What is a Future Cruise Credit?
Future Cruise Credits (FCC) are credits issued by a cruise line to use as payments towards another cruise vacation in the future. These are given to customers as a form of compensation for inconveniences caused by canceled cruises or service issues on a previous cruise. These are typically awarded to a guest in the form of a certificate with a certificate number and a finite expiration date. The amount may vary depending on the cost of the cruise.
You do not have to decide on your future cruise at the time you receive the FCC. Generally, you will have a year or more to choose your future cruise and rebook. It is important to know the details of the FCC, such as blackout sailing dates and expiration dates. FCCs are usually able to be combined with whatever promotions the cruise line has available at the time you rebook.
My cruise was cancelled because of the coronavirus (COVID-19). I was offered the choice of a Future Cruise Credit or a refund. Which option should I take?
Most cruise lines who suspended or cancelled cruise departures as a result of coronavirus (Covid-19) are offering generous Future Cruise Credits that are significantly higher than the amount guests actually paid for their cruise. For this reason, we recommend the Future Cruise Credit, as the amount of the credit may be worth more than what you already paid. The additional FCC amount could benefit you by paying the difference in an upgraded stateroom or longer cruise. Since an FCC means you'll definitely cruise again, we offer our members additional benefits to encourage you to select the Future Cruise Credit so you'll actually book the future cruise you deserve.
However, if you are not able to book or travel within the FCC expiration dates or if you are in immediate need of the funds for an alternate vacation, then select the cruise refund option.
What is the difference between a Future Cruise Credit and a Future Cruise Deposit / Next Cruise Certificate?
Future Cruise Credits and Future Cruise Deposits (Next Cruise) are very similar in that they are both valid forms of payment for a future cruise. The difference between the two is that Future Cruise Credits are given by the cruise line AND Future Cruise Deposits are purchased by the customer.
As mentioned previously, Future Cruise Credits (FCC) are given to customers as a form of compensation for inconveniences caused by cancelled cruises or service issues on a previous cruise. Future Cruise Deposits or Next Cruise Certificates are purchased by guests while they are actively sailing on a cruise.
Many cruise lines have onboard cruise advisors who will help the guest find a future cruise and offer incentives like shipboard credits, specialty dining, upgrades or discounts to place a future deposit. Since booking a Future Cruise Deposit onboard offers such a great value, this is a very popular benefit among repeat cruise travelers. We highly recommend our guests take advantage of booking a Future Cruise Deposit while onboard their next cruise.
How much is my Future Cruise Credit worth?
The value of your Future Cruise Credit can vary based on many factors. The cruise line, how much you paid for the original cruise, and possibly even your sailing date or destination can all affect the value of your FCC. During the COVID-19 crisis, some cruise lines are offering a credit for an amount even higher than what you originally paid, and some cruise lines are offering a credit for any penalties you may have incurred.
How can I redeem my Future Cruise Credit?
Redeeming your Future Cruise Credit is easy! Just call one of our travel specialists, and they will take care of the details for you.
Can I transfer my Future Credit to someone else?
No, Future Cruise Credits are non-transferable. They are only valid for the passengers booked on the original sailing.
Do Future Cruise Credits expire?
Yes, when a Future Cruise Credit is issued there is an expiration date. The expiration date will be listed on your certificate. Many of the coronavirus (Covid-19) FCCs have both a "Book By" expiration date and a "Travel By" expiration date. Generally, you will have a year or more to use your Future Cruise Credit. These expiration dates vary by cruise line and certificate.
What does my Future Cruise Credit cover?
A Future Cruise Credit may be used towards the base cruise fare of any future cruise (typically with the same cruise line). It can be used towards a new sailing you book, or any existing sailing you have previously booked.
What does my Future Cruise Credit not cover?
Depending upon the cruise line, a Future Cruise Credit will likely not cover future charges such as port taxes and fees, initial deposits, prepaid gratuities, shore excursions, and onboard spending.
How is my Future Cruise Credit protected against future cancelations?
If the cruise you booked using your Future Cruise Credit is cancelled, the full amount may again be refunded in the form of another Future Cruise Credit and the expiration dates will likely be adjusted accordingly. In any case, simply contact a travel specialist and we will help you understand all of your options and find the solution that suits you best.
Ready to book your Future Cruise Credit or browse cruise options?
Booking with an FCC must take place over the phone. So, give us a call! We’d be happy to help you find your next perfect cruise sailing.