Norwegian Cruise Line Review Ships, Destinations, Dining 2023

Table Of Content

• The Best Cruise Lines
• Norwegian Cruise Line just ordered four massive cruise ships
• People who looked at this company also looked at

For the vessel's 2024 Alaska season, prices at the time of publication start from $111 per person, per night for a similar weekly itinerary. For the kids, check out the pay-to-play video arcade, just off of The Local. They'll also love the Galaxy Pavilion, which offers an impressive array of virtual-reality rides and video games, all for a fee. It's also where you'll find the aforementioned escape room, which is a fantastic way to spend an hour problem solving with your family (or testing the limits of your friend group's patience). The Haven also has its own private pool with a retractable roof and hot tub.

The Best Cruise Lines

Fred. Olsen Bolette Cruise Reviews (2023 UPDATED): Ratings of Fred. Olsen Bolette - Cruise Critic

Fred. Olsen Bolette Cruise Reviews (2023 UPDATED): Ratings of Fred. Olsen Bolette.

Posted: Tue, 12 Sep 2023 13:44:42 GMT [source]

They leave from both U.S. coasts as well as from Hawaii — where NCL has operated inter-island Hawaiian sailing for almost two decades. If you want to explore modern Scandinavia while gaining access to some of the region’s best museums, such an itinerary is a perfect choice. Scandinavia—and Norway in particular—is an expensive place to travel around, so a cruise can make financial sense for those seeking an introduction to the region.

Norwegian Cruise Line just ordered four massive cruise ships

You may be used to lots of entertainment in the form of singing and dancing on cruise ships, but the Prima doesn’t have a lot of it. If you like game shows and smaller venues for comedy and music, as well as thrills like go-karts, slides and escape rooms, this ship is for you. Only a small percentage of specialty dining reservations are available before getting on board so it seemed like everything was booked.

People who looked at this company also looked at

The menus had a nice variety, and the food arrived freshly prepared and generally tasty with just the right amount of seasoning. For breakfast, I had a delicious omelet, hashbrowns and bacon. For lunch, my picks included a caprese salad and Baja fish tacos. For dinner, I enjoyed crab and cream cheese wontons, bruschetta and a veggie burrito.

There were a variety of port stops as well as a day at sea for some relaxing and recharging. As it turns out, one of the port stops we were looking forward to was changed. A few weeks before the cruise, NCL replaced a stop in Porto, Portugal, with one in Vigo, Spain.

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the culture of the Vikings or explore what makes people in the Nordic region the so-called happiest on earth, you could do a lot worse than book a Scandinavian cruise. The best part was spending time with my parents and making memories. Cruising is a great way to do that because there are a variety of activities and options available, and everyone does not need to be together all the time. Lots of people in a small space got really hot and disorganized, but soon my parents and I had our luggage and were out the door and into a taxi. The earliest time was for people who wanted to take all of their luggage off the ship themselves.

What I didn't love about Norwegian Encore

However, Encore's variety of activities appeals to travelers of all ages, making the ship ideal for multigenerational family groups. Just be aware that you'll likely incur a significant onboard bill if you want to try the latest and most adrenaline-pumping pursuits when you sail. Water babies will enjoy the ship's two pools (Deck 16) and four hot tubs (Deck 17). Neither of the pools was too crowded on my Alaska sailing — even on sea days — due to the cooler temperatures, which hovered between the high 60s and low 70s. The ship offers accessible lifts for onboard pools but not hot tubs. The added fees could quickly amount to a lot of money — especially if you're traveling with kids.

Complimentary Dining

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Norwegian Cruise Line credit card

Some ships have attributes that make them stand out for luxury, solo or budget travelers. Dating to 2001, Norwegian Sun is one of Norwegian's oldest and smallest vessels, and it lacks many of the family-focused onboard attractions that are typical for the line's newer and bigger vessels. You won't find big waterparks, go-kart racing tracks or laser tag zones on this ship. Only solos staying in the solo cabins (via keycards) can access the Studio Lounge, meaning that you and your new solo friends will have the place to yourselves. The entryway to each of these ships, for instance, deposits you at the three-story-high Penrose Atrium, which may be the most beautiful atrium of any big ship at sea. It has a curvy, sculptural feel as if the entire space were an art piece.

The ship can carry 4,544 passengers, and among them you'll find couples, friend groups and families. This wasn’t something that I remembered from my Pride of America sailing, but it was a great first impression! The idea of the “best” ship is subjective, but the biggest and newest ship is Norwegian Encore, which debuted in 2019. Norwegian will be introducing the new Leonardo class of ships in 2022. For the 3 packages above, you must be 21 years old or older to purchase.

With daily news stories of delayed and canceled flights, lost baggage, and travelers stranded overseas in the middle of a natural disaster, it's ... In collaboration with the Port of Dover, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines enhances its 2024 cruise packages with free parking and onboard credit. These trips are popular with both families and couples, but they can be just as rewarding and enjoyable for solo travellers, giving you as much flexibility as you want along with opportunities to meet ...

Sometimes, you could hear the sound of the cars from other decks. Ordering was done on a tablet that had photos of all the items, and a server delivered the food to your table. The Local Bar & Grill was open almost all day and had pub-like food.

That's all on top of dedicated children's play areas, pools and family-friendly entertainment that will keep your family busy from morning to night. For starters, Norwegian Encore is home to some of the most thrilling waterslides at sea, as well as a kiddie splash zone that will have your little ones squealing with delight. But those are just the appetizers when it comes to family fun on the top deck of the ship.

While searching for spring break cruises, I stumbled upon a very cheap, two night sailing onboard Norwegian Sun. Even better, the cruise sailed from Malaga, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal with a stop in Cadiz, Spain. I love cruising around Europe, so I couldn’t resist the opportunity to book this cheap cruise. For the ultimate in luxury at sea, try out The Haven by Norwegian. The Haven collection features the most luxurious staterooms located at the top of the ship. You’ll have access to a concierge and 24-hour butler, plus the private sundeck (complete with pool and hot tub) reserved just for Haven guests.

The two ships are nearly identical in size, weighing right around 80,000 gross tons. Norwegian Sun had a lot of similarities to what I remember from Pride of America onboard the ship. As Hayley and I made our way around Norwegian Sun, we both agreed that it was a ‘no-frills’ type of cruise ship.

Can you save money booking your cruise through Costco Travel?

