travel agency for cruise line

Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent? We say yes

Going online to book an airline ticket or hotel stay is a familiar and fairly easy transaction. When you book a cruise, however — particularly your first cruise — you might want to reconsider the impulse to handle the transaction yourself through a cruise line website or an online advertiser with cheap prices. This DIY approach might not be the best way to find your dream vacation at sea.

In reality, it's not that simple to book a cruise. You will likely run into a lot of questions to which you have no ready answer.

That's where specialized cruise travel agents come into play. Their expertise can help you avoid mistakes, whether you are a first-timer or a repeat cruiser checking out a brand you have not tried before.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Why you should book through a cruise travel agent

You should consider booking a cruise through a travel agent because a knowledgeable agent can help you understand the nuances of a cruise purchase and help you make the best decisions for your vacation preferences.

When you book a cruise, you are making a vacation decision that goes way beyond a flight or hotel nights. Which ship you choose determines your dining and evening entertainment choices for the duration of your vacation. Which itinerary you choose impacts which destinations you'll visit and which shoreside activities will be available to you. It can be overwhelming to evaluate the options on your own if you've never cruised before.

In addition, cruise fares can be hard to understand and compare. You might, for instance, see a fare listed online without the port charges, taxes and fees, which you only see after you give your personal details.

Plus, the price of your cruise includes accommodations, meals, entertainment and activities — and in some cases drinks, tips, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and other extras. There's a lot bundled into some fares and not as much with others. A travel agent can help you determine what your cruise fare gets you. The cheapest base cruise fare does not always provide the best value or best overall vacation deal.

Related: 4 scenarios when you should use a travel agent

You aren't just booking general passage on a ship, either, as you will be asked to pick a specific cabin and when you prefer to dine. Making a mistake in these categories can ruin your cruise experience, as there are such thing as "bad" cabins and dining times (think noisy or claustrophobic cabins, dinner at 8 p.m. with cranky children, etc.).

With cruises, you typically don't pay for your whole vacation upfront but rather put down a deposit, with final payment due at a later date. A cruise travel agent can ensure you don't miss any due dates.

Remember, you might be a DIY type when booking airlines and hotels, but booking a cruise is more complex. If you enjoy doing your own research, focus on what to do and see in the ports of call. Read about different ships, cruise lines and itineraries. However, when it comes to booking the cruise, we recommend you still contact a travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you learn a few tips and avoid any rookie mistakes.

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. Their service to you is usually free, though some might charge first-time clients a minimal fee. It's worth it.

In addition to sharing their expertise, the agent may have negotiated group space at lower rates with the cruise line, which could save you money on the cruise fare. The agent might also have first access to sale prices because the cruise lines notify their agent partners and loyalty club members first before they announce a sale to the public.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

Some cruise travel agents even throw in booking perks , such as a complimentary bottle of Champagne, awaiting your arrival in your cabin.

How to find a travel agent for a cruise

Cruise lines prefer that you use a travel agent rather than going online and booking directly. They have small in-house reservation teams, and when you have a question while making a booking, good luck in getting an expert on the phone in a timely manner.

Companies such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line provide online directories to help you find an experienced cruise travel agent near you.

You can also find experienced and certified cruise travel agents through CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association , which is the industry's main marketing group. Asking friends who have cruised to recommend a travel agent is another good idea.

Related: 5 unexpected places that sell cruises

You might get more personalized care from smaller agencies than from the huge online agencies, though websites such as icruise.com, Cruise.com and Cruise411.com also have experienced cruise agents. These larger online travel agencies can be a good option for those who prefer to make decisions and ask questions via chat. Just make sure you get the name and phone number of the representative for any follow-up questions.

Questions to ask a cruise travel agent

In choosing a cruise travel agent, you will want to tap into the person's specific expertise about the cruise line and ship you are considering. Anyone can read a ship deck plan outlining ship spaces (which you can find online), but you are looking for people who really know their stuff.

Look for travel agencies that are cruise-only or a home-based agent who specializes in cruises. If you are using a full-service travel agency, ask for the cruise desk.

Here are some questions to ask a travel agent to determine their expertise:

• How often do you cruise?
• Have you cruised on the line I am considering?
• Have you cruised on the ship that I am considering, or do you have clients who have cruised that ship and provided a review of their vacation?
• Do you have firsthand knowledge about the cruise destination? The itinerary?

You will also want to ask the travel agent if they have a preferred relationship or negotiated agreement with any specific lines that could lead to special perks for you.

Be aware that not all agents work with all cruise lines; some represent only a few preferred suppliers or specialize in higher-end cruises. They get bigger commissions from their preferred lines.

This is not necessarily a bad thing, but be aware if the agent seems to be putting you off the line you were originally considering, as this could be the reason. On the plus side, an agent who is a preferred supplier might have negotiated rates with the cruise line and be able to call in favors, such as that bottle of Champagne or a cabin upgrade .

You should also ask if the travel agency offers 24/7 assistance (usually an 800 number) in case you have last-minute questions or something goes wrong before or during your trip.

The cruise travel agent should have questions for you as well, to better understand your dream vacation desires. If you are calling a cruise agency for the first time, the agent should be interviewing you as much as you are interviewing him or her. The agent should be focused on helping you choose the cruise line , ship and cabin that is right for you. Making the correct choices is very important to your overall cruise experience.

Bottom line

Booking a cruise is a complex enterprise. A cruise travel agent will guide you through choosing your cabin and dining times, deposits and final payment, and options for shore excursions and specialty dining. If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process. You'll have a lot less stress before and during your vacation if you book with an experienced agent.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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Best Way to Book a Cruise: Travel Agent or Direct with the Cruise Line?

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If you’re thinking of booking a cruise , you might be wondering if it’s better to book with a travel agent or directly with the cruise line? There are a few factors to consider, and questions to ask, before you decide.

In this post, we’ll go over the benefits of using a travel agent or cruise specialist, as well as the advantages of booking directly. When it comes to the best way to book a cruise, you may have wondered…

• Why do people use travel agents to book a cruise?
• Do travel agents get better deals on a cruise?
• What questions should I ask the travel agent?
• When is it better to book directly with the cruise line?

For most people, the benefits of using a travel agent experienced in selling cruises are well worth it. Travel agents will help you to choose a cruise, offer travel advice and answer questions, and can often find great cruise deals. Some may also provide an extra amenity, like an onboard cash credit or bottle of wine. 

However, there are some instances when some people will prefer to book directly with the cruise line. We’ll go through when and why this makes sense. I’ll also go through some of the most important and frequently asked questions about booking a cruise.

How to Book a Cruise – Travel Agent or Direct with the Cruise Line?

