Princess Cruises announced revisions to its booking policies that will apply to all new reservations made from September 2, 2026, for voyages departing January 1, 2027, onward.
Final Payment Deadline Moved to 120 Days for All Cruises
The cruise line has advanced the final payment deadline to 120 days before sailing for all voyage durations, including World Cruise and Circle Pacific itineraries. Previously, cruises lasting between one and 13 days required final payment 90 days prior, while longer voyages maintained a 120-day deadline. Bookings for which final payment is not received by this deadline will be automatically canceled.
Increased Deposits for Standard Cabins and Suites
Princess Cruises raised the standard deposit amounts to secure bookings on seven-day
sailings. Deposits for interior, oceanview, balcony, or mini-suite cabins increased to $300 per guest from the previous $250. Deposits for suites rose to $600 per person from $500.
Cancellation Penalties Tightened with 100% Fee Applied Earlier
The cancellation policy was adjusted to impose a 100% cancellation fee for cancellations made 60 days or less before departure. This is a change from the prior rule, which applied this penalty only at 30 days for some shorter voyages. The update aligns with the new 120-day payment deadline.
Passenger Backlash and Criticism on Booking Changes
Passengers expressed dissatisfaction on the Cruise Critic forums, accusing Princess Cruises of prioritizing early revenue collection. Comments described the changes as “quick cash
efforts” and criticized the earlier payment deadlines, increased deposit costs, and stricter cancellation terms. One passenger said, “It really seems like Princess is trying to make everybody mad. Not a good way to retain customers.” Another lamented the combined effect with the revised Standby program, adding pressure for payment advancements.
Princess Cruises Explains Motivations Behind Policy Changes
The cruise line stated these policy revisions were intended to support guests, travel advisor partners, and stateroom inventory management. Princess said the updates bring improved consistency to the booking process and reflect broader industry standards while aiming to ensure fair access to preferred sailings and cabins.
Impact on Travelers Includes Reduced Payment Flexibility and Financial Risk
Travelers must now complete
full payment 120 days before sailing, reducing flexibility to pay closer to departure. Upfront costs rise with increased deposit requirements, and failure to pay the balance on time results in automatic cancellation of bookings. Additionally, cancellations within 60 days of departure incur forfeiture of 100% of cruise costs, heightening financial risk for passengers.
