European UnionMy cruise ship changed the itinerary significantly. Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you may cancel and get a full refund if your cruise itinerary is significantly changed, as this is considered a 'major modification' under EU law.
What the Law Says
The Package Travel Regulation (EU) 2015/2302 gives passengers clear rights when a package holiday — including a cruise — is significantly altered before departure.
Under EU law, a cruise is treated as a 'package travel' if it combines at least two of the following: transport, accommodation, or other tourist services. Most cruises qualify.
If the organiser makes a 'major modification' to the essential elements of the package — such as itinerary, departure/arrival ports, duration, or core services — you must be notified without undue delay, and no later than 14 days before departure.
A 'major modification' includes changes that substantially affect the nature, quality, or value of the package. Courts and guidance confirm that altering key ports of call, cutting multiple stops, or changing the ship class often qualifies.
Once notified, you may choose either to accept the change or withdraw from the contract — and you are entitled to a full refund of all payments made, with no penalty.
Statutory TextWhere the organiser intends to make a significant change to the main characteristics of the package… the traveller shall be informed thereof without undue delay and in any event no later than 14 days before the start of the package.
— Regulation (EU) 2015/2302, Art. 12(1)
Statutory TextThe traveller shall have the right to terminate the package travel contract free of charge… and to receive a full refund of all payments made…
— Regulation (EU) 2015/2302, Art. 12(2)
What to Do
Check your booking confirmation and any change notice — ensure it describes a major modification (e.g., removal of 3+ ports, change of embarkation port, or reduction in cruise duration by >20%).
Notify the cruise operator in writing (email suffices) within a reasonable time after receiving notice — clearly state you are withdrawing due to a major modification under Regulation (EU) 2015/2302, Art. 12.
Request a full refund of all amounts paid, including deposits and add-ons booked as part of the package.
If the refund isn’t issued within 14 days of withdrawal (or 7 days if paid by card), contact your national enforcement body (e.g., UK CMA, German VZBV, French DGCCRF) or file a complaint via the EU’s Online Dispute Resolution platform.
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
Germany
Ireland
South Korea
AustraliaNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.