How do I request a refund from Seabourn?

When booking a luxury cruise with Seabourn, you expect an unforgettable experience — elegant suites, personalized service, and breathtaking destinations. However, sometimes plans change unexpectedly. Illness, family emergencies, scheduling conflicts, or even global events can make it necessary to cancel or modify your travel. That’s when the question arises: “How do I request a refund from Seabourn?”Understanding Seabourn’s refund process is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth financial recovery. Because Seabourn operates in the ultra-luxury segment, it has specific rules governing refunds, cancellations, and future cruise credits (FCCs). This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Seabourn’s refund policies, eligibility criteria, timelines, and step-by-step refund procedures.

1. Overview of Seabourn’s Refund Policy

Seabourn offers refunds based on the timing of cancellation, fare type, and booking conditions. Refunds can apply to both the cruise fare and ancillary services like pre-paid excursions, flights, or onboard packages.

1 Core Principles of Seabourn’s Refund Policy

• Refunds are calculated according to the number of days before the scheduled departure.

• The closer the cancellation date is to the sailing date, the lower the refund amount.

• Refunds can be issued either in monetary form (to your original payment method) or as a Future Cruise Credit (FCC).

2 Who Is Eligible for a Refund?

You may be eligible for a refund if:

• You cancel your cruise within the allowed time frame.

• Seabourn cancels or significantly alters your itinerary.

• You qualify under a travel protection or cancellation insurance plan.

• You request a refund for unused services (like shore excursions) under valid conditions.

2. Seabourn’s Standard Cancellation and Refund Schedule

Seabourn’s refund schedule typically depends on the number of days before departure. Here’s the general guideline (as of 2025):

Days Before DepartureCancellation FeeRefund Percentage

121 days or moreNo fee100% refund

120–91 days15% of fare85% refund

90–61 days50% of fare50% refund

60–31 days75% of fare25% refund

30 days or fewer100% of fareNo refund

Note: Policies may vary based on voyage type, promotional fares, and specific terms outlined in your booking confirmation.

3. Steps to Request a Refund from Seabourn

Seabourn’s refund process is systematic and requires proper documentation. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown.

1 Step 1: Review Your Booking Confirmation

Before requesting a refund, carefully read your booking confirmation and fare terms. Identify:

• Payment method used

• Booking channel (direct with Seabourn or through a travel agent)

• Cancellation deadlines

• Applicable terms for promotions or special fares

2 Step 2: Determine the Reason for Cancellation

Seabourn handles refunds differently based on your reason for cancellation:

• Personal cancellation (you choose to cancel)

• Cruise line cancellation (Seabourn cancels the sailing)

• Medical or emergency cancellation (supported by documentation)

Knowing your reason will help you determine whether you’re eligible for a cash refund or FCC.

3 Step 3: Contact the Correct Department

Depending on how you booked, you must contact:

• Seabourn Reservations if booked directly (Phone: +1-866-755-5619 or via Seabourn.com)

• Your Travel Agent if booked through a third party

• Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Expedia or CruiseDirect through their customer service

If you cancel directly through Seabourn, you’ll need your booking reference number, full name, and cruise details.

4 Step 4: Submit a Formal Refund Request

Once cancellation is confirmed, you must formally request a refund. You can do this through:

• Seabourn’s Online Refund Form (accessible via your booking portal or email confirmation)

• Email Submission: Contact Seabourn Guest Relations at guestrelations@seabourn.com (include booking details, reason for refund, and any documents)

• Written Request: For mailed cancellations, include all booking details and send to Seabourn’s corporate address

5 Step 5: Wait for Refund Processing

Refunds are typically processed within:

• 30 to 60 business days for standard bookings

• Up to 90 days during peak cancellation seasons or global travel disruptions

Seabourn refunds are credited back to your original form of payment, unless you’ve opted for Future Cruise Credit.

4. Refund Methods

Seabourn issues refunds in different formats depending on the situation.

1 Standard Refund to Original Payment

If you paid by credit card or bank transfer, Seabourn refunds the amount directly to the same account used for payment.

2 Future Cruise Credit (FCC)

Seabourn may offer FCC instead of a cash refund, especially during extraordinary circumstances such as itinerary changes or force majeure events.

FCC Benefits:

• Typically valued at 100–125% of your original fare

• Valid for up to 24 months

• Can be applied to any future Seabourn cruise

Drawback: FCCs are non-transferable and non-refundable once issued.

5. Seabourn Refunds for Cancelled Cruises

In the rare case that Seabourn cancels a cruise, guests usually have two options:

1. Full Monetary Refund – The total fare (including taxes and fees) returned to the original payment method.

2. Future Cruise Credit – A credit amount (often with bonus value) to use on another Seabourn voyage.

1 When Does Seabourn Cancel Cruises?

Cruises may be cancelled due to:

• Operational changes

• Severe weather or natural disasters

• Global health or geopolitical events

• Ship maintenance or redeployment

Seabourn proactively notifies guests of cancellations via email or phone, including refund and rebooking options.

6. Refunds for Shore Excursions, Spa, and Onboard Services

Refunds aren’t limited to cruise fares; Seabourn also handles refunds for optional pre-paid services.

