Can I change the person on a Windstar Cruises cruise ticket?

Booking a cruise is an exciting step toward a memorable vacation, but sometimes life happens. Plans can shift due to work obligations, family emergencies, or other personal reasons. You may then ask:Changing the name or transferring a ticket to another person is possible, but it comes with rules, limitations, and potential fees. Understanding Windstar Cruises’ policies ensures you avoid surprises and smoothly update your reservation.In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:

• Name change vs. full ticket transfer

• Timing considerations

• Fees and penalties

• Using Future Cruise Credits (FCCs)

• Flexible fare and promotional options

• Travel insurance and protection

• Step-by-step process for changing the ticketed person

• Expert tips to reduce costs

By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to safely change the person on a Windstar Cruises ticket.

1. Understanding Windstar Cruises Name Change and Ticket Transfer Policy

Windstar Cruises distinguishes between minor name changes and full transfers:

• Minor name changes: Typos, legal name updates, or adding a spouse/partner. These are usually allowed for free if done before ticket issuance or final payment.

• Full reservation transfer: Assigning your ticket to an entirely different person is often treated as a cancellation and new booking, especially after final payment.

Key takeaway: Minor changes are straightforward, but transferring a ticket to a different traveler may incur fees and require additional steps.

2. Timing Considerations

The timing of your request significantly affects the feasibility and cost of changing the person on a ticket.

A. Before Final Payment

• Minor corrections or name changes are typically free.

• Changing the ticket to another person may require approval and is limited.

• Cabin upgrades or fare differences may apply if transferring within certain promotions.

B. After Final Payment

• Changing the ticket is usually treated as cancellation and rebooking.

• Cancellation penalties apply based on the days remaining until departure.

• A Future Cruise Credit (FCC) may be issued for the original passenger to facilitate a new booking.

C. During Flexible Promotions

Windstar sometimes offers Book with Confidence or other flexible promotions:

• Some promotions allow name changes or transfers with reduced or no fees.

• These are time-sensitive and often require action before 48 hours prior to sailing.

3. Fees for Changing the Person on a Ticket

Changing the person on a ticket can involve multiple fees depending on the timing and type of change:

• Administrative fees per passenger for minor name changes

• Cancellation fees if treated as a full transfer after final payment

• Fare differences if the new passenger selects a more expensive cabin or itinerary

Approximate Fee Schedule

TimingFee TypeNotes

Before final paymentMinor admin feeUsually free for typos or legal updates

119–90 days$100–$200 per passengerTransfers treated as cancellations

89–60 days25–50% of fareStandard cancellation fee applies

59–30 daysUp to 75% of fareHigh cancellation penalty

<30 days100% of fareFull fare loss unless FCC used

Note: Always verify current policies with Windstar Reservations, as fees may vary by promotion, itinerary, and cabin category.

4. Minor Name Changes vs. Full Passenger Transfers

A. Minor Name Changes

• Correct spelling mistakes

• Update legal names (marriage, divorce, etc.)

• Add spouse/partner to the booking

• Usually allowed before ticket issuance or final payment

• Minimal or no fees

B. Full Passenger Transfers

• Reassigning the ticket to another person entirely

• Treated as a cancellation and new booking after final payment

• Original passenger may receive an FCC

• New passenger pays any fare differences and applicable fees

5. Using Future Cruise Credits (FCCs)

If changing the person on the ticket after final payment:

• Windstar may issue an FCC equivalent to the amount paid

• FCC can be applied to a new booking for the new passenger

• Protects your investment and retains booking perks

Benefits of FCCs:

• Avoids cash loss

• Allows flexibility in choosing a new itinerary

• Can maintain cabin preferences or onboard credits

6. Fare Differences

Even with an FCC, fare differences may apply:

• If the new passenger books a more expensive cabin or itinerary, the difference is payable

• Lower-cost bookings may result in leftover credit for future use

• Promotional fares may have restrictions that affect fare adjustments

7. Flexible Fares and Promotional Options

Windstar occasionally offers flexible booking promotions that reduce costs and restrictions for changing ticketed passengers:

• Book with Confidence: Allows modifications up to 48 hours before sailing with minimal fees

• Flexible fares: Permit limited name changes or passenger transfers

• Travel insurance: May cover fees for rescheduling due to a covered reason

8. Travel Insurance Considerations

Travel insurance can provide valuable protection when changing the person on a cruise ticket:

• Covers trip cancellation or interruption for covered reasons

• May reimburse rebooking or administrative fees

• Optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) policies allow maximum flexibility

Tip: Review your policy carefully to confirm coverage for name changes or passenger substitutions.

9. Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Person on a Ticket

Step 1: Review Your Booking

• Confirm fare type, cabin category, and final payment status

• Identify any flexible fare or promotional protections

Step 2: Contact Windstar Reservations

• U.S./Canada: 1-888-526-2803

• International: Refer to regional contact numbers

Step 3: Provide Booking Details

• Reservation number

• Current passenger name

• New passenger name

• Desired sailing date if applicable

Step 4: Confirm Fees and Requirements

• Administrative fees

• Fare differences

• Cancellation penalties (if applicable)

Step 5: Process Change or FCC

• Minor name changes processed immediately

• Full transfers may require cancellation and rebooking using FCC

Step 6: Receive Updated Confirmation

• Ensure all passenger information, cabin assignments, and excursions are correct

• Verify FCC application or new payment

Step 7: Update Travel Arrangements

• Flights, transfers, and shore excursions may need adjustments

• Notify travel agents, airlines, or local transport providers

10. Special Situations

A. Group Bookings

• Changes may require approval from Windstar’s group reservations department

• Individual passenger substitutions may have limited flexibility

B. Cruise + Air Packages

• Air tickets booked through Windstar may have separate fees

• Airline rules for name changes or ticket transfers apply

C. Shore Excursion Adjustments

• Excursions may be rebooked under the new passenger

• Subject to availability

11. Timing Tips to Minimize Costs

• Act early: Changes before final payment usually avoid fees

• Leverage flexible promotions: Book with Confidence reduces penalties

• Use FCC strategically: Apply credit toward higher-cost sailings

• Avoid last-minute changes: Fees escalate sharply in the last 30 days

12. Comparing Name Change and Passenger Transfer Policies

Cruise LineName Change PolicyFull Transfer Policy

WindstarModerateTreated as cancellation & rebooking

SeabournFlexibleCruise credits may allow transfer

SilverseaModerateAllowed with penalties

AzamaraFlexibleLimited transfer options

Regent Seven SeasVery FlexibleLate transfers allowed

Windstar is competitive for small-ship luxury cruises but less flexible than ultra-luxury lines.

13. Expert Tips for Changing the Person on a Ticket

1. Act promptly: Early action avoids penalties

2. Keep documentation: Save emails and confirmations

3. Check fare types: Flexible fares or promotions reduce fees

4. Consult travel advisors: They can navigate complex processes

5. Plan for group bookings: Ensure all passengers’ arrangements are accounted for

6. Consider cabin choice: Upgrading may increase costs

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I change the person on a Windstar cruise ticket?

A: Yes, minor corrections are often free; full transfers are usually treated as cancellation and rebooking.

Q2. Are there fees to change the passenger?

A: Fees vary based on timing, fare type, and whether an FCC is used.

Q3. Can minor name changes be done without fees?

A: Yes, minor corrections before ticket issuance are usually free.

Q4. Can I use an FCC to change the ticketed passenger?

A: Yes, FCCs can facilitate a full transfer or new booking.

Q5. Are group bookings treated differently?

A: Yes, group booking changes must be coordinated with Windstar’s group department.

Q6. Does travel insurance cover passenger changes?A: Many policies cover fees for covered reasons; CFAR provides maximum flexibility.

15.Changing the person on a Windstar Cruises ticket is possible but requires understanding policies, timing, and potential costs.

• Before final payment: Minor name changes are usually free; full transfers may be limited

• After final payment: Treated as cancellation and rebooking, with applicable fees

• Future Cruise Credits (FCCs): Protect your investment and facilitate a new booking

• Flexible fares and promotions: Reduce penalties and allow greater flexibility

• Travel insurance: Adds protection and peace of mind

With careful planning, early communication, and knowledge of Windstar’s policies, travelers can confidently update their ticketed passenger while maintaining the luxury and intimate experience that Windstar Cruises offers.