A Guide to the Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy

Planning a trip with Carnival Cruise Line and need to change the name on your reservation? Whether it's a simple spelling mistake or you're transferring the booking to someone else, it's important to understand the Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy to avoid extra fees and last-minute surprises.

At Cruise Ease, we make your cruise planning effortless—whether you’re searching for major cruise hub ports or navigating cruise policies. Here's everything you need to know about name changes with Carnival Cruise Line.

What Is the Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy?

The Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy outlines the rules and fees involved in updating or correcting passenger names on a reservation. These changes can include simple spelling corrections, legal name updates, or transferring a booking to a new guest. Carnival Cruise generally permits the following types of name changes:

Minor spelling corrections: These are typically allowed free of charge, especially if the correction is made soon after booking.

First or last name updates: These are usually permitted for a fee and may require supporting legal documentation.

Full passenger replacements: Sometimes allowed, especially if done well in advance of the departure date, but may incur higher fees and fare adjustments.

Always check your specific fare rules, as some promotions (such as Early Saver, Pack & Go, and Super Saver) restrict or prohibit certain types of changes.

When Can You Make Name Changes?

Timing plays a crucial role in whether Carnival will approve a name change:

More than 30 days before departure: Most changes can be made with minimal issues.

14 to 30 days before sailing: Changes are less likely to be approved and may require more justification or supporting documentation.

Less than 14 days before departure: Carnival usually does not permit any name changes during this period unless it’s a legal name change due to marriage, divorce, or a court order.

Once online check-in is completed (typically 72 hours before the cruise), no name changes are allowed.

How Much Does a Name Change Cost?

Carnival Cruise name change fees vary depending on the nature of the change and how early you request it.

Minor spelling corrections are often free.
Name updates typically start at $50 and can go higher depending on the change.
Full passenger swaps may cost $100 or more.
If your booking includes airfare (especially restricted air), fees may be significantly higher or changes might not be allowed at all.

Fees can also vary if you booked through a travel agent or third-party site.

How to Change a Name on Your Carnival Cruise Booking?

You have three main options for making a name change on your Carnival reservation:

Online via Carnival’s Website
Log in to your booking through the “Manage My Booking” section and look for the “Modify Guest Information” option. Simple spelling errors can often be corrected here.

Call Carnival Cruise Line
Contact Carnival directly at 1–800-CARNIVAL to request a name change. You’ll need to provide your booking details and possibly submit documentation for certain changes.

Through Your Travel Agent
If you booked your cruise through a travel agency, the agency will need to process the name change for you. Additional fees may apply depending on the agency’s policies.

Can You Transfer a Carnival Cruise to Another Person?

In many cases, yes. Carnival allows full passenger substitutions, but conditions apply:

The original passenger may need to cancel, and the new passenger will have to rebook at the current fare.
Not all fare types allow name transfers, especially heavily discounted or promotional rates.
Additional charges may include a name change fee and any fare difference between the original and current rate.

It’s best to inquire directly with Carnival or your travel agent to confirm whether your booking qualifies for a name transfer.

How to Avoid Name Change Fees?

Here are a few ways to reduce or eliminate Carnival Cruise name change fees:

Double-check all names at the time of booking to avoid typos.
Avoid restricted fare types if flexibility is important to you.
Make corrections as early as possible, preferably more than 30 days before departure.
Provide legal documentation (like a marriage certificate or court order) if the change is due to a legal name update.
Choose Fly2Fun’s Flexible Air option over restricted airfare to allow for easier modifications.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the Carnival Cruise Name Change Policy is essential if you need to correct or update passenger information. Whether it’s a minor fix or a full name replacement, acting early and knowing your fare rules can save time, stress, and money.

For expert guidance and a better cruise planning experience, visit Cruise Ease — your partner in smooth sailing from port to port.

About Cruise Ease

At Cruise Ease, we’re dedicated to making your cruise experience smoother from start to finish. Our platform helps travelers discover and compare major cruise hub ports with ease, eliminating the hassle of endless searching.

Need help with a name change, rebooking, or understanding cruise policies? Our team is here to assist.

Email: Info@cruiseease.com