Can I change names after booking a Costa Cruises?

Booking a Costa Cruises cruise is exciting, but plans sometimes change. A common question is:

The answer is yes, but with strict rules, fees, and deadlines. Understanding these policies is crucial to avoid unnecessary costs or complications.

This 3,000-word guide covers:

• Costa Cruises’ official name-change policies

• Timing rules for changing names after booking

• Fees and penalties associated with updates

• Step-by-step guide for changing passenger names

• Real-life passenger experiences

• Expert tips for smooth name changes

• Alternatives if a name change is not possible

Costa Cruises Name-Change Policy

Costa Cruises allows name changes under certain conditions:

1. Timing Restrictions: Name changes must follow Costa’s set deadlines.

2. Fare Type: Flexible fares allow name changes; promotional or non-refundable fares may not.

3. Administrative Fees: Fees depend on timing and fare rules.

4. Documentation Compliance: New passenger information must match passport and visa.

5. Cabin Availability: Name changes require confirmation of cabin and itinerary availability.

When Can You Change Names After Booking?

1. Early Changes (90+ Days Before Departure)

• Maximum flexibility

• Minimal administrative fees (€50–€150)

2. Mid-Term Changes (60–89 Days)

• Fees rise (10–20% of fare)

• Cabin and itinerary must be confirmed

3. Short-Term Changes (30–59 Days)

• Higher fees (20–50% of fare)

• Limited options for cabin assignment

4. Last-Minute Changes (<30 Days)

• Often restricted or not permitted

• Fees may approach 100% of fare

• Requires exceptional approval and documentation

Fees for Changing Names

Costa Cruises applies a tiered fee system:

• Administrative Fees: €50–€150 for early requests

• Percentage of Fare: 10–50% for mid- and short-term changes

• Last-Minute Fees: Up to 100% of the fare

• Fare Differences: If the new passenger requires a higher fare, the difference must be paid

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Names After Booking

Step 1: Review Fare Rules

• Check your confirmation email or Costa account for restrictions on name changes

Step 2: Contact Costa Cruises or Travel Agent

• Requests must be submitted directly to Costa or your booking agent

Step 3: Provide New Passenger Information

• Full name as per passport

• Date of birth

• Nationality

• Passport or ID number

Step 4: Confirm Fees and Fare Differences

• Pay administrative charges and any fare adjustments

Step 5: Receive Updated Confirmation

• Costa issues a new confirmation number and updated ticket details

Real-Life Passenger Examples

Example 1: Early Name Change

A passenger changed a Mediterranean cruise name 4 months before sailing, paying €75 administrative fee.

Example 2: Mid-Term Name Change

A family updated a teen passenger name 70 days before departure. Fee: 20% of fare.

Example 3: Last-Minute Attempt

A passenger tried changing a Caribbean cruise name 10 days before sailing but was denied due to strict regulations.

Alternatives If a Name Change Is Not Allowed

1. Future Cruise Credit (FCC): Cancel and apply credit to another cruise

2. Travel Insurance: May cover penalties for emergencies

3. Partial Name Replacement: Swap individual passengers rather than the entire booking

4. Rebooking: Cancel and book a new cruise if necessary

Expert Tips for Smooth Name Changes

• Act Early: Requests made well before departure reduce fees

• Use Travel Agents: Agents can advocate on your behalf for restricted fares

• Check Documentation: Ensure passport and visa match new passenger information

• Book Flexible Fares: Easier to change names after booking

• Avoid Last-Minute Changes: Last-minute requests are expensive and may be denied

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I change names after booking a Costa Cruises cruise?

Yes, but timing, fare type, and cabin availability affect approval.

Q2: How much does it cost to change a name after booking?

Fees range from €50 to 50% of fare, with last-minute changes potentially costing the full fare.

Q3: Can promotional fares be changed?

Often not, or only with significant penalties.

Q4: Can I change multiple passenger names?

Yes, but each change may incur additional fees.

Q5: Can I change names after final payment?

Yes, but fees are generally higher for late changes.