Thread: For the Professional TA's

I have been looking at group cruises and a birthday cruise for 2009. I was searching the boards getting some ideas on ships, itineraries and prices. I was also utilizing the services of a local TA, but for some reason, she seemed too busy to return my calls/emails. I called my local AAA Travel Office and gave the cruises I was looking at to one of their representatives. She has been checking out prices for around a week and gave me all the information I requested.

I'm just curious on how can AAA come in lower than Carnivals published rate including the taxes and fees? Two are the cruises including the taxes and fees are the same as the regualr rate off Carnivals website w/o the taxes and fees.

First, do not book directly with the cruise line.

Second, do not book with AAA - most of their agents are not very well trained.

You want to book with an agent who has experience with groups.

As for why AAA can give you better rates than what is advertised by Carnival, groups (meaning 8 cabins or more) get special pricing. Plus, they also get GAP (Group Amenity Points) and TC's (Tour Credits). These can be used to provide gifts, amenities, or lower pricing for everyone in the group.

The number of GAP points is based on the length of the cruise, the ship, and the dates. Sometimes they offer alot of GAP points and other times no GAP points.

The TC's are based on the majority number of cabins booked (i.e. inside, oceanview, or balcony). This is money back to you and can be spread among everyone to lower their prices, used for gifts, or kept by you as the group leader.

There are many options available for your group - it really depends on the size, cruise line, dates, ships, etc.

Please let me know if you have any specific questions as I'll be happy to answer them.

Pete