Table Of Content

• Nab discounts by bundling
• Hotel Reward Programs
• Book Direct With Disney Cruise Line
• Airline and Hotel Cruise Booking Sites
• Costco cruise deals: How to save money booking travel at a warehouse club
• The Best Ways To Book a Disney Cruise in 2024 [With Expert Tips]

If you want to earn a big chunk of airline miles or hotel points with your cruise booking, you may want to look to an airline or hotel cruise booking site. You can see a bonus offering 10% off shore excursions in this example, but that discount only applies to shore excursions booked through CruiseDirect, not ones booked through Disney Cruise Line. Bookings made through Costco Travel can be confirmed with a deposit or can be paid in full at the time of booking. If you’re not sure what room to book, Disney Cruise Line offers detailed looks at each ship’s stateroom options in the Our Ships tab online. The company's strategy of placing its throwback restaurants off major highways with a lot of traveler and tourist traffic makes it more vulnerable to the economy than other casual-dining chains.

Nab discounts by bundling

The postcards I use can be found in the desk drawer of Disney Cruise Line staterooms, and are free to take. If you don't want to send the cute postcards off, you can also keep them as souvenirs. This peaceful chair-lined beach is a quiet spot away from the family beach, where I can sit back and enjoy the view or take a chair down to the water and let the waves crash over me. Speaking of gear, at Castaway Cay, cruisegoers can borrow free towels as soon as they get off of the ship.

Hotel Reward Programs

This booking method is especially easy if you already know where you want to go or what ship you’d like to sail on. Costco only accepts Visa and MasterCard for cruise booking payments. You will not be able to use your American Express and earn Membership Rewards points for your vacation purchase.

Book Direct With Disney Cruise Line

That’s because cruise bookings through Costco often come with a digital Costco Shop card as a bonus. For example, we found a 7-night Caribbean cruise on Disney Treasure (set to debut in December 2024) for 3 people in an oceanview stateroom with a verandah that cost $7,411.94 and came with a $590 Shop card. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear.

Airline and Hotel Cruise Booking Sites

So, if you use FCC to pay for your entire sailing, you will still get the shop card based on the invoice price. Costco Travel boasts "exclusive Costco member rates," but are you really getting a deal? I priced out three sailings on different cruise lines to see how much you could potentially save by booking a Costco cruise. Typically, Costco Travel offers competitive rates on cruises, so you can either find a discounted deal or at least pay a similar rate offered by other travel sellers. Last, but not least, you will need a Costco membership in order to book any sort of travel through Costo.

Costco cruise deals: How to save money booking travel at a warehouse club

Costco and Disney partner on major vacation offers for travelers - TheStreet

Costco and Disney partner on major vacation offers for travelers.

Posted: Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

What are the benefits of booking a cruise through Costco, and how do Costco's cruise prices compare with cruise line pricing? The stock is up 50% in the past year, 102% through the past three years, and 227% over the last five years. You won't find distributions as rich as the capital appreciation that Costco has been able to consistently deliver, and if you do, it likely came at the expense of that stock heading lower during that time. Even with a new CEO, Costco should continue to be a steady winner for dividend investors willing to think outside of the yield box.

It's likely not worth joining Costco just for its travel services. However, if you already have a membership and are planning a cruise, it's definitely worth seeing what the warehouse club is offering in terms of pricing and perks for the sailing you're contemplating. You might find a great deal and get a shop card to spend when you return home from vacation. Travelers generally report having good experiences with Costco, either booking online or using one of their agents. You will still earn cruise loyalty points toward status and can earn points, miles or cash back for your purchases made with rewards-earning credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. Finally, Costco offers "Buyer's Choice" and "Kirkland Signature" cruise deals, which offer "exclusive savings and included extras," according to the Costco Cruises website.

The Best Ways To Book a Disney Cruise in 2024 [With Expert Tips]

A basic membership is $60/year, while an executive membership is $120. Once you're a Costco member, however, you can use your membership to shop both in-store and online and even earn rewards points on booked travel if you get a Costco card too. The prices tend to be about the same as those offered through Disney Cruise Line, but bookings through Costco often come with a Costco Shop card as a bonus. When packing for your cruise, don’t forget to include fun extras like costumes for onboard celebrations (like Pirate Night). Disney Cruise Line recently banned the tradition of hiding them around the ships. A fantastic option that earns a lot of points is paying for your Disney cruise with Disney gift cards.

When I book, I always make sure Disney's private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, is on the port of call. Hull says that booking a Disney vacation through a third party can sometimes complicate life when there's a problem or issue that needs to be addressed. Summer Hull, editorial director for The Points Guy, says booking Disney vacations through Costco Travel can definitely be cheaper than booking elsewhere, but there are limitations to who might benefit. "We have also negotiated with some of the off-site hotels to include in our packages complimentary parking at the hotel," says Rupp. Examples on this front include Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace, Melia Orlando Celebration, and Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas, to name a few.

Also, if you're an Executive Member, you earn 2% back on qualifying Costco purchases (up to $1,000), including many travel purchases. With cruises, you'd earn the 2% back on the cruise fare but not on the taxes, fees, auto-gratuities, other surcharges and trip protection. Even if you have a modest amount of money to put to work, Costco Wholesale (COST -0.24%), Disney (DIS 0.16%), and Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores (CBRL 4.12%) are worth investigating. Let's see why these could be the smartest dividend stocks to buy with your next $400 investment. To that end, Costco Travel offers vacation packages to Walt Disney World and Disneyland that include both hotels and tickets.

Ultimately, savings will vary based on the specific itinerary, departure date and room you choose. Some deals were only available on close-in sailings or specific sail dates. In general, though, pricing was competitive with the cruise lines, and often the value-adds gave Costco the edge. My quick search through these deals revealed that Costco's Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line cruises usually have the most added freebies. Norwegian cruises even feature free perks, such as a photo package or spa credit, that are combinable with the line's Free at Sea value-adds offered to everyone.

Founded in 1993, The Motley Fool is a financial services company dedicated to making the world smarter, happier, and richer. The Motley Fool reaches millions of people every month through our premium investing solutions, free guidance and market analysis on Fool.com, top-rated podcasts, and non-profit The Motley Fool Foundation. And, before I head back to the ship, I stop at the Castaway Cay post office to send postcards back home. The best part about seeing the characters is that the lines to take pictures with them are never long. On a recent sailing, I saw Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, and Pluto all in 30 minutes.

Still, adds Hull, for someone who's simply chasing the cheapest option for a Disney visit and who is also visiting (or sailing) for at least three days, Costco can certainly be worth it. "This can save you money if you're planning to drive to the parks instead of using the resort transportation," says Tate. However, there are some considerations you should make before booking. Here are the pros and cons of booking a Disney vacation with Costco.

