Question: From experience, what cruise website has the best deals and is the most reliable? Hey all, my husband and I want to plan a cruise for next summer. We want something fun with good ratings but want a good deal (of course!) Any of you have experience getting stellar cruise deals? We've both cruised before and I am a AAA member.
Answer: The big 3 .coms don't offer you the best cruise deals.
Check the Internet and local travel agents. My on-line agency beats the big 3.com's rates all the time.
Good luck and have a great cruise!
Question: How to do you get the best cruise deals? What is the best time of the year to cruise? I am trying whether to take my kids or not, it the airline prices that is going to kill us.
Also what's the quickest and cheapest way to get a passport? What documents do you need to get one. Where can I go on line to apply.
Answer: Having a good agent is the key to getting the best cruise deals. Cruise lines run different specials throughout the month as well as residency specials, senior rates, military rates, past guest rates, etc. Your agent should find these specials for you. Rates can also change as a cruise departure gets closer- sometimes up or sometimes down. If the rates goes down before the final payment date, your agent can get the price adjusted for you. (Your rate is protected once you make your deposit so it will never go up.) If you get enough people to sail with you, you can also qualify for group rates, which can be considerably cheaper.
The cheapest time to cruise the Caribbean is in the fall and early winter. Travel is always cheapest between Thanksgiving and Christmas (but not including those weeks).
Cruises are great for kids. They all have kids programs and promote new friendships between the children. It will also allow time alone for adults should you desire some. Ask your agent for specifics on each line's program.
Airfare can be tricky. It can change several times throughout the day so try several online searches over the course of several days. Also, try alternative airports and check one way flights on different airlines. You might come up with a combination that is cheaper. Lastly, try calling the airlines for a quote. Although the rates are usually cheaper online, occassionally you come up with a cheaper rate by calling.
An expedited passport can be obtained through "Passport Express" online. You do not need a passport to cruise the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico or South America until 12/31/06. Until that date, you can use an original or certified copy of your birth certificate AND a photo ID.
