Refundable Fares

[oufpat]

I'm in the early stages of planning a Multi-generational Cruise for my family for June, 2024. Due to the various ages and commitments, I can't get a true guarantee from everyone.  Does RC ever  offer non-refundable fares?

[twangster]

28 minutes ago, oufpat said:

Does RC ever  offer non-refundable fares?

Yes, but did you mean non-refundable or refundable?  Most bookings are non-refundable by default.  

First, most suites are not offered on a refundable basis.  The exception is Junior Suites and a select number of other suites like VP.  

Second, the difference for refundable rates can be very high.  It tends to be a smaller bump up from non-refundable for interior, more for ocean view, often a lot for balconies.   Sometimes the refundable rate compared to non-refundable will result in sticker shock.  It depends.  

The refundable option can be found at the very end of the booking process on the website when it's available or better yet ask a TA for a quote.  They can access them much easier.  

[recogneyes]

Another option is to contact a travel agency to see if they have any group rates.  There are times when an agency purchases a block of cabins and creates a group booking.  With those your deposit is usually refundable up until final payment.  One thing to be aware of though is if you book with a travel agent, all communication must continue to go through them.  Royal will not discuss details about payment or room choices etc.  

[PL8SWPR]

The deposit needed to hold the room can be refundable if you pay the fee.  Otherwise there is a $100 per person change fee if you want to change dates, etc.

We never booked refundable as the fee for 2 has been $150.  Just not worth it if the change fee would be $200.  Would need to change almost every booking to make that worth it.

However, sometimes a travel agent can offer refundable deposit rates for less than non refundable as I found out when booking with MEI for the first time vs booking direct.

[ChessE4]

We almost always book refundable deposits as we book 1 to 2years out. We don't know and don't care what it costs (extra). Instead we look at our TA's quote to see if it is reasonable for room category. If so, we book. The bottom line is always whether the price is fair. I don't believe life is about getting best deal, just getting your money's worth and knowing when you've had it. (I think that's a line in the sun also rises...Hemingway)