Why using a cruise travel agent is the best way to book your cruise
Now that there are so many online travel booking sites available, you may be wondering if you really need to use a travel agent to book your cruise. Agents can provide information and allow you to tap into resources that you simply cannot access through an automated bot. To help you understand what travel agencies have to offer, here are the top 10 reasons to use a travel agent to book your next cruise:
1. Personal experience
Review sites can give you some idea of what to expect on a cruise, but they may not divulge the information you seek. When you turn to a cruise travel agent, you get the advantage of speaking with knowledgeable travelers who have actually experienced the ships, cruises, and itineraries that interest you.
2. Insider tips
Travel agents can offer insider tips that turn an ordinary cruise into the extraordinary adventure of a lifetime! You don’t have to settle for visiting the same attractions and excursions shared by thousands of other travelers. When you call a travel agent, they can pass on insider tips on the best places and things to do on your trip. These tips could lead you to marvelous hidden gems such as unique excursions, restaurants favored by locals, and the best places to find genuinely local items rather than shops that cater to tourists.
3. They can find the best cruise line for you
All cruises are not alike even though they may appear so on the surface. If you see several cruise lines and ships offering the same itinerary, you may think the only difference is departure date and price. Actually, experiences vary greatly between cruise lines and ships. A travel agent can identify the best cruise line and ship to deliver the vacation experience you desire.
4. You still get cruise loyalty rewards
One reason travelers are reluctant to use a travel agent is that they are afraid they will not get the benefits of their cruise loyalty program unless they book direct. In most cases, you still get your cruise loyalty rewards and specials when you use a travel agent, and you may even be able to combine your cruise loyalty rewards with other promotions.
5. Bargaining clout
When you book a cruise on your own, you are only one person so you have no pull to help with special requests. Because travel agents bring in a large volume of business for cruise lines, they have bargaining clout that may allow them to gain you wanted concessions, such as connecting rooms, or access to a “sold out” excursion that is listed as unavailable on online booking sites.
6. Problem solvers on your side
Problems can arise on a cruise vacation. If your flight is late, you miss the ship, or any other emergency arises when you book your own cruise, you are on your own to fix the problem. When you book through a travel agent, you have a powerful advocate on your side to navigate any difficulties. The travel agent will work to arrange alternative travel plans and connect you with local authorities who will assist you.
7. Special discounts and deals
Travel agents have access to last minute cruise deals and exclusive promotions. They can help you take advantage of cruise deals that could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
8. Time-saving cruise packages
When it comes to researching your cruise trip, the value of a travel agent is unmistakable. Instead of spending hours or even days searching online to put together your ideal cruise vacation, you can have a travel agent research your trip for you. A cruise travel agent can present you with a cruise travel package that includes your plane trip, cruise itinerary, shore excursions, and cultural activities – all at the best possible price. All you have to do is show up!
9. Cutting-edge cruise travel information
Travel agencies that specializes in cruises are typically the first to know about new ships, ports, and itineraries, before booking sites or other online sources. That is why a dedicated cruise travel agency is considered the best travel agency to use when booking cruises and cruise tours, as they can introduce you to travel options you didn’t even know existed.
10. A long-term travel partnership
Over time as you work with your travel agent, you will develop a true partnership. He or she will come to know your tastes in travel, and will be able to assemble cruise deals and vacation plans that will take you everywhere you want to go.
When you are ready to book your next cruise, let CruiseExperts.com take care of all the work for you. We’ll help you plan the ideal cruise for the vacation of a lifetime! Visit www.CruiseExperts.com or call today at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784) to book your reservation today. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use! Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruisetour!