+1-877-777-6741Planning a cruise vacation is exciting, but sometimes unexpected changes happen. Whether you need to cancel your trip or adjust your bookings, understanding the Princess Cruise refund policy can save you time and stress. Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know about refunds for fares, deposits, excursions, and insurance—so you can cruise with confidence.
Table of Contents
Princess Cruise Refund Policy Overview
Princess Cruises offers flexible refund options, but the specifics depend on factors like:
| Cancellation Period | Refund Amount | Deposit Status | Insurance Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90+ days before sailing | Full refund (except non-refundable deposits) | Refundable deposits returned | No impact on insurance |
| 89-57 days before sailing | Deposit forfeited, balance refunded | Non-refundable deposits kept | Standard coverage applies |
| 56-29 days before sailing | 50% of total fare refunded | All deposits forfeited | CFAR coverage available |
| 28 days or less | No refund (unless insured) | All deposits forfeited | Full claim possible with valid reason |
| After final payment | FCC may be offered | Non-refundable | Insurance determines options |
- The type of booking (standard fare, deposit, excursion, etc.)
- How far in advance you cancel
- Whether you have travel protection
Refund Policy for Princess Cruise Fares
If you cancel your cruise, the refund amount depends on how close your cancellation is to the sailing date:
| Cancellation Timeline | Refund Amount | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 90+ days before sailing | 100% refund | None |
| 89-57 days before sailing | Full refund minus deposit | Deposit forfeited |
| 56-29 days before sailing | 50% of total fare | 50% penalty |
| 28-15 days before sailing | 25% of total fare | 75% penalty |
| 14 days or less | No refund | 100% penalty |
Note: Some promotions or fares may have stricter cancellation rules, so always check your booking terms.
Princess Cruise Deposit Refund Policy
Most deposits are refundable if canceled outside the penalty period (typically 90+ days before sailing). However:
| Standard Refundable Deposits | Non-Refundable Deposits | Special Cases |
| Typically $100-$400 per person Fully refundable if cancelled before final payment date Common on most regular fare categories | Often part of limited-time promotions Immediately forfeited upon cancellation May come with perks like onboard credit | Suite deposits often higher ($500+ per person) World Cruises have unique deposit requirements |
If you booked with a refundable deposit, you’ll get your money back if you cancel early enough.
Princess Cruise Excursion Refund Policy
Shore excursions can be canceled for a full refund under certain conditions:
| Standard Excursion Cancellations | Specialty Experiences |
| 5+ days pre-cruise: Full refund Within 4 days: No refund (unless cancelled by Princess) Medical emergencies: May qualify for exception with documentation | Private tours and cabanas often have stricter policies (sometimes 30-day cancellation) Dining packages typically follow the 5-day rule Spa services may require 24-48 hour notice |
Smart Cruiser Tip: Book popular excursions early but mark your calendar to review and cancel unwanted ones before the penalty period.
Princess Cruise Insurance Refund Policy
If you purchased Princess Vacation Protection, you may be eligible for a refund under certain circumstances:
| Insurance Premium Refunds | Covered Reasons for Cancellation | Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage |
| Fully refundable if cancelled within 10-14 days of purchase (varies by state) After review period, premiums are generally non-refundable | Illness/injury (with physician’s note) Family emergencies Job loss (specific conditions apply) Military deployment | Must cancel at least 2 days before sailing Provides 75-90% future cruise credit Doesn’t include insurance premium in refund |
Important: Insurance refunds depend on the policy terms, and premiums are usually non-refundable after a set period.
Princess Cruise Group Booking Refund Policy
Group travel (typically 8+ cabins) has unique considerations:
- Deposit requirements often higher
- Cancellation timelines may differ from individual bookings
- Group space typically held until 6-9 months before sailing
- Final payment usually due 90-120 days out
Group Leader Advice: Negotiate customized cancellation terms when possible, especially for large groups.
How to Request a Princess Cruise Refund?
