Planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean but need to change a name on your booking? Whether it’s due to a typo, legal name change, or transferring the reservation to someone else, understanding the Royal Caribbean name change policy is essential. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including the Royal Caribbean name change fee, time restrictions, and step-by-step procedures.

Table of Contents
Can You Change a Name on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?
Yes, Royal Caribbean allows name changes under certain conditions. However, the policy varies depending on how close your sailing date is and whether you’ve made the final payment. Here’s a concise table whether and how you can change a name on a Royal Caribbean cruise, along with key details:
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Name Change Time Period | Up to 72 hours before the cruise begins for individual bookings; specific deadlines for group bookings. |
Procedure | Contact Royal Caribbean directly or work with your travel advisor. Provide necessary documentation. |
Fees | Name change fees may apply, especially for airfare booked through Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea program. |
Methods | Name changes can be processed through customer service, online reservation management, or travel advisors. |
Name Changes After Final Payment | Allowed if at least one original guest remains on the reservation. |
Required Documentation | Government-issued ID and legal documents (if applicable). |
Airfare Considerations | Separate airline fees may apply for name changes involving flights booked through Air2Sea. |
Royal Caribbean Name Change Time Restrictions
When it comes to changing names on your Royal Caribbean cruise booking, timing is everything. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the critical time restrictions you should be aware of:
Time Before Sailing | Change Possibility | Fees | Special Conditions |
---|---|---|---|
90+ days | Full flexibility | 0−0−50 | Easiest time for changes |
30-89 days | Limited changes | 50−50−100 | Documentation required |
15-29 days | Restricted changes | $100+ | Only 1 name change allowed |
7-14 days | Emergency changes only | $150+ | Must call special services |
0-6 days | No changes permitted | N/A | Boarding may be denied |
- Before Final Payment: Name changes are generally easier and may be allowed with minimal or no fee.
- After Final Payment: Changes are more restrictive and may incur fees or require special approval.
- Within 48-72 Hours of Sailing: Most name changes are not permitted due to security and documentation requirements.
What Happens If You Miss the Royal Caribbean Name Change Deadline?
If you’re past the name change cutoff:
- Minor mismatches (like middle initials): May be allowed to board with two forms of ID
- Significant differences: Risk being denied boarding
- Last-minute options:
- Contact Royal Caribbean’s emergency resolution team
- Present documentation at check-in (not guaranteed)
- Purchase new last-minute tickets if available
Pro Tip: Always verify name spellings match your passport exactly when booking to avoid these stressful situations.
Royal Caribbean Name Change Fee
The Royal Caribbean name change fee depends on when the modification is made:
Change Type | Before Final Payment | After Final Payment | Documentation Required |
---|---|---|---|
Minor Spelling Correction | 0−0−25 | 25−25−50 | Government ID |
Legal Name Change | $0 | $50 | Court/Marriage Certificate |
Single Passenger Replacement | $50 | 100−100−200 | Original Passenger Authorization |
Multiple Name Changes | $100+ | $200+ | Case-by-Case Approval |
Group Booking Changes | $25 per name | $50 per name | Group Coordinator Approval |
- No Fee (Before Final Payment): Minor corrections (e.g., spelling errors) may be free.
- $50 – $100 Per Change (After Final Payment): Significant name changes or substitutions may incur a fee.
- Full Fare Difference (If Applicable): If the new passenger’s rate is higher, you’ll need to pay the difference.
How to Change a Name on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?
Follow these steps for a smooth name change on Royal Caribbean:
Method 1:
Online via Royal Caribbean’s Website

- Log in to your Royal Caribbean account.
- Navigate to “My Cruises” and select your booking.
- Click “Modify Guest Information” and enter the correct details.
- Submit changes and check for any applicable fees.
Method 2:
Contact Royal Caribbean Directly
- Phone: Call Royal Caribbean’s customer service at 1-866-562-7625.
- Travel Agent: If you booked through an agent, they must handle the name change.
Method 3
At the Port (Limited Cases)
- Minor corrections (like spelling errors) may be adjusted at check-in with proper ID.
Documentation Requirements for Royal Caribbean Cruise Name Change
Be prepared to provide:
- For spelling corrections: Passport or government ID
- For legal name changes: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
- For passenger substitutions: Signed authorization from original passenger
Royal Caribbean Name Change After Final Payment
Changing a name after final payment is more restrictive:
- Only one name per booking can usually be changed.
- The original passenger may need to remain on the reservation.
- Documentation (like marriage certificates or legal name change proof) may be required.
