s Website):
- Log in to your “Manage My Booking“ section.
- Look for the option to “Modify Guest Information.”
- Submit the necessary corrections.
Phone Support:
- Contact Carnival Cruise Line’s customer service at 1-800-CARNIVAL.
- Provide your booking number and request the name change.
Travel Agent:
- If you booked through a travel agency, they can assist with the name change process.
Carnival Cruise Name Change Fee: How Much Does It Cost?
The Carnival Cruise name change fee depends on the type of booking and whether airfare is included. Here’s a breakdown of the fees:
| Type of Change | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Minor spelling correction | Free (if done early) |
| Full name replacement | 50−50−100 per change |
| Third-party booking changes | Varies (travel agent fees may apply) |
⚠️ Note: Fees can vary based on the cruise package and timing. Always confirm with Carnival before proceeding.
How to Avoid Carnival Cruise Name Change Fees?
Here’s a table outlining ways to avoid Carnival Cruise name change fees based on booking types and policies:
| Booking Type | How to Avoid Fees |
|---|---|
| Standard Bookings | Ensure the booking does not include airfare or restricted fares. |
| Restricted Fares | Avoid booking under promotions like Early Saver, Pack & Go, or Super Saver fares. |
| Fly2Fun Flexible Air Bookings | Make name changes outside the penalty period (more than 60 days before sailing). |
| Fly2Fun Restricted Air Bookings | Avoid booking restricted airfare, as it is non-refundable. |
| Legal Name Changes | Provide supporting documentation (e.g., marriage certificate) to waive fees. |
For detailed assistance, contacting Carnival Cruise Line’s Guest Services at 1-800-438-6744 is recommended. Let me know if you’d like further clarification!
Transferring Your Carnival Cruise to Another Person
If you need to give your cruise to someone else:
- Check transfer eligibility with Carnival
- Cancel original booking (may incur fees)
- Have new passenger rebook at current rates
- Pay difference if new fare is higher
Pro Tip: Some Carnival fares allow “name substitutions” instead of full cancellations.
Carnival Cruise Name Change Deadline
- Standard Cutoff: Most name changes must be made at least 30 days before departure.
- Last-Minute Requests: Changes within 14-30 days are rarely approved unless due to legal reasons (e.g., marriage/divorce).
- No Changes at Check-In: Names cannot be altered at the terminal.
Can You Transfer a Carnival Cruise to Another Person?
Yes, but with conditions:
- The original passenger must cancel, and the new guest must rebook (subject to current pricing).
- Some promotions or discounted fares may not allow name transfers.
Check Here: Carnival Cruise Pregnant Policy & Carnival Cruise Cancellation Policy
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Carnival Cruise name change policy ensures a hassle-free experience when updating guest details. Whether correcting an error or transferring a booking, following the correct procedure and checking fare restrictions can help avoid unnecessary fees.
FAQs on Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy
How do I request a Carnival Cruise name change?
You can request a name change by logging into “Manage My Booking” on Carnival’s website, calling 1-800-CARNIVAL, or contacting your travel agent. Minor corrections can often be made online for free.
What is the Carnival Cruise name change policy?
Carnival’s name change policy allows corrections and some passenger substitutions, but changes are typically not permitted within 14-30 days of sailing. Legal name changes require documentation.
Is there a fee to change a name on my Carnival Cruise reservation?
Yes, Carnival Cruise name change fees range from $50 for minor changes to $100+ for complete passenger substitutions. Spelling corrections made soon after booking are often free.
Can I change the passenger name on my Carnival Cruise booking?
Yes, you can change passenger names, but full substitutions may require canceling and rebooking. Some promotional fares don’t allow name transfers.
How late can I make a name change on my Carnival Cruise?
The Carnival Cruise name change deadline is typically 30 days before sailing. Last-minute changes (within 14 days) are rarely approved except for legal name changes with documentation.
What documents are needed for a Carnival Cruise name change?
For legal name changes, you’ll need marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders. Simple spelling corrections usually don’t require documentation.
Can I change the name on my Carnival Cruise after online check-in?
No, Carnival doesn’t permit name changes after online check-in (usually 3 days before sailing). All modifications must be completed before this deadline.
How do I correct a misspelled name on my Carnival Cruise reservation?
Log into your booking online or call Carnival to fix spelling errors. These corrections are often free if made soon after booking.
What’s the Carnival Cruise Line name change policy for group bookings?
Group bookings may have different name change rules. Contact Carnival or your group coordinator, as changes might require canceling and rebooking at current rates.
Can I transfer my Carnival Cruise to someone else?
Yes, but transferring your Carnival Cruise to another person may incur fees ($100+) and require the new passenger to rebook at current prices. Some discounted fares can’t be transferred.