Force Majeure

French for “superior force,” force majeure appears in hotel, venue, tour, and cruise contracts. It typically lists qualifying events, such as natural disasters, war, terrorism, government orders, strikes, and epidemics, and sets out what happens when one occurs: whether the contract can be terminated, whether deposits are refunded or credited, and how quickly notice must be given.

The wording decides everything. Many clauses excuse performance only when an event makes it illegal or impossible, not merely more expensive or less appealing, and a clause that doesn’t mention pandemics or travel restrictions may not cover them. Since 2020, many event organizers negotiate explicit language on public health orders and travel bans. Have counsel review significant contracts.

Force majeure protects the parties to the contract, not your wallet personally. A supplier may be able to cancel and offer only a credit, which is why travel insurance still matters. For groups, read it alongside the attrition clause.