Why is the Royal Caribbean Name Change Policy Important?
Cruise vacations often involve extensive planning and coordination, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group. The Royal Caribbean name change policy ensures that travelers have the flexibility to address changes in personal circumstances, such as:
- Correcting typographical errors in the booking.
- Substituting a guest due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Addressing legal name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons.
By providing options for name changes, Royal Caribbean helps passengers avoid unnecessary stress and ensures smooth sailing for everyone on board.
Key Considerations for Royal Caribbean Name Changes
When planning a name change on your Royal Caribbean booking, keep the following in mind:
- Documentation Accuracy: The name on your cruise ticket must match your government-issued ID and any travel documentation (e.g., passport, visa). Mismatched names can lead to issues during check-in or even denial of boarding.
- Airfare Changes: If your booking includes airfare through Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea program, additional charges may apply for name changes. Airlines often have their own policies and fees, which must be addressed separately.
- Group Bookings: For group reservations, changes must comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the group contract. This often includes specific deadlines for name changes.
- Time Sensitivity: While Royal Caribbean offers flexibility, last-minute changes may be challenging to process. It’s best to initiate the change as soon as you become aware of the need.
Tips for a Smooth Royal Caribbean Name Change Process
To ensure a hassle-free experience when changing a name on your Royal Caribbean reservation, consider these tips:
- Double-Check Details: Review all details of your booking confirmation as soon as you receive it. Catching errors early can save time and money.
- Communicate Promptly: Whether you booked directly or through a travel advisor, notify the relevant party as soon as possible to initiate the name change process.
- Understand the Fees: Be aware of any fees associated with the name change and plan accordingly. If you’re substituting a guest, discuss cost-sharing arrangements with your travel companions.
- Keep Records: Retain copies of all correspondence and receipts related to the name change for your records.
Visit Here: Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Royal Caribbean name change policy ensures a hassle-free cruise experience. Whether you need a minor correction or a full passenger substitution, acting early and following the correct procedures will save time and money.
FAQs on Royal Caribbean Name Change Policy
What is the Royal Caribbean name change policy for cruise bookings?
Royal Caribbean allows name changes with certain restrictions. Minor corrections (like spelling errors) are often free, while passenger replacements may incur fees. Changes are typically permitted until 48-72 hours before sailing.
How much is the Royal Caribbean name change fee?
Fees range from $0 for minor corrections to $100+ for full passenger replacements after final payment. Legal name changes with documentation typically cost $50.
Can I change a name on my Royal Caribbean cruise after final payment?
Yes, but changes after final payment are more restrictive (usually only one name per booking) and cost $50-$100. The original passenger may need to remain on the reservation.
How do I change a name on my Royal Caribbean cruise ticket?
You can:
Modify it online via “My Cruises”
Call customer service (1-866-562-7625)
Contact your travel agent
Spelling corrections may be adjusted at check-in with proper ID.
What’s the deadline for a Royal Caribbean name change before sailing?
Most changes must be made at least 3 days pre-cruise. Within 48-72 hours, changes are rarely permitted due to security protocols.
Can I transfer my Royal Caribbean booking to someone else?
Yes, but it may be treated as a cancellation/rebooking. Fees apply ($100+ after final payment), and the new passenger must pay current fare rates.
What documents are needed for a Royal Caribbean name change?
Spelling corrections: Government ID
Legal name changes: Marriage certificate/court order
Passenger replacements: Signed authorization from original guest
Does Royal Caribbean allow middle name additions or corrections?
Yes, middle name adjustments are usually free if made before final payment. Ensure it matches your passport to avoid boarding issues.
Is there a way to avoid Royal Caribbean name change fees?
Make changes early (before final payment)
Use Diamond status perks (1 free change/year)
Purchase the “Name Assurance” program ($49 for unlimited changes)
What if my name is wrong on my Royal Caribbean boarding pass?
Minor mismatches (like missing middle initials) may not prevent boarding, but significant errors require correction. Contact Royal Caribbean immediately or visit the port agent with documentation.
Can I change the name of a passenger on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Yes, name changes are allowed, but there are restrictions. Typically, name changes can be made up to 60 days before departure, depending on the booking type.
Does Royal Caribbean charge for name changes?
Royal Caribbean does not charge for name changes in most cases, but policies may vary depending on the fare type and how close the departure date is.
How late can you change a name on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Name changes are generally permitted up to 72 hours before the cruise begins, but this may depend on the specific booking.
Can I change a guest on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
Yes, you can swap out passengers, but at least one original name must remain on the booking to keep the pricing intact.