Table Of Content
On the plus side, an agent who is a preferred supplier might have negotiated rates with the cruise line and be able to call in favors, such as that bottle of Champagne or a cabin upgrade. You will likely run into a lot of questions to which you have no ready answer. "In their contract, they have to guarantee to get everyone back on time," said Pam Jarvis, director of cruise programs for Travel Leaders Network. "We wouldn't work with them if they said, 'Well, we'll try.' That's not going to work for us. I can say, hand on heart, I don't think we've ever had anybody left behind."
Search
The event caused a flurry of media attention, but travel advisors and consortia leaders said they are still confident about working with independent vendors. To find the ship and sailing right for you, go through a cruise specialist. Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.
Questions to ask a cruise travel agent
If you enjoy doing your own research, focus on what to do and see in the ports of call. However, when it comes to booking the cruise, we recommend you still contact a travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you learn a few tips and avoid any rookie mistakes. While the bulk of a travel agent's income comes from commissions paid by the cruise lines, most travel agents also charge a small service fee ($15 to $30) for their time and effort, though not all do. Most travel agents who do choose to charge for their service are worth the expense, as they tend to be the most educated and well-traveled in the industry.
Expert guidance. No booking fees.
To avoid potential issues, verification of excursion providers is ongoing, whether by agencies or their consortia or host, making it easier for members to book third-party excursions with vetted providers. "My vendors have never been late to a ship and clients have made their departures on time." The passengers traveled through more than a half-dozen countries hoping to meet the ship during a port call in Banjul, Gambia. That call was canceled due to weather, so the group eventually reunited with the ship in Dakar, Senegal, seven days after being left behind.
Create a New CLIA Account
This Week in Cruise: Cruise360 Presidents Panel, New Ship Orders - Travel Agent Central
This Week in Cruise: Cruise360 Presidents Panel, New Ship Orders.
Posted: Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:39:44 GMT [source]
A good cruise travel agent will not only help you navigate these tricky questions they will hopefully provide you with some reassurance. There is no better feeling than getting a great deal on your cruise vacation! While booking a cruise through a travel agent does not guarantee a lower rate, it can happen, especially when they negotiate group space with the cruise line.
Find Cruise Travel Agent Deals
If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process. You'll have a lot less stress before and during your vacation if you book with an experienced agent. Travel agents -- cruise specialists, in particular -- have been onboard many cruise ships and can offer first-hand advice, like which cabins to avoid because they're under the main theater or across from a crew-only access door. A good travel agent will also get to know your travel style and guide you to the cruise line, ship and even room type that are best for you. The level of service and interaction you can expect to receive from a travel agent after booking your cruise varies significantly. Some travel agencies will simply send you a booking confirmation letter within a day or two of booking and a payment reminder as the final payment date nears.
They can create a group rate and handle everyone's bookings
Cruise Planners has a rich history of exceeding travelers expectations by booking top destinations for their clients at special rates, and also providing extra benefits and amenities to their clients. Cruise Planners/American Express Cruise Travel Agents specialize at selecting destinations that work well with their clients specific interests. Our cruise travel agents are also experts at letting travelers know the best time of year to travel to their destination of interest. The last thing we want is for you to spend your vacation in bad weather. Instead, our expert travel advisors will let you know the best time to travel, as well as things to do, excursions and/or activities that you will enjoy during your vacation while visiting your selected destination. 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.
Below is a list of travel agencies in your area who are knowledgeable and experienced in cruising. CLIA Certifications require core curriculum training, cruise line product training, ship inspections and cruising experience. Attainment of each ascending level of Certification reflects a greater commitment on the part of the Certified Agent to acquire the expertise to better assist you in planning your next cruise. With some weeklong itineraries making four or more stops, you can only imagine how much time it would take to research each port and learn about the different activities offered.
Travel advisors have long worked with independent operators, ones they say guarantee returning guests to the ship on time or covering guests' expenses if they have to meet the ship at the next port of call. While on the island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, an independent tour ran late, leading the guide to return guests to port after the 3 p.m. Despite attempts by the tour operator to convince the captain to send the tender back, the ship left without them.
If you're concerned that working with an agent will make your cruise more expensive, don't be. Cruise travel agents receive the bulk of their income via commission from the cruise lines. Their service to you is usually free, though some might charge first-time clients a minimal fee.
You will not have to worry about communicating with a cruise line representative, as they will do it for you! Before any changes are made, your travel agent will ask you how you would like to proceed and then work with the cruise line to honor your wishes. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.
The agent should be focused on helping you choose the cruise line, ship and cabin that is right for you. Making the correct choices is very important to your overall cruise experience. Remember, you might be a DIY type when booking airlines and hotels, but booking a cruise is more complex.
Late last year, I booked a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise for two for February 2023. Life happened and by late-January, I found out that my guest would no longer be able to join me. Even though this this was well past the final payment date, my travel agent was able to change the reservation to a single cruiser with ease!
We are here to help if something should go wrong before or during your trip such as canceled flights or revised itineraries. We know your well-earned vacation time is precious, so at all times we are working in your best interest when handling your travel needs. From booking your first cruise to understanding onboard perks -- the questions can be overwhelming, especially for anyone that is new to cruise. The longer you work with a single travel agent, the better relationship you all will build. Travel agents, however, can set up automatic payment plans from the time of booking through the period leading up to the final payment date.
No comments:
Post a Comment