ABSOLUTELY !
It’s not so much confusing for the agent. But in turn, presenting it to the Group Leader, it will be. And then for the Group Leader to relay it to their members is an even different story !
In general, folks naturally look online, such as Carnival’s website, and the lowest rates they see embeds in their mind. And then of course, Group Leaders or Groups are hoping for an even lower rate. Well, in some cases, especially with Carnival, the group rate is higher !
Depending on how early you book, these lower available rates are Carnival’s Early Saver Rates. And yes, they can be lower than group rates. So when presenting group rates to your members, after they have seen the Early Saver Rates online, it makes it difficult to explain.
Groups can have the Early Saver Rate too ! However, you have to decide upfront if you want to include amenities. Amenities are not complimentary with Early Saver Rates; it may require an additional cost. Then you have to explain this to the group. AND … You want to be sure you have at least 5 cabins of 2 people each, before you make this decision, or the choice to include amenities could hurt you !
Confused yet ?
Then Carnival has other rate options, such as Military, Senior or Resident Rates. These rates are not usually lower than Carnival Early Saver Rates. AND they are not offered on every sailing.
However, if this is the option you choose, again, you may have to pay an extra cost to have the amenities the group has.
It’s a lot to digest ! So though Carnival usually offers some of the lowest rates in the cruise industry, it’s considerably complicated with groups.
If your members do not look online at rates, the agent and the Group Leader have a better chance at making a decision for the group. And usually by the time you book, the Group Leader has absorbed it all.
All-N-All, only buy a group through an agent.
And beware of an agent who only has it's members pay a $25 deposit versus the full deposit amount (unless Carnival is running a Sale, like the one that just went off). An agent who allows a booking without full deposit is not doing the Group Leader nor it’s group a favor. Matter of fact, the whole group can be lost !
It’s a lot to know. Very complicated. I suggest you book with an agent who KNOWS THE RULES ! To protect you as the Group Leader and your members !
Want less confusion for your group ... Choose another cruise line !
Even individuals wanting to book a Carnival cruise, should never buy online. You can loose all your money if it's an Early Saver Rate ! Pick up the phone and call an agent. Don’t call direct to Carnival … CALL AN AGENT ! There’s more to it than the consumer understands !
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