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Emergency

Cruise: port canceled or route changed

On cruises, calling at certain ports is part of the travel program. If a port is canceled or the route changed, that can be a travel defect. Whether a reduction applies depends on the reason and on the travel documents.

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Your chances of getting your money back

A cruise is regularly a package tour. If the actual service deviates significantly from the contract, for example through the cancellation of an important port, a travel defect can exist that entitles you to a reduction (§ 651m BGB).
If the operator reserves the right to route changes for safety or weather reasons and such a reason exists, the reduction can be limited. Blanket reservations in the operator's favor are, however, not unlimited in their validity.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Compare the program

    Compare the booked route with the one actually sailed.

  2. 2

    2. Report the defect

    Report the deviation on board and have it documented.

  3. 3

    3. Clarify the reason

    Clarify whether safety or weather reasons applied.

  4. 4

    4. Demand a reduction

    After the trip, assert an appropriate reduction within the deadline.

How to spot the scam

  • The deviation is not reported on board.
  • A central highlight of the trip is canceled without replacement.
  • The deadline for asserting the claim after the trip is missed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reduce the price for a canceled port?

If calling at the port was part of the agreed program and its cancellation significantly impairs the trip, a travel defect can exist that justifies a reduction (§ 651m BGB). Notification on board and documentation of the deviation are important.

What if weather or safety were the reason?

Safety and weather reasons can make calling at a port unreasonable. If the operator validly reserved the right to such changes and a justified reason exists, the reduction can be limited. Blanket reservations are, however, not permitted without limit.

By when must I assert the reduction?

Claims from a package tour generally become time-barred in two years; many operators expect the claim to be asserted promptly after the trip. Report defects while still on board and assert the reduction promptly and in writing after returning.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.