To avoid paying a cancellation fee, you need to cancel your HAL cruise 57 to 120 days before the departure date, depending on the itinerary, time of year, and length of the cruise. If you don't act within this time frame, you will forego your deposit and a certain percent of the fare. The amount you will forfeit will depend on how close the cancellation date is to the departure date. If you buy a Cancellation Protection Plan, it guarantees a refund of 80% to 90% of the amount you have paid for the cruise. You just need to cancel 24 hours before the date of departure. Some plans also add medical coverage and lost baggage.