Cruise Around NYC for a Sightseeing Cruise & Boat Tours of NY Harbor

Table Of Content

• Bateaux New York Dinner Cruises
• Recommended Experiences in New York
• Dinner & Dancing Under The Stars on The Hudson River!
• Liberty Super Express Downtown

On Holland America's Volendam, embark on an unforgettable roundtrip journey from New York that includes a stop in the Azores and overnights in Rome, Cairo, and Istanbul. The Volendam accommodates just over 1,400 guests and is designed around grand public spaces. Dive deeper into destinations with regional cooking demonstrations as well as food and wine tastings. There’s no better way to travel in comfort and see the Statue of Liberty, Colosseum, Pyramids of Giza, and Hagia Sophia on a single trip.

Bateaux New York Dinner Cruises

Ahead, we've pulled some of your best options for cruising from New York City. Sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty while our award winning tour guides narrate every detail along your route. Before your cruise from New York, spend a couple of days exploring the Big Apple. Head to the top of the Empire State Building for an unbeatable photo op, or take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. As you set sail, New York’s most iconic landmark, the Statue of Liberty, will bid you farewell.

Recommended Experiences in New York

The Manhattan cruise terminal is located on the edge of Midtown, making it easy to spend port days or pre-cruise time exploring Times Square, Central Park, or the Theater District. The Empire State Building and iconic department stores including Macy’s Herald Square are also within walking distance of the Manhattan cruise port. Cruises from NYC make it easy to combine an exciting trip to New York City with a relaxing vacation to the shores of Bermuda, Charleston, and Rhode Island. Spend your days in Bermuda exploring the island’s famous pink sand, swimming in crystal clear water, and experiencing its unique culture. Stroll through the quaint streets of Charleston and admire the Gilded Age mansions of Rhode Island. Onboard, unwind in Celebrity Summit’s reimagined spa or dine in any of its renovated restaurants with dishes crafted by our Michelin-starred chef.

Dinner & Dancing Under The Stars on The Hudson River!

Take a bite out of the Big Apple with a fall foliage cruise to Canada and New England, or the pastel shores of Bermuda, or to Royal Caribbean’s reinvented private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Set sail on the Best Cruises out of New York to discover the best of the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and the Northeast. Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. As the most discerning, up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel, Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse, offering both inspiration and vital intel. Plus, New York is home to the oldest cruise terminal in the United States.

Liberty Midtown

It wouldn’t be a trip to NYC without a stop at the overwhelming, world-famous Times Square, a stretch of several blocks of bright, flashing billboards and crowds clamoring for neon photos. We have the answers so your first  time will be nothing but smooth sailing. Mr. Banks has a long history in public service, most notably as Chief of Staff and Deputy Director of Finance for The Council of the City of New York. His 16 years of government service spanned portions of the Koch, Dinkins, Giuliani, and Bloomberg administrations. Subsequently, he entered the private sector and had a distinguished 13-year career as Vice President of Government and Community Relations for Con Ed. In 2015, he was appointed President of the Real Estate Board of New York, serving until 2019.

Liberty Super Express Downtown

The warm summer breeze, amazing skyline views, and pure relaxation are the reasons why we highly recommend a boat trip in NYC in the summer. See New York like you never have on this 2 hour sail aboard the Adirondack, a wooden 80-foot pilot schooner. Within five minutes of leaving the dock, you’ll forget the mayhem and noise of Manhattan street life, and you’ll feel the relaxing breeze of New York Harbor! Sail past the Statue of Liberty and get the best view of the NYC Skyline with the World Trade Center standing tall.

Our Guide to Summer in New York

This 45-day roundtrip cruise takes you from NYC to the Mediterranean - USA TODAY

This 45-day roundtrip cruise takes you from NYC to the Mediterranean.

Posted: Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Experience the magic of the Hudson River or East River as you cruise past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. Unwind on deck, enjoy onboard entertainment, and create memories against the backdrop of NYC's stunning skyline. See all of NYC's landmarks from temperature-controlled indoor seats or our huge outdoor deck. Central Park is one of the largest parks in a metropolitan area. Comprised of over a mile of green space and walking trails, it offers a killer view of lower Manhattan from certain vistas. When you’re craving some time in nature in the middle of this loud, humming city, head to Central Park for a walk, a picnic, or just to people-watch.

Tips for Booking the Best Dinner Cruises in NYC

This round-Manhattan New Year brunch cruise is packed with a bountiful holiday-themed menu! Sit back and enjoy the gorgeous 360-degree view of the island from the climate-controlled and enclosed back-deck observatory of these 1920s style motor yachts. Join us aboard our luxury Yacht Manhattan II in full holiday decor and join us for our romantic Holiday Jazz Cruise. Enjoy this 1.5 hour cruise with your loved one and a glass of Champagne in hand.

Luxury VIP Cruise

Tour Rockefeller Center and catch a show at Radio City Music Hall. New York cruises allow you to experience it all— by tour bus, subway, or on foot. Liberty of the Seas® is your gateway to the postcard-perfect pink-hued shores of Bermuda.

With a perfect blend of entertainment, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery, Skyline Cruises promises a memorable experience on the waters of New York. Join us aboard our 1920s inspired motor yacht and take in the iconic sights that NY Harbor has to offer. This is a wonderful cruise to treat out of town guests to see the sites and is a perfect sightseeing cruise for children. Sit back and relax on this elegantly crafted boat as you cruise by Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and have the whole view of NY Harbor. Goldstar offers a curated selection of East River and Hudson cruises, from sunset sails to themed excursions, ensuring you have access to the best journeys on the water. New York City’s only floatinglobster shack, North River Lobster Company sails from Midtown all day long duringthe summer, offering a fantastic variety of food, beer, wine, cocktails, and FUN!

This combination of timeless ambiance, live jazz, and breathtaking scenery creates a memorable and enchanting experience on the waters of New York City. Join us aboard the luxury yacht Manhattan II or Manhattan– our cozy, elegant, 1920s-style yacht — as we travel past abandoned islands rich with history and modern day wildlife! Join us for a captivating 3-hour cruise through the heart of our city, where history and nature converge in breathtaking harmony.