1 Shore Excursions

If Seabourn cancels a shore excursion, the refund is automatic.If you cancel before the deadline (usually 48 hours before arrival), you’re eligible for a full refund.

2 Spa and Wellness Bookings

Spa cancellations made before 24 hours of the scheduled appointment are fully refundable. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur full charges.

3 Beverage and Internet Packages

Unused pre-paid beverage or Wi-Fi packages may be refunded at Seabourn’s discretion, depending on the extent of usage.

7. Travel Protection and Refund Insurance

Seabourn encourages guests to purchase SeabournShield or similar travel insurance coverage.

1 Benefits of Travel Insurance

• Reimbursement for non-refundable cancellation fees

• Coverage for medical emergencies, trip interruption, or lost luggage

• Refund for unused cruise portions due to covered reasons

2 Filing an Insurance Claim

If you purchased SeabournShield, you can file a claim directly through Aon Affinity, Seabourn’s insurance partner.You’ll need:

• Booking confirmation

• Proof of payment

• Cancellation confirmation from Seabourn

• Supporting documents (doctor’s note, flight cancellation notice, etc.)

8. Common Refund Scenarios

Here are a few real-world examples to illustrate how refunds work:

1 Scenario 1: Guest Cancels 100 Days Before Departure

• Original fare: $10,000

• Cancellation fee: 15% ($1,500)

• Refund amount: $8,500

• Refund time: 30–45 business days

2 Scenario 2: Seabourn Cancels Cruise Due to Mechanical Issues

• Guest receives a 100% refund or 125% FCC

• Optional: Seabourn may cover airfare change fees

3 Scenario 3: Traveler Becomes Ill Before Departure

• If insured: Full reimbursement through SeabournShield

• If uninsured: Refund per standard cancellation schedule

4 Scenario 4: No-Show on Embarkation Day

• No refund available under Seabourn’s terms

• Partial refund possible through travel insurance if illness is proven

9. Refund Timelines

The time it takes to receive your refund depends on several factors:

Payment TypeEstimated Refund Time

Credit Card30–60 business days

Bank Transfer45–75 business days

Travel Agency BookingVaries (check with your agent)

FCC OptionImmediate issuance after approval

If your refund takes longer than 90 days, contact Seabourn’s Guest Relations Department for an update.

10. Refunds and Third-Party Bookings

If you booked your Seabourn cruise through a travel agency, online platform, or consortium, the refund process may differ.

• The travel agent acts as intermediary, and refund requests must go through them.

• Refund processing time depends on how quickly the agent submits your request to Seabourn.

• Seabourn cannot process refunds directly for third-party bookings unless explicitly authorized.

Tip: Always confirm your refund request with both Seabourn and your agent in writing.

11. How to Check Refund Status

You can monitor your refund status in multiple ways:

1. Online Account Portal: Log in to Seabourn.com and review “My Bookings.”

2. Customer Support: Call Seabourn Guest Relations for real-time updates.

3. Email Confirmation: Seabourn typically sends a refund confirmation email once the process begins.

Keep your booking reference number handy for faster service.

12. Tips for a Smooth Refund Process

1 Keep Documentation

Maintain copies of:

• Booking confirmation

• Cancellation receipts

• Email correspondence

• Insurance claims

2 Be Proactive

Don’t wait until the last minute. Early cancellations often result in higher refund percentages and shorter processing times.

3 Verify Payment Information

Ensure your original payment method (credit card or bank) is still active to avoid delays.

4 Be Patient

During high-demand periods (e.g., global travel disruptions), refunds may take longer than usual.

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I get a full refund if I cancel my Seabourn cruise?

Yes, if you cancel more than 121 days before departure, you receive a full refund (minus non-refundable deposits, if applicable).

Q2. Can I transfer my refund to another person?

No, Seabourn refunds are issued to the original payer and cannot be transferred.

Q3. What if I paid with Seabourn gift cards or onboard credits?

Refunds are credited back as Future Cruise Credit or reissued as Seabourn gift balances.

Q4. How do I get a refund for air travel booked through Seabourn?

If Seabourn booked your airfare, the refund is processed simultaneously with your cruise refund. Independent airfare must be handled directly with the airline.

Q5. What happens if Seabourn cancels my cruise?

You can choose between a full refund or a Future Cruise Credit (often with additional value).

14. Refunds vs. Future Cruise Credits: Which Is Better?

OptionAdvantagesDisadvantages

Full RefundImmediate recovery of fundsMay lose bonus credits or perks

Future Cruise Credit (FCC)Extra value (up to 125%)Non-refundable and time-limited

If you’re certain about cruising again within two years, an FCC offers better long-term value. If unsure, a cash refund is safer.

15.  Seabourn doesn’t have to be stressful 

Requesting a refund from Seabourn doesn’t have to be stressful — as long as you understand the policies and follow the proper process. Whether you’re canceling due to personal reasons or responding to a cruise cancellation, Seabourn’s refund system is structured to balance fairness, flexibility, and convenience.

To recap:

• Review your booking terms before canceling.

• Submit your refund request early.

• Choose between cash refund or Future Cruise Credit based on your travel goals.

• Maintain all documentation for smooth communication.

By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your Seabourn refund experience is as seamless as the luxury cruises the line is known for.