Travel Insights from Codie Liermann, managing editor of The Compass
While all types of vacations tend to go smoother when booked through a travel advisor, a cruise is definitely one you’ll want to have an extra set of hands for. There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to cruising — why would you want to keep track of everything when a travel advisor can do it for you?
Choosing a Cruise Itinerary
When it comes to picking out an itinerary for your cruise vacation, there are several elements to consider. First you need to figure out which destinations you’d like to visit, and the next step is choosing a cruise line to sail with. That right there can be time consuming, but to top it off, you’ll also need to choose which cruise ship to sail on.
Although this may sound like a daunting task all on your own, a travel advisor can easily provide a consultation to help point you in the right direction. There are cruise companies that focus on adventure, romance, family, cuisine and more, and agents have years of training and experience to match you with the itinerary that fits best with your needs.
Cruise Inclusions
A lot of people wonder what’s included in cruise prices, and this varies based on the trip. Some lines offer a base fare with optional extras, and others have all-inclusive packages. Advisors will not only help explain the inclusions but also help you choose any additional features such as drink packages, spa treatments and specialty dining.
Additionally, travel advisors can easily access the various ship layouts, and this is helpful when it’s time to choose a cabin. Other variables to consider are airfare, transfers and any excursions you’d like to add to the trip. Advisors are experts at piecing all these moving parts together to make it a seamless experience from start to finish.
Travel Documents and Requirements
Do I need to have a negative COVID-19 test to cruise? Should I be fully vaccinated? Will I have to go through a health screening upon arrival? The answers to these questions may change from month to month, but they are all questions a travel advisor can answer for you.
In addition to navigating the post-COVID atmosphere, travel advisors can also help with the online cruise check in and providing a list of travel documents that will be needed prior to departure. From luggage tags and travel insurance information to shore excursion vouchers and transfer details, it’s important to know how to easily access these important documents.
To top it off, travel agencies build relationships with cruise lines and can sometimes provide added perks for their clients. Whether it’s an agency-exclusive deal, a cabin upgrade or a bottle of champagne waiting for you upon arrival, oftentimes booking through a travel advisor means having access to something extra special.
About the Author
Codie Liermann is the managing editor of The Compass. She began her career in the industry as a travel advisor prior to working as an editor. With a passion for creating valuable content for travel advisors, she aims to develop meaningful relationships with all types of travel companies in order to share their unique messages with the travel agency community.
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