Hop on the Seabourn Quest in October for an unforgettable journey through the colors of autumn. Spend a gorgeous fall day in Central Park before setting sail from New York to Montréal by way of Martha's Vineyard, Boston, Halifax, and Prince Edward Island on a 12-day itinerary along the eastern seaboard. This is a small ship that’s especially popular among North Americans, Europeans, and Australians, and a cruise line that’s beloved by foodies. Seabourn is known for its indulgent steaks, endless caviar, and partnership with award-winning chef Thomas Keller, who has a namesake restaurant on board. Sample the best of the Caribbean in just 15 days on the Seven Seas Grandeur, one of the most luxurious ships at sea.

Indulge in an elevated luxury experience with NYC Water Cruises, offering the most glamorous harbor cruise aboard the opulent Louisa of the Seas. The 3-hour dinner cruise promises a captivating journey featuring live music and a scenic voyage through the New York City skyline, with highlights including the Brooklyn Bridge and Liberty Island. For VIP patrons, a lavish 6-course gourmet menu awaits, ensuring a culinary experience that matches the grandeur of the surroundings.

SoHo boasts many of the biggest names and rising brands in fashion and design, while the windows of famous department stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdales attract thousands of eyes during the an. Of course, souvenir shacks with memorabilia of the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and the Chrysler Building aren’t hard to find either. Built to honor the lives lost as a result of the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001, the 9/11 Memorial is a harrowing must-see experience during a trip to New York. It relays the significance of the terrorist attacks not only on the New York community, but the United States as a whole.

Full and Updated Carnival Cruise Director Schedule 2024

Table Of Content

• Carnival Freedom Cruise Directors
• How long do Carnival cruise directors stay?
• Our Favorite Carnival Cruise Directors
• Carnival Panorama Cruise Directors
• Carnival’s Cruise Director Schedule for 2024 / 2025 – Sorted by Cruise Director

Lee Mason is back on the ship after an earlier stint – he joined on 10th March and will stay onboard until July 2024, with Leon Smith then joining until the start of December. Then, Marty Pitts will join the ship and see everything through until March 2025. The vessel is updated and sailing smoothly after her October 2023 dry dock that finally replaced her whale tale funnel that was damaged in a fire in May 2022.

Carnival Freedom Cruise Directors

The Carnival Celebration cruise director schedule has finally cleared up after a month or two of confusion. And if you want to keep up-to-date with the schedule of your favourite cruise directors, you’ll find some handy links to their social media pages here too. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the role of the cruise director on Carnival ships and highlight the key dates that each of the Carnival Cruise Directors are scheduled to work.

How long do Carnival cruise directors stay?

His replacement was Christian ‘Deon’ Williams who joined on December 30th and will be onboard until June 2nd, 2024 – he’d already spent a lot of time on the ship in 2023. With such engaging and experienced cruise director, your time on the Carnival Magic is sure to be a memorable and fun-filled adventure. The Carnival Freedom brings some fantastic Cruise Directors along for the ride! Todd Evans has been running all the fun onboard since November, and he’ll carry it throughout the holiday season. Erin Weigand then joins the ship on February 12th until June 17th, 2024. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Our Favorite Carnival Cruise Directors

I had the opportunity to cruise aboard the Carnival Celebration, and we sat down with Cruise Director Lee Mason. Watch as we learn how Lee started in the cruise business and came to work for Carnival Cruise Line. We talk about his assignment aboard the Carnival Celebration, his favorite places onboard, cruise tips, and much more. Marq will take a break – Jacky Tang will be his replacement – before rejoining in May until early September.

Carnival Freedom Cruise Directors

The Carnival Spirit is all set to have an incredible team of Cruise Directors in 2024. The Carnival Pride is all set to have amazing Cruise Directors in 2024. This guide is updated every Wednesday to show the dates that each of the Carnival Cruise Directors are scheduled to work.

The trio of cruise directors will share leadership roles aboard the ship through the end of 2024 and into 2025. Guests will be elated with a fun lineup of cruise directors for Carnival Elation. Zackary Paiement-Dockrill came aboard in mid-January and will remain in charge until mid-April, followed by Gabriel Coppolla for a quick month of fun before Paiement-Dockrill returns for the summer season. In August, Austin Morris will sign on to lead the ship through the rest of 2024. Cruise directors are the face of fun aboard Carnival cruise ships, and having the Carnival cruise director schedule can help travelers plan which ships to book to enjoy their favorite Fun Squad leaders. This updated schedule is the ultimate tool in knowing which particular cruise director is assigned to which ship in the coming months.

He has been with Carnival for over 30 years and has worked on several Carnival ships. With Louis Claire kicking off the year, followed by the talents of Leon Smith and Lee Mason, the newest addition to the fleet is set to dazzle with innovative entertainment options. Mardi Gras and Carnival Panorama will have directors like TJ Partida and Christian “Deon” Williams.

Carnival Celebration Cruise Director Schedule 2024

Georgia Craig returned to the ship in March and will enjoy two stints on the ship – leaving in May, then returning in July until November. William “Paully” Munhollon has now been announced as the cruise director for those few months, though Gary Blair will also join for a week. Cam Chavis joined the ship in January 2024, and he’s well-loved for his warmth and energy. Cruise Hive is committed to providing the most accurate, updated information to all readers, and will update this list regularly with new information. Check back to keep track on all your favorite cruise directors and to learn who will be the face of fun on your next Carnival cruise. The dates for each cruise director indicate the beginning and end of a specific ship contract (??? indicates an unknown end date), with multiple entries listed for different individual contracts.

Carnival’s Cruise Director Schedule for 2024 / 2025 – Sorted by Cruise Director

In the updated line-up, Louie Clare has been added for a run from March to May to give Kyndall a break, though she will return. Lee Mason will then be back from 10th March until July 2024, and then Marty Pitts will join the ship. There are almost 25 cruise in Carnival fleet, and almost 30 to 40 directors that shuffles with every cruise voyage. Carnival Venezia just join the Carnival fleet, with Italian style sailing it provides enchanting atmosphere. The Jacky Tang is assign as director of Mardi Gras on July 1, due to his untapped managing skills. He will continue working until Jonathan “Cookie” Adams takes the role on November 4, 2023.

The salary of a Carnival cruise director varies depending on their experience, level, and the size of the ship they are working on. However, the average salary for a cruise director at Carnival Cruise Lines is around $60,000 per year. Additionally, cruise directors typically receive free travel, food, and accommodation as well as other benefits, such as discounted cruises for family and friends. Carnival cruise directors are also responsible for hosting events like trivia contests, gameshows, and deck parties. The Carnival Miracle has a talented set of cruise directors in the 2024 schedule. With such an engaging and talented pair of cruise directors, guests are sure to have a blast on the Mardi Gras this year.

