Ritz-Carlton Yacht Cancellation Policy Explained
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Cancellation Policy Simplified
When booking a voyage with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, it’s important to understand how cancellations are handled. Below, we’ve simplified the official terms into clear language so you know exactly what to expect.
General Rules for Guest Cancellations
Cancellations must be made in writing or by phone.
Date changes are treated as cancellations.
Refunds (when eligible) are always returned to the person or agency who made the payment.
Airline tickets or cruise documents must be returned before refunds are processed.
Agency service fees are separate and not covered by the cruise line.
Once your voyage begins, unused portions (air, land, shore excursions, or spa) are non-refundable.
Cruise Cancellation Schedule
The closer you are to the sailing date, the higher the penalty. Here’s how it works:
More than 365 days before sailing: Full refund minus a $250 USD (or equivalent) administrative fee per person. This fee can be applied to a new booking within 12 months.
365–181 days prior: 10% fee (split into 5% non-refundable + 5% Future Cruise Credit valid for 12 months).
180–121 days prior: 25% of cruise fare is forfeited.
120–61 days prior: 50% of cruise fare is forfeited.
60 days or less: 100% penalty (no refund).
⚠️ Downgrading your suite category is also treated as a cancellation and subject to the same penalties.
Airfare Cancellations
Once air tickets are issued, standard airline rules and penalties apply.
Changes within 60 days of sailing incur a $150 USD (or equivalent) non-refundable fee per person, in addition to airline charges.
Pre- & Post-Hotel Programs
If you booked extra hotel stays through Ritz-Carlton programs:
More than 120 days before sailing: Full refund.
120–91 days prior: 25% penalty.
90–61 days prior: 50% penalty.
60 days or less: 100% penalty.
For hotels booked separately via Marriott STARS, Marriott’s own terms apply.
Pre- & Post-Transfers
For transfers arranged through the cruise line:
More than 14 days before sailing: Full refund.
14–7 days prior: 50% penalty.
6 days or less: 100% penalty.
Shore Excursions & Experiences
Group Excursions: Cancel at least 48 hours before to avoid fees.
Pre-Designed Private Excursions: Non-refundable once booked.
Custom Private Excursions: 100% cancellation fee + $200 USD (or equivalent) non-refundable planning fee (credited toward excursion cost). Some suite categories (like Owners Suites or Concierge Suites) are exempt from this fee.
Specially Ticketed Events
Cancel up to 60 days before sailing for a full refund.
Within 60 days = 100% penalty.
Events booked onboard are non-refundable.
Ritz-Carlton Spa® Services
Cancel at least 24 hours in advance to avoid fees.
Within 24 hours = 100% penalty.
Key Takeaways
Cancel early (ideally 6+ months out) for maximum flexibility.
Even within penalty windows, part of your payment may be returned as Future Cruise Credit.
Always review airfare, hotel, and excursion policies separately, as they have their own timelines.
Using a trusted advisor like StarsDesk ensures you have an advocate if you need to adjust or cancel your voyage.
✨ Ready to explore more about this extraordinary collection of yachts, itineraries, and guest perks? Read our full guide here: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection – StarsDesk Overview.
