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I'm brand new to this group and wanted to provide information whenever I can to help people learn about cruising. Having done this for 6 years out of our home and having been involved with travel for over 15 years, I hope my knowledge can help people enjoy their vacations more. As I've always said, an informed traveler is a happy traveler.
Anyway, I thought I would share some insight with you.
I've seen alot of postings asking whether to book through the cruise line, an online site, or with a travel agent/cruise specialist. I'm obviously thankful that most of the people prefer to book through a TA or CS. (The difference is that a Travel Agent sells all types of travel whereas a Cruise Specialist specializes in cruises.)
Okay, just so you know, most of the cruise lines now have a policy that requires everyone to advertise the same cruise for the same price. Whether you book it with an online company, directly with the cruise line, or through a travel agent/cruise specialist, the price will normally be the same. There are a few exceptions to that rule, for example if someone has a group going out and they can get you in there at the group rate. But for the most part, the prices should normally be the same. Anyone who advertises a lower rate than everyone else is in jeopardy of loosing their credentials to sell for that cruise line, so double check the rates. You can do this by going to any of the major online sites (Expedia, Travelocity, etc.) and see what the rates are - you'll find there are the same.
And as a side note, the total cruise fare is actually comprised of three separate prices; the cruise price, port fees, and taxes. Any advertised prices are suppose to include the cruise price and port fees, but do not usually include the taxes. Also, some agencies may charge a booking fee and may even have a change or cancellation fee. It's always good to ask for a complete breakdown so there are no surprises. (You should never incur any fees from an agency. The only fee you should incur is if you cancel inside of the penalty time-frame as laid out by the cruise line.)
Be aware of specials. I could tell you some stories!! For example; I once saw a special that advertised "free airfare", but when you read the fine print, there was a $199 administrative fee added to the bottom line. When I called the cruise line directly, there were having a $199 airfare special. So the "free airfare" was, in fact, not free at all. As your mother told you; if it sounds to good to be true, it usually is. Sometimes trying to save yourself $50 on a $2000 cruise is not the smart thing to do in the long run.
Anymore, it comes down to service. Of course I'm a bit prejudice on the subject, but I'm a firm believer you should always book through a travel agent or cruise specialist. If they are any good, they will look after your best interest. After all, they want to keep you as a client and will work hard for your business. If a special becomes available, almost all cruise lines will allow them to get it for you and lower your rate. The cruise lines, larger travel agencies, and online sites will not provide this type of service as it takes lots of time and effort.
And don't always believe an agent when they call you and say, "Hey, I got you a free upgrade." Most of the time it just doesn't happen. What happens is that the rate went down and instead of giving you the option of a refund or an upgrade, they just tell you they got the upgrade so they can protect their commission. Not a good way to do business, but it happens all the time.
And one last thing, as was stated by someone else in another group, once you find a good agent, stick with them. It's important for you to find an agent whom you can trust. If they are any good at all, they will insure you are happy with everything and always be available to you. They can be a very valuable asset if you encounter any problems. They will also follow up after the cruise to see how everything went and make sure you had no problems. They want to establish a good working relationship in order to build a reputable business. Their services are free to you, so it's always a great idea to utilize their expertise, knowledge, and experience so you can have a hassle-free vacation.
I hope all this doesn't sound like a sales pitch, but I've written newspaper articles on the subject as I hate to hear stories of people being taken by online companies or fly-by-night operations that promise great deals. So I firmly believe it's important for those of us who are in the business to educate travelers as best we can. After all, the more you know, the better it is for all of us. Besides, it's the neighborly thing to do! And from what I've read, it appears there are a couple of very good agents on this group and they are happy to lend their expertise. My congratulations on establishing a wonderful group and I hope I can help add some information that will provide a more enjoyable cruise for someone.
Pete
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You will find we are pretty relaxed here. Our members are awesome and we are doing this to make their cruises be the best ever by getting all the correct info so they can choose what is best for them. We have a Cruise deals forum, and that is where you can put any you have, or know of, with pricing!! All of our CLF TA's are members, so respect for each other is important. As you get to know us all, I hope you will enjoy it here!! Just make yourself comfy!!
Originally Posted by sue miller
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