Can I transfer a reservation on Windstar Cruises?

Booking a cruise is an exciting step toward a luxurious vacation, but sometimes plans change. You might wonder:Whether it’s a gift, a family member taking your place, or a change in travel companions, transferring a Windstar reservation requires understanding the company’s policies, timing, fees, and limitations.In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about transferring a Windstar Cruises reservation, including:

• Reservation transfer policies

• Fees and deadlines

• Name changes vs. reservation transfers

• Timing considerations

• Flexible fare and promotional options

• Future Cruise Credits (FCCs)

• Travel insurance considerations

• Step-by-step transfer process

• Expert tips to minimize costs

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to handle a reservation transfer confidently and avoid unexpected penalties.

1. Understanding Windstar Cruises Reservation Transfer Policy

Windstar Cruises treats reservation transfers cautiously due to security, legal, and operational reasons. Generally:

• Direct transfers of reservations to a completely different passenger are limited.

• In most cases, transferring is treated as a cancellation and new booking.

• Name changes within a reservation (minor corrections or spouse/partner substitutions) are sometimes allowed before final payment.

The key is understanding the distinction between:

• Minor name corrections – Allowed under most circumstances

• Full reservation transfers – Typically handled via cancellation and new booking, often incurring fees

2. Timing Considerations for Reservation Transfers

The cost and feasibility of transferring a reservation vary based on timing:

A. Before Final Payment

• Minor name changes may be allowed free of charge

• Transferring a reservation to another person is rare but may be negotiated

• Fare differences may apply if transferring within certain promotions

B. After Final Payment

• Any transfer is treated as cancellation of the original reservation

• Cancellation fees apply based on proximity to sailing

• New reservation must be made for the new passenger

• Future Cruise Credit (FCC) may be applied to facilitate the new booking

C. During Flexible Promotions

• Book with Confidence or flexible fare promotions may allow some flexibility in name changes or transfer options

• These promotions are typically limited in scope and time

3. Fees Associated with Transferring a Reservation

Transferring a Windstar Cruises reservation is not always free and may incur:

• Administrative fees per passenger

• Fare differences if the new passenger selects a higher-priced cabin or itinerary

• Cancellation fees if the transfer occurs after final payment

Approximate Fee Schedule

TimingFee TypeNotes

Before final paymentMinor administrative feeOften free for minor name changes

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

89–60 days25–50% of fareCancellation penalty applied

59–30 daysUp to 75% of fareHigh cancellation penalty

<30 days100% of fareFull fare loss unless FCC used

Note: Fees vary based on promotions, cabin categories, and itinerary. Always confirm with Windstar Reservations.

4. Name Changes vs. Full Reservation Transfers

Understanding the difference is crucial:

A. Name Changes

• Simple corrections (typos, legal name updates, adding spouse/partner) are usually allowed

• Fees are minimal or waived if done early

• Must occur before ticket issuance

B. Full Reservation Transfers

• Entire reservation is reassigned to a new individual

• Often requires cancellation and rebooking

• Original passenger may receive Future Cruise Credit instead of a cash refund

• New passenger pays any fare differences

5. Using Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) for Transfers

If transferring your reservation after final payment:

• Windstar may issue an FCC equal to the amount paid

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

• Ensures no cash loss and maintains booking incentives

Advantages of FCCs:

• Protects your investment

• Allows flexible application to a future sailing

• May retain benefits like cabin selection or onboard credits

6. Fare Differences

When transferring a reservation, the new passenger may choose:

• The same cabin category and itinerary – minimal difference if using FCC

• A higher-priced cabin or upgraded itinerary – must pay the difference

• Lower-priced cabins – may leave unused credit for future bookings

7. Flexible Fare Options and Promotions

Windstar occasionally offers flexible booking options that make transfers easier:

• Book with Confidence promotions: Reduced restrictions on name changes or transfers

• Flexible fares: Allow changes to the passenger or itinerary with minimal fees

• Travel insurance: May cover administrative fees for covered reasons

8. Travel Insurance Considerations

Travel insurance can protect against the cost of transferring a reservation:

• Covers trip cancellation or interruption

• May reimburse fees for rebooking or name changes

• Optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage allows maximum flexibility

Tip: Always check your policy for coverage of passenger substitution or reservation transfer.

