Is Tahiti on your bucket list ? It is for most beach lovers ! For limited space & dates, here’s an exciting VALUE package !

Wikipedia …  “Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia (southern Pacific Ocean). It is the cultural centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous with surrounding coral reefs.   The capital, Papeete, is located on the northwest coast with the only international airport in the region.   November to April is the wet season, the wettest month of which is January with 13.2 in of rain in Papeetē.  August is the driest with 1.9 in.  The average temperature ranges between 70 °F and 88 °F with little seasonal variation.”

What is so great about Tahiti and its islands?
TravelTahiti expresses: for starters, these are truly THE most beautiful tropical islands in the world, thanks to their dramatic geography, the lush tropical vegetation and their unique multicolored crystal lagoons. Then there are the flowers, lots of them, and all the lovely people and their culture.

As for many beach lovers, Tahiti often ranks close to the top of many bucket list !  Along with cultural enthusiast !  If folks hurry, they can now take advantage of an exciting package, with limited dates & space !  Including r/t airfare from Los Angeles, 2N pre-hotel and 7 night cruise.  Call today (434/800) 237-3832 and provide your “code” Paul Gauguin TBL & the date.

Travel Pulse reminds its readers that this package is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a longer stay in Tahiti at a tremendous value. It is available at these select departure dates only—and only while space lasts ! 

You’ll fly overnight to Papeete and check into your deluxe room immediately, with no waiting. Then, enjoy two additional nights in a lagoon-view room at the resort with daily breakfast. Or, for the ultimate Tahiti experience, upgrade to an overwater lagoon bungalow, available for an additional $480 per person. (Your hotel:  http://www.pgcruises.com/extend/tahiti).

In addition to your luxury hotel stay at Papeete, Tahiti, you’ll sail roundtrip, visiting such scenic islands as Bora Bora—where you’ll enjoy access to our private white-sand beach—and Moorea. You’ll also spend a day on Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private islet off the coast of Taha’a.

February 19, 2014 with rates from $5,095

March 26; April 23, 2014 with rates from $5,195

October 1;  November 12, 2014 from only $5,295

December 10, 2014, with rates from $4,295

Rates are per person double occupancy and include roundtrip airfare between Los Angeles and Papeete; 2 nights’ accommodations, a day room, and daily breakfast at InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa; transfers; and a 7-night cruise aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin. Port, security, and handling fees are additional. Single rates are available upon request.

Do the cruise lines need to start having folks tip the staff daily ? Or maybe include tips in the price ? All "servicie providing" folks need our support. They work without a promised dime !

This article is not just about "service providing folks" on ships, but all folks in the "service industry".  

Though gratuities are optional whether you dine on a cruise ship or dine in a restaurant, most folks choose to leave tips (unless they’ve had truly bad service).  What about the folks who don't, even after receiving good service ?

Besides the pocketbook, what about these "service providing" folks feelings ?  A person not receiving a tip can only think they did a bad job, right ?  Though folks need and want money (tips) to survive like the rest of us, just them thinking that maybe they didn't provide good service, has to leave them feeling devastating !

Maybe the “lump sum” of the tips onboard a cruise ship is too much for folks to fathom !  Then I suggest to these folks, tip as you go.  This also means your cabin steward and the folks that wait on you up at the Lido (café).

I’ve heard folks express, "Well no one waiting on me in the Lido (café)".  Oh yes they did ! Whether it’s the person who served your plate, the person who cut you a piece of desert, or the person keeping the drink station or a table for you clean.  So please don’t say that !

Did you know the cruise lines only pay these folks $75 A MONTH (heard this long ago).  The rest is up to what the cruisers give !  I’m not suggesting you have to tip over the suggest amount !  But if folks don’t opt to pay the suggested amount, the cruise lines may have to choose to increase the cost of cruising.   Don't these folks too, deserve to feed their family back home ?  

It’s been expressed to me, that often, folks who have never worked for tips or who don’t work on commission only basis, do not realize what it’s like for folks who do.  If 10 folks sit at your table to eat/drink and do not tip or call you, how will you fee your family tonight ?  Or you work on commission only, and folks call you for your expertise, only to buy from someone they don't know !  

Stop and think about it.  These service industry people, whether on a cruise ship, or right here at home, wait on you without every knowing if you are going to leave that tip or buy that product !  These folks are GIVING TO YOU unconditionally !  But unconditionally shouldn't mean to anyone, the act of taking advantage of someone !

You've heard, "time is money" ?  Then using someone's time is worth a little monetary value.  Whether it's a tipping for them waiting on you or reaching to someone who survives on commission, for their expertise advice !  Call it what you may, but not showing gratitude is a form o stealing !  I say, if you don't want to tip, turn to a "Fast Food" joint, where they at least make minimum wage.  And if you're not going to buy your product from an expert, then buy online (and I'm anti online because that takes money from your city/your own pocket) !
 

I have been in restaurants or in stores and watched consumer/customers treat service folks awful !  Acting like it’s the service persons job to bend over backwards !  Well, guess what … You’ve not given them a dime, so how can any of us “expect so much” ?  I know I’ve personally chosen to take a better look at how I think about this.

Only once, I had a customer tell me, “I’m paying you…”.  Whoah ... I guess this person forgot my services are complimentary.  My customers do not pay anything to me, for servicing and managing their cruise.  Unlike most waiter or waitress positions, I’m actually fortunate, if I run across an un-greatful client/caller, I can say “Bye” !

Some folks must truly forget that many services out there are provided for folks services without a cost !  Look at banking and our tellers.  Yes, the teller is paid, but not the bank for providing the service.  Most all "Customer Service" is provided complimentary.  And like in our business, we don't charge an extra dime for access to our Customer Service, over the cost of the product !

The thought for the day is, remember our "service industry folks" !  Put on that happy smile and be overly appreciative … Upfront … FIRST … Even before them !  Continue to think of it as, "they are doing YOU a favor", whether it's providing a service or expertise ! Remember, you may need them again one day in the future and  why not have them remember the "good in you" !

 

 

 

At least for now, Carnival leaves Baltimore in November 2014. What does this mean to you ?

 

First we lose our one and only ship in Norfolk, which had been coming through each May and October.  Now we lose a ship sailing out of Baltimore.

What does this mean to you ?  To our economy ?  And why are the ships leaving/moving ?

Many folks, especially first time cruisers, love the idea of sailing from “close to home”.  It’s enticing to be able to jump in your car or onto Amtrak and quickly get to your exotic vacation, without having to begin in Fla. 

My “high” suggestion, is to take advantage in 2014, of Carnival still being in Baltimore !  Hopefully it will entice Carnival to come back in the near future.  #1, because it’s her last year, and #2, all the money in brings to the East Coast.

Like WBALTV said in their news report, “Officials said losing the Pride means losing the 200 jobs and the $45 million economic impact it generates each year”.  So many folks do not actually realize the money and jobs these ships bring to our region !  Once gone, many folks will be impacted with the change.

Many cruisers wondering why they are pulling out ?  The WBALTV news report states, “Carnival said the redeployment is all about more choices for travelers, but the port of Baltimore said it's all about money and saving tens of millions of dollars in fuel costs.  Also in a year-and-a-half, new EPA rules kick in on air pollution limits for cruise ships. When they're within 200 miles of the U.S. coast, they'll be required to burn a much cleaner, but also much more expensive, fuel”.

Higher fuel cost would mean more cost to the cruisers, so I can certainly see Carnival’s reasoning.  Higher cost doesn’t mean more money in Carnival’s pocket, it just means more money out of your pocket.  However, also, since 7 night cruises from the East Coast, can basically only mean ships can get as far as the Bahamas, it can be cold in the winter.  So it’s a great reason for the ship to move for the winter months.  But again, it means further travel for the cruiser !

I’ve selected a couple dates myself for my clients and their referrals (I just returned from the Carnival Pride; she exceeded my expectations). Along with Motorcoach transportation from Lynchburg (16 couples must travel; lower rate if 25 couples travel).  Travel the day prior, so no hotel needed.  If a person prefers to drive or take Amtrak, the cost for the Motorcoach will be removed.  Also includes $50 per cabin onboard credit when you refer a friend to join !  Prices below are inside/oceanview/balcony/suites.  If you see “call” it means it’s either sold out or I can’t reserve that space without the customers deposit.

March 30 to Apr 6  – 7N

Carn Pride, R/T Baltimore to Bahamas/Grand Turks
From $798(4B)/call/$988(8B)/call

May 25 to June 1 – 7N - Memorial Day Cruise

Carn Pride, R/T Baltimore to Port Canaveral/Bahamas
From $771(4B)/call/$911(8B)/call

 

A 3^rd change we will see, is with the supply and demand for cruises in Baltimore.  With Royal Caribbean being the only ship left, cruisers can expect higher cost.  So my next suggestion is, get your November 2014 – April 2015 cruises booked now, while rates are still looking good !  Before the price climb.  And FYI, Royal Caribbean is only booked in Baltimore till April 2015.  Will she leaving too ? 