If you’re a first time cruiser , the process of how to book a cruise might seem confusing. However, even for repeat cruisers, some of this information may be helpful as well.

You can book your cruise with a travel agency or directly through the cruise line. This can mean using a local travel agency or booking online through a cruise vacation website.

Travel agents who specialize in selling cruises, are often referred to as Cruise Specialists or Cruise Consultants. This is important, as you will want to use a travel agent who is knowledgeable and trained in selling cruises.

Which Travel Agents Sell Cruises (examples)

• A local travel agency storefront
• A large online booking website
• Independent travel agents (who may work for cruise agency franchises)

When you do book online with a large website like Expedia Cruises or Vacations to Go, these are large travel agencies. In some cases, depending on the company, you can work with a specific cruise specialist for every cruise. For experienced cruisers, this can often be the best option.

Deposits and Final Payments

When you book a cruise several months or even a year or more in advance, cruise lines will ask for a deposit (which may or may not be refundable). The deposit secures your reservation until final payment. Cruise line final payment dates range from 120 days before your cruise, to 60 days before your cruise. Always check the cruise line confirmation and note the payment dates.

Should You Use a Travel Agent to Book a Cruise?

There are several benefits to using a travel agent to book your cruise. In fact, a majority of cruisers use a travel agent, whether a local agency or an online booking website, to book their cruise. 

According to the Cruise Line International Association , when people did use a travel agent, they reported a high degree of satisfaction with the advice, knowledge and value received.

Suggested:   25 Most Recommended Items to Bring on a Cruise

Benefits of Using a Travel Agent to Book Your Cruise

Experience and Advice

One of the biggest advantages of using a travel agent to book a cruise is getting great advice. A cruise specialist can guide you to the right cruise line and ship based on your vacation preferences and goals for the trip.

If you’re new to cruising, using a travel agent to book a cruise is a good idea. First time cruisers need to know about travel documents, online check in, cruise line gratuities , new health protocols and more. Having a travel agent to hold your hand and answer questions, right up to embarkation day , is very helpful.

Cruise specialists are also aware of more than one cruise line, and for avid or repeat cruisers, this can be especially useful. Our tastes change over time, and we get older. What we loved about the cruise line we sailed with when the kids were young , may not be the best fit years later.

Travel agents can bring our attention to other cruise lines and travel experiences , especially as you may want to plan some of those bucket list cruises.

Service and Convenience

Travel agents can take care of the booking and making payments, and even help with booking flights and pre and post cruise hotels . Of course, if you prefer to book online with an online travel agency website, that’s a convenience too.

This will come as a surprise to many, but when you book a cruise, the service of your travel agent is free. The price will not be higher than booking with the cruise line directly. Now this doesn’t mean they don’t get paid, but rather that the cruise line pays a commission to them directly.

There can be exceptions to this, as some travel agents may charge booking or administrative fees. They should let you know if this is the case.

Suggested:   20 Practical Tips for First-time Cruisers

What to Look for in a Cruise Travel Agent

I love travel agents. In my experience, they are passionate travelers themselves, and can offer excellent first person advice. However, when it comes to cruising, you need a travel agent that specializes in cruise travel.

Travel agents who specialize in selling cruises are often called Cruise Specialists or Cruise Consultants. They are usually passionate cruisers themselves who have a keen interest in learning about cruises and sharing that knowledge with their clients.

When looking for a travel agent, make sure this person is knowledgeable and trained in selling cruises. When booking with an Cruise Agency franchise like Cruise Planners or Expedia Cruises, this should be the case. 

Questions to Ask Your Travel Agent or Cruise Specialist

When you make a payment (deposit or final payment), does the travel agent pay the cruise line directly on your behalf.

It’s best to have the travel agent make the payment for you using your credit card, directly with the cruise line. This is safer than the travel agent taking your payment, and paying the cruise line themselves. Paying directly ensures that your payment is made to the cruise line, and is standard practice for most agencies.

You can also ask to receive the booking confirmation from the cruise line, showing payments, for your records.

Do you have a back up to contact if you’re on vacation or unavailable?

Travel agents go on cruises and travel. While this is great, who is available if you have a question or need assistance? Often, those working for larger agencies or franchises will have a main contact number if the need arises.

Will you monitor my cruise fare for price drops or should I contact you?

Did you know that many cruise lines will adjust your cruise fare if it drops before final payment? Often it needs to be on the same cabin category and it won’t be combinable with past promotions, but it’s always worth checking.

While many travel agents will try to keep an eye on price drops, the reality is it can be missed. It’s a good idea to keep track yourself as well.

Are there any fees I should be aware of?

Some travel agents charge an administrative fee, or even a cancellation fee. While booking the cruise may be free, booking a flight or hotel may have additional fees. It may still be worth their service, however if you’re keeping track of your cruise vacation budget , it’s good information to know.

Suggested:   How to Save Money on a Cruise: 27 Tips and Cruise Hacks

Do Travel Agents Get Better Deals on a Cruise?

Travel agents may have access to better deals on cruises. In most cases, larger agencies or franchises have huge influence and buying power with the cruise line. This can mean better pricing on some cruises and/or some extra perks or amenities.

The Earlier the Better

Travel agencies often hold inventory on cruise ships that are likely to be popular with their clients. They reserve several cabins at the earliest and lowest rates, and can continue to sell them even as prices increase with the cruise line.

However, these cabins can be limited, and may not be available closer to sailing. Book 6 months to a year, or more, before your cruise for access to these special rates.

Extra Perks

Travel agencies that sell cruises may also have some perks if you book with them. This can include an onboard credit (can be used on drinks, excursions and more), a bottle of wine or a plate of chocolate covered strawberries,  and even travel points.

Suggested:   Cruise On Board Credits (OBC): How Can You Use Them?

Special Promotions

Another advantage of using a travel agent or cruise specialist, is being able to book when they have a special promotion with the cruise line. Agencies partner with cruise lines at certain times of the year and will offer a booking incentive, such as prepaid gratuities or specialty dining .

Suggested:   What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

How to Get the Best deal on a Cruise

The best ways to find deals on a cruise is to keep informed. Sign up for your favorite cruise line’s emails, as well as emails from travel agencies and online booking websites.  If you get too many emails, consider working with only your favorites.

If you’re happy with the service and value of a specific travel agent, keep in touch and let them know what cruises you’re considering even a year or two down the line. This way, when she sees a new promotion or great deal on a cruise, she can let you know.

Should You use a Travel agent to Book a Group Cruise?

If you’re planning a group cruise, using a travel agent will be enormously helpful. 

