Fuel surcharge policies vary among major Port Canaveral cruise lines
A travel agent says passenger costs and onboard offerings may depend on company policies and fuel purchasing schedules.
Travel agent Geraldine Blanchard said the possibility of passengers facing fuel surcharges varies according to each cruise line’s policy. Blanchard has worked as a travel agent for three decades and has owned Global Tours & Travel for more than 20 years.
Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are identified as the three major cruise operators sailing from Port Canaveral. According to Blanchard, Carnival and Disney do not impose fuel surcharges on their cruises.
Royal Caribbean’s policy, however, reserves the company’s right to assess fuel charges under the contract signed by each passenger. The policy does not mean a charge will necessarily be applied, but it allows for one under the passenger agreement.
Blanchard also said the timing of cruise companies’ fuel purchases could result in adjustments involving dining, additional amenities or onboard credit when prices increase. She estimated that cruise ships can consume about 200,000 gallons of diesel fuel per day.