After taking my first cruise in 1995 and working at a cruise only travel agency – it became my first area of expertise working in the travel industry. It’s one of my favorite types of trips to plan for my clients! These are 3 reasons you should have a professional travel advisor help with your cruise planning:
1. Personal Service
Cruise reservations are much more than just a few clicks online! When we work together, you’re always guaranteed I’ll be the one you’re in contact with. If you book with the cruise line – you’ll be juggled between various agents each time you contact them with questions. You’re not just a number with me, as I have years long relationships with the majority of my clients (read here more reasons to work with me).
2. Expertise/Experience
Working with me you have access to my 30 years of experience in planning cruise vacations for my clients and my various connections in the cruise industry.
Besides cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska, and Hawaii – I’ve also cruised in the Baltic, Australia/New Zealand, the Middle East, the Mediterranean/Greek Isles, and the Panama Canal. I also took my first river cruise a few years ago on the Danube with Viking. As river cruising has exploded with my clients – I’ve also traveled in areas surrounding the Moselle, Rhine, and Dutch waterways.
I use my personal and client experiences to craft the best cruise vacation for you. All while deciphering the confusing and numerous pricing options for cruise packages, advising on the best type of cabins/suites/locations, and recommending shore excursions (click here to read more about choosing cruise line hosted or independent tours).
3. All-Inclusive Planning
There are numerous details surrounding a cruise vacation. I help with the planning of pre/post cruise city trips – hotel and tour reservations; along with transportation options.
Travel insurance is another important component and I compare if the cruise line policy or a going through a separate company is the best option for you (read here why I suggest purchasing travel insurance).
Many cruise ports are a bit of a distance from the nearby cities or airports – I also advise if it’s best to use cruise line transfers or other choices.
The majority of cruise itineraries require passports or visas and this is another area of guidance I provide.
Even though I don’t book flight reservations (I always recommend that is done directly through the airlines for the least amount of hassle when there are cancellations or schedule changes) – I’m here to advise and coordinate flights with your cruise schedule.
Let’s connect to get a cruise on your calendar! 🙂
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
