# What is Norwegian Cruise Line’s cancellation policy?

If you want to cancel Norwegian Cruise Line get help at **1-833-807-7245** tollfree for **Norwegian Cruise Lines Cancellation** and Refund Policy.

---

## What is Norwegian Cruise Line’s cancellation policy

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) maintains a structured cancellation and refund framework composed of a standard cancellation fee schedule tied to days prior to sailing and fare type optional protection products (NorwegianCare and BookSafe) that change recoveries and deliver credits or cash refunds under defined circumstances special “Peace of Mind” (POM) provisions and ad-hoc operational refund/credit options when the cruise line cancels, suspends, or materially alters a sailing and distinct rules for taxes, fees, pre-purchased air/hotel add-ons, onboard purchases, and third-party supplier services.

Refund processing and use of Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) follow separate rules and timeframes. For authoritative details, NCL publishes a Cancellation Fee Schedule and related FAQ pages; passengers should consult those and their booking documents for the booking-specific rules that govern a particular reservation.

---

### 1 How cancellation rules are organized in Norwegian Cruise Line’s

Norwegian Cruise Line’s cancellation framework is multi-layered:

* **Base policy (Cancellation Fee Schedule):** Determines the percentage penalty (or nonrefundable status) based on how many days before sailing you cancel. This schedule is applied to the cruise fare, and often to other cruise or package components.
* **Terms & Conditions / Guest Ticket Contract:** The legal contract you accept when booking; contains the definitive contractual provisions about refunds, liability, itinerary changes and dispute resolution.
* **Travel protection & cancellation products:** Optional plans (NorwegianCare, BookSafe Standard/Platinum, and third-party travel insurance) which provide cash or credit reimbursements for covered reasons, subject to their own terms.
* **Operator decisions (POM, operational refunds):** NCL may offer special programs (for example, Peace of Mind windows, cruise suspensions, or service interruptions) that override or supplement the base schedule, often offering FCCs or refunds under settlement terms.

**Key practical point:** The literal refund/outcome for any cancellation depends on *which* of the above applies to your booking at the time of cancellation (standard schedule vs. insurance vs. an NCL-driven policy).

---

### 2 — Standard cancellation fee schedule — how penalties change with time in Norwegian Cruise Line’s

NCL’s typical cancellation fee schedule is time-based. While precise windows and percentages may vary by itinerary length, fare class, and promotions, the common structure for many sailings (illustrative and derived from NCL public schedules and industry practice) is:

* **Greater than 120 days before sailing:** Fully refundable (no cancellation fee), subject to fare rules and specific promotions. ([expedia])
* **119–106 days:** Partial refund with penalty (for example, up to 25% of fare retained)
* **105–91 days:** Larger penalty (for example, 50% retained)
* **90–61 days:** Even larger penalty (for example, 75% retained)
* **60 days or less / Final Payment Window:** Non-refundable — cancellation results in 100% forfeiture of fare unless covered by an applicable protection product or special program. ([expedia])
**Important caveats:**

* *These percentages and cutoffs are typical but illustrative.* Always confirm the cancellation fee schedule for the exact sailing and fare you booked — the published NCL “Cancellation Fee Schedule” and your booking confirmation are the controlling reference.
* *Certain fare types (e.g., “Super Saver” or nonrefundable fares) may be nonrefundable even if canceled well in advance.*
* *Special promotions and group/charter bookings may carry bespoke cancellation terms.*

---

### 3 — Fare types and effect on refundability

Cancellation outcomes are driven both by the timing of cancellation and by the **fare type** purchased. Common fare families include:

* **Flexible / Premium / Free at Sea / Standard Fares:** Often allow refunds up to a specified cutoff and follow the standard cancellation schedule.
* **Early Saver / Super Saver / Non-Refundable Fares / Guarantee Cabins:** Frequently have a nonrefundable deposit and more restrictive cancellation provisions. Many early-book savings fares forfeit the deposit or are nonrefundable even months before sailing.