Your cruise specialist will take care of everything you need, and manage all the reservations. If you’re planning a group cruise with friends or family (like a multi-generational cruise ), the travel agent will work with each party to make sure all their questions are answered. In addition, they’ll coordinate dining reservations and cabin locations.

If you’re the group leader, you can concentrate on the fun stuff, like matching t-shirts , and leave the boring details to your cruise consultant.

Suggested:   27 Cruise Travel Hacks of Repeat Cruisers

When Should You Book Directly with the Cruise Line?

If you know what cruise ship, itinerary and cabin you want, and prefer to do a lot of your own research, you may want to book directly with the cruise line. In addition, if you prefer to have control over all aspects of your cruise booking, and think you’ll be likely to make a lot of changes between placing a deposit, and sailing, booking direct will be most convenient.

When you book with a travel agent, they’re responsible for your booking, and all major changes need to be done through them. Things like changing cabins or requesting a price reduction, if the cost of your cruise drops before your final payment, will need to be done by your travel agent.

However, things that have to do with your own vacation planning are left up to you. As an example, reserving your shore excursions , making specialty dining reservations, and even booking your cruise line air flights are able to be done online, within your cruise reservation.

It’s worth giving this some consideration, as there are pros and cons to using a travel agent versus booking directly.

Planning a cruise? These articles can help:

Should You Prepay Gratuities on a Cruise or Pay Onboard?

10 Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

63 Things NOT to Do on a Cruise Ship

What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (when dress codes are changing)

Cruise Essentials List – Favorite Amazon Items

Video: How to Book a Cruise: Should You Book Direct with the Cruise Line, Travel Agent or Online

If you enjoy cruise tips, news and reviews, please subscribe to our channel, Life Well Cruised on YouTube.

Final Thoughts: Is It Better to Book a Cruise with a Travel Agent or Direct with the Cruise Line?

To recap, in this article we’ve gone through the benefits of booking with a travel agent for a cruise, as well the disadvantages. In addition, we’ve also gone through what to look for in a travel agent and what questions to ask.

When booking a cruise with a travel agent, there’s no additional cost, and it may be cheaper in some cases. You may even receive travel rewards or an onboard gift from your agent. If you’re a first time cruiser or booking a group cruise, booking with a travel agent is probably best.

However, the disadvantages of using a travel agent include not having control over all aspects of your booking. You’ll have to communicate with your cruise specialist for questions and changes you wish to make.

Have you booked a cruise using a travel agent or directly with the cruise line? Please let me know any questions, as well as any tips that you may have.

Happy cruising!

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Should I use a travel agent or book directly with a cruise line?

One of the most common questions I find myself passionately answering both in person and on online communities (I’m looking at you Reddit), is about how to actually book a cruise.  Should you use a travel agent or book directly with a cruise line?  I’ll tell you right out the gate that whether you’re looking into your first cruise or well on your way to the highest levels of a cruise line’s loyalty program, I highly recommend using a good travel agent, but let’s talk about why by addressing some common questions and misconceptions.

Do people still use travel agents?

More travelers than ever leverage the expertise and assistance of travel agents for their vacations.  Let’s look at some quick facts: In fact, according to ASTA (the American Society of Travel Advisors), 

• In 2021, 27% of travelers always or often used a travel advisor before the pandemic, and at 44%, nearly half of respondents overall said they are more likely to use a travel advisor once the pandemic has passed
• In 2016 year 22% of leisure travelers from households earning at least $50,000 used a travel agent – up from 14% just three before.
• ‘Millennials’ seem the biggest fans of using travel agents, with over 30% having used an agent in the last year.  
• They seem satisfied: in 2016, 59% of millennials indicated that their trips planned with agents were better than trips planned without agents.  This compares to 53% and 58% for gen x-ers and baby boomers, respectively.  

So yes, more people use travel agents each year, and the majority feel their trips were enhanced by using a travel agent.  We cruise many times a year, and we get great service and often, better deals.  You can get a free consultation from the same great folks that help us !

How is a travel agent paid, doesn’t it cost me money to use an agent?

In short, it generally doesn’t cost you money to use a travel agent, and in fact, the agent can very often help you save money on your trip (more on that in that below).  When an agent books a hotel room, cruise, tour, etc, this means the provider doesn’t have to sell, market, or service the booking – the agent takes care of all of that.  As such, a travel agent may get a commission from the cruise line you’re sailing with.

Many agents don’t charge fees for their services, though some do, and that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.  These fees could be for value-added services (such as keeping track of price changes) or for booking airfare, something that agents generally only do as part of trip with a cruise, hotel stay, etc.  Much of the time if an agent does charge fees, they'll credit them towards your booking once it's finalized.  This is because an agent doesn’t want to do your research and planning so you can go book on your own.  

What is the advantage of using a travel agent?

Beyond the perks offered with your booking, another great reason to book with a travel agent is the service.  A good travel agent has personal experience with travel, but also gets great feedback from his or her clients so they’re continuously learning about different offerings.  This means that the agent can help get to know you, find out what you enjoy, what type of vacation you’re looking for, etc, and make recommendations based on the knowledge they’ve amassed.  There is no “best cruise line”, but there probably is one that is best for you, and for this particular trip.  

Another great service agents provide is being your primary point of contact for your trip.  This can be a big factor, as your cruise may be much more than just a cruise.  You might need a car to get you to the airport, a flight to the city you’re cruising from, a hotel in that city, a rental car, restaurant reservations, your cruise, shore excursions , and more.  Your agent can not only make these arrangements, but if you need to make changes or get more information, you’ve got one person you can speak with that will help you with everything.

Can’t I get a better deal booking directly with a cruise line?

As mentioned, cruise lines generally require that with the exception of groups, prices are the same across all travel agents, and this applies to the cruise lines’ internal sales teams as well.  Cruise lines depend on travel agents to sell cruises and help service those bookings, so they certainly don’t want to undercut the agencies they work with.  Additionally, the cruise line has to market cruises, guide prospective guests through the process, and then be available for any changes or challenges that come about.  When a travel agent does this for the cruise line, that’s money that in a way, the cruise line has saved, which get’s back to why cruise lines and other companies pay travel agent’s commission.

Getting a deal also means knowing that you’re getting the right cruise for you - a lower price isn't the only measure of value.  While it’s true that 10+ years ago there was far less information out there on cruise line, hotel, and rental car websites – making the role of a travel agent more essential if you didn’t know exactly what you wanted, the amount of information on the internet today can be overwhelming.  Yes, cruise lines put their information out there on the web, but like any other business, they control the message – so Princess Cruises may have a ton of information, but they’ll understandably be slanted to make their own line seem to be the most logical choice no matter what your preferences may be. 

