How to Complain About a Cancelled or Changed Cruise

When a cruise line cancels your sailing, skips ports, or makes major itinerary changes, you may be owed a refund or compensation — not just a future-cruise-credit. Document everything before you disembark and put your claim in writing.

Quick answer

Claim in writing, citing the cruise line's own policy and the change or cancellation. Demand a cash refund rather than future-cruise-credit where you're entitled to it, plus reimbursement of out-of-pocket costs. Escalate to the Federal Maritime Commission (for US sailings) or a chargeback if refused.

What this problem means

Cruise contracts give lines wide latitude, but they must still honor what they sold and their published cancellation policy. A full cancellation usually entitles you to a refund; significant itinerary changes or missed ports can entitle you to onboard credit or a partial refund. Lines often push future-cruise-credit because it keeps your money — you can frequently insist on cash.

What evidence to gather

Booking/reservation number, cabin, and fare paid
The original itinerary vs. what actually happened
The cruise line's cancellation or change notice
Receipts for non-refundable flights, hotels, or excursions
Your onboard account statement, if charges are disputed

What to ask for

Sample complaint wording

Regarding booking [number], the cruise was [cancelled / significantly changed: missed ports/itinerary]. Under your published policy I am entitled to [a refund / compensation]. I request a cash refund of [amount] plus [expenses] within 21 days, rather than a future-cruise-credit.

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When to escalate

If guest relations refuses, escalate to the corporate office in writing, file a chargeback for refused refunds or overcharges, complain to the Federal Maritime Commission for US-related sailings, and consider small claims court within the contract's terms.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a cash refund instead of a future cruise credit?
Often yes — when a sailing is cancelled or materially changed and the policy entitles you to a refund, you can decline credit and demand cash to your original payment method.
What am I owed if the ship skips a port?
It depends on the line's policy, but missed ports commonly entitle you to a refund of port fees and sometimes onboard credit or partial compensation. Document the change and claim in writing.
Who regulates cruise complaints?
For US-related sailings, the Federal Maritime Commission handles certain complaints; consumer-protection regulators and chargebacks are also effective. Note that cruise contracts often set short claim deadlines and specific venues.

Related company complaint pages

Complain to Royal CaribbeanCruisesComplain to Carnival Cruise LineCruisesComplain to Norwegian Cruise LineCruises
ComplainAI generates letter templates based on publicly available consumer-protection laws. This is not legal advice and we are not a law firm. For complex matters, consult a licensed attorney.