When planning a luxury cruise vacation, flexibility can make a world of difference. Seabourn, one of the world’s most prestigious luxury cruise lines, is known for offering intimate voyages, world-class service, and a refined onboard experience. However, as travel plans often shift due to personal, professional, or logistical reasons, passengers sometimes need to change their cruise dates, upgrade suites, or modify itineraries after booking.That’s when understanding Seabourn’s change fees and modification policies becomes essential.Unlike budget cruise lines that have rigid, one-size-fits-all change policies, Seabourn provides a more nuanced and guest-friendly approach — balancing luxury flexibility with operational structure. However, change fees can still apply depending on when and what you’re changing.This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about change fees on Seabourn Cruises — including modification timelines, penalties, tips to avoid extra charges, and strategies to make the most of Seabourn’s flexible booking options.
Seabourn’s cruises are designed as all-inclusive, premium experiences. Every voyage involves detailed logistics — from suite allocation to dining arrangements and personalized excursions. Because of this, Seabourn’s policy on changes depends heavily on:
The type of change requested (dates, passengers, suite upgrades, or itinerary)
The timing of the change before sailing
The fare rules under which the booking was made
Whether you booked directly through Seabourn or via a travel agent
The golden rule is simple: The earlier you make changes, the lower your fees will be.
When guests talk about “change fees,” they often refer to any cost associated with modifying an existing reservation. Below are the major types of changes and how Seabourn handles them.
If you wish to move your booking to a later or earlier sailing, Seabourn considers it a “date change.”
If the new cruise is priced higher, you must pay the fare difference.
If the new cruise is priced lower, Seabourn may apply a partial refund or convert the difference into onboard credit (depending on the fare type).
Change fees can apply if the modification occurs after final payment or within 90 days of departure.
Typical Fee Range:
No fee if changed 120+ days before departure
$250–$500 per person if changed 90–30 days before sailing
50–75% of fare if changed within 30 days (considered cancellation/rebooking)
Upgrading or downgrading your suite may involve price adjustments and administrative fees.
Upgrades: Typically free of administrative fees if you’re moving to a higher category and paying the difference.
Downgrades: Subject to change fees and fare adjustment penalties.
Typical Fee Range:
$100–$250 per suite for administrative costs
Additional cost based on suite fare differences
If one of the travelers on your booking can’t make it, Seabourn allows a name substitution — but under specific conditions.
Allowed up to 30 days before departure
Both original and substitute passengers must meet all travel and visa requirements
A nominal name change fee may apply
Typical Fee Range:
$100–$150 per name change
Possible fare adjustments depending on promotions applied to the original booking
Switching to a different itinerary or ship is treated as a rebooking, not a modification.
Subject to full or partial cancellation fees depending on timing
Fare differences and change fees may apply
Example: Moving from a 10-day Mediterranean cruise to a 12-day Caribbean voyage will likely incur both a fare adjustment and a rebooking fee.
Shore excursions, beverage packages, and spa appointments can typically be changed or canceled with little to no penalty if done in advance.
Within 14 days of sailing, some pre-paid add-ons may be nonrefundable.
Fee Range: Usually no administrative fee unless third-party vendors apply charges.
Change TypeTiming (Days Before Departure)Fee / Penalty
Change of Cruise Dates120+ daysNo fee
Change of Cruise Dates90–30 days$250–$500 per person
Change of Cruise Dates<30 days50–100% of fare (treated as cancellation)
Suite UpgradeAnytimeNo fee (fare difference applies)
Suite DowngradeAnytime$100–$250 per suite
Name ChangeUp to 30 days$100–$150 per person
Excursion Change>14 daysNo fee
Excursion Change<14 daysUp to 100% loss (vendor dependent)
Note: These figures represent general industry standards and may vary based on voyage type, fare category, and regional policy updates.
Timing is the most crucial factor determining your change fee.
If you modify your cruise early:
You can often change dates or suites with no penalty
Fare differences apply only if the new sailing costs more
You retain your deposit and promotional benefits
At this point:
Seabourn may impose administrative change fees
You risk losing a portion of your deposit
Some fares become nonrefundable
Changes are treated as cancellations and rebookings.
Up to 100% of your fare may be forfeited
You may be offered Future Cruise Credit (FCC) in lieu of a refund
Seabourn occasionally introduces flexible policies to accommodate unforeseen circumstances.
In past programs, Seabourn allowed guests to cancel or change cruises up to 30 days before sailing for a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equal to 100% of the fare paid.
