Princess Introduces Upgrade Bidding

Princess’ new upgrade bidding program is a win-win for travel advisors and their clients. Clients can bid on a stateroom upgrade at a price that fits their budget, while advisors get a piece of the accepted bid. It’s all part of the new Princess Upgrade program, launching September 6, that allows guests to bid on a move to oceanview, balcony, deluxe balcony, mini-suite and full suite cabins.

“Upgrading is a popular request from our guests and we’re pleased to deliver a process that lets them improve their stateroom category by making an offer that fits their budget and lifestyle,” said Princess president John Padgett.

The program is initially being rolled out on five North American-based ships: Caribbean Princess, Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess, Regal Princess and Ruby Princess. The rest of the fleet is scheduled to have the program by the end of October.

The Princess Upgrade process is simple. Once a guest’s sailing is within the final payment period and fully payment has been received, they will receive an invitation to take part in the program and submit a bid. They can bid on any stateroom category that is above the one they are currently booked in, and they may change or cancel their bid any time before it is (or is not) accepted.

Bids are priced per person and are based on two guests per stateroom. Third and fourth guests in a room are upgraded without additional cost. Princess will pay commission on the accepted bid to the travel advisor on record for the booking.