CRUISE LINE CANCELLATION

Cruise line cancellation disputes in Florida are primarily governed by the cruise line’s Ticket Contract, which often includes strict "forum selection clauses" requiring legal action to be filed in specific Florida courts (typically the Southern District of Florida in Miami). 

Dispute timelines for cruise lines are much shorter than standard Florida statutes of limitations. Typically, you must provide formal written notice of a claim to the cruise line within six months of the incident. Most contracts require a lawsuit to be filed within one year of the incident. Failure to meet this deadline usually results in a permanent loss of the right to sue.

Key Dispute Resolution Steps

When a dispute arises, the first step is to carefully review the ticket contract. Pay close attention to the forum selection clause and the statute of limitations. Many cruise contracts require that a written notice of claim be submitted within 185 days of the incident and that any lawsuit be filed within one year. Missing these deadlines can result in losing the right to pursue a claim.

Another important step is submitting an internal formal complaint to the cruise line. This should be done directly through the cruise line’s guest relations department. Major cruise lines such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean provide specific online forms for customer feedback, complaints, and refund requests. This process creates a formal record of the dispute and may resolve the issue without further action.

Mediation is also an available option for resolving disputes without going to court. Florida courts, along with the Florida Supreme Court’s mediation directory, offer access to certified mediators. Mediation can be particularly effective for disagreements involving cancellation fees, refunds, or insurance coverage.

If the cruise line fails to perform its obligations or refund deposits for a voyage departing from a U.S. port with at least 50 passenger berths, a complaint may be filed with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). These complaints are handled through the FMC’s Cruise and Maritime Audits Division (CADRS) office.

Additionally, consumers may file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General’s Office. This option is appropriate when there is concern about deceptive or unfair business practices. The Attorney General’s office may investigate the matter and take action if warranted.

Important Considerations for 2026

Credit card disputes can sometimes provide immediate financial relief; however, passengers should be aware that disputing a charge may result in the cruise line banning them from future bookings. This consequence should be weighed carefully before proceeding.

Refund timelines have also become longer in recent years. Since 2025, several major cruise lines have reported refund processing times ranging from 90 to 180 days for certain types of refunds. Passengers should plan accordingly and maintain documentation throughout the process.

Most cruise contracts include force majeure clauses, which excuse the cruise line from certain obligations during unforeseen events such as severe weather or public health emergencies. In these situations, passengers may not be entitled to a full cash refund and may instead receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC).

Finally, port-of-call cancellations generally do not entitle passengers to a full cruise refund. However, passengers are typically entitled to receive a refund of port fees and taxes associated with the missed port.