Refundable vs Non Refundable

[Roncane]

What's the difference between a reimbursable cruise fare and non-refundable? Is cost difference worth it?

[ChessE4]

When booking, there is a distinction between a refundable deposit or a non-refundable deposit.  Fares for non-refundable are generally cheaper, but your deposit is at risk.  When you cancel a cruise, what you get back (cash or Future Cruise Credit) and how much depends upon such factors as when you cancel, why you cancel, what sort of trip insurance you have, etc.  A good travel agent will explain this.  Royal explains their refund policy online and on your booking receipt.  Example: When my wife's mother passed away, her trip insurance covered the entire cost of her reservation.   

Royal has certain COVID cancellation policies in affect now, as do certain travel insurance carriers. 

Generally, when you see a cheap online price for a cruise at Royal's website, it assumes nonrefundable deposit.  Some people book a cruise with a refundable deposit first knowing that if their plans change, they can reschedule without paying a change fee or even just cancel.  We do this for most of our cruises because we book1-2 years in advance. 

There are other threads that go into detail about travel insurance, repricing cruises, etc. 

Bottom line: Virtually every cruise fare is partially reimbursable up to a point, but you lose everything if you wait too long and aren't covered by travel insurance or Royal's COVID policies.  The most flexibility is offered by refundable deposits and suitable travel insurance.