Can I move my Uniworld River Cruises cruise to a different date?

Uniworld River Cruises is known for its luxurious, boutique-style ships that sail through Europe, Asia, and Egypt, offering immersive cultural experiences. However, sometimes travel plans change—unexpected life events, scheduling conflicts, or global disruptions may require you to move your cruise to a different date.

If you’re wondering, “Can I move my Uniworld River Cruises cruise to a different date?” the good news is that, in most cases, you can, though specific rules, fees, and restrictions may apply depending on when and how you modify your booking.

This detailed guide will help you understand Uniworld’s date change and rebooking policies, how to reschedule your trip, what fees may be involved, and strategies to minimize extra costs while maintaining your travel plans.

1. Understanding Uniworld’s Date Change Policy

Uniworld River Cruises allows guests to move their cruise to a different date under certain conditions. The policy’s flexibility depends on several factors, such as:

• When you request the change (number of days before departure)

• The type of fare or promotion you booked

• Availability on your desired new sailing date

• Destination region (Europe, Asia, Egypt, etc.)

Typically, guests can reschedule by contacting Uniworld or their travel advisor. However, as the departure date approaches, the flexibility decreases, and fees increase.

Uniworld’s rebooking policy is designed to maintain fairness across all travelers while ensuring smooth cruise operations and cabin availability.

2. How Far in Advance Can You Change Your Uniworld Cruise?

The ideal time to move your Uniworld River Cruises booking is at least 120 days before departure. The earlier you make the change, the greater the chance of securing your preferred new date without penalty.

Here’s a general timeline overview:

• 120+ days before departure: Full flexibility. You can usually rebook with minimal administrative fees, subject to availability.

• 90–119 days before departure: You may still change dates, but additional rebooking fees or fare differences might apply.

• 60–89 days before departure: Expect moderate penalties or partial loss of deposit depending on your fare type.

• Less than 60 days before departure: Changes are limited and may be considered cancellations rather than rebookings.

Uniworld reviews every case individually, particularly for medical emergencies or significant travel disruptions.

3. Does Uniworld Charge a Fee to Move Cruise Dates?

Yes, in most cases, Uniworld charges a change fee when you move your cruise to a different date.

The standard rebooking fee ranges from $200 to $500 per person, though this can vary based on:

• The fare type (standard vs. promotional fare)

• The timing of the change

• The price difference between your old and new cruise dates

• Applicable taxes and port fees

Additionally, if the new sailing is more expensive, you’ll need to pay the fare difference. If the new cruise costs less, Uniworld typically issues a future cruise credit rather than a refund.

Travel insurance may cover these fees in certain situations, so it’s wise to review your policy before finalizing changes.

4. Exceptions and Flexible Booking Options

Uniworld has occasionally offered “Book with Confidence” or Flexible Rebooking Programs in response to global travel challenges such as COVID-19. Under these special terms, guests could:

• Postpone travel up to 60 days before departure

• Rebook for any future sailing within a specified timeframe

• Avoid change fees or penalties

While such promotions may not be ongoing, Uniworld continues to provide compassionate flexibility for travelers facing legitimate hardships such as medical emergencies or unforeseen travel restrictions.

If your reason for changing dates falls into one of these exceptional categories, contact Uniworld directly or speak with your travel agent to explore possible waivers or future cruise credits.

5. How to Request a Date Change

Here’s a step-by-step process to move your Uniworld River Cruises booking to another date:

Step 1: Review Your Booking Confirmation

Check the booking details, fare type, and terms to understand any specific cancellation or rebooking rules tied to your reservation.

Step 2: Contact Your Travel Agent or Uniworld

If you booked through a travel advisor, contact them first—they can often negotiate better flexibility. If you booked directly, reach out to Uniworld’s Guest Services via phone or email.

Step 3: Choose a New Cruise Date

Browse Uniworld’s website to find an alternative sailing that matches your preferred route and season.

Step 4: Confirm Pricing and Availability

Ask Uniworld about any fare differences or fees. The new price will depend on the season, cabin type, and itinerary demand.

Step 5: Approve the Changes in Writing

Once you agree to the new terms, Uniworld will issue an updated confirmation and revised invoice reflecting your new cruise date.

6. Rebooking vs. Cancelling and Rebooking

Many travelers wonder whether it’s better to cancel and rebook later instead of changing dates directly.

• If you’re sure about your new travel date, it’s best to rebook immediately to lock in availability.

• If you’re uncertain about future travel, consider requesting a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) instead of canceling entirely.

Uniworld’s FCCs can typically be applied toward any sailing within 24 months of the original booking date. This option gives you time to choose a future cruise without losing your deposit.

7. Travel Insurance and Rebooking Protection

Having travel insurance can significantly reduce the financial impact of changing your cruise dates. Depending on your policy, insurance may cover:

• Change fees or rebooking penalties

• Medical or emergency cancellations

• Trip interruptions or delays

• Unused portions of your trip

Uniworld recommends purchasing insurance through Travel Protection Plans that align with their cruise policies. Be sure to review the coverage terms carefully before filing a claim related to rebooking.

8. Tips to Avoid High Rebooking Costs

If you want to move your Uniworld cruise without spending a fortune, follow these expert strategies:

1. Plan Early: Request date changes as soon as possible—before cancellation deadlines kick in.

2. Travel Off-Season: Rebook for shoulder months (March–May or September–November) to find lower fares and better availability.

3. Avoid Non-Refundable Promotions: Discounted fares often have strict no-change rules. Choose flexible options when booking.

4. Use a Travel Advisor: Agents often have access to internal contacts who can secure more lenient change terms.

5. Monitor Fare Drops: If the new sailing date offers a similar fare, Uniworld may honor the lower price or offer credit.

9. What Happens to Your Onboard Credit or Promotions?

If you’ve received onboard credits, special discounts, or loyalty rewards, those benefits usually carry over to your new cruise date—provided you rebook within the same promotional window.

However, some time-limited offers may expire. For instance:

• Early booking discounts might not apply to new dates.

• Free excursions or upgrades could depend on availability.

Always confirm with Uniworld’s representative whether your promotional benefits will remain valid on the rescheduled cruise.

10. Uniworld’s Future Cruise Credit Policy

Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) have become a flexible solution for travelers unable to sail as planned.

When you opt for an FCC instead of canceling, you receive a credit equal to your original payment, which can be used toward a future Uniworld sailing.

Key points about FCCs:

• Typically valid for up to 24 months

• Non-transferable (unless otherwise stated)

• Must be used for travel before the expiry date

• Applicable to any available itinerary or ship

This option ensures you don’t lose your investment and can rejoin Uniworld later under more convenient circumstances.

11. Contact Information for Rebooking Assistance

If you need help moving your Uniworld River Cruises booking, you can reach their support team directly:

• Website: www.uniworld.com

• Customer Service Phone (U.S. & Canada): +1-800-733-7820

• Email: info@uniworld.com

• Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (local office time)

Travelers outside North America should contact their regional Uniworld office or preferred travel agent for local assistance.

12. River Cruises

So, can you move your Uniworld River Cruises cruise to a different date?**Yes, you can—**and Uniworld’s customer-focused approach makes the process relatively straightforward, provided you act early and understand the policy details.By planning ahead, reviewing your fare type, and communicating clearly with Uniworld or your travel advisor, you can seamlessly shift your sailing to another date without losing your investment or perks.Whether it’s a change in schedule or a desire to explore a new season along Europe’s rivers, Uniworld offers flexible rebooking solutions that let you cruise on your own terms—luxuriously and stress-free.