Princess Cruises is introducing stricter booking policies, leading to varied responses from travelers. The cruise line has confirmed updates to its payment timeline, requiring final payments 120 days before departure for sailings starting in 2027. This shift is accompanied by a revised cancellation fee schedule.
The changes aim to standardize the booking process, aligning with industry norms and ensuring fair access to desired staterooms, according to Princess Cruises.
The new policies begin on September 2, impacting new bookings for sailings from January 1, 2027. Customers received an email notification about these updates, as reported by Cruise Critic.
Additionally, Princess Cruises is increasing deposit amounts. Seven-day cruises in inside, oceanview, balcony, and mini-suite staterooms now have a deposit of $300 per person, up from $250. Suite deposits rise to $600 per person from $500. Failure to meet the final payment deadline will lead to automatic reservation cancellations, though reminders will be sent beforehand.
The policy changes have sparked discussions on social media. Some travelers prefer early payments, finding the deadlines manageable. One TikTok user noted paying off bookings immediately, saying, “I get my reservations in that day, and I’m always sail ready.” Another said they welcome the changes to focus on saving for future trips.
Conversely, others are critical of the increased deposit amounts and earlier payment requirements. Concerns have been raised about the impact on those using payment plans, with one person’s comment highlighting the challenge of the 120-day deadline.
Other cruise lines have faced similar scrutiny. Previously, Celebrity Cruises increased automatic gratuity charges without prior notice, leading some passengers to choose direct tipping in cash.
The gratuity adjustment raised charges by $1.50 per person per day, setting them between $19.50 and $24.50. Many passengers expressed dissatisfaction with the abrupt announcement, with some suggesting that gratuities be included in cruise fares as done by luxury lines.
Kelly McGreal, a production assistant with Fox News Digital’s lifestyle team, provided additional context on these developments.