Help CenterWhen booking a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll typically be given the choice between a refundable deposit and a non-refundable deposit fare. While both secure your reservation, they come with important differences in flexibility, price, and penalties.
🛏️ What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Refundable Deposit | Non-Refundable Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Higher fare | Lower fare (often $50–$250 less per person) |
| Deposit Refundability | Fully refundable if canceled before final payment | Not refundable at any time, even if canceled early |
| Change Fee | No fee for changes | $100 per guest to change ship/sail date |
| Booking Flexibility | Very flexible | Less flexible – date/ship changes incur fees |
🧾 Example Scenario
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Refundable Fare: You book a cruise 10 months out and decide to cancel 5 months before sailing. You receive 100% of your deposit back.
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Non-Refundable Fare: Same booking and timeline, but canceling means you forfeit the deposit, even months in advance.
💡 Which Should You Choose?
Choose Refundable Deposit if:
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You're unsure of your travel plans
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You may change the date or ship later
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You value flexibility over a slightly lower price
Choose Non-Refundable Deposit if:
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Your plans are firm and unlikely to change
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You want the lowest available fare
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You’re confident in your travel insurance or cancellation protection
✅ Summary Table
| Booking Option | Best For | Flexibility | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refundable Deposit | Travelers needing flexibility | High | Higher fare |
| Non-Refundable | Budget-conscious, firm travelers | Low | Lower fare |