9. Guide to Transferring a Reservation

Step 1: Review Your Booking

• Confirm fare type, payment status, and cabin category

• Identify any flexible fare or promotional protections

Step 2: Contact Windstar Reservations

• U.S./Canada: 1-888-526-2803

• International: Refer to Windstar regional contacts

Step 3: Provide Booking Details

• Reservation number

• Current passenger name(s)

• New passenger name(s)

• Desired sailing date (if changing dates simultaneously)

Step 4: Confirm Fees

• Administrative fees

• Fare differences

• Cancellation penalties if applicable

Step 5: Process Transfer or Cancellation

• 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 any applied FCC or new payment

Step 7: Update Travel Arrangements

• Flights, transfers, and shore excursions may need to be updated

• Notify travel agents, airlines, or local transport providers

10. Special Situations

A. Group Bookings

• Transfers may require coordination with Windstar’s group reservations department

• Individual passengers 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

• Availability is subject to tour capacity

11. Tips to Minimize Transfer Costs

1. Act early: Changes before final payment are often free

2. Use flexible promotions: Book with Confidence or flexible fare options reduce fees

3. Purchase travel insurance: Protects against unexpected events

4. Keep documentation: Save emails, receipts, and confirmations

5. Consult a travel agent: Agents can navigate complex transfer rules and negotiate fees

6. Consider cabin options: Transferring to a higher-category cabin may increase costs

12. Comparing Windstar Reservation Transfers with Other Cruise Lines

Cruise LineTransfer PolicyNotes

WindstarModerateOften treated as cancellation and rebooking

SeabournFlexibleCruise credits may be used for transfers

SilverseaModerateTransfers allowed with penalties

AzamaraFlexibleLimited name change and transfer options

Regent Seven SeasVery FlexibleLuxury line allows late transfers

Windstar is competitive in small-ship luxury travel but less flexible than ultra-luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas.

13. Expert Advice for Transferring Reservations

• Communicate promptly: Early action avoids high fees

• Document everything: Maintain records of emails, confirmations, and FCC issuance

• Check promotions and flexible fare options: Maximize flexibility

• Consult travel advisors: Experts can guide through complex transfer processes

• Plan ahead for group bookings or packages: Ensure all aspects are covered, including airfare and excursions

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I transfer my Windstar reservation to another person?

A: Yes, but it is often treated as a cancellation and rebooking, especially after final payment.

Q2. Are there fees to transfer a reservation?

A: Fees vary depending on timing, fare type, and whether you use a Future Cruise Credit.

Q3. Can minor name corrections be done without fees?

A: Yes, minor corrections are typically allowed for free before ticket issuance.

Q4. Can I use a Future Cruise Credit for a reservation transfer?

A: Yes, FCCs can often be applied to the new booking.

Q5. Are group bookings treated differently?

A: Yes, changes to group bookings must be coordinated with Windstar’s group reservations department.

Q6. Does travel insurance cover reservation transfers?

A: Many policies do for covered reasons; Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage provides maximum flexibility.

15.Transferring a reservation on Windstar Cruises is possible, but the process and cost depend on timing, fare type, and the nature of the change.

• Before final payment: Minor name changes are usually free; full transfers may require negotiation

• After final payment: Treated as cancellation and rebooking; fees depend on proximity to sailing

• Future Cruise Credits: Protect the value of your original payment and facilitate new bookings

• Flexible fares and promotions: Reduce or eliminate fees for transfers

• Travel insurance: Provides additional protection and peace of mind

With careful planning, early communication, and understanding Windstar’s policies, you can transfer your reservation smoothly while maintaining the luxury, intimate, and personalized experience Windstar Cruises is known for.