Norwegian Cruise Line Joins in Refunds for the Redundant

(MoneyWatch)  Recently, both Hyundai, Flybe and JetBlue began programs that give refunds or other financial incentives to those who lose their jobs, so it should be no surprise that the recession-hit cruise industry follows.

Norwegian Cruise Line announced their new Booksafe Travel Protection Plan that offers those who lose their job a cash refund of cancellation fees on any cruise starting May 1. Restrictions, of course, apply.

Is this come-on likely to change the fortunes of all these companies? It's unlikely, but it does give them a lot of press and a sympathetic image in a tough economy. However, these incentives are little different from the free tanks of gas, T-shirts and other incentives car dealerships used to give for taking a test drive. (Or for that matter, gas cards given to hotel customers.)

The deep discounts offered by cruise companies will make more of a difference because cutting costs seems to be the only sure way to attract discerning, and money-conscious, customers.