royal caribbean cruise planner refund

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What kind of refund am I entitled to if I cancel my cruise booking?

Select fare programs require the payment at the time of booking of a nonrefundable deposit. That deposit amount shall not be refunded at any time after it has been paid. Change fees will apply to bookings for which the deposit is nonrefundable.

Cancellation of Cruise or CruiseTour

Cruises that are cancelled prior to the sail date, and CruiseTours that are cancelled prior to the first day of the CruiseTour, may be subject to a cancellation charge. The amount of the cancellation charge shall be determined as shown in the table below and shall vary depending on how far in advance of the sail date (or first day of the CruiseTour) the Operator receives notice of cancellation.

FOR 1 TO 5 NIGHT CRUISES

(including Holiday sailings)

IF CANCELLATION IS MADE, THE FOLLOWING CANCELLATION CHARGES APPLY:

75 days or more prior to the first day of the Cruise: No charge

74 to 60 days: Deposit amount

59 to 30 days: 50% of total price

29 to 15 days: 75% of total price

14 days or less: 100% of total price (No refund)

FOR 6 TO 9 NIGHTS CRUISES

(including Holiday sailings and Cruisetours)

90 days or more prior to the first day of the Cruise: No charge

89 to 75 days: Deposit amount

74 to 45 days: 50% of total price

44 to 15 days: 75% of total price

FOR 10 TO 14 NIGHTS CRUISES

74 to 61 days: 50% of total price

60 to 31 days: 75% of total price

30 days or less: 100% of total price (No refund)

FOR 15 NIGHTS OR LONGER CRUISES

120 days or more prior to the first day of the Cruise: No charge

119 to 61 days: Deposit Amount

60 to 41 days: 50% of total price

40 to 25 days: 75% of total price

24 days or less: 100% of total price (No refund)

In the event of a cancellation of a Cruise or CruiseTour, any applicable Taxes/Fees or Fuel Supplement charges shall be refunded.

Cancellation notices are effective when received by the Operator.

For Passengers who have booked a CruiseTour and desire to cancel their tour portion while retaining the Cruise, refunds of the CruiseTour Fare (including any applicable supplement charges) shall be made in accordance with the following cancellation policy. Guests who convert their CruiseTours to a cruise only booking within forty-two (42) days of the start date of the tour segment of the CruiseTour will be subject to a cancellation charge. The amount of that charge varies depending on the location of the CruiseTour and/or its length.

The cancellation charge policies set forth above vary for single occupancy or for the third, fourth or higher occupants in a stateroom or for groups. Consult your travel advisor or call Royal Caribbean for further details.

Cancellation by the Passenger after the Cruise or CruiseTour has begun, early disembarkation of the Passenger for any reason, including pursuant to any provision of this Ticket Contract, or “no-shows” shall be without refund, compensation, or liability on the part of the Carrier whatsoever.

If Carrier received payment via credit card, the refund will be made to that credit card. If Carrier received payment from your travel advisor, the refund will be provided back to that travel advisor.

Carrier reserves the right to offer promotional cruise fares or other offers that may modify the cancellation policies set forth above.

For cancellations of air flights, hotel stays, transfer services, shore excursions, pre-purchased amenities, Royal Caribbean Travel Protection ProgramSM, pre-booked services (such as spa, photography or wedding services) and pre-booked arrangements such as specialty dining, see the applicable terms and conditions for any applicable cancellation charges.

Non-Refundable Deposit Fares

Outside of final payment, when a non-refundable deposit cancellation occurs, the full deposit amount will be held in penalty. Any additional payments made will be refunded.

Should you choose to change your original ship and/or sail date, if you booked directly with us, please contact our Consumer Outreach team where a representative will assist in making the desired changes, while also applying the qualifying change fee(s) and collecting payment, if not already done so. If you booked via a travel advisor, please contact them for any booking changes.

Refunds for Delayed Sailings or Sailings Cancelled by Royal Caribbean

If we cancel a voyage, or delay embarkation by three (3) days or more and you elect not to sail on the delayed voyage or a substitute voyage we offer, you can obtain a refund or a future cruise credit (FCC). Although our practice is to issue a future cruise credit automatically, you may instead contact us to request a refund. Refund requests must be made within six (6) months of the date the cruise was cancelled or the scheduled embarkation date, whichever is earlier.

