Travel Agent Secrets Revealed Getting the Best Price for your Cruise –

Tip 1: Learn how to identify the best cruise dealWhen comparing prices make sure you are comparing like-for-like. Follow the below simple checklist;

Does the price quoted include compulsory Government fees & Port Charges?

Are On board Gratuities included?

Is the price advertised quad share or twin share (4 v 2 people sharing a cabin)?

Is the price quoted in Australian dollars?

Is the price displayed current & still available for booking?

Tip 2: Know when to book to get your perfect cabinGet the cabin you want at the best price by following these simple rules

• Book early – In general the best prices are released early. As the sail date gets closer, prices are likely to rise.

• Grasp the Value-Adds – Cruise lines release their best deals early which typically include early-booking bonuses such as free on board credit, free pre or post accommodation and in some cases even free flights.

• Availability – If you need to cruise during specific dates, require a specific cabin or require a balcony, quad or interconnecting cabin, you will need to book at least 6-9 months in advance to ensure cabin availability.

Tip 3: Know how far in advance you should bookWhen do the cruise lines release their deals - following these simple rules

• Prime Time– Wave season for Ocean cruising is January – February. Take advantage of the cruise lines sales for great deals. To ensure availability and choice, book six to 12 months in advance.

• River Cruises- The ideal time is 12-15 months in advance, or as soon as rates are released to take advantage of early-bird promotions and pricing. Wave season for River Cruising is February / March and September / October.

Tip 4: Where in the World are the best Cruise deals?Read below to find the best deals to world cruise destinations• Europe – Best deals are out from late March through to April and again from mid-

September to November. Europe is currently priced very low, particularly the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. Prices are expected to rise next year as the European Economic climate improves.

• Australia / New Zealand / South Pacific – Prices are very competitive at the moment due to the increased number of ships in our waters. Prices will rise towards the end of the year, so book as soon as possible for local cruising.

• Alaska -soft periods include May and September (Jun-Aug – Peak). • Caribbean - standard bargain times include the Northern Hemisphere Autumn

months (unpredictable weather), non-holiday portions of November and December, and January and February (barring holiday weekends). Last-minute deals are also prevalent at these times.

• River Cruises – Low season, which offers the best value is usually March, April and November through to December.

Tip 5: Work the DiscountsAsk about value adds

• Value Adds – In addition to looking for discounts off fares, learn to take advantage of value adds such as free upgrades, on board credits etc. Some cruise lines offer additional add-ons such as free drinks packages or discounted packages.

• Discounts – If you are a senior or a member of a past passenger club ask about specific discounts. Past Passenger Cruise clubs offers some great discounts for returning passengers.

Tip 6: Make Last Minute Cruising work for youFind out how to get the best deal on cruising by following these simple rules

• Be Flexible– By being flexible with your choice of dates, cruise line and/or cabin category, you can take advantage of the best last minute cruise fares (or Pack N’Go fares as they are often referred to in Australia).

• Be Prepared – The best value departures could be within the week, so make sure you have a valid passport and be ready to pack your bags and go!

• Be Cash Ready – Cruise lines will require payment in full for last minute departures. Make sure you have your total payment ready to lock in the best deal.

Tip 7: Price isn’t everythingDon’t get caught in the price trap

• Service –Realize there is more to your cruise experience than just the absolute cheapest price. Make sure the cruise agency that slashed their last minute price didn’t also slash their level of service! When choosing an agency the knowledge and experience of the consultant to correctly process your booking is worth its weight in gold.

• Reputation– There are many cruise agencies on the web. Check out who you are dealing with. Are they a reputable company? Have they got industry recognition?

• Don’t get caught out– Make sure you check out the deals advertised carefully. Is the cabin at the advertising price available, or is it simply a hook to get you to call in. In Australia, it is a legal requirement to display the full price (fully inclusive of pre-paid gratuities, port charges and government taxes.

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