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Can I rebook my Princess Cruises cruise?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 6 min read

Can I Rebook My Princess Cruises Cruise?

Yes, you can rebook your Princess Cruises cruise under specific conditions outlined in the cruise line’s rebooking and cancellation policy. Princess Cruises understands that travel plans can change — whether due to unexpected personal events, scheduling conflicts, or simply a desire to sail on a different date or destination. The company offers flexible options that allow passengers to modify, cancel, or rebook their cruise reservation with ease, depending on the fare type, booking source, and how close the sailing date is.

In this in-depth guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about rebooking a Princess Cruises cruise in 2025, including timelines, possible fees, refund eligibility, how to use Future Cruise Credits (FCC), and smart tips to avoid losing money or missing your desired sailing.

Understanding Princess Cruises’ Rebooking Policy

Princess Cruises offers travelers flexibility through its Booking Conditions and Passage Contract, which outline your rights and obligations as a guest. The rebooking policy is part of this contract and determines whether you can change or rebook your cruise without losing your deposit or incurring penalties.

The main factor influencing your ability to rebook is how far in advance you make the change. Princess Cruises divides its rebooking and cancellation windows into several tiers — the earlier you modify your reservation, the more options and benefits you have.

Typically:

  • Changes made well before the final payment date can often be done with little or no penalty.

  • Modifications made after the final payment date may result in cancellation fees or forfeited deposits.

  • Passengers with travel insurance or refundable fares often have greater flexibility.

When Can You Rebook Your Princess Cruise?

The answer depends on when your cruise is scheduled to depart and what kind of fare you purchased. Generally, Princess Cruises allows you to rebook in the following cases:

1. Before Final Payment

If you decide to change your sailing before the final payment deadline (usually 75–90 days before departure, depending on itinerary length), you can easily rebook your cruise without penalties. You may simply move your reservation to a different date, ship, or itinerary, subject to availability.

2. After Final Payment but Before Cancellation Penalties Apply

Once you’ve paid in full, rebooking becomes more complicated. Princess Cruises starts applying cancellation penalties within a certain window before the sailing date. However, if you catch the change early — for example, 60 days before sailing — you might still have options, though you may incur a fee or partial forfeiture of your deposit.

3. After Cancellation Penalties Apply

If you’re already within the penalty period (for example, 30 days or less before sailing), your ability to rebook becomes limited. In this case, Princess Cruises might allow you to cancel and rebook using a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) if your fare or travel insurance includes that benefit.

Princess Cruises’ Cancellation & Rebooking Timeline

To understand when and how you can rebook, it helps to know the general Princess Cruises cancellation schedule. While it may vary by itinerary, here’s a general overview:

Days Before DepartureCancellation Fee (approx.)Rebooking Flexibility

90+ daysNoneFree rebooking allowed

60–89 daysDeposit amountPartial flexibility

30–59 days50% of total fareLimited rebooking with FCC

15–29 days75% of total fareRebooking unlikely without loss

14 days or less100% of total fareNon-refundable, no rebooking

(Note: This is a general example. Actual timelines and penalties depend on your specific cruise fare and region.)

How to Rebook Your Princess Cruise

Rebooking a Princess Cruises trip is quite straightforward when done within the right time frame. You can modify your booking either online, through a travel advisor, or by calling Princess Cruises’ customer service directly.

Here’s the step-by-step rebooking process:

Step 1: Review Your Fare Type

Check whether your cruise fare is refundable or non-refundable. Some promotions or discounted fares may not allow changes after booking. This information can be found in your booking confirmation email or under your “Cruise Personalizer” account on the Princess website.

Step 2: Log Into Your Princess Cruises Account

Go to the official Princess Cruises website and log in to your Cruise Personalizer portal. This is where you can view all your current bookings, payment status, and available modification options.

Step 3: Choose “Modify or Cancel Booking”

Select the cruise you wish to rebook and click on the “Modify” or “Cancel” option. The site will guide you through your available choices — changing sail date, destination, or cabin type.

