How does a cruise travel agent work?

How does a cruise travel agent work? As a cruise travel agent, you'll be helping your clients by booking their cruises, advising them on great destinations, and suggesting fun activities they can do. You'll also offer information about and help with applicable visas and other paperwork.

What to expect from a travel agent?

People who utilize a traditional travel agency expect to work with knowledgeable agents who can take the details of their travel plans, prepare a customized itinerary and quickly forward the details to the client's smartphone or computer.

Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line?

Travel agents can get better deals on cruises 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.

Who is the best travel agency for cruises?

Is it cheaper to use a travel agent when booking a cruise?

Travel agents can get better deals on cruises 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.

What day of the week do cruise lines lower prices?

According to an extensive study that followed price drops in the cruise industry, Thursdays may be the best day to book a cruise. Prices associated with travel are always in flux due to supply and demand, so the prices of a cruise can change daily. Prices could spike on a Wednesday and drop, well, on a Thursday.

How do you avoid tipping on a cruise?

If you plan to remove tips from your onboard bill, you will need to plan in advance to bring enough cash for personal tipping, then wait in a potentially long line at the guest services desk to remove the auto-gratuities and chase down all the crew members you wish to thank on the last evening.

What percentage do travel agents get on cruises?

Both the luxury cruise market and niche cruise markets pay a true 10% base commission and can be highly lucrative niches. The River Cruise market is extremely popular right now and also quite competitive among river cruise companies and represents an excellent opportunity to earn very attractive margins.

Do cruise prices go down closer to the date?

If a cruise is filling up quickly, the company has no reason to release a sale to entice customers. But if a cruise's departure date is fast approaching and the ship is only partially booked, prices will drop, and complimentary add-ons will increase, resulting in some happy customers.

Can you negotiate with cruise lines?

Prices, for instance, can't be negotiated. While some cruise lines, particularly river cruise lines, may give you a set discount, most ocean lines expect you to sell your group space at the current prevailing rate (though that can include any current promotions).

Do travel agents charge for quotes?

In response to our survey of more than 500 Travel Weekly readers, conducted online in February, 71% said they charge some type of fee. Travel agencies that charge fees — whether they're a one-time consultation fee, a subscription fee, a ticketing fee or something else entirely — are now in the firm majority.

Is there any value in using a travel agent?

Saving You Money They know all of the discounts and promotions, the best times to book, and the best days to travel. Use of a travel agent can be especially advantageous if you are traveling in a group. Even for small groups of six travelers or more, they can likely get you a discount or special amenity.

How much more expensive is it to use a travel agent?

How much does a travel agent cost? The cost of using a travel agent is generally marginal, and often, they won't charge you at all. Much of their money comes from commissions the hotels and wholesalers pay them. Before you decide to book with a travel agent, inquire whether or not they charge fees.

What is the most important of a travel agent?

The primary role of a travel agent is to help people make travel arrangements, which might include booking flights, hotels, sightseeing tours, and making dining recommendations. A travel agent assesses each customer's unique needs, preferences, and budget to ensure their trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Should you book an all inclusive through a travel agent?

Booking directly with the resort itself is one of the best ways to ensure you travel and relax on the days you desire. Travel Agents are often paid on commission, and may not have your best interest in mind. They may push a certain resort or package deal on you which benefits them, but not you.

How to get good rates for cruises?

Is it smart to book with a travel agent?

A Travel Agent Can Handle the Unexpected. Between weather delays, natural disasters, flight cancellations, lost luggage and much more, a lot can happen on vacation. Travel agents act as the traveler's advocate in the event something goes wrong, helping navigate the challenge of making any necessary itinerary changes.

What are the disadvantages of using a travel agent?

What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise?

What is the cheapest time to book a cruise? Prospective cruisers can usually find a lot of good deals at the beginning of the year during wave season, Goldberg-Glazer said. That period typically lasts from January until March. However, the optimal time to book may depend on when you plan to sail.