Big difference in taxes and fees for 2021?

[amurray88]

Hi all,

 

I've got a MSC cruise booked for June. There is still a tiny part of me clinging on to the hope we might go but that is fading every day.

So...I decided to start looking at the refund t&cs. It mentions you can get 125% FCC for your ticket fare only (not including taxes and charges).

 

Now this is the bit I'm asking about....

This year's taxes and charges - $684 (for 2)

Exactly the same cruise 2021 taxes and charges- $128 (for 2)

 

Why is there such a difference?

This year's ticket fare minus taxes and charges= $700 (for 2)

Same cruise next year $1270

 

Just can't get my head round it.

[Até]

I've noticed for at least the last six months MSC has been playing it a little loose on the port fees/taxes as a game to lower cabin fares.  Five of my booked cruises have had port fees/tax lowered an average $150pp between early booking and close to sailing.  Coincidentally cabin prices went up after the taxes & fees were lowered.  I think most people here have noticed a dramatic increase in the current 2020 fees compared to last year, especially on Caribbean sailings.  Recently Ocean Cay seems to be a big cost, but not sure which itinerary you are looking at.  Hopefully this little game regarding port fees/taxes ends.

Edited March 31, 2020 by Até

[perakcruiser]

I hope one day all countries in the world will reach a level where these ridiculous "taxes and fees" are not allowed to add to the price. I love the Europeans for this.