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How much does it cost to transfer a Costa Cruises reservation?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 26 September 2025
  • 4 min read

How much does it cost to transfer a Costa Cruises reservation?

Cruises are exciting adventures, but life can require changes to travel plans. Many passengers ask:

The answer is: it depends on several factors, including when you make the transfer, the type of fare, and the specific itinerary. Costa Cruises allows reservations to be transferred to another passenger under certain rules, but costs and penalties can vary widely.

  • Costa Cruises’ official transfer policies

  • Costs and fees for reservation transfers

  • Deadlines and timelines for making a transfer

  • Step-by-step guide to transferring a booking

  • Real passenger examples

  • Expert tips to minimize costs

  • Alternatives if you cannot transfer a booking

Understanding Costa Cruises’ Reservation Transfer Policy

Costa Cruises permits reservation transfers, but the rules are strict:

  1. Transfer Allowed: You may transfer your booking to another individual before departure.

  2. Timing: Transfers are more affordable and easier when done early.

  3. Fare Restrictions: Some promotional or non-refundable fares may not be transferable.

  4. Administrative Requirements: Full legal details of the new passenger are required.

  5. Availability: The cabin and itinerary must have space for the new passenger.

When Can You Transfer Your Costa Cruise Reservation?

1. Early Transfers (90+ Days Before Departure)

  • Minimal fees apply (approx. €50–€150).

  • Maximum flexibility in cabin selection.

2. Mid-Term Transfers (60–89 Days)

  • Fees rise to 10–20% of fare.

  • Cabin availability must be confirmed.

3. Short-Term Transfers (30–59 Days)

  • Higher penalties (20–50% of fare).

  • Limited options for cabin and itinerary.

4. Last-Minute Transfers (<30 Days)

  • Often not allowed or heavily restricted.

  • Fees can approach 100% of the fare.

Fees for Transferring a Reservation

Costa Cruises uses a tiered system:

  • Administrative Fee: €50–€150 when requested early.

  • Percentage of Fare: 10–50% depending on timing.

  • Promotional Fares: Often non-transferable or subject to full fare payment.

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

 Transferring a Costa Reservation

Step 1: Review Your Fare Rules

  • Check your confirmation for restrictions on transfers.

Step 2: Contact Costa Cruises or Your Travel Agent

  • Requests must go through Costa or the agent who booked your cruise.

Step 3: Provide New Passenger Information

  • Full legal name

  • Passport or ID number

  • Date of birth

  • Nationality

Step 4: Confirm Fees and Fare Differences

  • Pay administrative charges and any required fare adjustments.

Step 5: Receive Updated Confirmation

  • Costa issues a new confirmation number and updated booking documents.

Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Early Transfer Success

A passenger transferred a Mediterranean cruise 4 months in advance, paying €75 per person.

Example 2: Mid-Term Transfer

A family requested a transfer 70 days before sailing; fees were 20% of the fare.

Example 3: Last-Minute Attempt

A passenger attempted a transfer 10 days before departure and was restricted due to security and ticketing policies.

Alternatives If You Cannot Transfer Your Booking

  1. Future Cruise Credit (FCC): Cancel your reservation and apply the amount to a future sailing.

  2. Travel Insurance: May reimburse penalties in case of emergencies.

  3. Partial Transfers: Replace individual passengers rather than transferring the whole booking.

  4. Rebooking: Cancel the existing booking and create a new reservation.

Expert Tips for Minimizing Transfer Costs

  • Book Flexible Fares: These allow more leniency for transfers.

  • Act Early: Early transfers are cheaper and easier to approve.

  • Use Travel Agents: Agents can assist in navigating rules and fees.

  • Confirm Travel Documents: Ensure the new passenger has valid passport and visa.

  • Avoid Last-Minute Transfers: High penalties apply close to departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I transfer a Costa Cruises booking to anyone?

Yes, as long as the new passenger meets passport, visa, and travel requirements.

Q2: How much does it cost to transfer a reservation?

Fees range from €50 to 50% of the fare depending on timing and fare type.

Q3: Can promotional fares be transferred?

Often no, or only with significant penalties.

Q4: Can I transfer my reservation multiple times?

Yes, but each transfer may incur new fees.

Q5: Can I transfer after final payment?

Yes, but fees are generally higher, sometimes up to the full fare.

how much does it cost to transfer a Costa Cruises reservation?

The cost varies based on timing, fare type, and cabin availability. Early transfers incur minimal fees, mid-term transfers carry moderate costs, and last-minute transfers can be expensive or restricted.

Booking flexible fares, acting early, and considering travel insurance help minimize costs while ensuring a smooth reservation transfer process with Costa Cruises.

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