Step 4: Select a New Cruise

Once you’ve chosen to rebook, browse the available sailings for your preferred date or destination. If your new cruise is more expensive, you’ll need to pay the fare difference. If it’s cheaper, Princess Cruises may issue a refund or future credit (depending on the terms).

Step 5: Confirm Your New Booking

After selecting your new cruise, review all details carefully, including cabin category, itinerary, and total cost. Once confirmed, you’ll receive an updated booking confirmation.

Step 6: Reapply Onboard Credit or Future Cruise Credit

If you had applied Future Cruise Credit (FCC) or any Onboard Credit (OBC) to your previous booking, you can often transfer it to your new reservation by contacting Princess Cruises directly.

Using Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for Rebooking

Future Cruise Credit (FCC) is a popular way for guests to rebook their Princess Cruises trip after canceling or postponing a previous one. It acts like a voucher that can be applied to a new booking.

How You Get FCC

  • You canceled a cruise and opted for credit instead of a refund.

  • Princess Cruises canceled your sailing and issued FCC automatically.

  • You modified your booking within the penalty window but were offered credit toward a future cruise.

FCC Rules

  • FCC must be used within a specific validity period, usually within 12–24 months of issue.

  • You can use FCC to pay for the cruise fare only, not for onboard expenses or taxes.

  • FCC is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash.

  • If your new cruise costs less than your available FCC, the remaining balance typically stays in your account for future use.

Using FCC is one of the easiest ways to rebook a Princess cruise without losing your investment.

Changing Cruise Dates or Itinerary

Princess Cruises allows you to change your cruise dates or itinerary under most fare types, as long as the new sailing is available and meets the fare rules. You can:

  • Move your booking to a later date (e.g., from March to October)

  • Change to a different destination (e.g., Caribbean to Alaska)

  • Switch to a different ship within the fleet

However, the price difference between the two cruises will apply. If your new itinerary costs more, you’ll pay the balance. If it’s less, you may receive partial FCC or a refund, depending on the fare rules.

Can You Rebook After Missing a Cruise?

If you fail to board your scheduled cruise (a “no-show”), Princess Cruises’ policy usually considers the fare non-refundable. However, in rare circumstances — such as medical emergencies — you may contact customer service or submit supporting documentation to request a goodwill credit or partial FCC. Approval depends on individual cases and is not guaranteed.

For best results, if you know you’ll miss your cruise, contact Princess Cruises before the ship’s departure to discuss options.

Rebooking Through a Travel Agent

If you booked through a travel agent, you should contact them directly for all rebooking or cancellation requests. They have access to Princess Cruises’ reservation system and can often negotiate better options or help you retain promotions and benefits.

Advantages of rebooking through a travel agent include:

  • Easier communication with Princess Cruises

  • Access to additional discounts or perks

  • Faster resolution of issues involving FCC or onboard credits

Rebooking with Princess Vacation Protection

If you purchased Princess Vacation Protection (PVP), you have enhanced flexibility for cancellations and rebooking. This plan includes a Cancellation Fee Waiver that allows you to cancel for any reason — even those not covered by standard insurance — and receive a future cruise credit for up to 75–100% of your non-refundable amount.

This coverage can be a huge advantage if your plans are uncertain or if you expect potential schedule changes.

Rebooking Due to Illness, Emergencies, or Travel Restrictions

Princess Cruises understands that emergencies can arise unexpectedly. In cases involving:

  • Medical illness

  • Family emergencies

  • Visa or passport delays

  • Travel bans or port restrictions

You may be eligible for a penalty waiver or rebooking accommodation. The cruise line evaluates such cases individually, often requiring supporting documentation (such as a doctor’s note). Depending on the situation, Princess may:

  • Offer a free rebooking to a later date,

  • Provide Future Cruise Credit,

  • Or, in rare cases, grant a refund.

Can You Rebook Onboard During Your Cruise?

Yes! Princess Cruises offers a Future Cruise Sales program onboard, where you can book or rebook your next cruise directly during your current sailing. Doing this onboard has several benefits:

  • You may receive exclusive onboard booking discounts.

  • You can apply a reduced deposit.

  • You’ll earn extra onboard credit for your future sailing.

  • You can modify or transfer that new booking to your preferred travel advisor later.

