Cruise Line's Tougher Booking Rules Ignite Backlash Over Higher Deposits and Payments

Princess Cruises is implementing stricter booking policies starting with new bookings for sailings departing in 2027 and beyond, including a 120-day final payment deadline and increased deposits. These changes, which aim for greater consistency and fair access to staterooms, have elicited mixed reactions from travelers on social media. While some appreciate the clarity and pay off cruises early anyway, others are concerned about the higher upfront costs and the impact on payment plans.

• Princess Cruises is introducing a 120-day final payment deadline and modified cancellation fee schedule for sailings departing Jan. 1, 2027, and later.
• Standard deposits are increasing: $300 per person for most staterooms (up from $250) and $600 per person for suites (up from $500).
• The new policies are intended to bring consistency to the booking process and ensure fair access to desired accommodations and sailings.
• Travelers have expressed mixed reactions online, with some supporting the changes and others voicing concerns about the financial requirements and payment plans.
• These changes follow similar policy updates from other cruise lines, such as Celebrity Cruises’ recent increase in daily gratuity charges, which also faced passenger backlash.