Recent changes to pricing displays on cruise line websites and social media have caught the attention of many travelers. Beginning this week, all major US-based cruise lines, including industry giants like Carnival Cruise Line, are revamping how they display prices to consumers. This shift comes in response to new regulatory requirements and aims to enhance transparency in the booking process.
Carnival Cruise Line, a leader in the industry, sent an explanatory email to its travel partners detailing the changes. The email, sent out on June 30, 2024, reads as follows:
Dear Travel Partner,
As of Sunday June 30, 2024, the prices displayed for Carnival Cruise Line cruises are now inclusive of taxes and fees. The total price your clients pay today has not changed due to this update. By showing the total price while shopping you can now provide your clients with a clear total price upfront for the cruise selected.
To provide some background on this change, California’s new consumer protection law requires that the advertised price offered to consumers include many components of the taxes, fees and port expenses that were previously displayed outside the advertised price [before Carnival’s changes starting June 30, 2024].
If you have questions on the impact of these changes to your travel agency, please contact your agency manager or owner who have also been alerted of these updates.
Thank you for your support,
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival emphasizes that while the display of prices has changed, the actual cost to consumers remains the same. The incorporation of taxes, port fees, and other mandatory expenses into the advertised price is designed to provide a more transparent and straightforward pricing structure for potential cruisers.
This change follows California’s new consumer protection law, which mandates that advertised prices must include many of the previously separate taxes and fees. By aligning with this legislation, cruise lines aim to eliminate confusion and ensure customers have a clearer understanding of the total cost of their vacation upfront.
Goose Creek Travel has adapted to these changes by now including all mandatory charges in their cruise quotes. This adjustment promises a more transparent booking process, benefiting our clients.
As the industry adapts to this new pricing model, travelers can expect a more honest representation of costs, making it easier to compare and budget for their dream cruises. For further inquiries about these changes, or to request a cruise quote, call Colby @ Goose Creek Travel at 208-670-2340.