Royal Caribbean revises cancellation penalties for North American guests
The broader penalty windows will cover most new bookings made from October 11, 2026, while some previously released itineraries remain under earlier terms.
Royal Caribbean has updated its cancellation policy for North American guests, combining sailing-length categories and revising the penalties charged when passengers cancel. The structure applies to most new bookings made on or after October 11, 2026.
The revised policy uses fewer, broader cancellation windows. Depending on timing, itinerary length and fare type, Royal Caribbean may retain a larger share of the cruise fare when a guest cancels after final payment and close to departure.
In one cited scenario, a family that paid $4,000 in cruise fare and canceled several weeks after final payment but more than a month before sailing might previously have forfeited about $1,000. Under the new structure, the penalty during a comparable period could reach approximately $2,000, or 50% of the fare.
The updated penalties do not immediately apply to certain 2028 and 2029 voyages that opened for sale under different terms, including some Alaska, Hawaii, Pacific Coastal and Transpacific itineraries. Cancellation penalties are separate from any travel insurance held by a guest.
Royal Caribbean’s published policies also state that a 20% service charge is automatically applied to certain onboard and pre-cruise purchases, including beverages, specialty dining, spa and salon services, room service and minibar items.
