Can I change a passenger name on a MSC Cruises?

Cruising with MSC Cruises is an exciting adventure—whether you’re sailing the Mediterranean, exploring the Caribbean, or embarking on a world voyage. But what happens when a passenger on your booking can no longer travel? Maybe a family member dropped out, a friend’s schedule changed, or you made a small spelling mistake during booking. The big question many travelers ask is:

“Can I change a passenger name on an MSC Cruises cruise?”

The answer is yes, but with limitations. Passenger substitutions and corrections are subject to strict maritime security rules, contractual obligations, and timing restrictions. Changing the wrong name at the wrong time can result in fees—or even denied boarding.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about changing a passenger name on MSC Cruises, including:

• MSC’s official policy on name changes

• Lead vs. secondary passenger rules

• Fees and costs for making changes

• Deadlines and restrictions

• How flight-inclusive bookings complicate name changes

• Step-by-step instructions for making a change

• Alternatives if a full name change isn’t allowed

• Pro tips to save money and avoid problems

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what you can and cannot do when it comes to name changes on MSC Cruises.

Understanding MSC Cruises’ Name Change Policy

Passenger information on a cruise isn’t just for tickets—it’s tied to maritime security, immigration checks, and international law. MSC Cruises requires all bookings to have full legal names exactly as they appear on travel documents (passport, ID card, visa, etc.).

Key Principles

1. Lead Passenger (Primary Guest)

   • The lead passenger is the main person on the booking. They sign the contract, handle payments, and are legally responsible.

   • Their name cannot usually be changed. If they cannot travel, the entire booking may need to be canceled and rebooked.

2. Secondary Passengers

   • Other guests in the same cabin (friends, family, or companions) may be substituted.

   • MSC generally allows secondary passenger substitutions, subject to fees and deadlines.

3. Corrections vs. Substitutions

   • Corrections (fixing typos or spelling errors) are typically free if caught early.

   • Substitutions (replacing one person with another) come with fees and restrictions.

When Can You Change a Passenger Name?

MSC allows passenger name changes up to a certain deadline before sailing, but after that, the reservation is locked.

• More than 30 days before departure – Changes are generally accepted with a small administrative fee.

• 8–30 days before departure – Still possible, but subject to higher fees and tighter checks.

• Within 7 days of sailing – Not permitted due to immigration and port authority requirements.

Costs and Fees for Name Changes

The cost of changing a passenger name depends on timing, fare type, and whether flights are included.

Typical Fees

• Administrative Fee: $50–$100 per change (varies by country and booking office).

• Airfare Packages (Fly&Cruise): Airlines rarely allow name changes. A substitution often means buying a new ticket at full cost.

• Hotel, Transfer, or Excursion Packages: Third-party providers may charge additional change fees.

Cost Scenarios

• Simple Typo Correction – Free (if caught early).

• Replacing a Secondary Passenger 60 days before sailing – $75 fee.

• Replacing a Passenger 10 days before sailing with Fly&Cruise airfare – New airfare required ($200–$600+).

• Lead Passenger Change – Not allowed; treated as cancellation.

Documentation Required

To process a name change, you’ll need:

• New passenger’s passport details (name, number, expiry date, issuing country).

• Visa details (if required for itinerary destinations).

• Proof of vaccinations or travel requirements (if applicable).

Without accurate documentation, the new passenger may be denied boarding.

Step-by-Step: How to Change a Passenger Name on MSC Cruises

1. Review Your Booking Terms

   • Check your booking confirmation and MSC’s terms and conditions.

2. Contact Your Booking Source

   • If booked through a travel agent, they must handle the change.

   • If booked directly, call MSC Cruises’ customer service.

3. Specify the Type of Change

   • Clarify if it’s a correction (spelling mistake) or substitution (new person).

4. Submit New Passenger Details

   • Provide passport details, date of birth, and other required documentation.

5. Pay Applicable Fees

   • Expect to be charged an administrative fee or airline rebooking costs.

6. Request Written Confirmation

   • Always ask for an updated booking invoice showing the correct passenger list.

Restrictions and Limitations

Lead Passenger Rule

• The lead guest cannot be swapped out. If they cancel, the booking is typically void.

Age Policy

• Replacements must meet MSC’s age rules. For example:

  • In North America, travelers under 21 must be accompanied by someone 21 or older.

  • In Europe, the rule is under 18.

Visa and Immigration

• The new passenger must qualify for all necessary visas. If they cannot secure documentation in time, MSC will not refund fees.

Excursions & Packages

• If the original passenger booked specialty excursions or packages, these may not transfer automatically.

Complications with Flight-Inclusive Bookings

One of the biggest challenges comes with MSC’s Fly&Cruise packages, where airfare is bundled with the cruise.

• Airlines often prohibit name changes.

• If a substitution is needed, the original flight is canceled and a new one must be purchased.

• This can cost hundreds of dollars, sometimes more than the cruise itself.

• In some cases, name changes may not be possible at all.

Alternatives if a Name Change Isn’t Possible

1. Cancel and Rebook

   • Accept cancellation penalties and rebook with the correct passengers.

2. Use Travel Insurance

   • If cancellation is due to illness or emergencies, insurance may cover costs.

3. Future Cruise Credit

   • MSC sometimes offers FCCs (Future Cruise Credits) during special promotions or disruptions.

4. Cabin Sharing Adjustment

   • If one guest drops out, you may choose to sail with fewer passengers rather than replacing them.

Expert Tips to Minimize Name Change Hassles

• Book Early and Double-Check Details – Ensure names match passports before finalizing.

• Avoid Bundled Flights – Book airfare separately to keep flexibility.

• Buy Flexible Fares – MSC sometimes offers promotional fares with looser change rules.

• Act Quickly – The sooner you request a change, the easier and cheaper it will be.

• Work with a Travel Agent – Agents can sometimes negotiate exceptions with MSC.

• Consider Travel Insurance – Protect yourself against unforeseen passenger changes.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Typo Correction

Emma books a cruise but accidentally enters her last name with one letter wrong. She notices two months before departure.

• Outcome: Free correction since it’s a clear typo.

Example 2: Substitution Before 30 Days

David’s brother can’t join their cruise, so he wants his cousin to come instead.

• Outcome: MSC charges a $75 fee. All documents are updated smoothly.

Example 3: Last-Minute Cancellation with Fly&Cruise

Maria’s travel partner cancels 5 days before departure. She wants to bring her friend instead.

• Outcome: Change denied due to being within 7 days of sailing. Maria must sail alone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I change the lead passenger’s name on MSC Cruises?

No, the lead passenger cannot be replaced. The booking would need to be canceled and rebooked.

How much does it cost to change a passenger name?

Generally $50–$100 per change, unless flights are included, in which case costs may be much higher.

What if it’s just a typo?

Simple spelling mistakes are usually corrected free of charge if reported early.

Can I change a passenger within 7 days of departure?

No. Changes are typically not permitted within 7 days of sailing.

Does insurance cover name change fees?

Some travel insurance policies cover cancellation or substitution costs if due to illness, work, or emergencies.