August 3, 2009

Cruise Vacations - Booking with a Travel Agent

By Shinto Pompay

How do you get the best cruise vacations package? Should you go to a travel agent, or should you just purchase a cruise package by yourself? Booking with a cruise specialist is the best way to get the best deal and discount when going on a cruise.

Why are travel agents better than booking by yourself? Typically, travel agents are affiliated with the cruise line and have good relationships with the cruise company. They are the middleman between you and Cruise Company and can negotiate better discounts and prices on your behalf. If you tried to haggle yourself, your efforts would probably be futile.

Travel agents do not charge for their services and work on commissions from the cruise line. The agent is like your personal business advisor and can help you along the way to make your purchase a smooth transaction. Travel agents can book packages and will have all of the information about surcharges, changes in travel plan, cruise fares, discounts and cancellation policies. Cruise lines are connected to these travel partners and travel agents can have up to date information at the tips of their fingertips.

You can expect your agent to find the best cruise ship for your specific needs. Some agents only have a limited supply of specific cruise lines so make sure that they are not limited and have a higher selection. When you decide to purchase a cruise, make sure that the final price is settled and that the settled price is exactly what you pay. If you do not feel comfortable with the travel agents changes to your itinerary or changes in price, be firm and make sure you do not let anyone intimidate you. Remember, they are on a commission and if you do not book with them, there is an eager agent that will gladly service you.

Some questions that you should ask a cruise agent are: do you have preferred suppliers, or do you book any cruise on any cruise ship? What additional costs will in incur? Have you sailed abroad the ship I want to book or that you are recommending? Is your agency bonded and insured? If so, by whom? These are just a few questions that a prudent shopper will ask when planning their cruise vacations.

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