That’s great, but I like doing the research, and I don’t want to give up control of my booking.

Me too!  According to another ASTA study, the biggest reason people say they don’t use a travel agent (aside from the 57% who said they just hadn’t thought of it) is that they want control.  While it is true that when you book with a travel agent you’ll see certain changes aren’t available to you online or on the phone (such as changing stateroom categories, or adding a person to your reservation, for example), that doesn’t mean you don’t have control.  Many of these changes can be a pain to understand, or require waiting on hold for a cruise line to do it.  Let your agent wait on hold and figure out these changes.

Many other arrangements, such as booking shore excursions and specialty dining can be handled directly wih the cruise line if you’d like, but your agent can take care of them for you as well, and in many cases, is able to help with things that might leave you stuck online, such as finding out your desired dining time is booked – an agent may be able to get you waitlisted, or even work some magic on his or her side.  In some cases, a travel agent can even help you skip to the front of a waiting list for a sold-out sailing or other tour.

In the end, you’re not relinquishing any control, in fact, you’re making it so you have slightly more control, potentially less waiting on hold, and you have a single point of contact for all your travel needs.

When you book a cruise directly you’re entering your contact info, birthday, picking your dining time, bed arrangements, traveling companions’ information, etc.  Is it a real pain point?  No, it’s not terrible, but now imagine doing the same for your rental car, hotel, cruise, and more – all while triple checking for mistakes.  An agent will take care of all of this for you, once again, a single point of contact.  Booking multiple trips?  A hotel and a cruise?  Your agent will note and remember your preferences.  For example, my spouse recently found out she is allergic to down pillows.  If I’m booking directly I need to remember to note this, but first I have to figure out how to even communicate this information.  My agent has ways to annotate bookings, and knows just who to reach out to, so I know that any cruise or hotel stay he arranges for me will result in our walking into our room on day one with foam pillows instead of down.  

Because this relationship has been established, when I book a trip, I usually do so in a two sentence email to my agent.  He has my information, knows my preferences, how I like to pay for things, etc.  In the end, I get a nice summary of my trip with all the pertinent information.  Done.

If you really enjoy the process of clicking through and booking on your own, many cruise lines let you do this and then transfer your booking to an agent as long as you make the request within the first 30 days or so.  This means, if you want, you setup the initial booking but your agent can still maintain it.

Want to have more control but with less work?   Use a travel agent .

Should I use a travel agent to book a cruise?

We just spent some time answering this, but the real answer is that you should use a travel agent for booking much more than just cruises!  We mentioned that if you have pre or post cruise plans, an agent can help with your hotel, car, and other reservations - but it turns out some people take trips that aren't cruises! Who knew?  Keep this in mind, as whether it's business travel or a land vacation, it really can be a relief.  Personally, we've booked hotels and other arrangements for entire department meetings using our cruise travel agent, and looked like the hero when we just said, "don't worry everyone, I'll handle it all."

Okay, you’ve convinced me, but how do I find a good agent?

At the beginning of this post, I emphasized the importance of using a good travel agent.  This means finding someone you click with, and someone that isn’t just a call-center worker for a travel company, but a person that will remember your preferences, providing a real value.  In this way, it’s somewhat personal – we all communicate and work differently, so I’d recommend asking a trusted friend, or perhaps a frequent traveler.  Don’t be afraid to speak with an agent about what value they provide – just like any other service, a simple “why should I choose you over others” may be quite revealing.  If you speak with an agent about a cruise, and they ask you just a question or two about your trip before making a recommendation, speak with another agent.  A good agent will want to understand your likes and dislikes, what you do for fun, what type of restaurants you go to, what you’ve liked or disliked about past vacations, etc.  The more an agent knows about you, the better recommendation they can make to ensure you pick the right trip for you.

True Story: For a decade now, we've used the same travel agent for dozens of land trips, cruises, Disney parks vacations, etc. If you want to try the same agency we trust and use, check out Touring and Cruises (formerly known as TouringPlans Travel)!  You can also click here to get a quote!

To get agent recommendations, you can ask cruise lines or others for agencies they work with, or just do a search and read about different agencies online to see how they resonate with you.  You may already belong to some groups that have travel agencies, such as certain credit card companies, social groups, professional organizations, etc.

Ultimately, once you find a good agent, it makes your traveling easier, more rewarding, and at times, more affordable.  This means you can take more cruises if you use a travel agent.  Well, that was my takeaway at least. Do you use a travel agent?  Why, or why not?  Have tips for finding a good agent?  Comment below, or reach out to us on Twitter  or Facebook !

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The Best Websites to Book a Cruise in 2024

Looking for the best website to book your cruise ?

We wouldn’t be surprised if after a little bit of searching, your head is spinning a little bit.

Think of all the options you have to consider — the length of your trip, the cruise line, the ship, the date, ports of call, and more. And that’s before you even decide on which website to use to book your cruise.

Cruising is big business, and that’s why you have dozens of websites at your disposal, all competing for your travel dollars.

From the major cruise line websites like Carnival.com to major travel portals such as Orbitz or Expedia to lesser-known sites that specialize in cruises like AvoyaTravel.com, it can seem like your options are nearly unlimited… and overwhelming.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful to book a cruise.

To help you out, we detailed the pros and cons of the best websites to book your cruise below. Before we get too far, however, there’s something you should know about price shopping for cruises online.

Cruise Buying Tip: Prices Are Often the Same Across Every Site

If you are worried about finding the best price for your cruise, there’s some good news and bad news. The good news is that cruise prices are usually the exact same across every single website you search .

Below are the results of a search we recently did for a July 2024 Carnival cruise from Miami aboard Carnival Celebration, with prices listed for each website:

As you can see, they all have the exact same rates. That means you don’t have to run yourself ragged trying to find the best deal.

The bad news? If you’re a deal-hunter, there isn’t some magic website that has cruise fares for dramatically cheaper than everyone else (that we’ve ever found). But there are differences on where you book.

That’s because some sites can offer perks like onboard credit or even a direct phone number to call to talk to someone with any questions you might have before you cruise.

So should you just find any random site and book your cruise? We’d suggest not. Below we lay out the advantages and disadvantage of booking with each different type of website.

For more on getting the best deal on a cruise, see our 10 Rules to Getting the Best Deal on a Cruise here .

Booking Direct Through Cruise Line Websites

It used to be that if you wanted to book a cruise, you’d visit a travel agent or call up the cruise line. You can still take those routes, but the cruise line websites make it simple to book your trip.

Every major cruise line allows you to book online and do everything from find a cruise to make upgrades, buy extras like drink packages, and pay for the trip. In other words, you can book your spot on the ship completely online at any time of the day.