**Recommendation:** Always review the confirmation invoice and fare rules at booking to identify whether you purchased a refundable or restricted fare. If the fare is labeled “nonrefundable” or “deposit nonrefundable” those words are decisive.

---

### 4 — Refund forms: cash refunds vs. Future Cruise Credits (FCCs)

NCL may issue refunds in two principal formats depending on the circumstances and the option you choose (or that applies):

1. **Cash refund (returned to original form of payment):** Actual monetary refund to the credit card or payment instrument you used. NCL states that applicable refunds are returned to the original form of payment; specific timelines vary. For certain types of cancellations or claims, NCL indicates refunds may be returned within 60 days after the refund request.

2. **Future Cruise Credit (FCC):** A nontransferable credit issued for use on future NCL sailings. FCCs frequently exclude certain items (taxes/fees, air/hotel, insurance, some promotional onboard credits) and can have expiration or redemption windows. FCCs may be the default for some promotional cancellations and are commonly used under “Peace of Mind” and other programs. FCCs are not cash and cannot be applied to the same cancelled sailing later in many cases.

**Key differences:**

* Cash refunds restore money to your original payment method; FCCs are an account credit that applies to future fare costs.
* Some NCL protection products or ad-hoc programs convert a potential cash refund into an FCC at a specified percentage (e.g., 75% or 90% credit in certain BookSafe or NorwegianCare scenarios.

---

### 5 — Optional protection products: NorwegianCare and BookSafe

##### NorwegianCare (NCL’s branded protection program)

* **What it is:** A travel protection/assistance option offered to NCL passengers (terms can vary by market). It can provide reimbursement for covered cancellation reasons and other trip protection benefits. Under specific covered reasons, passengers may receive up to 100% reimbursement. If a reason is not covered for cash reimbursement under the plan, NCL may provide a cruise credit (for example, 90% FCC). Always review the plan documents for covered reasons and exclusions.

##### BookSafe / BookSafe Platinum (commonly sold through NCL at booking)

* **BookSafe Standard & Platinum:** These are cancellation protection plans that provide trip cancellation/interruption coverage.

* **Standard:** Historically provided a monetary reimbursement or a high-percentage FCC (e.g., 75% credit) for certain covered cancellation reasons.
* **Platinum:** Typically offers enhanced coverage (e.g., higher credit like 90% FCC or broader covered reasons).
* **Limitations:** Coverage details, including whether you receive cash back or FCC and what reasons are covered, are dictated by the BookSafe policy and state regulations. New York and other states may have specific disclosures or slightly different terms. The insurance or protection benefit may be underwritten by third parties (Aon or other insurers) and is subject to the insurer’s claims process.

**Crucial practical note:** If you buy BookSafe or NorwegianCare and later cancel for a reason *covered by the plan*, your claim is assessed under the insurance product first; *if the insurance denies the claim*, NCL sometimes provides an FCC in lieu of the denied insurance benefit (per program rules). Keep documentation and follow the insurer’s claims process quickly.

---

### 6 — Peace of Mind (POM) policy and FCC specifics

During certain periods (notably when the cruise industry faced large-scale disruptions), NCL has offered special “Peace of Mind” windows that provide generous cancellation flexibility. Core characteristics:

* **POM window:** A specified period during which passengers can cancel and elect to receive an FCC for the cruise fare and qualifying components. The duration and application of the POM program vary by promotional period and sailing.
* **What POM FCC covers:** POM FCCs commonly include cruise fare and taxes and sometimes apply to upgrades or selected components; however, they explicitly exclude items such as onboard credits, insurance, or restricted air booked through NCL. Always review the POM FAQ for the current exclusions.
* **Redemption & expiration:** POM FCCs are often issued with a redemption window (for example, they may need to be booked by a specified date and used for sailings by a calendar cutoff). During POM campaigns the FCC redemption windows are stated in the POM terms.

**Operational guidance:** If you believe POM applies to your booking, explicitly request POM when you cancel — cancellations do not automatically default to POM; you (or your travel agent) must ask for it per NCL instructions.