Please note this policy does not apply to guests booked on chartered sailings. If you were booked on a chartered sailing that was canceled or embarkation was delayed by three (3) or more days, and you wish to inquire about refunds or future credits, you must contact the third party reseller that sold you the cruise.

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• Royal Caribbean International

Cruiseplanner cancellation refund issue

By Jussnskip , May 15, 2019 in Royal Caribbean International

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I cancelled drink package that had been purchased on my visa card on April 11. Hadnt received refund so I emailed May 8 and heard nothing so i rang May 13 to be told my cancelled  package had been refunded to an American Express card and maybe my TA. I told operator i do not hold an American Express card and she argued with me and saying drink package was purchased on it and would not accept that this was incorrect would not put me through to a supervisor. I was really upset as its over 2k they have refunded to someone else and basically told me i had to ssort it out myself. I looked in docs and it clearly states that funds are to be returned to card purchased on. Someone has really mucked up here. It turns out my TA had some of the funds which have just been returned to me but i am still missing over $500. I cant beleive this is happening. I have requested an investigation as to how this occurred. Has this happened to you? Should i get any compensation?

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1 minute ago, Jussnskip said: I cancelled drink package that had been purchased on my visa card on April 11. Hadnt received refund so I emailed May 8 and heard nothing so i rang May 13 to be told my cancelled  package had been refunded to an American Express card and maybe my TA. I told operator i do not hold an American Express card and she argued with me and saying drink package was purchased on it and would not accept that this was incorrect would not put me through to a supervisor. I was really upset as its over 2k they have refunded to someone else and basically told me i had to ssort it out myself. I looked in docs and it clearly states that funds are to be returned to card purchased on. Someone has really mucked up here. It turns out my TA had some of the funds which have just been returned to me but i am still missing over $500. I cant beleive this is happening. I have requested an investigation as to how this occurred. Has this happened to you? Should i get any compensation?

If your TA had most of your refund, then she should have it all.  Have you asked your TA if it was her American Express your money was refunded to?  If so then she would ahh the rest of your money....

not-enough-cruising

My first question is ,”why is your travel agent booking your drink package with their own credit card?” 

I’d be looking for a new TA

Also I have always found it easier to book cruise planner products on my own (and I do use a TA)

4 minutes ago, not-enough-cruising said: My first question is ,”why is your travel agent booking your drink package with their own credit card?”    I’d be looking for a new TA   Also I have always found it easier to book cruise planner products on my own (and I do use a TA)

Best guess would be to rack up credit card points or miles. If your TA has some of it, they definitely have all of it.

awestover89

There's definitely something sketchy going on with your TA, I would follow up with them directly. 

Ask them to send you a copy of the cancelation summary email.  It will show how the refund was processed.  Like the others have said, it sounds like the issue is with the TA, not Royal.

Mr. Candyman

35 minutes ago, Jussnskip said: I cancelled drink package that had been purchased on my visa card on April 11. Hadnt received refund so I emailed May 8 and heard nothing so i rang May 13 to be told my cancelled  package had been refunded to an American Express card and maybe my TA. I told operator i do not hold an American Express card and she argued with me and saying drink package was purchased on it and would not accept that this was incorrect would not put me through to a supervisor. I was really upset as its over 2k they have refunded to someone else and basically told me i had to ssort it out myself. I looked in docs and it clearly states that funds are to be returned to card purchased on. Someone has really mucked up here. It turns out my TA had some of the funds which have just been returned to me but i am still missing over $500. I cant beleive this is happening. I have requested an investigation as to how this occurred. Has this happened to you? Should i get any compensation?

I get that the TA is somewhat involved but my question is, if it's supposed to go back to the original card (Visa) used for purchase how would the TA manipulate the system to get it refunded on an Amex?  Was the drink package purchased on your behalf by your TA or did you do it yourself through cruise planner/calling RCI?  The reason I ask is can't the charges be disputed  with the proof being your statement showing the purchase and no refund being showing on a statement?  Dispute the charge and let your credit card company contact and deal with RCI.     

Hi, i purchased it on my card. The TA knew nothing about it and RCI have not abided by their own policy. The funds should have been returned to my credit card.