Carnival Glory to enter dry dock in 2024 - Crew Center

Carnival Glory to enter dry dock in 2024.

Posted: Tue, 07 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Andrew Mercer is then expected to lead the way until June – it’s not clear yet who’ll take over after this. They also host different parties onboard, and make announcements of what happening on the cruise. They work parallel with hotel and entertainment director to create a more entertaining environment. The Carnival Cruise directors are like protagonist, they have all the cruise responsibilities on the shoulders.

Carnival Elation and Carnival Spirit remind us of Carnival’s rich history, with directors like Zachary Paiement-Dockrill and Alex Siegler bringing a mix of tradition and contemporary flair to the seas. After the summer, Adam Gilbert will join the ship from August until October, before James is back for the rest of the year and the first part of 2025. If you’re sailing on Carnival Sunshine, you’ve got some great Cruise Directors to look forward to.

He’s due to remain on the ship until early June – originally his replacement was scheduled to be Jasper Wade but now it’s going to be Gary Blair. The cruise director is one of the most visible members of a ship’s crew. He or she is the “face” of fun for Carnival Cruise Line’s Fun Squad—the crew members who host trivia contests, lead deck parties, judge contests, and share other fun with every guest. Simon London is the face of fun for Carnival Splendor, though he will be joined by an as-yet-unassigned cruise director who will offer him a break between contracts in September and October. Cruise directors’ salaries at Carnival Cruise Line can vary based on experience, qualifications, and specific contract terms. A new cruise director’s salary ranges from $45K to over $100K annually.

John then returns in June and is currently scheduled to be on the ship until August. After a break he’ll then return in October, staying on the ship through to February. Once Lia’s run ends, Jasper Wade will take over, staying with the ship until October. With this experienced cruise director, your time on the Carnival Magic is sure to be a memorable and fun-filled adventure. Stjepan Neral took over from February through to May, and then Savannah Mitchell will then be in charge of the entertainment until October 2024.

The Cruise Director assignments and schedule is subject to change as the needs aboard different ships change. Schedules often overlap with another Cruise Director at the beginning and end assignments. This allows the new Cruise Directors to become accustomed to a new ship, and learn what activities and entertainment the ship offers. He’s due to remain on the ship until early June – originally his replacement was scheduled to be Jasper Wade but that’s been taken off the schedule for now.

Starboard Cruise Services Appoints Fine Jewelry and Watch Industry Veteran

Table Of Content

• Can you give another example of experiential retail aboard a ship?
• General Business
• Business Technology
• How did the pandemic impact retail sales at sea?
• Starboard Cruise Services Appoints Fine Jewelry and Watch Industry Veteran

The amplified visual identity reflects the company’s vision to reimagine the future of onboard shopping. With a renewed sense of clarity and focus, Starboard is poised for success in the years ahead and well-positioned to expand its signature vacation retail offerings. Starboard Cruise Services, LVMH Moët Hennessy and Celebrity Cruises are launching an immersive luxury shopping experience onboard the cruise ship Celebrity Beyond. The curated vacation will embark from Southampton, UK on April 27, 2022 and include retail offerings that showcase notable fashion brands, wellness collaborations and sustainable offerings on its voyage to Western Europe.

Can you give another example of experiential retail aboard a ship?

It’s everything from outerwear to different mementos that they can bring home from their experience in Alaska. From socially responsible accessories by Pura Vida to vintage luxury from the world’s most coveted brands curated by What Comes Around Goes Around, as well as an expansive line of Carnival-branded products, Starboard’s distinguished merchandising savoir-faire is unparalleled in the industry. Fashion plays a smaller, but growing role, mostly due to storage constraints, and there have been fashion shows on board, with the designer present to talk about the line. What does work are capsule collections on the accessories front, such as fine jewelry, small leather goods and Swiss timepieces.

General Business

"We are thrilled to be working with Carol Cabezas and her team at Azamara on our common vision for the journey ahead during a very exciting restart of the industry," says Lisa Bauer, Starboard's President and CEO. Our cruise line partners represent every type of cruise vacation experiences – from the Caribbean to the farthest reaches on the planet. From families looking for adventure and fun to ultra-luxury – and everything in between.

Business Technology

There are also games — because cruise ships are about entertainment, playing and having fun — such as Truth or Dare, as well as an iPad app that lets passengers find their favorite fragrance. For Dior, a favorite event on the celebrity ships is the Master Class, where a master beauty expert does makeovers for guests, as well as talks about day looks and night looks. That’s where the ceo said her team has the advantage over on-land shops, noting that it’s far easier to curate the experience and develop a relationship with the passengers over a voyage that could last from two weeks to a month.

This Rare Luxury Sale Is Full of Industry Insider-Loved…

This enables them to find out whether they lean towards smoky, spicy, fruity, or sweet whiskies, making it easier—and quicker—to select and buy a product. When the Carnival Celebration debuts later this year, guests can expect to shop first-at-sea brand collectibles, destination-inspired merchandise, and the biggest logo selection offered across Carnival’s fleet. The newly anointed partnership between Azamara and Starboard commenced on August 28, 2021, when Azamara Quest welcomed the first guests for a seven-night Mediterranean voyage from Greece. It’s no secret — the cruise industry was hit incredibly hard and basically shut down. We really struggled to get up to staffing levels as quickly as we’d liked. But the good news is, we are now fully staffed as of July of last year.

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Unique Theme Nights You Shouldn’t Miss When on a Cruise Ship

Starboard Cruise Services, a division of LVMH, is shifting toward mega ships where overall retail spaces average 8,000 to 10,000 square feet. Among the firsts are fragrances from Spanish luxury brand Loewe; the Sunset Collection of travel and home accessories by Nate Berkus; and Starboard’s ‘Beauty for All’ concept that has been expanded to include new haircare brands along with body care assortments from Mario Badescu and L’Occitane. In resort fashion, another first at sea is Coradorables, a woman-founded Hawaiian brand made in Honolulu that reflects local culture. “As retailers, we saw more opportunity to really kick it up a notch on Carnival Celebration, so we’re excited to see how our guests love our new offerings as much as our classics,” said Jeremy Schiller, vice president of retail operations, Carnival Cruise Line.