---

### 7 — Special situations: NCL-initiated cancellations, itinerary changes, ship substitution, and natural events

When NCL cancels, alters, or suspends a sailing, the remedies differ from voluntary passenger cancellations:

#### a) NCL-initiated cancellations (company decision)

* If NCL cancels a sailing entirely, it typically offers passengers options such as: cash refund of cruise fare and taxes, rebooking on an alternative sailing, or an FCC for the full fare (terms vary with the nature of the cancellation). NCL’s Terms & Conditions explain the company’s rights to advance/postpone/replace sailings and refund strategies.

#### b) Itinerary changes and ship substitution

* NCL can substitute a different ship or materially change the itinerary. In many cases, if the change is material, passengers may be eligible for alternative compensation (refunds, credits, or rebooking) — again, terms are set by the Guest Ticket Contract and applicable communications. Confirm specific eligibility by contacting Guest Services if a change is substantial.

#### c) Force majeure / weather / port closures

* For cancellations or interruptions due to hurricanes, government action, or port closures, the company may offer a scaled refund or FCC and sometimes additional goodwill credits. Such outcomes are handled case-by-case.

**Why this matters:** If the cruise line cancels or materially changes service, passengers frequently receive preferential options (including full monetary refunds) compared with voluntary cancellations within the final payment window. Keep written communication (emails) from NCL that documents the company’s offer.

---

### 8 — Third-party components: airfare, hotels, transfers and supplier cancellations

Cruise packages often include items that are not controlled by NCL:

* **Airfare:** If you booked airfare via NCL’s Air/Sea program, different refund rules may apply and NCL states that airfare refunds are managed under the applicable airfare terms; some NCL-issued air tickets are refundable only through NCL or subject to airline rules.
* **Hotels, transfers, tours:** These items frequently have their own supplier cancellation terms. If a supplier (hotel, transfer provider, tour operator) enforces a cancellation penalty, you may be responsible for that penalty unless the supplier’s own cancellation window is met or travel protection covers it. When filing a claim, separate documentation for these third-party charges is essential.
* **Travel agent bookings:** If you booked through a travel agent or wholesaler, their refund process may differ or add processing time; you may need to follow agent-specific directions. ([Norwegian Voyages][13])

**Action point:** Always document third-party cancellations and maintain receipts; these will be necessary for any insurance claim or supplier dispute.

---

### 9 — Medical, disability, and emergency cancellations

If cancellation results from medical necessity or other emergency, your outcome depends on:

* **Whether you purchased NorwegianCare/BookSafe (or third-party trip insurance) and whether the medical reason is covered.** For covered medical cancellations, the insurance product typically requires medical documentation and prompt claim filing.
* **If you did not buy travel protection,** NCL’s standard cancellation schedule applies. In some cases NCL may consider individual compassionate exceptions, but these are discretionary and not guaranteed.

**Documentation required:** Medical provider statements, hospital records, and proof of relation for family emergencies. Submit these promptly to the insurer (if insured) and retain copies for NCL communications.

---

### 10 — Group bookings, charters and agency bookings

* **Group bookings:** Party leaders or group organizers should verify group contract terms. Group cancellations may carry different financial penalties or handling and may require a single point of contact.
* **Charters:** Full-ship charters often have bespoke contract terms; typical consumer cancellation policies may not apply.
* **Travel agents / wholesalers:** If you booked through an agent, cancellations and refunds are usually processed through that agent per the agent’s agreement with NCL. Agents may have different timelines for passing refunds to clients.

---

### 11 — How to cancel a booking (step-by-step instructions)

1. **Review your confirmation & fare rules** — Identify fare type, final payment date and any purchased protection (BookSafe, NorwegianCare).
2. **Check the Cancellation Fee Schedule for your sailing** — Confirm the precise penalty window for your reservation.
3. **If you have travel protection, read the policy and start the claim** — For insurance-backed products, notify the insurer immediately and file the claim per instructions. For some NCL products, you must call the insurance claimant number.
4. **Contact your travel agent or NCL Reservations** — Use the contact on your booking if booked through an agent; otherwise call NCL Guest Services / Reservations. If requesting POM, explicitly request it when cancelling.
5. **Request written confirmation** — Ask for email confirmation of cancellation, the cancellation fee assessed, and whether refund or FCC will be issued and the expected timeline.
6. **Return any required documents or tickets** — NCL may require return of cruise documents or air coupons before issuing refunds. Keep copies.
7. **Track the refund** — Note the refund reference and check your bank/card statement. If delayed, escalate to Guest Services with references.

