May 24, 2015
Gary Bembridge author of "The Cruise Traveler's Handbook"
provides another 60-Second Cruise Tip. For more visit 60SecondCruiseTips.com and
subscribe free to the podcast on iTunes, Stitcher Radio
and TuneIn Radio
Cruise Contract Watch-out: Cancellation
The cancellation policy for a cruise varies by line and you must
understand what you are agreeing to when you make a booking. Always
ask your agent what the terms are, or check the cruise line
conditions online or in their brochure.
You will usually find deposits are non-refundable and only
sometimes are even transferrable to an alternative cruise if you
change your mind. A name change on a booking is often also counted
as a cancellation and significant fees can apply.
You usually have to pay the full balance of a fare 90 days before a
cruise, and in full if booking within this timeframe. Some lines
stagger the cancellation charges the closer to the departure date
while others will keep it at the full fare after paying this
balance.
As deposits are usually lost if you cancel your cruise before the
90 days and full fare if after this time frame, you should consider
taking out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover you
incase you need to change your plans. The terms can be very strict
and even illness will still see you loosing your deposit or fare if
you have to cancel. So insurance is the best way to cover yourself
against this eventuality.
When making a booking do not let the excitement of the idea of
cruising cloud you making sound financial decisions to cover
yourself against lost.