Booking a Royal Caribbean cruise is an exciting experience, but sometimes plans change — maybe you found a new destination that interests you, or unexpected events make your original sailing less ideal. Naturally, many travelers wonder: “Can I change my Royal Caribbean cruise destination?”
The good news is that Royal Caribbean itinerary change options are available, though they depend on your booking type, payment status, and the cruise line’s rebooking policy. In this guide, we’ll explain how to change cruise destinations, what fees might apply, and how to contact Royal Caribbean customer support for assistance.
When you book a cruise, your reservation is tied to a specific ship, date, and destination. Royal Caribbean allows guests to make certain changes to their bookings before final payment, and in some cases even afterward. However, the flexibility depends on your fare type and timing.
If you haven’t made your final payment yet, you usually have the most flexibility. You can:
Change to a different destination or itinerary.
Switch to another Royal Caribbean ship or sailing date.
Modify your stateroom category or add-ons (like beverage or dining packages).
No penalty typically applies if the new cruise costs the same or more, but if it costs less, you may receive a future cruise credit for the difference instead of a refund.
Once your final payment is made, changes become more restricted. Royal Caribbean may charge a change fee, and some bookings may not be changeable depending on availability or fare rules.
If your new destination falls under a different itinerary (for example, changing from the Caribbean to Alaska), you may need to cancel and rebook, which could incur cancellation penalties depending on your timing.
Yes, you can change your Royal Caribbean cruise destination, but the process varies based on when and how you booked your cruise.
Here are the main options:
If your booking is still flexible, log in to your Royal Caribbean account:
Go to My Cruises.
Find your active booking.
Look for a “Modify” or “Change Sailing” option.
Select your preferred destination, ship, and dates.
If the modification is allowed under your fare terms, the system will guide you through rebooking.
If online modification isn’t available, call Royal Caribbean Customer Support directly. Agents can help you explore available cruises and rebook your trip manually.
U.S. & Canada: International Guests: Visit portjourney for local numbers.
Be prepared with your reservation number, sailing date, and preferred new destination.
If you booked through a travel agent, they must process the change on your behalf. Royal Caribbean will only discuss modifications directly with the agency listed on your reservation.
Here’s how to change your Royal Caribbean destination smoothly:
Check your reservation details, including your payment status and cancellation policy. This determines your flexibility for rebooking.
Browse available Royal Caribbean itineraries and find your preferred replacement. Popular destination options include:
Caribbean cruises
Alaska adventures
European (Mediterranean or Northern Europe) itineraries
Asia and South Pacific voyages
Prices vary depending on the season, destination, and ship. You may need to pay the difference if your new itinerary costs more.
Request to modify your cruise destination. Be specific about your desired sailing date, destination, and ship.
Once processed, review your new confirmation email and itinerary details. Ensure your add-ons, such as drink packages or excursions, are either transferred or refunded as appropriate.
Royal Caribbean’s Cruise with Confidence policy, which was introduced during the pandemic, allowed guests to cancel or change sailings up to 48 hours before departure for a Future Cruise Credit (FCC).
While this program has since been phased out, certain promotions still allow for flexible rebooking. Always check if your booking includes any flexible travel terms before making a change.
Fees depend on when you request the change:
Timing of ChangePossible FeesNotes
Before Final PaymentUsually FreeNo fees; pay price difference if any
After Final Payment (60+ days before sailing)Small rebooking feeDepends on itinerary
30–60 days before sailingPartial penaltyPortion of fare forfeited
Less than 30 daysFull penaltyTreated as a cancellation
If your new itinerary costs less, you may receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for the difference rather than a cash refund.
Certain bookings may not qualify for changes:
Promotional fares or restricted rates (e.g., “non-refundable deposit” fares).
Group reservations under special pricing agreements.
Last-minute bookings close to the sailing date.
If your fare is non-refundable, you may still modify it by paying a change fee (usually around $100–$200 per guest).
When you modify your destination, most onboard credits (OBCs) and purchased packages can transfer to your new booking. However, this isn’t automatic in every case.
Here’s what typically happens:
Pre-purchased dining, WiFi, or drink packages: Refunds are issued if not applicable to the new cruise.
Excursions or spa appointments: Refunded if you cancel or change itineraries.
Onboard credits: Usually transfer if they were part of a promotion or compensation.
Always confirm with customer support whether your existing perks will move to your new cruise.
Travelers change their Royal Caribbean itinerary for many reasons, including:
Health or personal emergencies.
Weather disruptions (like hurricane season).
Interest in a new region (e.g., switching from the Caribbean to Europe).
Scheduling conflicts or group coordination.
Upgrading to a longer or special itinerary, such as a repositioning or world cruise.
Royal Caribbean’s flexible approach allows guests to make the most of their vacation, even if plans shift.
It’s also important to note that sometimes Royal Caribbean itself may change your cruise destination. This can occur due to:
Weather or natural disasters
Port congestion or maintenance
Political or safety concerns
In such cases, guests are typically informed in advance and may receive compensation, onboard credits, or the option to cancel depending on the situation.
Plan early. The earlier you decide, the more flexibility you’ll have.
Check fare rules. Some promotional bookings limit changes.
Keep documentation. Save your confirmation numbers and payment receipts.
Work with an agent. Travel professionals can manage complex rebookings.
Stay informed. Monitor updates on Royal Caribbean’s website for policy changes.
So, can you change your Royal Caribbean cruise destination? Yes—but with conditions. You’ll need to follow Royal Caribbean’s cruise rebooking policy, which depends on your payment status and fare type.
If you’re still before final payment, destination changes are usually straightforward. After that, fees or restrictions may apply. The best approach is to contact Royal Caribbean customer support or your travel advisor as soon as possible to explore your options.
Flexibility, early planning, and clear communication with the cruise line can help you seamlessly switch to your dream destination—ensuring your next Royal Caribbean voyage is everything you hoped for.
1. Can I change my Royal Caribbean cruise destination after booking?
Yes, you can change your cruise destination before final payment or with a fee afterward, depending on your fare type and booking conditions.
2. How do I change my itinerary on Royal Caribbean?
Log into your Royal Caribbean account, go to “My Cruises,” and select “Modify.” If unavailable, contact Royal Caribbean customer support directly.
3. Will I be charged for changing my cruise destination?
You may incur a rebooking or change fee after final payment. Before final payment, changes are typically free.
4. Can I transfer my onboard credits and packages to the new cruise?
In most cases, yes. Royal Caribbean will transfer or refund pre-purchased packages and onboard credits when you change your cruise.
5. What if Royal Caribbean changes my itinerary?
If the cruise line alters your itinerary due to weather or other reasons, they’ll notify you and may offer compensation, credit, or alternative options.
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