Follow this process for smoothest refund experience:
- Review Your Booking Details
- Confirm Princess Cruises Cancellation penalties
- Check insurance coverage
- Submit Cancellation
- Online via Cruise Personalizer
- Through travel agent (if applicable)
- By phone with Princess directly
- Document Everything
- Get cancellation confirmation number
- Save all email correspondence
- Note representative names/dates
- Track Your Refund
- Credit card: Allow 7-14 business days
- Checks: May take 4-6 weeks
- FCCs: Typically issued within 14 days
- Follow Up If Needed
- Wait at least 15 business days before inquiring
- Have booking number and cancellation details ready
Processing times vary, but refunds typically take 7-14 business days for credit card payments.
What If My Princess Cruise Refund Is Delayed?
While most refunds process within 7-14 days, delays can happen due to high demand or payment method differences.
- Credit card refunds – Usually appear in 1-2 billing cycles.
- Bank transfers – May take longer (up to 30 days).
- Travel agent bookings – The refund may go through your agent first.
If your refund hasn’t arrived within the expected timeframe:
- Check your booking confirmation for accuracy.
- Contact Princess Cruises or your travel agent for updates.
- Monitor your bank/credit card statements before disputing charges.
Additional Considerations for Princess Cruise Refunds
| Group Booking Refunds | If you’ve booked as part of a group, cancellation policies may differ. Group contracts often have unique terms, so check with your group coordinator or travel agent for specific refund conditions. |
| Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) vs. Refunds | In some cases, instead of a cash refund, Princess Cruises may offer Future Cruise Credits (FCCs). These credits can be applied toward a new booking and often come with extended validity. FCCs are typically issued when: Princess cancels or modifies a sailing. You cancel with “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance. There’s a significant itinerary change. |
| COVID-19 & Other Exceptional Circumstances | During unforeseen events (like pandemics or natural disasters), Princess Cruises may introduce temporary flexible policies, such as: Enhanced refund options Extended cancellation windows Bonus FCCs for voluntary cancellations |
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Princess Cruise refund policy ensures you can book your dream vacation with peace of mind. Whether you’re canceling a fare, modifying an excursion, or exploring insurance options, knowing the rules helps you maximize flexibility and minimize financial risk.
FAQs on Princess Cruise Refund Policy
What is the Princess Cruise refund policy for cancelled bookings?
The Princess Cruise refund policy follows a tiered system: Full refunds are available if cancelled 90+ days before sailing, with increasing penalties closer to departure (50% at 56-29 days, no refund within 28 days unless insured).
How does the refund policy for Princess Cruise deposits work?
Most deposits are refundable if cancelled before the final payment date (typically 90+ days out). However, non-refundable deposits (common with promotions) are forfeited upon cancellation.
What is the Princess Cruise line refund policy for excursions?
The Princess Cruise excursion refund policy allows full refunds if cancelled 5+ days pre-cruise. Within 4 days or after boarding, refunds are only given if Princess cancels the activity.
Can I get a refund under the Princess Cruise insurance refund policy?
Yes, with Princess Vacation Protection, you may qualify for refunds for covered reasons (illness, job loss) or a partial future cruise credit with “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage.
Are there fees under the Princess Cruise refund policy?
Yes, cancellation fees apply based on timing:
89–57 days: Lose deposit
56–29 days: 50% penalty
28 days or less: No refund (unless insured).
How long do refunds take under the Princess Cruise refund policy?
Refunds typically process in 7–14 business days for credit cards, but may take longer for bank transfers or mailed checks.
Does the Princess Cruise deposit refund policy apply to group bookings?
Group bookings may have unique terms. Deposits are often higher, and cancellation timelines may differ—check your group contract or consult your travel agent.
What if Princess cancels my cruise? Will I get a refund?
If Princess cancels, you’ll receive a full refund or the option for future cruise credit (FCC). This applies to fares, excursions, and prepaid packages.
How do I request a refund under the Princess Cruise refund policy?
Cancel online via your Cruise Personalizer account, call Princess directly (800-PRINCESS), or work with your travel agent. Always get a confirmation number.
Does the Princess Cruise insurance refund policy cover COVID-19?
Standard insurance may cover COVID-related cancellations if you test positive before sailing. For the latest terms, check Princess’ Cruise Health FAQs or your policy details.