Specific cruise line websites include:

• Carnival.com
• RoyalCaribbean.com
• DisneyCruises.com
• MSCCruisesUSA.com
• Princess.com

Each of these cruise line websites will allow you to be as narrow or as broad with your search as you wish. You can search all cruises, or search for trips on a specific ship, leaving a specific date, and from a specific port.

Advantages: The good thing about booking directly through the cruise line then there is no third-party company to deal with should there be an issue with your trip. Want to make a change or get a refund? You don’t have to worry about any sort of mix-up between the cruise line and another website. While this is rarely an issue, it could happen.

Disadvantages: The main drawback of using a cruise line website? It’s like going to a buffet and restricting yourself to only the salad bar.

Cruise line websites only have cruises from that line, so you are limiting your options of prices, ships, dates, and itineraries. In other words, if you’re looking for the absolute best deal or the most flexible schedule, you aren’t likely to find it searching only one cruise line.

If you are loyal to one specific cruise line, then that’s ok for you. But if you want to see all your options, it’s better to do a search on an “aggregator” website that will search all the cruise lines for that perfect vacation.

Bottom line: Know which cruise line you want to sail? Then going directly to the cruise line site is a good idea. Just know that if you want the cheapest deals or the most available cruises, then opening your search to more lines is ideal.

Booking on Aggregator Websites

While aggregator websites sound complex, they are actually just search engine for travel bookings. In fact, you’ve likely searched on these sites before for a hotel or a rental car. The sites include the big names that you’ve seen advertised heavily on TV and the Internet:

• Travelocity.com
• Expedia.com
• TripAdvisor.com

Just like searching for a hotel room, you can search these websites for a cruise across all of your options. This means being able to search across all the lines at once. They also give you the ability to narrow searches to specific dates of cruising, length of trip, destination, port of departure and more.

One thing to note is that many websites in this space are actually owned by a single company — Expedia. For instance, Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, and Orbitz.com, are all part of the Expedia family.

That means you’re going to find the same prices across these sites, along with similar search functions.

Advantages: There are two main advantages to using an aggregator website. First, they allow you to search across every cruise line.

So if you want to sail from Miami, you’ll see all the options from the port for every cruise line. That gives you a better chance of finding something that matches your budget and schedule versus just searching one line.

In addition, while aggregator websites will almost always have the same prices you’ll find everywhere else, they often offer perks you won’t find on the cruise lines websites.

For instance, a cruise might be priced the same as another website, but will have an offer of free onboard credit as an incentive to book through them. These perks usually aren’t huge, but are a nice to have.

Disadvantages: The drawback is that booking through third-party websites introduce a “middle man” into your cruise booking. The vast majority of the time that creates no issue.

However, if there is a reason where you need to change your booking or get a refund, then it could be a little more complicated than booking directly through the cruise line.

So should you use aggregator sites? We think so as they can help you look at every cruise available to find one that fits. Smart cruise shoppers use them to look at all their options and see what sort of incentives they have for booking through their site.

Bottom line: Not sure which cruise line you want? An aggregator site will search them all at once, allowing you to sort by price, date, and more. Use these to find the best deals and the most flexible dates.

Booking Through Specialized Cruise-Travel Websites

In addition to the large cruise aggregators, there are a number of smaller websites focused solely on cruises.

These sites include:

• AvoyaTravel.com
• CruisesOnly.com
• Cruises.com
• VacationsToGo.com

These websites are similar to the large aggregator websites in that they can help you search through every cruise out there to find the best deal. The difference? These websites focus solely on cruises.

With a focus on cruising, they are able to better serve cruise passengers — including having staff that you can call directly to help you book.

In other words, these sites are more akin to having your own travel agent to help you with the booking process compared to only a website.

That’s a big help if you’re not entirely sure about which cruise you should book. As well, these sites often have deals and incentives to entice you to book.

Advantages: Like the larger aggregators, the niche booking websites offer the ability to search across multiple cruise lines to see all of your options. As well, many of these sites also offer their own special incentives such as onboard credit or low deposits for booking through them.

In addition, these sites feature their phone number prominently for those who wish to talk to a person about their reservation. You don’t always find that with the large aggregation websites. Their staff are also focused on cruises, giving you someone who knows what they are talking about compared to someone with more general travel knowledge.

Disadvantages: While booking through these sites is largely the same as through the cruise line or an aggregator, we’ve found the incentives can be somewhat confusing.

For instance, one recent search promoted free gratuities on trips booked through the site, but we couldn’t find any mention of this once we actually started the booking process. Digging further, the incentive applied only to certain cruises, despite being heavily promoted.

That’s where having the phone number to call an agent of the company directly is a big help in getting things explained.

Bottom line: Sites like these offer the benefit of searching multiple cruise lines and the help of an agent you can call to help you book.

Booking Through Costco Travel

Are you a Costco member? If so, then you can book cruises online through the store. In fact, the offers are good enough that it’s usually worth it to become a member for a year just to book a cruise.

You can book online at CostcoTravel.com

Costco is well-known for its low prices, great deals, and customer service. Buying a cruise through the store might not enter many people’s minds, but it can save you big.

Like other cruise-buying websites, Costco offers rates that are in line with what you’ll find anywhere else. However, the big difference is that Costco offers special incentives to book through their site. This includes Costco Shop Cards — a gift card to the store.

Advantages: While the deals change from day to day on aggregator websites, Costco’s incentives are simple and straightforward. If you book through them, then they offer Costco Shop Cards. The amounts can be high as well.

For example, we found a cruise offering a $45 Costco Cash Card for booking the cheapest stateroom for just $409. In other words, that deal is like getting 11% off the price of your cruise . The cash increases substantially with upgraded cabins.

Disadvantages: First, in our searches, sometimes Costco’s pricing seems to jump around quite a bit. So you’ll see one price, click through, and then another price appears. Even so, sometimes that works in your advantage with seeing lower prices than you thought. Sometimes it doesn’t, but the Costco Shop Card more than makes up the difference.

The other disadvantage is that you need to be a member of Costco to book. An annual membership costs $60. In addition, the Costco Shop Cards are only valid at the store. It’s not the same as actual cash.

Bottom line: Costco can offer great cruise deals if you are a member, but not everyone is.

Final Recommendation for the Best Websites to Book a Cruise

Costco Members: If you are a Costco member, then we suggest CostcoTravel.com as the best website to book a cruise. It’s the largest and simplest incentive we’ve seen for booking online. Prices are competitive, but the cash back offers provide a lot of value. Just be sure to compare the total price there with what you find on other sites before booking.

