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

Booking a cruise is exciting, but life’s unpredictability can sometimes require changes. Whether it’s gifting your cruise, allowing a family member to sail in your place, or personal reasons, you might ask:

“How much does it cost to transfer a Windstar Cruises reservation?”

Windstar Cruises provides options to transfer or modify reservations, but the cost depends on several factors, including timing, fare type, cabin category, and promotional conditions. Understanding the rules ensures you avoid unexpected fees and maximize flexibility.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Windstar Cruises reservation transfer policies

• Timing and how it affects cost

• Fees associated with transfers

• Future Cruise Credits (FCCs)

• Flexible fare and promotional options

• Travel insurance and protection

• Step-by-step transfer process

• Expert tips to reduce costs

• Special situations (group bookings, air packages, excursions)

By the end, you will know exactly what to expect when transferring a Windstar reservation and how to minimize costs.

1. Windstar Cruises Reservation Transfer Policy

Windstar Cruises differentiates between:

• Minor name changes: Typos, legal name updates, or adding a spouse/partner

• Full reservation transfers: Assigning the reservation to an entirely new person

Key points:

• Minor name changes are often allowed free of charge if made before ticket issuance or final payment.

• Full reservation transfers are generally treated as cancellations and rebookings after final payment.

• Fees and policies depend on fare type, cabin category, and timing of the request.

2. Timing and Its Impact on Transfer Cost

The timing of your transfer request heavily influences the cost:

A. Before Final Payment

• Minor name changes usually free

• Full transfers may require approval but often incur minimal or no fees

• Cabin upgrades may result in fare differences

B. After Final Payment

• Full transfers are treated as cancellations and rebookings

• Cancellation penalties apply based on proximity to sailing

• Future Cruise Credit (FCC) may be applied to offset costs for the new passenger

C. During Flexible Promotions

Windstar sometimes offers flexible promotions such as Book with Confidence, which allows:

• Changes up to 48 hours before sailing

• Reduced or waived fees

• Application of FCCs for new bookings

3. Fees Associated with Transferring a Reservation

Transferring a reservation involves several potential costs:

• Administrative fees: For minor name corrections or transfers

• Cancellation fees: If treated as a full transfer after final payment

• Fare differences: If the new passenger books a higher-cost cabin or itinerary

Approximate Fee Schedule

TimingType of FeeEstimated Cost

Before final paymentAdministrativeUsually free for minor changes

119–90 daysCancellation/Transfer$100–$200 per passenger

89–60 daysCancellation25–50% of fare

59–30 daysCancellationUp to 75% of fare

<30 daysCancellation100% of fare unless FCC used

Note: Fees may vary based on promotions, itinerary, or cabin category. Always confirm with Windstar Reservations.

4. Minor Name Changes vs. Full Reservation Transfers

A. Minor Name Changes

• Correct typos, legal name updates, or add spouse/partner

• Usually free before ticket issuance

• Do not affect fare or cabin selection

B. Full Reservation Transfers

• Assign reservation to another traveler

• Often treated as cancellation and rebooking after final payment

• FCC may be issued for the original reservation

• New passenger pays fare differences and administrative fees

5. Future Cruise Credits (FCCs)

FCCs are a key tool for reducing the cost of transferring a reservation:

• Issued when a full transfer occurs after final payment

• Can be applied to a new booking for a different passenger

• Retains the value of the original payment

• Allows the new passenger to book the same itinerary or choose a new sailing

Benefits:

• Minimizes financial loss

• Preserves promotional perks or cabin selection

• Provides flexibility for future travel planning

6. Fare Differences

Even with FCCs, fare differences may arise:

• If the new passenger selects a higher-priced cabin or upgraded itinerary, the difference must be paid

• Lower-cost bookings may leave a remaining balance for future use

• Promotional fares may restrict fare adjustments

7. Flexible Fare Options

Windstar offers promotions to reduce the cost of reservation transfers:

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

• Flexible fares: Permit name changes or passenger transfers with reduced penalties

• Travel insurance: Can cover fees related to passenger changes or cancellations

8. Travel Insurance Considerations

Travel insurance is a valuable tool when transferring a reservation:

• Covers trip cancellation or interruption

• Reimburses administrative or rebooking fees

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

Tip: Always check whether your policy covers passenger substitution or reservation transfers.

9. Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring a Reservation

Step 1: Review Your Booking

• Check fare type, cabin category, and 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 contacts

Step 3: Provide Booking Details

• Reservation number

• Current passenger name(s)

• New passenger name(s)

• Desired sailing date if changing at the same time

Step 4: Confirm Fees

• Administrative fees

• Cancellation penalties

• Fare differences

Step 5: Process Transfer

• Minor name changes processed immediately

• Full transfers may require cancellation and rebooking using FCC

Step 6: Receive Updated Confirmation

• Verify passenger information, cabin assignments, and excursions

• Confirm application of FCC or payment of any difference

Step 7: Update Travel Arrangements

• Flights, transfers, and excursions may need updates

• Notify travel agents, airlines, or local providers

10. Special Situations

A. Group Bookings

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

• Individual passengers may have limited flexibility

B. Cruise + Air Packages

• Air tickets booked through Windstar may incur separate fees

• Airline rules for name changes or ticket transfers apply

C. Shore Excursion Adjustments

• Excursions can 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 often avoid fees

2. Use flexible promotions: Book with Confidence reduces penalties

3. Leverage FCCs: Offset fare differences for more expensive sailings

4. Avoid last-minute changes: Fees rise sharply in the final 30 days

5. Consult travel agents: They can navigate complex transfer rules and minimize costs

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

12. Comparing Windstar Transfer Costs with Other Cruise Lines

Cruise LineFlexibilityNotes

WindstarModerateTransfers often treated as cancellation/rebooking

SeabournFlexibleCruise credits can be applied

SilverseaModerateTransfers allowed with penalties

AzamaraFlexibleLimited transfer options

Regent Seven SeasVery FlexibleLuxury line allows late transfers

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

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How much does it cost to transfer a Windstar reservation?

A: Costs vary based on timing, fare type, cabin category, and whether FCCs are used. Fees range from minimal administrative fees to full cancellation penalties.

Q2. Can I transfer a reservation to another person for free?

A: Minor name changes before final payment are usually free. Full transfers after final payment often incur cancellation and rebooking fees.

Q3. Are FCCs available for reservation transfers?

A: Yes, FCCs can facilitate a transfer to a new passenger and reduce financial loss.

Q4. Can travel insurance cover the cost of a transfer?

A: Many policies cover fees for covered reasons. CFAR coverage provides maximum flexibility.

Q5. Are group bookings treated differently?

A: Yes, changes for group bookings require coordination with Windstar’s group reservations department.

Q6. Does timing affect the cost?A: Yes, the closer to the sailing date, the higher the transfer or cancellation fees.

14. Transferring a Windstar Cruises reservation is possible, but the cost varies widely based on timing, fare type, and cabin category.

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

• After final payment: Full transfers are treated as cancellation and rebooking, often with fees

• Future Cruise Credits (FCCs): Can reduce financial loss and facilitate new bookings

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

• Travel insurance: Adds protection and peace of mind

By understanding Windstar’s policies, acting early, and leveraging flexible fare options and FCCs, travelers can transfer their reservations efficiently while enjoying the luxury, intimacy, and personalized experience that Windstar Cruises provides.