Princess Cruises Tightens Booking Policies with Larger Deposits and Earlier Payment Deadlines

Introduction of Stricter Booking Policies

Princess Cruises is implementing changes to its booking policies, sparking diverse opinions among travelers. New measures include increased deposits and earlier final payment deadlines.

Changes in Payment Timeline

The cruise line announced that starting with new bookings for sailings departing in 2027 and beyond, there will be a 120-day final payment schedule along with a modified cancellation fee structure. These changes aim to provide greater consistency in the booking process, aligning with broader industry practices and ensuring fair access to staterooms and desired sailings.

New Policy Details

The updated policies will take effect on September 2, affecting bookings for sailings departing January 1, 2027. According to Cruise Critic, guests received notification of the new rules via email.

Deposits for seven-day cruises will also increase. Inside, oceanview, balcony, and mini-suite staterooms will require a $300 deposit per person, up from $250. Suite deposits will rise from $500 to $600 per person.

If final payment is not received by the deadline, reservations will be automatically canceled. However, guests will receive payment reminders prior to the due date.

Mixed Reactions from Travelers

The policy changes have stirred discussions among cruise enthusiasts on social media. Some travelers, who usually pay off cruises quickly, expressed little concern over the earlier deadlines.

“I pay it all as soon as I book,” one TikTok user commented, emphasizing the importance of being ready to sail. Another remarked, “I don’t mind these changes because I like to pay off my trips fast.”

Conversely, others questioned the requirement for higher deposits earlier in the process, pointing out potential issues for those using payment plans. “120 days out for final payment is the worst of all of it,” noted a commenter.

Similar Trends in the Cruise Industry

The changes from Princess Cruises are not isolated, as other cruise lines have also introduced policies leading to traveler dissatisfaction. Fox News Digital reported on Celebrity Cruises raising daily automatic gratuities without ample notice, resulting in passenger pushback.

Gratuity charges increased by $1.50 per person across all stateroom categories, generating criticism about the announcement’s timing. Some suggested including gratuities in fares as luxury lines do.

Kelly McGreal is part of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.