MIAMI -- Carnival Cruise Lines’ “Vacation Guarantee,” the only program of its kind in the cruise industry, has been extended through December 2008. 

The program, which was launched in August 1996, provides that guests may disembark in the first non-U.S. port of call for any reason and receive a pro-rated refund for the unused portion of their cruise fare, along with reimbursement for coach air transportation back to the ship’s home port, by notifying the Guest Services Desk prior to arrival at the first port of call.

According to Carnival President and CEO Gerry Cahill, the program was created as a way of attracting first-time cruisers who may be reluctant to sail because of pre-conceived notions or misconceptions about cruising. “There are many people who are hesitant to take a first cruise because they’re afraid they might not like it -- that maybe they’ll be bored, feel confined or simply won’t like their fellow shipmates,” he explained.

The vacation guarantee creates a comfort level by giving them the same option to leave as they typically have with a land vacation. “Once on board, we know they’re going to have a great vacation experience. The key is to get them to give it a try, though, and the vacation guarantee is an excellent way to help achieve that,” said Cahill.

The vacation guarantee is valid for departures through and including Dec. 13, 2008. The program has certain restrictions.

For additional information, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, or visit www.carnival.com.

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Carnival Cruise Lines is a proud member of the exclusive World’s Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises, and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest, and a commitment to quality and value, our member lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Together, we offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world’s most desirable destinations.