35 minutes ago, not-enough-cruising said: My first question is ,”why is your travel agent booking your drink package with their own credit card?”    I’d be looking for a new TA   Also I have always found it easier to book cruise planner products on my own (and I do use a TA)

I purchased drink package thru cruiseplanner on MY credit card, the issue is RCI have decided to refund to other places for some unknown reason

44 minutes ago, Jussnskip said: I cancelled drink package that had been purchased on my visa card on April 11. Hadnt received refund so I emailed May 8 and heard nothing so i rang May 13 to be told my cancelled  package had been refunded to an American Express card and maybe my TA. I told operator i do not hold an American Express card and she argued with me and saying drink package was purchased on it and would not accept that this was incorrect would not put me through to a supervisor. I was really upset as its over 2k they have refunded to someone else and basically told me i had to ssort it out myself. I looked in docs and it clearly states that funds are to be returned to card purchased on. Someone has really mucked up here. It turns out my TA had some of the funds which have just been returned to me but i am still missing over $500. I cant beleive this is happening. I have requested an investigation as to how this occurred. Has this happened to you? Should i get any compensation?

Sorry i should add that i purchased thru cruiseplanner, nothing at all to do with TA.

5 minutes ago, Mr. Candyman said: I get that the TA is somewhat involved but my question is, if it's supposed to go back to the original card (Visa) used for purchase how would the TA manipulate the system to get it refunded on an Amex?  Was the drink package purchased on your behalf by your TA or did you do it yourself through cruise planner/calling RCI?  The reason I ask is can't the charges be disputed  with the proof being your statement showing the purchase and no refund being showing on a statement?  Dispute the charge and let your credit card company contact and deal with RCI.     

Yes i purchased thru cruise planner on RCI website, nothing to do with TA its RCI issue but my problem!

4 minutes ago, Jussnskip said: Yes i purchased thru cruise planner on RCI website, nothing to do with TA its RCI issue but my problem!

Then I'd be calling your credit card company and dispute the charge. It's an item you haven't received and no longer want so let them put a hold on the charge until it's sorted out.   

34 minutes ago, Mr. Candyman said: Then I'd be calling your credit card company and dispute the charge. It's an item you haven't received and no longer want so let them put a hold on the charge until it's sorted out.   

Agree, I'd also be livid if this happened to me.  OP please keep us posted, really hope you get it sorted out.

I think there's more to the story here... report back when you get it all sorted out, please!

1 hour ago, Jussnskip said: I cancelled drink package that had been purchased on my visa card on April 11. Hadnt received refund so I emailed May 8 and heard nothing so i rang May 13 to be told my cancelled  package had been refunded to an American Express card and maybe my TA. I told operator i do not hold an American Express card and she argued with me and saying drink package was purchased on it and would not accept that this was incorrect would not put me through to a supervisor. I was really upset as its over 2k they have refunded to someone else and basically told me i had to ssort it out myself. I looked in docs and it clearly states that funds are to be returned to card purchased on. Someone has really mucked up here. It turns out my TA had some of the funds which have just been returned to me but i am still missing over $500. I cant beleive this is happening. I have requested an investigation as to how this occurred. Has this happened to you? Should i get any compensation?

Do you have access to a calling plan that lets you call US numbers for free?  If so, call Crown & Anchor.  800-526-9723

Perhaps  you have your own number for C&A?

How many drink packages did you purchase for 2K?

6 minutes ago, fdthird said: How many drink packages did you purchase for 2K?

16 nights for 2 people would come out to $62 per person per day after the 18% grats, or about $52 per day before grats.

Something is definitely weird. If it was just a glitch or something in their system odds are it would have gone to a random card, not your TA. And the fact that it only partially got refunded to your TA is also really weird; in my experience it's usually an all or nothing.

I would also encourage you to get your TA to fight Royal on your behalf. That's part of their job as a travel agent, you shouldn't be fighting this alone

• 2 months later...

Hi all, still not sorted, they told me they are investigating....

1 hour ago, Jussnskip said: Hi all, still not sorted, they told me they are investigating....

Have you contacted your credit card's issuing bank to have them investigate?

