Independant booking or TA?

JohnG · September 20, 2006

Before I became a cruise TA I used to check the various sites to benchmark the lowest prices and then call my TA, whom I found on the web, to see is she could match it. If so, she got the business, because of the extra customer service. I only booked 1 of my 28 cruises online.

The service of a TA doesn't cost you anything extra. The TA is paid by the cruiseline. And you pay the same whether you use the TA or not. Many of the agents at the online agencies and cruiseline have not cruised, or cruised much. They work in call centers.

A good TA wants your repeat business, so seeks the best value on the ship you will enjoy the most, and backs it with excellent customer service. That means asking you lots of questions to find out your likes and dislikes, and making recommendations based on them.

However, a word of caution about TA's. My first cruise was with a TA who did not specialize in cruises.....and I paid brochure price. I didn't know any better. Be sure your TA is an experienced cruiser and sells lots of cruises, or it is like asking a plumber for help on your computer problem.

Longboysfan · September 20, 2006

Same here. My TA watches out for me if a fare drops and can push for an upgrade with her agent.

JoeyandDavid · September 20, 2006

Good Advice John thanks

lilrosie · September 20, 2006

I Look online find the price I like..and book myself...saves money...that way I can spend more in the Casino... :cheesy:

Mebert · September 20, 2006

I tried to stick with one TA but he wasn't giving me the best prices. I started comparing prices through Cruise Compete and found that I was being charged more by my own TA while another TA within the same company was charging less. He also didn't return some phone calls, so I didn't feel guilty when I decided to shop around for a new TA.

I guess you can say I book on my own now.

KeithnRita · September 20, 2006

We just received a $25 check from our TA thanking us for booking two cruises with her this year!

Mebert · September 20, 2006

Keith & Rita,

That sounds really neat. She sounds like a keeper.

jacketwatch · September 21, 2006

:cool: I book where I can get the best deal and for the past 6-7 yrs. that has been through the travel club at Costco. We also od some land based vacations through them too and have always gotten out best prices through them. :cool: