Making $ense out of Cruise Pricing

Let's face it, cruise pricing can be confusing and downright overwhelming.  Everyone is looking for the best bang for the buck these days.  Cruise lines are doing their best to fill their ships.

Free upgrades, on board credits, etc. all sound wonderful.  But, are they really free?

Here is a quick lesson in Cruise pricing 101.

First, the cruise lines break out the prices.  They advertise the "Cruise Fare".  This is the amount they charge that does not include the taxes.

Not all cruise fares are created equal.  For example, a cruise may be advertise a specific type of cabin for one low rate.  They may also have a special offer for an on board credit.  When the cruise line adds an offer of an on board credit, the rate for that same room will be higher.

This is not to say that the cruise lines are being dishonest.  It also does not mean that the offers are not valuable.  It just means that one needs to look at the differences in pricing and see what is most beneficial to their individual needs.  There have been times that a quick calculation has shown the "higher" cruise fare with an offer has been a lower per diem and better value for the guest.

When shopping around for cruise pricing, one needs to decide if they want to pay the least out of pocket or get the best value.  There can be a difference.  A cruise specialist can guide you through making the right decision.

Sims Family Tours & Travel - Cruise Specialists

We often get asked how we got started in the business as cruise specialists.  We have been in the cruise business for over 8 years.  Bob and I are ACC (Accredited Cruise Counselor) and MCC (Master Cruise Counselor) certified by the Cruise Lines International Association.  We have also completed Carnival Cruise Lines University and Royal Caribbean's University of WOW programs.  In order to stay on top of the latest trends and changes in the industry, we are continually attending webinars and seminars that are offered by the cruise lines.  Along with our ongoing education, we have personally been on over 20 cruises on multiple cruise lines.  Nothing compares to actually being there. 

As cruise specialists, we are able to offer our unbiased opinion and suggestions to our clients in order to ensure they are cruising on the ship and itinerary that will make for a great vacation.

If you are considering a cruise vacation, please feel free to email us to discuss your plans.

Connie
cruises@simsfamtrav.com
Cruise Specialist
http://cruises.simsfamtrav.com