The booking process is more complicated — you have to choose ships, itineraries, cabin categories and dining times — so we often recommend that first time cruisers and experienced travelers alike use a travel agent instead of booking cruises online.
Is it cheaper to book directly with the cruise line?
We found cruise pricing to be more or less the same across booking sites — it's the perks that are different.
Why do most consumers buy cruises through a travel agent?
Bottom line. Booking a cruise is a complex enterprise. A cruise travel agent will guide you through choosing your cabin and dining times, deposits and final payment, and options for shore excursions and specialty dining. If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process.
What are the advantages of purchasing a cruise package through the cruise line?
For peace of mind, some mainstream ocean cruise lines offer low-fare guarantees that pay you back if you find a lower airfare after booking with them. It is sometimes easier than booking independently. The cruise line's agents take all the work out of shopping for flights, much as any travel agent would do for you.
What are the disadvantages of booking with a travel agent?
- You're Not The One Planning Your Travel. While not planning your travel is a pro to some, for other travelers, it's a major con. …
- You Add Another Person To The Equation. …
- You Actually Have To Find The Agent. …
- They're Not Great For Spur-Of-The-Moment Changes.
Who is the best travel agency for cruises?
North America's Best Cruise Travel Agency 2021
- AffordableTours.com.
- American Discount Cruises & Travel.
- Crown Cruise Vacations.
- Cruise Rewards.
- Cruisedirect.com.
- CruiseOne.
- Cruises.com.
- CruisesOnly.
What is the most inexpensive way to book a cruise?
The 17 Best Websites To Book Cruises at the Cheapest Prices [2023]
- Cruise Line's Website.
- CheapCaribbean.com.
- Cruise Critic.
- CruiseDirect.
- Priceline.
- Tripadvisor.
- CruisesOnly.
- Expedia.
Why use a travel agent instead of booking online?
Travel Agents Offer Expert RecommendationsCost versus time versus experience — all need to be in balance.” Agents don't just gain knowledge from their own travel. Their knowledge of destinations is also constantly updated by their clients.
What are the benefits of booking a cruise with AAA?
AAA members have access to competitive pricing, exclusive discounts, and potential benefits such as shipboard credits, complimentary hotel nights, complimentary sightseeing tours, activity vouchers, special hotel rates with flexible cancellation, free additional driver with Hertz rentals1, and AAA Best Price Guarantee.
Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line?
What is the best way to schedule a cruise?
You can also use a travel agent to book cruises (online booking sites, airline cruise deals and credit card cruise deals are all essentially travel agents). If you're undecided on which cruise line you want, but you're prepared to make a booking for a particular date, you'll want to use a travel agent.
What are the potential disadvantages of booking a pre or post cruise package through the cruise line travel agency?
The potential disadvantages of booking a pre-or postcruise package through the cruise line include limited choice and limited flexibility in terms of changing plans.
Does a trip cost more when you use a travel agent?
The cost of using a travel agent is generally marginal, and often, they won't charge you at all. Much of their money comes from commissions the hotels and wholesalers pay them. Before you decide to book with a travel agent, inquire whether or not they charge fees.
What percentage of cruises are booked by travel agents?
The share of cruise bookings made by travel agents took a hit during the pandemic but is projected to bounce back to near prepandemic levels by 2024. The report, "U.S. Cruise Market Report 2022-2026," by Phocuswright, found agents' share of gross cruise booking fell to 52% in 2021 from 70% in 2019.
Do cruises get cheaper the closer you get?
Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.
Do cruises get cheaper the closer you book?
Cruise lines often discount their prices a month or two before sailing to fill vacant cabins. However, it's worth noting that a last-minute cruise doesn't always offer the most savings to travelers. Those who plan far ahead may be able to save even more.
Do cruises get cheaper as they get closer?
As any seasoned traveler knows, you'll often find lower rates or free add-ons as the departure date approaches and the cruise line works to fill the ship.
Is there a downside to using a travel agent?
Essentially, one of the downsides of using a travel agent is that they often offer pre-packaged tours or deals. While these can be convenient for some, they may not consider your personal preferences and interests.
How can I pay less for a cruise?
Book onboard.
- Sometimes you have to make a choice: Go for the easy cruise fare, or spend a lot of time searching for the perfect rock-bottom rate. …
- Never pay the brochure price. …
- Be flexible. …
- Book early. …
- Seek the sales. …
- Surf the web before you book. …
- Cruise close to home. …
- Cruise for free.
What is the best way to pay for a cruise?
Credit cards have long been the most convenient form of payment for cruise vacations.