These programs typically appear during times of global uncertainty or when encouraging advance bookings.
If you or an immediate family member experiences a medical emergency, Seabourn may:
Waive or reduce change fees upon presentation of medical documentation
Offer FCCs for future sailings
If Seabourn alters the voyage route due to weather, port closures, or mechanical issues:
No change fees apply if guests opt to switch to another itinerary or defer travel
For direct bookings:
Visit www.seabourn.com
Log in to your account
Go to “My Bookings”
Select your cruise and choose “Modify Booking”
Follow prompts to change dates, suites, or other details
The system will display any applicable fare difference or change fee before finalizing.
For complex changes (passenger names, itineraries, or back-to-back cruises):
Call Seabourn’s Reservations Department at +1 (800) 929-9391
Provide your booking number and modification details
Discuss fees, options, or FCC eligibility
If you booked via a travel agent, you must contact them directly.
Agents can often negotiate fee waivers
They’ll handle the administrative process with Seabourn on your behalf
Seabourn’s special fares (such as “Early Bonus Savings” or “Sail Away” rates) often come with nonrefundable deposits and stricter change terms.
Allow more flexibility, often with minimal penalties if changed early.
Group contracts may have unique change policies negotiated by the group leader. Some allow substitutions or date changes without penalties up to certain deadlines.
Future Cruise Credits (FCCs) are a powerful tool to manage change fees.
A credit issued by Seabourn to apply toward a future voyage when a guest changes or cancels a cruise.
Instead of outright canceling and paying penalties, guests can choose to:
Accept an FCC equal to the fare paid
Rebook within 12–24 months
This approach often eliminates administrative change fees while preserving the booking value.
If your Seabourn booking includes pre- or post-cruise air or land arrangements, separate fees may apply:
Seabourn Air Program: Changes typically follow airline rules; penalties vary by carrier.
Hotel Packages: Changes within 14 days of departure may incur a one-night penalty.
Transfers: Can usually be changed or canceled up to 7 days before travel without charge.
Booking early gives you more time to adjust your plans before penalty windows open.
Travel insurance protects against unforeseen changes, medical emergencies, or cancellations. Look for policies with “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage.
Seabourn’s team values long-term guest relationships. Polite and proactive communication can often lead to fee waivers or favorable solutions.
Opt for FCCs instead of cancellations to keep flexibility and avoid losing money.
During uncertain times or special sales, Seabourn may offer “no-fee change” windows — take advantage of them.
Guest changes 10-day Mediterranean cruise to 12-day Adriatic sailing.
Fare difference: $600 per person.
Result: No change fee; guest pays only the difference.
Guest switches from July to October sailing of the same itinerary.
Result: $300 change fee per person + $200 fare difference.
Guest requests date change due to illness.
Result: Treated as cancellation; 100% fare forfeiture unless covered by insurance or FCC offered.
No. Minor administrative updates are typically free.
Yes, but a name change fee (usually $100–$150) may apply.
Yes, Seabourn encourages upgrades — you just pay the fare difference.
You may switch voyages or receive compensation/FCC without fees.
As early as possible — ideally 120+ days before departure for the most flexibility.
Cruise LineChange Fee PolicyFlexibility Window
SeabournModerate, case-based120+ days no fee
SilverseaModerate to strict90–120 days
Regent Seven SeasFlexible with FCC options90+ days
Oceania CruisesStricter; nonrefundable fares120+ days
Seabourn stands out for its guest-centric approach, often waiving fees for loyal passengers or legitimate emergencies.
Phone (U.S. & Canada): +1 (800) 929-9391
Website: www.seabourn.com
Email: info@seabourn.com
Customer Service Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 AM–5 PM (Pacific Time)
For international guests, visit Seabourn’s Contact Us page for regional offices.
Changing your Seabourn cruise doesn’t have to be stressful. While change fees can apply depending on timing and type of modification, the cruise line offers a flexible and compassionate approach that aligns with its luxury standards.
Changes made 120+ days before departure are usually free.
Within 90–30 days, expect moderate administrative fees.
Within 30 days, changes may be treated as cancellations.
Upgrades are generally free, while downgrades may incur small fees.
Always check fare rules and consider travel insurance for full protection.
By understanding Seabourn’s change fee structure and acting proactively, you can adjust your luxury voyage confidently — ensuring that your travel experience remains seamless, elegant, and fully tailored to your needs.