Everyone is looking to get a great deal on their next cruise, and Oceania cruisers are no different. You may be wondering if its better to book direct, or through a travel agency. Here are my top tips on how to save money on your next Oceania cruise.
My first piece of advice is to plan ahead. Although in rare instances you may find a last minute deal on an Oceania cruise, this is rare. To get the best rates and best stateroom selection you should be looking to book between 6 months to a year ahead. Since Oceania offers fully refundable deposits for most itineraries, there is no risk to booking early. In the rare event that Oceania drops the price of your cruise prior to sailing, your travel advisor will in most cases be able to adjust your booking to the lower price.
Oceania's policy prohibits travel advisors from discounting the cruise fare, other than as part of a group rate or other special promotion. If you see a cruise fare that is significantly lower than that in the brochure, ask questions to make sure the fare will be honored by Oceania. I have heard of unscrupulous agencies who book promotional fares that travelers don't qualify for, which can put them at risk of having their booking cancelled or having to pay the fare difference when the cruise line discovers that they don't qualify for the promotional rate that was booked.
Always ask to see offers in writing, and review the vendor confirmation of any courtesy hold an agent places for you before you hand over your credit card number for a deposit. This will ensure that the deal you are being offered is valid.
When comparing offers from different agencies, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Ensure you are taking into account differences in cabin category and included amenities, such as prepaid gratuities, onboard credit, and free internet. Make sure all port charges and taxes are included, and that you read the fine print on any promotions that are included in the offer to make sure you qualify for them.
Travel agents, although they won't be able to discount your price due to Oceania's rules, are usually able to provide extra amenities, such as onboard credits, internet and prepaid gratuities, through special promotions and group deals. The more volume an agency does with Oceania, the better access they have to these special promotions.
For example, as a member of Virtuoso, I can offer you Virtuoso Voyages amenities on many Oceania Voyages. These amenities vary by sailing- but can include invitations to special events, free gratuities, and other perks.
The travel industry is competitive, and some agencies will give back part of their commission in the form of onboard credits or rebates to entice you to book with them. I understand the temptation to accept these generous offers, but remember you get what you pay for. An agent that is willing to give up a large percentage of their commission may not be available for you when you have a question or problem or need help with your reservation. They simply can't afford to give you the service you may expect if they don't make enough money on your booking.
As a travel advisor, I face this competition every day. But I have learned to say no when it is unprofitable for me to do so. Travel is my business, not a hobby, and I will not devalue the amazing service I provide to my clients by cutting into my commission to get a booking. And I have seen customers who booked elsewhere come back to me after the "low price" agency turns out to have very poor service.
Ask your friends and fellow cruisers for referrals. Find an advisor who has actually sailed with Oceania before and can give you first hand knowledge of what to expect. Check out reviews and testimonials before you book.
A good travel advisor will do everything they can to make sure your vacation goes smoothly. They will help you with ancillary details such as travel insurance, air, transfers and hotels for your cruise and they will be available to answer questions and deal with any problems that come up. They will also be able to offer suggestions and tips based on personal experience and knowledge of the cruise line and destination to make sure you have an amazing vacation.
And lastly, a good travel advisor will offer helpful insights and customize your experience with off-the-beaten path excursions, unique pre and post-cruise packages, and other experiences that can elevate your experience from generic to extraordinary.
Once you find a good travel advisor, treat them professionally and trust their advice. Most agents keep a list of their best customers, and those customers are the first to be notified when special deals and offers become available. For example, I keep a list of clients who are the first to know when I get access to special deals on Oceania cruises that are not advertised online.
How do you get on my list?
I only work with a select group of clients, and I don't just book cruises for them. I help them create deeper relationships with themselves, their spouses and families, and the world, through customized, experiential travel. Apply to work with me at this link.
Topics: Oceania