Few have more experience — or have made more changes — than Starboard Cruise Services, which is an LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton company, and bills itself as the leading global retailer at sea. The continuation of partnership also recognizes Starboard’s significant contributions to Carnival’s expanding shopping options, showcasing recognized LVMH brands, exclusive first-at-sea collections, innovative retail concepts and rich market insights. Earlier this year, Starboard partnered with Virgin Voyages—which closed on a large $550 million capital raise in September—after rival onboard retailer Harding+ exited its contract. However, in terms of new contracts, Harding+, based in the U.K., has been winning in recent years and claims to partner with more cruise operators than Starboard, working with 22 cruise lines versus its rival’s 15. However, Harding+ stores are currently on about 90 ships compared to Starboard’s more than 100. Starboard’s contributions to Carnival’s shopping options include showcasing recognized LVMH brands, exclusive first-at-sea collection offerings, innovative retail concepts, and rich market insights, as Starboard highlights.

How did the pandemic impact retail sales at sea?

The two industry leaders will redesign a destination-tailored retail program, offering experiential, cultural and artisanal touchpoints curated specifically for each travel journey of Azamara's fleet of ships. We also pride ourselves on being the first in the industry to build cruise-line-dedicated account teams. These teams truly get each of our cruise line partners’ brand DNA which drives the development and implementation of cruise line curated products and experiences our diverse cruise guests are looking for – and that our stellar teams on board bring to life through memorable retail experiences.

Starboard Cruise Services Appoints Fine Jewelry and Watch Industry Veteran

But if it’s people from other parts of the world sailing in Australia, they are going to want T-shirts that reflect the Sydney Harbor Bridge or they may want to take home a plush kangaroo. Aboard Carnival Celebration, guests can expect to shop first-at-sea brand launches, destination-inspired merchandise and the largest logo assortment offered on a Carnival ship to date. You May AskWe curate a vibrant world by transforming goods and experiences into unforgettable moments that matter and memories you can touch. Through discovery and exploration, we welcome you into a world of handcrafted collections and custom-designed products infused with color, vibrancy and life.

Furthering destination-inspired shopping, Starboard is bringing onboard limited time experiences, such as hand painted silks from Barcelona, and socially conscious items including Chilean-made infused glass art sourced from recycled windows and bottles. As part of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Starboard is known as the preferred partner for luxury retail at sea and is recognized as one of the 75 Maisons worldwide. Expanding Starboard’s core expertise, the Luxury Division was launched in 2019 to be the center of excellence for upscale retail experiences and support ultra-luxury cruise line partners. Starboard is consistently recognized for quality and innovation by the travel industry, championing numerous awards, including DFNI-Frontier Americas Travel Retailer of the Year, Asia/Pacific Cruise Retailer of the Year, Global Cruise Retailer of the Year and Exceptional Achievement by a Cruise Retailer. Starboard is devoted to constantly pushing the boundaries of curating vacation retail experiences at sea.

“And passengers, particularly on the luxury cruises, want something unique. Hospitality is about people feeling that they are individually served,” Neumann explained. Neumann said the shops and experiences are refreshed every 18 months because that’s when they start to see repeat guests on the ships. While LVMH doesn’t separate out the bottom line of each of its businesses, Starboard’s profits are based on earnings after deducting the wholesale costs for the merchandise in its stores and other overhead expenses, such as rent to the cruise lines for the retail spaces and staffing costs.

With a career spanning over two decades, Benito started his professional journey with Macy’s executive management program where he held various merchandising roles. Benito also led the retail strategy, product development, e-commerce and licensing for Hard Rock International, a global entertainment organization. As a forward-thinking retail leader charged with leading Starboard’s Merchandising strategy, Benito will work closely with Starboard’s portfolio of product brand partners.

She believes the mega ships are the next big trend in the cruise industry, as well as onboard retail. Starboard’s Luxury Division works with some of the most admired and desired vacation brands in luxury travel to introduce retail concepts, products experiences exclusively designed for luxury guests. Starboard Cruise Services, an LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton company and retail curator at sea, announces a company-wide transformative brand amplification. With a new visual identity and redesigned logo emphasizing its globally recognized name, Starboard, the change amplifies Starboard’s values and purpose to – Curate a Vibrant World – while providing an elevated perspective on the company’s well-known best-in-class vacation retail.

One of the funniest things we do is on the Royal Caribbean ships, called the Rising Tide Watch and Scotch event, where guests learn about luxury Swiss timepieces paired with premium scotch as they ascend deck levels. Five ships in the Oasis-class series have something called the Rising Tide Bar that goes from Deck Five to the top. On Deck Five we have entry-level watches paired with reasonably priced scotch.

According to Neumann, Starboard is launching five mega ships within the next year. The onboard retail square footage ranges from between 8,000 and 10,000 square feet, with the boutiques averaging about 400 square feet. Some brands the retail operator works with include Bulgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Dior, Victoria’s Secret, Citizen Watches and Le Vian.

MSC Meraviglia

Table Of Content

• view all Caribbean & The Bahamas ports
• MSC Cruises Departure Ports
• Company changes 2022
• Night Mediterranean - Western CruiseDetails
• explore our new ships
• Ancona, Italy

In May 2018, MSC Splendida started service on the Chinese market following its 2017 drydock refurbishment. The China-based (Shanghai) itinerary program included destinations in Japan, Korea, China. MSC Orchestra is introducing a new Middle East cruise itinerary from Safaga in Egypt, featuring 20 seven-night sailings to Jeddah, Aqaba for Petra in Jordan, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Cairo. MSC Bellissima is due to replace her sistership Virtuosa in the Mediterranean, where she is scheduled to sail the planned 7-nights calling at Genoa-Milan, La Spezia, Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Marseille.

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view all Caribbean & The Bahamas ports

In January 2016, MSC signed a partnership with Samsung for the latest technology equipment upgrade fleetwide. Among the provided by Samsung equipment are top-line flat HDTVs (for passenger cabins), LED screens and digital signage boards (in public areas), specialized medical equipment (for onboard hospitals), augmented reality mirrors, printing solutions. STX France's sail-ship design was developed for 3 vessel sizes, the biggest being 15,000 GT tons vessel with LOA length 190 m (620 ft) and 150 passenger staterooms. The French shipbuilding company started research in sail propulsion in 2009, Silenseas has technology patents (2009 and 2017) for the new sail. Similar is the concept of Peace Boat's new vessel Ecoship (built by Arctech Helsinki Shipyard in Helsinki, Finland).

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MSC Cruises Departure Ports

There's usually one gala night per cruise, when black tie or dark suit and tie are encouraged for men, as is a formal dress for women. Note that if you book the Bella experience, you cannot select a specific cabin. You can only choose between the broad categories of inside, ocean-view or balcony cabin, and a cabin is later assigned to you.