This is an excellent way to secure your next vacation while still on the ship.

Common Rebooking Scenarios

Let’s look at some examples of how passengers commonly rebook their Princess Cruises vacations:

Example 1: Changing Cruise Date Due to Work Conflict

If you realize you cannot travel on your original sailing date due to work, you can move your booking to a later date, provided you’re outside the penalty period. You may need to pay or receive a fare adjustment, but your reservation remains secure.

Example 2: Switching from Alaska to Caribbean

If you booked an Alaska cruise but decide to enjoy a tropical escape instead, you can rebook to a Caribbean itinerary. The process is the same, but your new fare might differ based on season and availability.

Example 3: Cruise Canceled by Princess Cruises

If Princess cancels your voyage due to operational or weather-related reasons, you’ll automatically receive either a full refund or Future Cruise Credit — whichever you prefer. You can then rebook any future cruise without penalties.

Tips for Hassle-Free Rebooking

  1. Book Early: Early bookings usually have more flexible cancellation and rebooking options.

  2. Monitor Final Payment Deadlines: Make sure to modify your cruise before the final payment date to avoid fees.

  3. Consider Travel Insurance: Always protect your trip with Princess Vacation Protection or third-party coverage.

  4. Use FCC Smartly: Track expiration dates and apply them before they lapse.

  5. Stay in Touch with Your Travel Agent: They can help secure your rebooking without losing perks.

  6. Keep Documentation Ready: If rebooking due to emergencies, provide valid proof for a smoother process.

  7. Rebook During Promotions: Look out for Princess’ “Best Value” or “Sail Soon” promotions when rebooking to get extra benefits.

What Happens to Excursions, Dining, and Add-Ons When You Rebook?

When you rebook your cruise, any excursions, specialty dining reservations, spa treatments, or onboard packages tied to the old booking are usually canceled automatically. You’ll need to reselect them once your new booking is confirmed.

However, if you have Onboard Credit (OBC) from promotions or FCC bonuses, these can often be reapplied to your new reservation.

Can You Rebook a Group or Family Cruise?

Yes. Princess Cruises allows group or family bookings to be modified collectively. If your group leader changes the sailing date or itinerary, the change can usually apply to the entire booking. It’s best to contact the Group Sales Department or your travel agent for coordinated rebooking.

Group reservations often have unique terms — sometimes more flexible than individual fares — especially if secured under a group contract.

Refunds vs. Rebooking: Which Should You Choose?

Whether to request a refund or rebook depends on your situation.

Choose to rebook if:

  • You plan to cruise again soon.

  • You want to retain promotional offers or onboard credits.

  • You received a Future Cruise Credit and want to use it.

Choose a refund if:

  • You do not plan to sail again in the near future.

  • Your cancellation reason qualifies for a refund under Princess’ policy or insurance coverage.

  • You prefer cash reimbursement instead of credits.

Remember: FCC is generally non-refundable once issued, so choose carefully.

Rebooking During Promotions or Sales Events

Princess Cruises frequently offers limited-time sales such as:

  • “Sip & Sail” promotions

  • “Best Sale Ever”

  • “Captain’s Circle Exclusive Offers”

If you rebook during these promotional periods, you may qualify for discounted fares, free onboard spending credits, or upgraded amenities. However, note that promotions may not combine with all FCC or loyalty discounts, so check with your travel agent before confirming the rebooking.

Final Thoughts: Rebooking Your Princess Cruises Cruise Made Easy

Rebooking your Princess Cruises voyage doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re changing dates, switching destinations, or postponing your trip altogether, Princess Cruises provides several flexible pathways to accommodate travelers’ evolving plans.

By understanding key deadlines, leveraging Future Cruise Credits, and working with either your travel advisor or Princess Cruises’ customer service, you can preserve the value of your vacation while adjusting your plans to fit your life.

Remember to always check your fare conditions, act early to avoid penalties, and consider travel protection to safeguard your investment. With a little planning, rebooking your Princess cruise can be a smooth and rewarding experience — ensuring you still get to enjoy the journey of a lifetime, just at a time that suits you best.

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