Non-Costco Members: If you aren’t a Costco member and don’t want to join, then we suggest looking first at the specialized cruise travel sites to search all your options and find the cruise you want.

If the site offers a good incentive for booking through them, then know that you’ve found a good deal. If the incentive isn’t that strong or you don’t want to go through a third-party to your reservation, then booking directly through the cruise line is your best bet.

FAQ About Booking Cruises Online

How do I know if a website is legit to book a cruise? There are dozens — if not hundreds — of websites that you can use to book your cruise. Frankly, not all of them look professional, so it is understandable you might question the legitimacy of a website or their deals.

We suggest you stick with the websites mentioned here or other well-known spots.

Above all, remember the age-old rule that if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Be wary of any websites advertising cruise deals that are significantly less than the same cruise priced elsewhere.

What about booking last-minute cruise deals on websites? It makes sense that if a cruise cabin is about to sail empty the price would drop to fill it up. In reality, this doesn’t usually happen. In fact, cruise lines consistently have occupancy rates above 100% — meaning that more than two passengers are in some cabins.

By waiting until the last minute you aren’t likely to find great deals, but it will mean that you have fewer cabin choices. It’s best to book earlier compared to later.

What if I book on a website and the price drops? Cruise prices can fluctuate. It’s possible that if you book one day, the next day the price may go down. The good news is that the price is unlikely to move much (unlike airfare).

So what do you do if the price does change? In that case, you’ll want to contact the website that you booked through — not the cruise line (unless you booked through the cruise line’s website). For example, if you book through CostcoTravel.com, then contact them first for any price drops you see.

Have more questions about the best website to book a cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

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CruiseCompete.com allows you to get quotes from multiple travel agencies by requesting a quote only once. You open an account for free, enter the date/cruise you want to go on (their site has info on itineraries, dates, etc) and then travel agents will respond with their pricing and special deals (OBC’s, etc).

I totally agree. I know people like to think they’re getting a “deal” but there aren’t that many deals out there. Most websites and TA’s are basically selling the same thing, for the same price. Where you will find better “value” sometimes though, is with a travel agent that can help put the pieces of the trip together for you. You’re getting more personal service, without paying more. A nice little bonus when we booked through an online TA was that we received an onboard credit that we weren’t expecting, which was nice. The deals likely come with whatever credit card you use, getting points or cash back. Some cards are pretty generous with their cashback on certain things.

You are dead wrong about costco cash cards. As a costco member you can cash the cards at any store for actual cash money. Done so many times.

That’s a good tip.

What about booking thru an independant, or franchise, agent? ONLY an indepent person is able to/allowed to give you back some of their commission. Most often as OBC – but heck $100 of OBC pays your gratuities. fyi: There are THOURSANDS of agents that have the SAME inventory as Cruises Only. ALL under the World Travel Holding Umbrella.

Vacations to go has a amazingly well laid out web site with every imaginable ship or itinerary feature. Just check it out and see. Great price and incentives as well

Why no mention of “www.Vacationstogo” ? I booked many at a reduces price on their website.

you didn’t mention booking through credit card companies. For instance, you can earn points for booking your cruise through Capital One, or, if you have discover you can earn 5% cash back through booking a cruise. Also, There are a few other sites such as Sears or Shop Your Way where you can book vacations. It’s not just going to the travel aggregator sites. if you can’t find a lower price, at least you can get a discount through these card companies. If you have the card that is.

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Travel Agency Execs Respond to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Reinstatement of NCFs

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line

Travel agency executives who were in the room when Norwegian Cruise Line announced it would be reinstating NCFs at the start of Q2 2024 are expressing a mixture of understanding and disappointment, along with a modicum of mea culpa.

“Although I was certainly disappointed to learn that NCL was discontinuing the payment of commissions on NCFs, I understood that the program did not deliver the ROI that they had hoped it would,” Jackie Friedman, president of Nexion, told Travel Market Report.

Echoing Friedman’s comment about the program not delivering the hoped-for ROI, Alex Sharpe, president and CEO of Signature Travel Network, told TMR, “… in the fray and craziness of this past year, we didn’t do more to disproportionally reward them for their generosity, making it a permanent benefit, and enticing others to match.”

“At the same time we were all disappointed that other lines didn’t follow,” Sharpe said.

It was a point Friedman made as well. “It also did not drive other cruise lines to follow suit.”

Both Friedman and Sharpe, along with Beth Butzlaff, senior vice president of partner relations for Ensemble, who was also present at the meeting, told TMR they understand the decision from a strategic business perspective.

“While the announcement was unexpected, we recognize it as a strategic business choice by NCL, stemming from the program’s limited impact in shifting market share within the agency community,” Butzlaff said.

“The audience, being predominantly larger business organizations or organizations understood the action,” added Sharpe, as well as NCL’s decision to focus on what’s next “and how they can redeploy some of those costs towards other enhancements.”  

Q1 extension appreciation Executives also expressed appreciation to NCL for giving advisors all of next year’s Wave season to take advantage of the chance to earn the extra commission.

“I am thankful for the extension of the booking deadline to April 1, which means our members will be able to get most of their 2024 covered and even some 2025,” Sharpe said.

“I do appreciate the fact that they are extending the program through the end of Wave season to give advisors the opportunity to front load 2024 and 2025 bookings,” added Friedman. “My advice to advisors is to take advantage of the advance noticed, and try and get as much NCL business on the books before the end of March.”

While NCL’s experiment with paying commission on NCFs was ultimately unsuccessful, Sharpe reiterated his belief that NCFs should be eliminated.

“Fundamentally, I still believe that advisors should earn commission on the full fare.”

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The Best Cruises for Solo Travelers

Posted: June 29, 2024 | Last updated: June 29, 2024

While booking a solo travel experience can be intimidating, there are several benefits to taking on your next adventure by yourself. Traveling alone means you don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, or cater to their interests, and it allows you to push the boundaries of your comfort zone. So why not take on the high seas and book a cruise by yourself? It can be tricky to find the right fit, especially considering the single supplement fees that many lines charge for solo passengers, but cruising solo can be a great adventure. Looking to maximize your experience and get the most bang for your buck? Our travel experts say these are the eight best cruises for solo travelers.

RELATED:  8 Best Cruises for Singles Looking for Romance .

1. Celebrity Cruises Alaska

If your wanderlust has ever inspired you to travel to Alaska, consider booking a trip with Celebrity Cruises .

"I just went on a cruise to Alaska with Celebrity, and while I did not go solo, I think it would be a great one for solo travelers," Samantha Oppenheimer , full-time travel blogger and founder of  Find Love & Travel , tells Best Life . "Celebrity is not an adults-only cruise line, but they are not really known for families, so you will not see kids running all over."