Company changes 2022

The package deals were also inclusive of airport-ship bus transfers and COVID health insurance (EUR 25 pp, by Europ Assistance). Since November 15th, the shipboard children's and teen's clubs (fleetwide/facilities for kids ages 12 to 17) operate with extended opening hours and longer live entertainment (8 hours daily). The company's expanded youth programming also includes more and new organized/supervised activities (sports, aquapark entertainment, kids-themed dinners, a different game show for teens every night/followed by a disco). MSC Cruises offers a broad range of entertainment and activities on its ships. As noted above, the line's biggest vessels offer multiple entertainment venues, from Broadway-style theaters to spaces for circus-like performances; all manner of deck-top attractions; large casinos; and full-service spas. The 10 restaurants and 21 bars, snack areas and lounges include an expanded L'Atelier Bistrot speciality restaurant, with seating for 66.

It's important that the name on your reservation is listed exactly as it appears on your passport or other official proof of nationality. If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that starts and ends in a U.S. port, you'll need either a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. Every MSC Cruises ship has a casino, and on the line's larger vessels, they are big operations. Le Grand Casino on MSC Grandiosa, for instance, has 164 slot machines, 12 table games (including blackjack, roulette and poker) and its own bar.

The new class will be based on the Silenseas concept (introduced by STX France in 2018) that represents hybrid propulsion combining sails with dual-fuel marine engines. In May 2019, MSC became the industry's first mainstream cruise shipping company with a permanent office in Canada (Mississauga, Ontario). MSC Cruises Canada's new office is served by 15 employees (full-time staff) led by Ian Patterson (Country Manager).

You can cruise with MSC to destinations like the Caribbean, South America, and across the grand Atlantic. Whether it's an adventurous cruise to the Red Sea, or a historically-focused voyage to Northern Europe, MSC can take you there in style. Designed by the award-winning global architecture firm Arquitectonica, the terminal is due to be completed by December 2023. Its main office is in Geneva, Switzerland and the cruise line has many more offices worldwide, including its North American marketing office in Fort Lauderdale. This young MSC fleet is modern and sophisticated, with a reputation for having some of the cleanest ships at sea. The luxurious surroundings of the Sky Lounge make it a fantastic meeting place.While you listen to live piano music, enjoy a drink after a long day exploring onshore.

Once on board an MSC Cruises ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet and a few other amenities — unless you've paid up for a more inclusive package. Say, for example, the total amount of prepaid onboard services that apply to all cabin occupants before the cruise is $600. If there are four cabin occupants, the spending for the points calculation of each member will be $150, which is equal to 100 points. You can also earn points with onboard spending and any bookings you made before embarkation. Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bills at bars for cruisers who do not have a drinks package. If you buy a drinks package, the gratuity charges for drinks is folded into the package price when you book it.

The fitness centers are well equipped with all the latest equipment and classes such as Pilates, Tae-boo, aerobics, and Latin dancing. • Our ships offer the possibility of combining 2 or 3 connecting cabins based on the ship class. Discover a place where you can savor exclusivity and privacy in a world of choice.

A journey with an MSC Cruise toward Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sir Bani Yas will immerse you in the region's mesmerizing blend of beautiful beaches, record-breaking attractions, and experiences like no other. Uncover the vibrant tapestry of Dubai's lifestyle, and immerse yourself in the world of luxury as you discover the city's opulent malls. Alternatively, soak in the city's vibrant nightlife scene and treat yourself to exquisite fine dining in one of Dubai's beautiful restaurants for a lavish experience. Since 2015, MSC Cruises has a new cruise wedding program available on Caribbean itineraries. In mid-January 2018, MSC announced a new partnership with China's largest online payment platform "Alipay". The deal offers mobile payments fleetwide - on all MSC vessels deployed in Asia.

In all staterooms are implemented RFID (radio-frequency identification) and NFC (near-field communication) access technologies. MSC partnered with the wedding-planning company "The Wedding Experience" and offers cruise wedding packages with prices starting from USD 1600 (onboard) and USD 2200 (ashore) weddings. MSC's basic wedding package includes a pre-cruise event manager, a ceremony coordinator, 1 bottle of Champagne, 1 cake for two, 1 bridal bouquet, 1-hour photo session. The building cost (per unit) is EUR 1,125 billion, the shipbuilder is STX France. In early-August 2018, MSC signed an agreement for EUR 1,5 billion (USD 1,74B) for financing both Seaside-EVO liners.

Escape to this Mediterranean city of Alicante, Spain with enticing sandy beaches and museums. Traditional cultures blend beautifully with modern advancements in Abu Dhabi, the stunning capital of the United Arab Emirates. A cruise to China with MSC Cruises will take you to some of the most historically and culturally important places in the world. Fresh spices to collect and sweet relaxation on the beaches of the gulf—this and much more when you cruise to the United Arab Emirates. Swaying palm trees, great beaches, and all the marvels of the Inhambane region can be found on a cruise to Africa.

Optional dining includes Lido buffet restaurant, sushi, and Italian eateries. Immerse yourself in white sand beaches, turquoise waters and Caribbean cuisine. Spend a full day, or two, on our exclusive private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. With the even pricier "Aurea" experience, you'll get complimentary access to the spa's thermal area, priority boarding and other perks.

• Large kids club featuring LEGO, a science lab and a small performance area. • Family group cluster cabins where up to three rooms can be joined so larger groups can stay together. In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the building of a new Cruise Terminal AAA at Port Miami.

Liberty Travel: Custom Vacation Packages and Travel Deals

Table Of Content

• Staying Updated on Industry Trends and Innovations
• Popular Cruises
• We didn’t find any agents in your area.

By consistently seeking knowledge and expertise, you can position yourself as a trusted and knowledgeable cruise travel agent. Your deep understanding of the industry will enable you to provide valuable insights and guide your clients towards unforgettable cruise experiences. By effectively managing clients and building strong customer relationships, you create a foundation of trust and loyalty in the cruise industry. Consistently providing personalized service, maintaining open communication, and demonstrating your dedication to their travel needs will ensure long-lasting relationships and a successful career as a cruise travel agent. By effectively utilizing technology and booking systems, you can streamline your operations, provide a seamless booking experience for your clients, and stay ahead in the fast-paced cruise industry. Embrace technology as a valuable tool to enhance your productivity, improve customer service, and ultimately elevate your business as a cruise travel agent.

