What if I find my cruise cheaper?

Found Your Cruise Cheaper After Booking? Don’t Abandon Ship Just Yet!

You’ve finally done it! You’ve booked that dream cruise, envisioning yourself lounging by the pool, sipping fruity cocktails, and exploring exotic destinations. The anticipation is building, but then… disaster strikes. You stumble upon the exact same cruise, same dates, same cabin type, advertised at a lower price. Panic starts to set in. Have you made a terrible mistake?

Before you abandon ship and start desperately trying to cancel (which might come with hefty penalties!), take a deep breath. There’s a good chance you can salvage the situation and still enjoy your vacation without feeling like you’ve overpaid.

Here’s what to do when you find your cruise cheaper after booking:

1. Act Fast – The 48-Hour Window is Key:

Many cruise lines have a “best price guarantee” policy or similar programs that allow you to request a price adjustment within a limited timeframe, typically 48 hours after booking. This is your prime window of opportunity. Gather your evidence – a screenshot or link to the lower price – and contact your cruise line or travel agent immediately. Don’t delay; every minute counts!

2. Understand the Fine Print:

Before contacting the cruise line, familiarize yourself with the specific terms and conditions of their price guarantee. Common stipulations might include:

• Identical Cruise: The cheaper fare must be for the exact same cruise itinerary, dates, ship, and cabin category.
• Eligibility: Some promotions or discounted rates may not be eligible for price matching.
• Availability: The lower fare must still be available at the time of your request.

3. Explore Potential Upgrades (If a Refund Isn’t Possible):

Even if you’ve missed the 48-hour window or the lower fare doesn’t meet the requirements for a direct refund, don’t give up hope. If your final payment isn’t due yet, inquire about a potential upgrade. Explain your situation and see if you can use the price difference to move to a better cabin, add a beverage package, or include shore excursions. This can turn a potential disappointment into an even more luxurious experience.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask (Politely!):

The key here is communication. A polite and respectful approach can go a long way. Contact your cruise line’s customer service department or your travel agent and explain your situation clearly and calmly. Even if they can’t match the lower price outright, they might be able to offer alternative compensation, such as onboard credit or a small discount on future bookings.

5. If All Else Fails, Reassess Cancellation Policies:

As a last resort, review the cruise line’s cancellation policies. While canceling might incur fees, it’s worth comparing the cost of the cancellation fees to the amount you would save by booking the cheaper fare. This is particularly relevant if you’re still well in advance of your sailing date, as cancellation penalties are often less severe further out.

The Bottom Line:

Finding a cheaper cruise after booking can be frustrating, but it doesn’t necessarily spell disaster. By acting quickly, understanding the terms of the cruise line’s price guarantee, and exploring alternative options, you can often snag a better deal or enhance your cruise experience. Remember, it never hurts to ask – you might be surprised by what you can achieve! So, set sail with confidence, knowing you did everything you could to get the best possible price for your dream vacation.