She adds, "They are also a little more upscale and have a lot of entertainment on board, including a singles meetup, live music, dancing, and productions."

Even better, Celebrity Cruises has several single staterooms—and they're adding more with every new ship. The cruise also comes highly recommended by TikToker Jennifer Danielle, who calls herself "Your Solo Cruising Bestie."

"Celebrity Cruises is at the top of my list after experiencing the brand new Celebrity Ascent!" she writes in the caption of a Nov. 2023 video . "The ship is absolutely beautiful and the food, service, and shows are unmatched! The solo experience was perfect and I highly recommend this cruise line for a solo getaway."

2. "In Darwin's Footsteps" Galápagos Cruise with HX Hurtigruten Expeditions

Want to follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin ? Then an eight-night cruise through the Galápagos Islands is a must. Thankfully, this cruise with HX Hurtigruten Expeditions has no solo surcharge, says Andy Hayward , non-executive director of cruise agency Panache Cruises .

"It truly is the closest you can get on earth to being on another planet, and solo travelers will share the company of giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, Galápagos penguins, and other endemic species," Hayward shares. "Back on board, you'll enjoy a purpose-built expedition cruise ship with plenty to keep your mind occupied: the services of an onboard expedition team, The Science Centre, incredible cuisine, and so much more."

HX Hurtigen Expeditions also invites solo travelers to an informal meeting where they can meet others traveling on their own early in the voyage.

RELATED:  5 Things You Should Never Bring on a Cruise, Experts Warn .

3. Norwegian Cruise Lines

If you're more flexible with destinations and just looking for a line to book with,  Samantha Linnett , travel planner and blogger of Discover with Sam , recommends Norwegian Cruises.

Having done a solo cruise herself through Norwegian, Linnett points out that the line's newest fleet of ships, like the Prima, have great options for solo diners.

"The 'standard' restaurants that everyone can eat at is food hall style, which makes meals super easy for solo travelers who are intimidated to go out to eat alone," she points out.

Beyond that, you can easily engage in all that the ship has to offer.

"The ships are jam-packed with fun activities that you can easily do solo (like go-karts and a virtual reality arcade)," Linnett says. "Norwegian's staff are the most wonderful, kindest people, and will actively chat and engage with you if they see you're alone as well, which felt incredibly welcoming."

They also offer studio staterooms for solo travelers, helping you avoid that pesky single supplement fee.

"Nobody should be penalized for traveling solo, and Norwegian Cruise Lines agrees," travel advisor Emily (@embarkwithemily) writes in the caption of an Oct. 2023 TikTok , noting that studio interior staterooms are available on seven of the line's ships.

"It includes basic accommodations plus access to their Solo Studio Lounge where they host parties and meet & mingles with other solo travelers," Emily writes. "The best part is that Solo Studio cabins qualify for two of NCL's perks, which includes: the beverage package, night of specialty dining, wifi minutes and shore excursion discounts."

4. Cruises on the Carnival Venezia

Another option worth considering is the Carnival Venezia , which sails from Manhattan or Orlando to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, or the Panama Canal.

This particular ship is highly recommended by TikToker and solo traveler @keeksthecreator. In an Oct. 2023 video , she shares her experience—and if you're the kind of traveler who enjoys a good party, she says Carnival is definitely the line for you.

"It's really important to choose carefully which ship you choose to be on so that you get the best experience possible," @keeksthecreator explains. "Now, I know that me personally, I like to party, and I like to drink, and I like to dance, and I like to be interactive. So I chose Carnival."

According to the TikToker, one of the best things about Carnival Cruises is the deck parties, especially the Sailaway Party, which happens the night of your departure.

"The Sailaway Party gets you started, and you probably already met, like, about three people before you even started," she says. "It's gonna take about two hours before it's no longer a solo cruise. I'm telling you, I met so many amazing people that, to this day, I still think about, and I have so many memories—and they're with people that I met from everywhere."

RELATED:  The 7 Best Cruises to Book If You're Over 60 .

5. Virgin Voyages Dominican Daze

Virgin Voyages is another cruise line frequently recommended for solo travelers. According to Jihane Melissa (@jolly_jihane), a travel and lifestyle TikToker, the Virgin Voyages Dominican Daze cruise is a great option if you prefer to book alone. The trip is on the Scarlet Night ship, leaving from Miami for the beautiful Dominican Republic .

Beyond an amazing destination, Virgin is an adults-only line, so it should be at the top of your list if you're not interested in meeting kids or families on your trip. But just because they're aren't any kids around doesn't mean there's less to do.

"Virgin Voyages sailings are totally different from other cruise lines … you will never get bored on this ship between the spa, all the activities, the Pajama Party , the Scarlet Night party where everyone wears red, [and] tons of fitness classes all included," travel agent  Jennifer Byrne  (@thetropicaltravelers) says in an April 2023 TikTok recommending Virgin cruises aboard the Scarlet Night.

She continues, "They go out of their way for single travelers. As soon as you board and get in your cabin, you're gonna find a letter from the cruise line explaining where all the different singles activities are located. So, on the first day, you can go to their singles meet-up at one of their bars and meet a whole slew of people."

On top of this, they offer online groups that connect you with other single travelers before you even set sail, Byrne points out.

"If you wanna travel by yourself but you haven't done it before, or you're nervous about it, this is a great way to get your feet wet and try it out," Byrne concludes, citing her own experience and that of her clients.

6. Virgin Voyages Greek Island Glow

You already know that Virgin Voyages is your go-to option for a fun, kids-free cruise. But if you have broader horizons beyond North America, you can also set sail in Europe.

Want to see Greece on your solo cruise? Look no further than Virgin Voyages Greek Island Glow.

"The BEST way to visit Greece as a solo traveler is with Virgin Voyages," Jennifer Danielle writes in the caption of an Oct. 2023 TikTok .

She explains in the video, "I just returned from a seven-day cruise on Virgin Voyages, which departed from Athens and stopped in all the popular locations. I'm talking Santorini, Rhodes, Bodrum, and Mykonos."

RELATED:  The 8 Best Adults-Only Cruises for a Stress-Free Vacation .

7. Blue Danube Cruise with Riviera Travel

Also on Hayward's list is the eight-day Blue Danube River Cruise with Riviera River Cruises, taking you through Vienna, Austria; Budapest, Hungary; and Salzburg, Austria.

"If an intimate onboard atmosphere is what you're after, then a river cruise with Riviera Travel is just the ticket. Swap stories with fellow travelers and make lifelong friends, pointing out the beautiful scenery and stopping at an array of ports along the way—Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Linz, Esztergom, and Dürnstein," Hayward says.

