Oceania Cruises has announced that non-commissionable cruise fares (NCFs) will be eliminated on all new itineraries. Norwegian Cruise Line made the same move late last year, leaving the travel industry wondering if other lines might follow suit.
The change applies to newly launched itineraries, including those debuting for summer 2028, the 2028-2029 winter season and world voyages sailing in 2028 and 2029.
Our Analysis: Tipping the Scale on NCFs
Dropping NCFs clears the way for travel advisors to earn more on Oceania bookings, and the move solidifies the cruise line’s reputation as one committed to the trade and its success. In an ever-competitive cruise market, Oceania joining Norwegian tips the scale, putting pressure on other companies to fall in line, too. And it’s pressure where pressure is due — if the majority of a cruise company’s sales come through the trade, the trade should be paid accordingly.
This change is about recognizing the value travel advisors deliver and ensuring they share more directly in the growth they help create.
Fast Facts: Oceania Has Timed the Change With a Period of Company Growth
- NCFs remain common practice in the cruise industry.
- NCFs will be removed on new Oceania itineraries, which are set to go on sale this month or next.
- The removal of NCFs is timed with Oceania Cruises’ next growth phase (Oceania Sonata will debut in 2027, Oceania Arietta in 2029 and two unnamed vessels in 2032 and 2035).
What They Are Saying: Eliminating NCFs Recognizes the Work of the Travel Advisor
“Travel advisors are central to Oceania Cruises’ growth strategy — today and long into the future,” said Nathan Hickman, chief sales officer of Oceania Cruises. “This change is about recognizing the value travel advisors deliver and ensuring they share more directly in the growth they help create. When our advisors succeed, Oceania Cruises succeeds — and that philosophy will continue to guide how we invest in our partnerships.”