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• Royal Caribbean
• Royal Caribbean Refund Policy: Your Guide to Hassle-Free Cruise Cancellations and Reimbursements

Embarking on a cruise vacation is an exciting experience, but sometimes unforeseen circumstances may require you to cancel your plans. That’s where understanding Royal Caribbean’s refund policy becomes crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s refund policy, ensuring a hassle-free experience when it comes to cruise cancellations and reimbursements.

To begin, let’s take a closer look at the key points you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s refund policy:

Understanding these key points will empower you to make informed decisions and navigate the refund process smoothly. Should you ever need to cancel your cruise, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Royal Caribbean’s refund policy to ensure you receive the maximum possible reimbursement.

When it comes to reliable sources, Royal Caribbean’s official website is a valuable resource for detailed information on their refund policy. Additionally, trusted travel websites such as Cruise Critic and The Points Guy offer insightful articles and discussions on cruise cancellations and refunds.

In the following sections of this guide, we will delve deeper into each key point, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of Royal Caribbean’s refund policy. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide is designed to assist you in navigating the refund process with ease, ensuring a hassle-free experience even in unexpected situations.

Stay tuned for our next section, where we will explore the cancellation window and how it impacts your eligibility for a refund.

Can I cancel my cruise for a full refund?

Royal Caribbean’s refund policy allows passengers to cancel their cruise and receive a full refund under certain circumstances. If the cancellation is made at least 90 days prior to the sail date, guests can receive a full refund of their cruise fare. However, if the cancellation is made within 89 to 75 days before the sail date, a penalty will be applied. It’s important to note that cancellation fees may vary depending on the length of the cruise and the specific itinerary. To ensure a hassle-free cancellation and reimbursement process, it is recommended to review Royal Caribbean’s refund policy in detail and contact their customer service for any further assistance. For more information and specific details, please visit Royal Caribbean’s official website at [insert link to Royal Caribbean’s refund policy].

What are the new cruise refund rules?

Royal Caribbean has implemented new cruise refund rules to ensure hassle-free cruise cancellations and reimbursements. According to their refund policy, if you cancel your cruise at least 90 days prior to departure, you will receive a full refund. For cancellations made between 89 and 57 days before departure, a penalty of 25% will be applied. Cancellations made within 56 to 29 days will incur a penalty of 50%, while cancellations made within 28 days of departure will not be eligible for a refund. It is important to note that these rules may vary based on the type of fare and specific cruise package. For more information and to review the complete refund policy, please visit the official Royal Caribbean website.

Can I get cruise credit rather than a refund?

If you find yourself needing to cancel your Royal Caribbean cruise, you may be wondering if you can receive cruise credit instead of a refund. According to Royal Caribbean’s refund policy, they do offer the option to receive future cruise credit for the value of your canceled trip. This credit can be used towards a future cruise booking, allowing you to reschedule and enjoy a cruise experience at a later date. To take advantage of this option, you will need to contact Royal Caribbean’s customer service and inform them of your preference for cruise credit. It’s important to note that the terms and conditions of the cruise credit may vary, so it’s recommended to review the details provided by Royal Caribbean to ensure you understand the specific guidelines and timelines for its use. For more information on Royal Caribbean’s refund policy and cruise credit options, you can visit their official website.

What happens if Royal Caribbean cancels your cruise?

If Royal Caribbean cancels your cruise, you can rest assured that the company has a comprehensive refund policy in place. According to Royal Caribbean’s refund policy, if your cruise is canceled by the cruise line, you will be eligible for a full refund or a future cruise credit. The refund will be processed automatically, and you don’t need to take any action to initiate the reimbursement. The future cruise credit allows you to reschedule your vacation and enjoy the same benefits as your original booking. For more detailed information about Royal Caribbean’s refund policy, you can visit their official website [https://www.royalcaribbean.com/content/dam/royal/resources/pdf/cancellation-covid-19.pdf].

Royal caribbean refund complaints

Royal Caribbean has faced numerous complaints regarding their refund policy. Customers have expressed frustration with the lengthy processing times and difficulty in obtaining full refunds for canceled cruises. Many have reported a lack of transparency and communication from the company, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction. Additionally, some passengers have encountered challenges in receiving refunds for pre-paid expenses such as excursions and onboard purchases. To navigate these issues, it is important for travelers to carefully review Royal Caribbean’s refund policy and understand their rights. By being proactive and persistent in seeking reimbursement, passengers can increase their chances of a hassle-free cruise cancellation experience. For more information on Royal Caribbean’s refund policy and tips for obtaining reimbursements, please visit: [source](https://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/booking-cancellation-policy).