Again, I’ve currently reserved 3 dates after Nov 2014.  Again, it includes the cost of Motorcoach transportation, traveling up the day of the cruise (no hotel needed).  As we get closer, these rates will climb.  If not, I will be watching them !

Dec 9 to 19 – 10N

RCI Granduer, R/T Baltimore to San Juan, St Thomas, St Martin – “only 4 dates for this itinerary, all year”
From $ 764(N)/$844(H)/$1454(D2)/call
 
Dec 19 to 27 – 8N – Christmas
RCI Grandeur, R/T Baltimore to Port Canaveral/Bahamas/Key West – “only 7 dates for this itinerary, all year”
From $949(N)/$1094(H)/$1634(D2)/call

Dec 27 to Jan 6, 2015 – 10N – New Years – some great rates here for NY’s !

RCI Grandeur, R/T Baltimore to West Caribbean/Labadee - – “only 5 dates  for this itinerary, all year”
From $1009(N)/$1144(H)/$1834/call

 

 

You can now see the reasoning being my madness of holding this space in Baltimore !  YOU DESERVE TO CRUISE FROM CLOSE TO HOME ! 
FYI, I only have 16 cabins on each sail date; with only 4 in each category of pricing above.  It’s first come first serve.  I’m hoping by reserving this space and providing motorcoach, that more folks will choose to take advantage of our Baltimore cruises.

(434/800) 237-3832

Press 61 if you’re ready to book.
Press 62 if you have questions, leave message.
Vivian M Webb, MCC  - Cruises Inc

 

 

USA Today Travel, reminds cruisers of all the opportunities for a getaway weekend

Besides the need for a little fun for the weekend, another great reason to plan a weekend getaway can be for "trying a particular cruise line on"!  Select cruise lines, that use to only offer 7 nights or longer, now offer shorter cruises, select times of the year.  Such as Princess, Celebrity, and even Royal Caribbean's larger ships.

Though my preference is not less than a 7 night, if I lived in an area that offered shorter cruises, such as Florida, I don't know that I could pass a weekend without wanting to climb onboard ! 


USA Today Travel shares other reasons, as well as, list cruise lines and provide pictures here.
http://www.usatoday.com/experience/cruise/article/best-cruises-for-a-weekend-getaway/3173241/

Why Cruise Bermuda ? Pictures Say more than a 1000 words

Bermuda pictures taken by myself and my roommate, Jann, while on the Norwegian Breakaway last week !  Pictures say more than 1000 words !




Go here:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1612433519

Norwegian Breakaway. Why make this your next cruise.

I just returned from our annual Cruise Conference aboard the Norwegian Breakaway.




Go here.  Includes pictures and videos too.

http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1612433407

Booking University at Sea is unfortunately no longer available through my office

Giving you, my clients, heads up, that I will no longer be providing cruises for folks who are looking for CEU credits through the programs offered through University at Sea.  Though my clients have said the programs have been great, University at Sea, either has not followed through with promises they made to me, or conveniently changed their promise, “after” I made customer bookings.  This is “not” how I’ve been accustom to business relationship, during my 22 years in this industry !

Please know, I spent 6+ months, by way of contacting the owner, to resolve such issues, in order to keep the option of you booking through me and our office/company standing behind your booking.  The last time, not even a response.  Sorry cruisers !

Bermuda bound on Norwegian Breakaway September 29, 2013 for Cruises Inc conference. Follow me.

I'm headed to Bermuda next week on the Norwegian Breakaway !  It's Cruises Inc's National Conference.  All the main people from the cruise lines will be there.  Also, Land Tour Operators !  And Travel Writers, whom you may find writing about our conference on their blogs.

Here, follow my already pre-planned "full" schedule.  It's fully packed.  I've included Live webcams, and travel tips.


http://view.email.nlg.com/?j=fe631176766304797517&m=fe5b1570776d0378761d&ls=fdf110757061007b77167870&jb=ffcf14&r=0

Singles, what could be better than cruising for 1/2 price on Carnival ?

If you are single, now is the time to take advantage of some great savings for singles !
Right now ... In 2013 !

Folks who have cruised single, know, that most cruise lines require you to basically pay double.  Unlike hotels who tell you the cost for the whole room, the cruise lines tell you the cost, based on 2 people in the room each paying 1/2 of the room.  Therefore, singles pay both 1/2's !

