Monday, May 3, 2010

Fuel Surcharges- will they be back?

A couple of years ago, when oil prices skyrocketed, all of the cruise lines instituted fuel surcharges ranging from $5-$15 per person per day in addition to the cruise fare. During 2009, when our economy was at its lowest, the cruise lines held off on re-instating the surcharges, even though each would list it on their confirmations that they could be re-instated if the cost of crude oil hit or exceeded $65-70 per barrel.

Oil prices are rising and now a major spill in the Gulf of Mexico might likely increase the cost of gasoline and crude oil again. Rumor has it that the fuel surcharges might be re-instated over the summer if oil continues to rise in price.

Please note that even if you pre-pay your final balance, the cruise lines may come after you for the fuel surcharge.

I'll keep my clients posted on any changes as soon as I know about them. I hope the cruise lines decide not to re-instate the fuel surcharges. There are many other ways to raise revenue aboard the cruise ships to make up the difference but, unfortunately, it is not up to me.

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