In summary, understanding the Royal Caribbean refund policy is essential for anyone considering a cruise cancellation or seeking reimbursement. By familiarizing yourself with the terms and conditions outlined by the cruise line, you can ensure a hassle-free experience and maximize your chances of receiving a refund.

When it comes to cancelling a Royal Caribbean cruise, timing is crucial. The cruise line offers different cancellation windows depending on the length of the sailing and the type of fare booked. It is important to review the specific cancellation policy associated with your booking to determine the applicable deadlines. This information can typically be found on the Royal Caribbean website or by contacting their customer service.

In most cases, cancelling a cruise outside of the designated cancellation window will result in penalties or fees. These fees can vary depending on the proximity to the departure date and the fare type. Therefore, it is advisable to cancel your reservation as early as possible to minimize any potential financial loss. Additionally, it is important to note that certain promotional fares or discounted rates may have more restrictive cancellation policies.

To request a refund for a cancelled cruise, Royal Caribbean provides several options. One of the most convenient methods is to utilize their online system, Cruise Planner, where you can submit your refund request electronically. Alternatively, you can reach out to their customer service team directly via phone or email to initiate the refund process. It is important to have all relevant booking information readily available when contacting Royal Caribbean to expedite the refund process.

Once your refund request is submitted, the processing time may vary. While Royal Caribbean strives to process refunds promptly, it is not uncommon for the process to take several weeks. Patience is key, and it is recommended to allow a reasonable amount of time for the refund to be processed before contacting the cruise line for updates.

In some cases, rather than a full refund, Royal Caribbean may offer future cruise credits or the option to rebook for a later date. This can be a viable alternative for those who wish to reschedule their cruise rather than canceling outright. It is worth noting that the terms and conditions of these future cruise credits may differ from the refund policy, so it is important to review the details carefully before making a decision.

It is worth mentioning that the refund policy may be subject to change, particularly in response to unforeseen circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Therefore, it is always advisable to review the most up-to-date information on the Royal Caribbean website or consult with their customer service team for the latest refund policy updates.

To further enhance your understanding of the Royal Caribbean refund policy and ensure a hassle-free experience, it is recommended to consult trusted sources and official Royal Caribbean channels. The Royal Caribbean website is a reliable resource that provides detailed information on their refund policy, including specific terms and conditions. Additionally, reputable travel websites and forums can offer insights and firsthand experiences from other cruisers who have navigated the refund process.

In conclusion, understanding the Royal Caribbean refund policy is crucial for anyone considering a cruise cancellation or seeking reimbursement. By familiarizing yourself with the specific terms and conditions associated with your booking, adhering to the designated cancellation windows, and following the proper procedures for refund requests, you can ensure a hassle-free experience. Remember to consult trusted sources, such as the official Royal Caribbean website, for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their refund policy.

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• Royal Caribbean International

Refund for Cruise Planner cancellation.

By Rusty_lock , February 23, 2023 in Royal Caribbean International

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So I just had something odd happen.  This morning I cancelled a spa treatment for my wife because she decided on a different day.  I booked the new day and time and went into my cruise planner and cancelled the original booking.  Typically, about 7 days later, I see a credit on my credit card with the refund.  However, I went back into my cruise planner this afternoon and to my surprise I now have OBC in the amount of the cancelled spa treatment.  This has never happened before.  Has anyone else ever had their refund come in the form of OBC immediately instead of returning back to the original form of payment 5-10 days later?

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Hmmm. No. Maybe someone pushed the wrong button on their end? I think that is only supposed to happen when you are within 3 days of sailing. Has someone been playing board games again?  😄

4 minutes ago, Coralc said: Hmmm. No. Maybe someone pushed the wrong button on their end? I think that is only supposed to happen when you are within 3 days of sailing. Has someone been playing board games again?  😄

It's not a complaint really, more just an observation.  I'm going to spend the money onboard so I don't really care.  It was just curious that's all.