He continues, "MS Thomas Hardy has capacity for only 169 passengers, so you'll enjoy the company and share the adventure of fellow cruisers in an exclusive atmosphere. Open seating at the restaurant enables solo travelers to enjoy each other's company at meal times, should they wish."

Even better, Hayward points out that Riviera River Cruises is "particularly respected in cruise spheres" thanks to their offerings for solo travelers, including smaller group sizes for excursions, welcome dinner and drinks, and a dedicated tour manager to guide you along the way.

"They also offer incredible solo prices starting at just £1,999 [$2,523] for an outside cabin on this iconic itinerary," Hayward shares. "There are no solo cabins on this particular ship, so you'll have the same space afforded to passengers traveling in twos."

8. Eastern Caribbean Voyage with Azamara

Rounding out the top recommendations for solo travelers is the 12-night Eastern Caribbean Voyage with Azamara Cruises.

"Azamara is a number-one choice for solo travelers, with small ships perfect for mixing and mingling with fellow cruisers in an intimate atmosphere, world-famous service from a personable and well-trained crew, and one of the widest selections of shore excursions available," Hayward says. "Above all, the atmosphere isn't stuffy—it's casually elegant and relaxed."

The Eastern Caribbean cruise is just one of Azamara's options you may want to consider, but this route is definitely worth the trip if you want to go stag.

"Enjoy one night in the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club in Miami before heading out to cruise the incandescent Caribbean region for 12 nights," Hayward shares. "Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Antigua and Barbuda, Guadeloupe, and the British Virgin Islands are your paradisiacal ports of call before returning to Miami."

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You're probably already enrolled: How cruise loyalty programs make travel easier, cheaper

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When Barbara Van Elsen takes a cruise, she packs much less than she used to.

The 70-year-old has sailed her way to the fourth tier of Holland America Line’s Mariner Society loyalty program, which comes with complimentary laundry and pressing service on board, making it easier to travel light. 

She has been cruising with the line since 2011 and has sailed for as long as six weeks at a time. Having an easy – and free – way to refresh her wardrobe throughout the trip makes a big difference.

 “I always try to just do (a carry-on and small checked bag) if I have to take the plane to the ship, and it really helps a lot with that,” said Van Elsen, who lives in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Free laundry is one of many perks that come with cruise line loyalty programs, which can help streamline travel and save guests money – but not all programs are created equal.

What are the benefits of cruise line loyalty programs?

Cruise line loyalty programs offer members a variety of perks, from before guests board to the time they get off the ship. Each line’s program is different, but the benefits generally get better – and more plentiful – as guests move up the ranks.

Those may include priority embarkation and disembarkation or exclusive access to onboard lounges, according to Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel. Van Elsen said she has received priority access to tender boats, saving her the hassle of a long wait at certain ports.

Passengers can also get amenities that typically cost extra for a lower price. For example, drinks may be included or discounted, which Feldman called “one of the most lucrative benefits,” and members can get deals on Wi-Fi.

Jason Wallace, 43, is an Emerald member of Royal Caribbean International’s Crown & Anchor Society, and said the perk he and his family uses most is a 50% discount on coffee drinks . “I mean, we all grab coffees every morning,” said the real estate agent from Joplin, Missouri, who has cruised often with his wife and two sons.

The line serves complimentary coffee at the main dining room and other venues on board, but premium coffees come at an extra charge (though the discount excludes Starbucks).

Guests may also receive access to reduced cruise fares and other offers unique to loyalty members, said Deborah Banks, a travel advisor and franchise owner at Cruise Planners with her husband Isaiah.

How to qualify for cruise line loyalty programs

Cruise lines typically enroll passengers automatically so they can start gaining loyalty status. “It’s not like you have to sign up for the program,” Banks said. “Most cruise lines, you sail with them one time and you automatically will become a member of their program.”

They are free to join, and guests accumulate loyalty points during each sailing, typically at a rate of one point per night for standard accommodations. “So, if I’m going on a seven-day sailing, I may accumulate seven points,” Banks said.

However, Feldman noted that passengers in “the equivalent of a junior suite or higher” generally earn twice as many points, as do solo travelers in double occupancy cabins who pay a single supplement. Each passenger in a stateroom is eligible to earn points.

The requirements to move up in status vary from line to line:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Members of Carnival’s Very Important Fun Person Club start at Blue with their first sailing. They move up to Red with their second sailing and 24 points, Gold between 25 and 74 points, Platinum between 75 and 199 points, and Diamond at 200 points or higher.
• Royal Caribbean: Crown & Anchor Society members start at Gold with 3 points and move up to Platinum with 30 points, followed by Emerald with 55 points. Guests can advance to Diamond once they hit 80 points, Diamond Plus at 175, and Pinnacle Club at 700.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: The Latitudes Rewards Program begins with the Bronze tier at between one and 19 points, followed by Silver between 20 and 44, Gold between 45 and 74, and Platinum between 75 and 149. Members reach the Sapphire tier when they accumulate between 150 and 349 points, Diamond between 350 and 699, and Ambassador at 700 or higher.
• Holland America: Mariner Society members start at the 1-star tier after completing their first cruise, and advance to the 2-star tier when they accrue 30 cruise day credits (each credit is equivalent to one overnight on board). Travelers reach the 3-star tier at 75 cruise day credits, 4-star at 200 cruise day credits, and 5-star at 500 cruise day credits.
• Princess Cruises: The Princess Captain’s Circle begins with the Gold tier after guests take their first cruise. They reach Ruby after taking three cruises or sailing 30 cruise days, Platinum after completing five cruises or sailing 50 cruise days, and Elite after 15 cruises or 150 cruise days.

Unlike some other travel rewards programs, cruise line loyalty members don’t have to worry about renewing or earning their loyalty status for the following year, according to Feldman. “Once you attain a certain level, you’re that level for life,” he said.

Easy travel: Your ultimate road trip planner, from saving on gas to driving with kids

Are cruise line loyalty perks worth it?

Given how much sailing is required to reach the top tier on some lines, the biggest advantages of membership may seem far off for newer cruisers. While Feldman said some passengers are “intent to climb that ladder,” others would sail with a given line anyway.

Wallace, who has been on more than a dozen Royal Caribbean cruises, said if he compared the money he’s spent on sailings to what he’s saved as a loyalty member, it’s “probably not going to look great.” But it’s the good service and laid-back atmosphere that keep him coming back, and anything that makes the trip easier or saves him some money is just a bonus.

“I’m going anyway, so if I get things (out of it), that’s cool,” he said. “That makes me happy.”

Which cruise line is your favorite? Why?

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Saturn Stadium
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center