---

### 12 — Refund timelines, processing and troubleshooting

NCL provides estimates for refund processing in its FAQs and cancellations schedule:

* **Passenger-initiated refund:** NCL states applicable refunds will be returned to the original form of payment within up to **60 days** after the refund request, although many passenger reports and reseller notes indicate that processing times can range from a few business days to several weeks depending on complexity and payment method.
* **NCL-initiated refunds (company cancellations):** Historically, these may be processed faster and sometimes accompanied by additional credits or incentives. Industry reports show variability; banks also add processing time.

**If refund is delayed:**

1. Obtain the cancellation confirmation and refund reference from NCL.
2. Confirm whether the refund is cash or FCC (FCC will appear in your NCL account).
3. If cash refund is delayed beyond stated window, escalate to Guest Services and request a written status. If necessary, open a dispute with your card issuer only after NCL confirms no refund is in process (disputes can complicate matters).
4. For agent bookings, follow the agent’s process — agent response times can add days.

---

#### 13 — Frequently asked questions (comprehensive)

Below are common, detailed Q&As derived from NCL policy documents, FAQs and industry practice.

### Q1: Can I cancel any time and receive an FCC under Peace of Mind?

A1: Only if your reservation falls within an active POM window and you (or your agent) request POM at cancellation. Terms specify what the POM FCC includes and excludes; it is not automatic.

### Q2: If my insurance claim is denied, will NCL issue an FCC?

A2: In many past cases, NCL has issued an FCC (e.g., 75% or 90%) where insurance denied a claim, per the BookSafe/NorwegianCare terms — but this is program dependent and subject to specific plan disclaimers. Always read the plan documents carefully.

### Q3: Can FCCs be used to pay taxes, airfare, or onboard packages?

A3: FCCs are frequently restricted and **cannot** be used to pay taxes/fees, airfare, travel protection, hotel packages, and certain add-ons. Check the FCC terms when it is issued.

### Q4: How long are FCCs valid?

A4: Validity depends on the FCC program. POM FCCs typically carry a stated redemption window (for example, must be booked by a given date and sail by a cutoff). Standard FCCs usually have an expiry (for example, 12 months or a set period) — confirm the issued FCC’s expiry.

### Q5: If I cancel within 60 days, can I ever get cash back?

A5: Generally, cancellations within the final payment window result in forfeiture unless covered by travel protection (NorwegianCare/BookSafe) or unless NCL provides a special remedy. If you purchased appropriate insurance that covers your cancellation reason, you may recover cash from the insurer (subject to claim approval).

### Q6: How do I claim a refund for pre-purchased airfare booked via NCL?

A6: Air refunds are governed by airline fare rules and NCL’s Air/Sea policies. Contact NCL Reservations or the airline (if you have the ticket) and review fare conditions. NCL notes that some air tickets sold via Air/Sea may be refundable only through NCL.

### Q7: Are taxes/fees refundable?

A7: Government taxes and fees that are not consumed by services may be refundable depending on timing and whether ports or governments refund them. NCL’s cancellation schedule and refund communications typically address taxes separately. FCC rules often exclude taxes from redeployment.

### Q8: Are onboard purchases refundable if I cancel before sailing?

A8: Items like pre-purchased packages (specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments) are often refundable per their own terms; some may have penalties. Refundability of bundled packages depends on when you cancel and the package terms. Confirm line-item refund policy at cancellation.

---

## 14 — Nowegian Cruise Line Sample cancellation request templates Email

Below are practical templates you can use to submit a cancellation request by email or written correspondence. Include booking reference, passenger names, and payment method.

