Carnival cruise switch: yes or no? your ultimate guide to transferring cruises

Are you planning a getaway on the high seas but having second thoughts about your Carnival cruise? Wondering if you can switch to a different itinerary or ship? The answer is yes, it’s possible to switch Carnival cruises under certain conditions.

Eligibility for Cruise Switches

Carnival Cruise Line allows passengers to make cruise switches under the following circumstances:

• Within 48 hours of booking: You can switch cruises without penalty if you contact Carnival within 48 hours of making the original booking.
• Within 60 days of sailing: You can switch cruises with a penalty of $100 per person if you contact Carnival at least 60 days before the original sailing date.
• After 60 days of sailing: Cruise switches are not typically permitted after 60 days of sailing, but exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

How to Switch Carnival Cruises

To switch Carnival cruises, you can either:

• Call Carnival Cruise Line: Contact Carnival’s customer service department at 1-800-CARNIVAL (1-800-227-6482) and speak to a representative.
• Visit a Carnival Cruise Line office: If there is a Carnival Cruise Line office near you, you can visit in person to request a cruise switch.
• Submit a written request: You can send a written request to Carnival Cruise Line at their corporate address: 3655 NW 87th Avenue, Miami, FL 33178.

Fees and Penalties

As mentioned earlier, there are no fees or penalties for cruise switches made within 48 hours of booking. However, for switches made within 60 days of sailing, a $100 per person penalty applies. After 60 days of sailing, switch fees may vary depending on the circumstances.

Cruise Availability

When switching cruises, keep in mind that availability may be limited. The desired itinerary and ship may not be available on your preferred dates. It’s best to contact Carnival as soon as possible to explore your options.

Other Considerations

• Group bookings: If you booked a cruise with a group, it’s important to inform the group leader of your intention to switch cruises.
• Cabin type: If you switch to a different ship, the cabin type you originally booked may not be available.
• Shore excursions: Any shore excursions you booked for the original cruise may not be transferable to the new cruise.

Alternatives to Cruise Switches

If switching cruises is not an option, consider the following alternatives:

• Modify your original itinerary: Contact Carnival to inquire about alternative itineraries or departure dates for your original cruise.
• Cancel your cruise: If you’re unable to switch or modify your cruise, you can cancel it. However, cancellation fees and penalties may apply.
• Sell your cruise: You can list your cruise for sale on websites like CruiseCompete or Cruise Critic.

Next Steps

If you’re considering switching Carnival cruises, follow these steps:

1. Determine your eligibility based on the time frame since booking.
2. Contact Carnival Cruise Line by phone, in person, or in writing.
3. Be prepared to pay any applicable fees or penalties.
4. Explore available cruise options and make your selection.
5. Confirm your new cruise itinerary and cabin type.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Can I switch cruises to a different ship?
Yes, you can switch cruises to a different ship, but availability may vary.

Is there a fee to switch cruises?
There is a $100 per person fee for cruise switches made within 60 days of sailing.

Can I switch cruises after 60 days of sailing?
Cruise switches after 60 days of sailing are typically not permitted, but exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

What happens to my shore excursions if I switch cruises?
Shore excursions booked for the original cruise may not be transferable to the new cruise.

Can I sell my Carnival cruise if I can’t switch?
Yes, you can list your Carnival cruise for sale on websites like CruiseCompete or Cruise Critic.