I'm 11 days out from the cruise so it's not the 3 day thing...  

Yesterday I cancelled a one night's reservation for the main dining room and my e-mail did say that I would get an OBC for the cancelled item (which is $0)

As a point of reference yesterday was 19 days till sailing

Don't spend that $0 all in one place

Maybe it is new, and just another way to keep money in RC's pocket instead of ours? They have to refund it eventually, if it isn't spent onboard, but in the meantime, interest rates are up.  🤔

1 minute ago, Coralc said: Maybe it is new, and just another way to keep money in RC's pocket instead of ours? They have to refund it eventually, if it isn't spent onboard, but in the meantime, interest rates are up.  🤔

The problem is it's got me on my cruise planner looking for ways to spend it.  Apparently, I have no self-control.  

Ourusualbeach

3 hours ago, Rusty_lock said: So I just had something odd happen.  This morning I cancelled a spa treatment for my wife because she decided on a different day.  I booked the new day and time and went into my cruise planner and cancelled the original booking.  Typically, about 7 days later, I see a credit on my credit card with the refund.  However, I went back into my cruise planner this afternoon and to my surprise I now have OBC in the amount of the cancelled spa treatment.  This has never happened before.  Has anyone else ever had their refund come in the form of OBC immediately instead of returning back to the original form of payment 5-10 days later?

Interesting.  I know that last year they were talking about a way to allow you do get a lower price without having to cancel, and then repurchase and wait for a refund.  Perhaps this is a  workaround

6 hours ago, Coralc said: Maybe it is new, and just another way to keep money in RC's pocket instead of ours? They have to refund it eventually, if it isn't spent onboard, but in the meantime, interest rates are up.  🤔

I tend to agree. They would rather you spend the OBC on say drinks which cost them pennies per measure but you $$$.  They also get to keep the money rather then give you the cold hard cash back 

3 hours ago, Ourusualbeach said: Interesting.  I know that last year they were talking about a way to allow you do get a lower price without having to cancel, and then repurchase and wait for a refund.  Perhaps this is a  workaround

I guess that's the less cynical explanation. So you cancel, wait till you see the obc and then use it to rebook and remaining obc sits there to be used on board or for something else from the planner. 

I guess I'll just look at it as having pre-purchased 10 drinks for the week to supplement my 4 daily diamond drinks.  If it was a large amount I'd be bothered but a small amount doesn't bother me.

Oh wow if this is true I'll be looking at a lot of OBC for the drink package I just canceled and rebooked... too much OBC to spend on Enchantment lol.

We had our refund go against our cruise fare.  As such, we weren't paid in full and had to make a payment to cover it.  I am still waiting for the actual credit to hit my credit card.  I would not like them doing it as an OBC since that would mean having to spend it with them.

Follow up:  Ok, I'm just an idiot.  The reason it was refunded in OBC is because I purchased it with OBC and not my usual credit card, I just forgot.  I made the purchase a year ago and had long forgot that I had $450 of OBC.  I don't usually have that much OBC so just wasn't thinking about it when all this happened.  Sorry for the irrelevant thread LOL.  No new policy has been implemented.  I'm just one step closer to an Alzheimer diagnosis.  🙂  

23 minutes ago, Rusty_lock said: Follow up:  Ok, I'm just an idiot.  The reason it was refunded in OBC is because I purchased it with OBC and not my usual credit card, I just forgot.  I made the purchase a year ago and had long forgot that I had $450 of OBC.  I don't usually have that much OBC so just wasn't thinking about it when all this happened.  Sorry for the irrelevant thread LOL.  No new policy has been implemented.  I'm just one step closer to an Alzheimer diagnosis.  🙂  

I actually would like them to offer this as an option since my card is in euros so if I cancel anything I'm at the mercy of the exchange rate and get hit a second time with foreign currency transaction fees into the bargain. I'd be more than happy just to let the money sit there as OBC to eventually offset grats and any other onboard spending.

Probably best that they don't, though. They have a hard enough time getting the refunds processed correctly as it is...