**Email template — request cash refund (passenger-initiated cancellation):**

> Subject: Cancellation request — Reservation #[BOOKING NUMBER] — [LEAD PASSENGER NAME]
>
> Dear Norwegian Cruise Line Reservations / Guest Services,
>
> I am writing to cancel my reservation #[BOOKING NUMBER] for the [SHIP NAME], sailing on [SAIL DATE]. Passenger(s): [NAMES].
>
> Please confirm the amount of the cancellation penalty and whether a cash refund to the original form of payment will be issued, or whether a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) will be provided. I purchased [BookSafe / NorwegianCare / no protection]. Attached: booking confirmation, payment receipt, and ID.
>
> Please send a written confirmation of cancellation and the refund or FCC details, including the reference number and estimated processing timeframe.
>
> Sincerely,
> [NAME]
> [CONTACT INFO]
> [BOOKING NUMBER]

**If invoking Peace of Mind, explicitly include** “Please process this cancellation under Peace of Mind (POM) and issue the applicable POM Future Cruise Credit (FCC) per POM terms.”

---

### 15 — Practical strategies to reduce financial risk

1. **Buy travel protection** (NorwegianCare/BookSafe or third-party CFAR if you want cash refund for any reason) and compare the reimbursement type (cash vs FCC).
2. **Choose more flexible fares** if you suspect change (pay a little more for refundable or flexible fares).
3. **Keep final payment date on calendar** to avoid inadvertent forfeiture.
4. **If traveling with groups, confirm group rules early** — group leader liability can increase financial exposure.
5. **Document medical/emergency reasons immediately and submit claims fast** — insurance timeliness matters.
6. **If NCL cancels a sailing, preserve written offers** — company communications may entitle you to superior remedies.

---

### 16 — Legal considerations & passenger rights (brief)

* **Guest Ticket Contract governs legal rights:** When you accept passage on a cruise, you agree to NCL’s terms and conditions which include clauses on cancellation, jurisdiction, and limitation of liability. Read the Guest Ticket Contract carefully if you have a dispute.
* **Consumer protection:** In many jurisdictions, consumer laws provide remedies for unfair or deceptive practices; if you suspect a statutory violation, consult local consumer protection agencies or legal counsel.
* **Chargebacks and disputes:** Filing a chargeback with your card issuer may resolve delayed refunds but can complicate rebooking or future claims — use as a last resort after attempting to resolve with NCL and your travel agent.

---

### 17 — Checklist: Immediate actions if you must cancel

1. Review booking confirmation for fare rules and protection product.
2. If insured, start the insurer’s claims process immediately.
3. Contact your travel agent or NCL Reservations and request written confirmation of cancellation and the refund format.
4. Save all correspondence and receipts (air, hotel, transfers).
5. Monitor bank/card statements and follow up if refund delays beyond published windows (NCL cites up to 60 days for certain refunds).

---

### Sources and further reading (authoritative NCL pages & practical references)

* Norwegian Cruise Line — **Cancellation Fee Schedule** (official NCL page). This is the primary public schedule that shows penalty windows and details for many markets.
* NCL FAQ — **Peace of Mind cancellation process** (how to request POM at cancellation).
* NCL FAQ — **Refund timing** (applicable refunds returned to original form of payment within 60 days after request).
* NCL Terms & Conditions (Guest Ticket Contract) — legal terms governing reservations and cancellations.
* NCL Travel Protection / NorwegianCare overview (program specifics and how NorwegianCare interacts with refunds).
* BookSafe Travel Protection Plan PDF (policy document with details on covered reasons and credits).

---

### Final notes and recommended next steps

* **Double-check your booking documentation now.** Your reservation might have fare-specific terms that change the entire outcome. If you are within a penalty window, consider whether travel protection claims or POM (if applicable) yield a better outcome before cancelltion.
* **If you have travel protection, file claims immediately** and keep detailed medical or proof documents if your cancellation reason is covered by the policy.
* **If NCL cancels the sailing**, preserve all written offers from NCL — these typically specify whether you receive an FCC or cash refund and the timeline. Contact Guest Services for clarification and keep a record.

---