Few things are more disappointing than getting your Alaska cruise cancelled at the last minute. Planning a dream trip to see glaciers, wildlife, and rugged wilderness can take months, so when an unexpected cancellation happens, it can throw everything into chaos. However, don’t worry; this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the next steps. From confirming the cancellation to rebooking or receiving a refund, here’s how to move forward and turn your setback into a smarter travel decision.
Stay Calm and Confirm the Cancellation
First, don’t panic. Before making any decisions, confirm whether your Alaska cruise is truly cancelled or just delayed. Here’s how:
- Check for an official Royal Caribbean email or text message
- Log in to the Cruise Planner app or website
- Contact your travel agent (if applicable)
Sometimes sailings are rescheduled instead of fully cancelled, so it’s essential to get accurate details.
Understand Why It Was Cancelled
Knowing the reason for cancellation can help guide your next steps. Common causes include:
- Severe weather (storms, ice)
- Mechanical or maintenance issues
- Staffing shortages
- Health-related concerns (e.g., COVID outbreaks)
If it’s weather-related, rebooking for mid-season might be safer. For more insights, see our blog: Why Do Royal Caribbean Cancel Alaska Cruises So Often?
Check Your Refund or Compensation Options
Once the cancellation is confirmed, check your options:
- Full refund to your original payment method
- Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for another sailing
- Reschedule on a different itinerary
Royal Caribbean typically honours their cancellation policy, but check if you booked through a travel agent, they might offer additional perks. Also, be sure to check expiration dates on FCCs so you don’t miss out.
Consider Rebooking Another Sailing
Love the idea of cruising Alaska? You might be able to rebook right away:
- Look for similar itineraries with open cabins
- Royal Caribbean may offer priority rebooking options
- Tip: Choose mid-season dates (June–August) for more stable weather
- Compare with other lines like Princess, Celebrity, or Holland America
Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider
If you purchased travel insurance, now is the time to use it:
- Check if your policy covers weather, illness, or ship-related cancellations
- File a claim (you’ll need documentation like cancellation notices)
- Tip: Comprehensive cruise insurance often provides better protection than basic plans
Cancel or Adjust Your Other Bookings
Your cruise isn’t the only reservation affected. Don’t forget to:
- Cancel or reschedule flights, hotels, transfers, and excursions
- Check if you can get credits or refunds
- Use credit card or airline protections for extra support
Track the Refund Timeline
Refunds don’t happen overnight. Here’s what to expect:
- Refunds typically take 7–21 business days to process
- Future Cruise Credit is usually issued faster (often within a few days)
For more info, visit: Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise Cancelled
Learn from the Experience for Next Time
Cruise cancellations are frustrating, but they can teach valuable lessons:
- Purchase travel insurance early
- Choose flexible fare options
- Avoid sailing too early or too late in the season
- Monitor cruise alerts as your travel date nears
Consider Alternative Travel Plans
Already have flights booked? Don’t waste the opportunity:
- Explore Alaska by land: Denali, Anchorage, Fairbanks, and more
- Book a last-minute replacement cruise or land tour
- Stay positive: This could turn into a new kind of adventure
Final Checklist Summary
✅ Confirm cancellation
✅ Contact the cruise line
✅ Request a refund or FCC
✅ File insurance claim
✅ Rebook or adjust travel
✅ Watch the refund timeline
✅ Learn for future planning
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will I get a refund if my Alaska cruise is cancelled?
Yes, Royal Caribbean usually offers either a full refund or a future cruise credit.
Q2: How long does a cruise refund take?
It typically takes 7–21 business days to process.
Q3: Can I claim travel insurance after a cruise cancellation?
Yes, if your policy covers the reason for cancellation.
Conclusion
Cruise cancellations are never fun, but they’re easier to handle with the right information. Whether you opt for a refund, rebook a new sailing, or explore Alaska by land, there are plenty of options to get your vacation back on track. Use this guide to make smart decisions now and plan even better for next time.