1 minute ago, FionaMG said:   I actually would like them to offer this as an option since my card is in euros so if I cancel anything I'm at the mercy of the exchange rate and get hit a second time with foreign currency transaction fees into the bargain. I'd be more than happy just to let the money sit there as OBC to eventually offset grats and any other onboard spending. Probably best that they don't, though. They have a hard enough time getting the refunds processed correctly as it is...

I think that this is a great idea.  It's especially good if you are just cancelling and rebooking to take advantage of a better price.

16 hours ago, roseoftx said: We had our refund go against our cruise fare.  As such, we weren't paid in full and had to make a payment to cover it.  I am still waiting for the actual credit to hit my credit card.  I would not like them doing it as an OBC since that would mean having to spend it with them.

Same situation here.  I received a call from someone from the executive office and was told the only way to resolve this is to pay the “balance” and they will reissue the refund from the add-on account.  I paid it and received a refund the following day, but the refund was from Celebrity instead of Royal; I’ve never booked or cruised with Celebrity. A few days later, the refund was reversed and I’m back to owing $430.32 on a paid off cruise.  I do not want OBC for this; I want the money refunded correctly.

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Royal Caribbean Forced to Cancel Alaska Sailing With Guests Already Onboard

Here’s something that isn’t a surprise and still is, all rolled into one.

Royal Caribbean International had to cancel a cruise. Not a shock.

What is surprising is that passengers were already on board the Radiance of the Seas. That’s right, instead of going on an Alaskan cruise passengers had to disembark and go home.

The ship was supposed to depart Vancouver on Friday, April 26. There was a maintenance issue on the ship and a revised itinerary was set and it was supposed to depart on Sunday, April 28. But officials couldn’t get it fixed, and now the entire cruise has been canceled.

“Despite our best efforts, circumstances beyond our control have delayed our sailing further,” a letter delivered to guests’ staterooms said. “Your patience throughout this time [has] not gone unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful for your understanding.”

All passengers will not only receive a full refund but will receive a full future cruise credit to sail on Royal Caribbean. The cruise line also made its Wi-Fi free of charge to help passengers better navigate the disembarkation. Other complementary features include an open bar until the ship officially disembarked as well as reimbursement for airline change fees.

The maintenance problem was apparently a propulsion issue.

“While repairs for the technical issue that we encountered on our previous sailing are still underway, we discovered that we’re going to need some extra time to get the ship in tip-top shape for you,” Royal Caribbean wrote in its letter to passengers.

This is the second time the propulsion problem has plagued the Radiance of the Seas.

Cruise line canceled while guests were already onboard

• Published: Apr. 29, 2024, 4:53 p.m.

Royal Caribbean Cruise canceled while guests were already onboard. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File) AP

• EmilyAnn Jackman | [email protected]

So much for thinking they had crossed their final hurdle.

Guests onboard the Royal Caribbean cruise line were told their trip was canceled and were being sent home despite already being aboard the ship.

Royal Caribbean International notified guests onboard Radiance of the Seas that the ship would not continue on an already-abbreviated Alaskan cruise. The trip was canceled, and guests had to disembark, CruiseHive.com reported.

The ship was set to leave from Vancouver, British Columbia, on April 26, but an earlier adjustment due to technical difficulties allowed guests to board on embarkation day while the ship was to spend two days in port undergoing repairs.

The revised plan features a Sunday departure and an adjusted route, with calls to Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan and scenic cruising in the famed Inside Passage before returning on May 3, which was the original completion date.

But it was later announced that the trip was being canceled due to repairs for a technical issue. Guests had to leave the ship by 4 p.m. Sunday.

“As you are aware, our teams have been vigorously working to have Radiance of the Seas prepared to set sail on our shortened April 26th sailing,” the letter given to passengers in their staterooms read, the unofficial cruise site RoyalCaribbeanBlog.com reported.

“Despite our best efforts, circumstances beyond our control have delayed our sailing further. As a result, we’ll regrettably have to cancel our April 26th, 2024, cruise,” the letter concluded.

Guests will receive a 100% refund of their cruise fare and a 100% future cruise credit that may be applied to any future Royal Caribbean sailing. Internet service aboard the ship was also open free of charge to allow for easier travel planning and offered a free open bar until debarkation.

The ship began to develop propulsion difficulties last week during a repositioning cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver, causing multiple stops to be scrapped due to a slower speed.

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