Staying Updated on Industry Trends and Innovations

A cruise travel agent will guide you through choosing your cabin and dining times, deposits and final payment, and options for shore excursions and specialty dining. If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process. You'll have a lot less stress before and during your vacation if you book with an experienced agent. The cruise travel agent should have questions for you as well, to better understand your dream vacation desires. If you are calling a cruise agency for the first time, the agent should be interviewing you as much as you are interviewing him or her. The agent should be focused on helping you choose the cruise line, ship and cabin that is right for you.

Popular Cruises

Making a mistake in these categories can ruin your cruise experience, as there are such thing as "bad" cabins and dining times (think noisy or claustrophobic cabins, dinner at 8 p.m. with cranky children, etc.). With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help.

We didn’t find any agents in your area.

Be aware that not all agents work with all cruise lines; some represent only a few preferred suppliers or specialize in higher-end cruises. You will also want to ask the travel agent if they have a preferred relationship or negotiated agreement with any specific lines that could lead to special perks for you. Based on the voyage selected, you may also enjoy complimentary onboard events, voyage hosts, VIP shore events or other special amenities. CLIA Certifications require core curriculum training, cruise line product training, ship inspections and cruising experience. Attainment of each ascending level of Certification reflects a greater commitment on the part of the Certified Agent to acquire the expertise to better assist you in planning your next cruise. If you're used to booking travel independently, consider these reasons why you might want to make use of a travel agent to book your next holiday at sea.

Travel Agent Finder

Most cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, have some version of a "Find a Travel Agency" search tool on their homepage. In most cases, its located in one of the menus located near the bottom of the page. Margaritaville at Sea will take you from relaxation to revelry with your choice of stops anywhere in between. Delectable food, St. Somewhere Spa & Salon, live music and shows–from sunrise to sunset and every moment in between, there’s always something exciting happening. Easy to book and easy to plan, Margaritaville at Sea invites you to climb aboard for nonstop fun, where it’s always 5 o'clock at sea. Our cruise offers are an irresistible opportunity to get a great deal on your next Caribbean escape.

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The World Leader in World Cruising

They have done a great deal of research through familiarization trips and cruise line seminars, so you don't have to do the work yourself. Even better, agents often have access to special discounts or perks -- or know best where to find them -- and as the cruise lines pay their commissions, you don't pay more for their services and expertise. Understanding the multifaceted role of a cruise travel agent is essential for success in this career. By embracing these responsibilities and providing exceptional service, you can excel in assisting travelers to embark on unforgettable cruise journeys. If you're concerned that working with an agent will make your cruise more expensive, don't be.

You might, for instance, see a fare listed online without the port charges, taxes and fees, which you only see after you give your personal details. You will likely run into a lot of questions to which you have no ready answer. We are members of CLIA (Cruise Line International Association), NACOA (National Association of Cruise Oriented Agencies), and ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents). We are leaders in the luxury cruise business and have been since 1987. For your first cruise, you might need help in matching your lifestyle and budget with a cruise line and destination. Choosing a cruise is not the same as picking a hotel or flight, as there are many more options to consider.

You're Experienced

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Embrace the continuous pursuit of knowledge and stay attuned to the ever-evolving landscape of the cruise industry. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the journey of becoming a cruise travel agent. We will explore the skills, knowledge, and certifications necessary to succeed in this industry. We will also delve into the intricacies of the cruise booking process, customer relationship management, and the challenges and rewards of being a cruise travel agent. But being a cruise travel agent is not just about booking trips – it’s about building relationships and creating dream vacations. It’s about immersing yourself in the world of cruise travel and continuously expanding your knowledge to provide exceptional service to your clients.

Expedia’s cruise deals tend to come paired with other enticing offers, including steep discounts on pre-departure hotels when you book both your cruise and hotel through Expedia. There’s also a dedicated 800 number that lets you speak to Expedia’s cruise experts and, often but not always, a generous amount of onboard credit thrown in for good measure. On Expedia, it’s common to find bookable cruises for 70 percent off face value, with the ability to sort by price so the best cruise deals come up at the top of the list, saving you the scrolling. A sample search for a mid-June cruise to Alaska, for example, quickly came up with a seven-night itinerary starting at $389 per person—that’s less than $56 per person, per night for a mostly inclusive weeklong vacation. Expedia is an obvious first mention in a list of the best cruise booking sites, in part because it’s an absolute juggernaut (Expedia also owns Travelocity and Orbitz). Its cruise-booking interface is simple and straightforward, only requiring you to enter your preferred sailing destination and date range, as well as how many passengers you’ll be bringing along.

Each itinerary clearly lists what is and isn’t included in the fare; Wi-Fi, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and port taxes and fees are among the common exclusions. Sometimes the best cruise website is actually a cruise line’s own site—since technically, cruise booking websites aren’t allowed to undercut the prices that the cruise lines set. Look for travel agencies that are cruise-only or a home-based agent who specializes in cruises. If you are using a full-service travel agency, ask for the cruise desk. You aren't just booking general passage on a ship, either, as you will be asked to pick a specific cabin and when you prefer to dine.

By continually enhancing your customer service skills, you can differentiate yourself as a cruise travel agent who not only provides expert guidance but also delivers memorable experiences for clients. Exceptional customer service fosters client loyalty, positive word-of-mouth referrals, and ultimately, business growth in the cruise industry. Be genuine in your interactions, offer support to others, and consistently seek opportunities to connect and learn from industry professionals. By nurturing a strong network within the cruise industry, you can enhance your expertise, access valuable resources, and ultimately excel as a cruise travel agent.

The agent might also have first access to sale prices because the cruise lines notify their agent partners and loyalty club members first before they announce a sale to the public. When you book a cruise, you are making a vacation decision that goes way beyond a flight or hotel nights. Which ship you choose determines your dining and evening entertainment choices for the duration of your vacation. Which itinerary you choose impacts which destinations you'll visit and which shoreside activities will be available to you. It can be overwhelming to evaluate the options on your own if you've never cruised before. If you don't see a sign or advertisement, always ask -- the agent may have fabulous offers the cruise lines won't let him or her publicize.

However, when it comes to booking the cruise, we recommend you still contact a travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you learn a few tips and avoid any rookie mistakes. Question the agents on cruising trends or up-and-coming destinations, and ask them to explain the differences between cruise lines. Find out how many cruises they've taken that year and with which lines they've personally cruised. If the agent has rarely cruised, you might want to take your business elsewhere. In addition, you might want to look for an agent who is a cruise specialist -- either at a cruise-dedicated agency or within a larger general agency -- to get the best service.