Norwegian and Princess offer flexible cancellation options for cruises due to California wildfires
Cruise lines are providing flexible cancellation policies for travelers affected by the ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles region.
Norwegian Cruise Line is eliminating cancellation fees for passengers set to travel in January and February.
“We extend our sympathies to everyone impacted by the wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area,” the cruise line stated on its website. “Currently, we do not have any vessels operating from the region, but many of our guests reside there.”
Affected travelers will receive a future cruise credit equal to their full fare, allowing them to change their sailing dates to a more convenient time. Additionally, Norwegian has committed to donating $50,000 to the American Red Cross.
Local cruise provider Princess Cruises announced a comparable initiative last week for sailings departing from Los Angeles.
“Although the Los Angeles World Cruise Center and LAX are still operating normally and remain unharmed, we recognize the struggles many in our community are facing,” Princess Cruises shared in a statement. “To assist our guests who live in evacuation zones or whose homes have suffered major damage, we are offering the option to cancel cruises scheduled between January 11 and January 30, 2025.”
Princess will issue a full future cruise credit valid for any sailing from the Los Angeles World Cruise Center this year, along with refunds for additional purchases such as shore excursions.
The wildfires have devastated thousands of homes and businesses, resulting in at least 24 fatalities. Firefighters made some headway over the weekend, but high winds are expected to return today.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter based in Nashville.