Is it best to book online? - Page 3 - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Forum, Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

Cruise Planner · 07-06-2009, 03:35 PM

We once had a client who told us about a site that was offering free airfare when you purchased a certain cruise. We checked it out and he was right, there was no charge for the airfare. However, when you went to book the cruise, there was a $199 service fee added on the total. After checking further, we found the cruise line was offering a special $199 airfare on that particular cruise. So, what was advertised as a special, really wasn’t a special after all. As your mother always told you, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

One of the latest specials is 2-for-1 or free airfare. Problem is, the price is the same for 1 as it is for 2; nothing new there anyway. And the price is a certain amount, but if you don't want the airfare, the price goes down. So how is that free airfare?

Cruise lines do offer specials, but you need to talk with a qualified cruise specialist who can help you find what you’re looking for and explain the specials in detail. Even some of the specials they offer aren’t really great specials if you know what to look for and how to work around the system. And if a special is being offered, your agent should be able to get it for you most of the time; provided final payment has not been made. After that date, it depends on the special and the cruise line.

Another thing; be wary of “free upgrades”. Nothing is free. And be especially skeptical of travel agents who call you and say they got you a free upgrade. Most of the time the price went down and instead of giving you the option of getting a refund, they tell you they got you a free upgrade so they can keep their commission. This is something we never do and most reputable agents won't do it.

And this has been said before, but it bears repeating because of the importance; NEVER, and I mean NEVER do business with someone who demands cash or check, or says they are going to charge your credit card! They should be having the cruise line charge your credit card. If they say they are going to charge it, run the other way! If you give them cash or check and then they go out of business without sending the money to the cruise line, you're not only out your cruise, but you are out your money. If they charged your credit card, hopefully your credit card company will help you. But to make sure all is well, always demand they send you a confirmation from the cruise line, which you should be able to get within a couple of hours.

Keep in mind that there are alot of online companies out there just waiting to take your money. Anyone can buy a website and it's very easy to set up a travel website without any knowledge about travel. The internet is full of people trying to cash in on easy bucks without working for them. They want the computer to do all the work, while they sit back and do nothing. And forget them helping you should you have any questions or problems.

Bottom line is that with anything in your life, whether this be an electrician, a mechanic, a dentist, or a travel agent, it's always best to do business with someone you trust to look out for you.

Pete