Offers for singles are few and far between !
Usually, the best rates to find, cruising as a single, is either:
1) Booking a room in a Cat 1A on Carnival (if they have any left or if the ship has) so you only pay 1 and 1/2 and not double.
2) Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, still do "not" make singles pay the port charges twice.  This is not the government fees.  These are taxes "inside" of rates you see online.  Example, for a 7 night cruise, inside the rate you see, there's a $159-$175 tax.  So this portion, on these 2 cruise lines, you do not have to pay this a 2nd time, when you are on a single.

More often I see "single offers" on either, land tour packages and even River Cruises.

Below are Carnival's 2013 dates.  There are no dates for 2014.  Government fees are still additional.
And ... They are only selling so many cabins on each date, so once they are sold, the sailing will no longer be available.  So Hurry !

Here, use my "cheat sheets" and see itinerary, etc.  www.BestCruiseSavings.com .  Put in date, Carnival, and ship name & hit search.  Other offers may be available to bring rates even further down !


Carnival Imagination 3 MIA 11/1/2013 Nassau $169 $179
Carnival Imagination 3 MIA 11/15/2013 Nassau $169 $179
Carnival Imagination 3 MIA 11/29/2013 Nassau $199 $219
Carnival Inspiration 3 LAX 9/20/2013 Ensenada $339 $369
Carnival Inspiration 3 LAX 10/4/2013 Ensenada $299 $309
Carnival Inspiration 3 LAX 10/11/2013 Ensenada $299 $319
Carnival Inspiration 3 LAX 10/18/2013 Ensenada $309 $329
Carnival Inspiration 3 LAX 10/25/2013 Ensenada $319 $339
Carnival Inspiration 3 LAX 11/29/2013 Ensenada $319 $339
Carnival Sensation 3 MCO 10/10/2013 Nassau $189 $199
Carnival Sensation 3 MCO 10/31/2013 Nassau $179 $189
Carnival Sensation 3 MCO 12/12/2013 Nassau $179 $199
Carnival Ecstasy 4 MCO 10/3/2013 Bahamas $249 $279
Carnival Ecstasy 4 MCO 10/31/2013 Bahamas $209 $229
Carnival Ecstasy 4 MCO 11/14/2013 Bahamas $179 $209
Carnival Ecstasy 4 MCO 12/12/2013 Bahamas $189 $209
Carnival Elation 4 MSY 11/21/2013 Cozumel $259 $289
Carnival Fascination 4 JAX 11/21/2013 Bahamas $219 $219
Carnival Fascination 4 JAX 12/5/2013 Bahamas $219 $229
Carnival Inspiration 4 LAX 10/7/2013 Catalina/Ensenada $279 $309
Carnival Inspiration 4 LAX 10/14/2013 Catalina/Ensenada $279 $309
Carnival Inspiration 4 LAX 10/28/2013 Catalina/Ensenada $269 $309
Carnival Inspiration 4 LAX 11/18/2013 Catalina/Ensenada $279 $309
Carnival Inspiration 4 LAX 12/9/2013 Catalina/Ensenada $269 $289
Carnival Miracle 4 LAX 10/2/2013 Catalina/Ensenada $319 $399
Carnival Paradise 4 TPA 10/24/2013 Cozumel $239 $259
Carnival Paradise 4 TPA 11/21/2013 Cozumel $209 $229
Carnival Sensation 4 MCO 11/10/2013 Bahamas $169 $179
Carnival Sensation 4 MCO 11/17/2013 Bahamas $169 $179
Carnival Sensation 4 MCO 12/8/2013 Bahamas $169 $179
Carnival Triumph 4 GAL 10/31/2013 Cozumel $269 $309
Carnival Ecstasy 5 MCO 10/21/2013 Bahamas $209 $229
Carnival Ecstasy 5 MCO 10/26/2013 Bahamas $209 $229
Carnival Ecstasy 5 MCO 11/4/2013 Bahamas $209 $239
Carnival Ecstasy 5 MCO 11/9/2013 Bahamas $209 $229
Carnival Ecstasy 5 MCO 11/18/2013 Bahamas $199 $219
Carnival Elation 5 MSY 10/14/2013 Western Caribbean $259 $279
Carnival Elation 5 MSY 11/11/2013 Western Caribbean $239 $249
Carnival Elation 5 MSY 11/30/2013 Western Caribbean $249 $269
Carnival Fantasy 5 CHS 11/14/2013 Bahamas $249 $299
Carnival Freedom 5 FLL 12/9/2013 Western Caribbean $229 $239
Carnival Fascination 5 JAX 10/14/2013 Bahamas $239 $259
Carnival Fascination 5 JAX 10/19/2013 Bahamas $229 $239
Carnival Fascination 5 JAX 11/25/2013 Bahamas $299 $349
Carnival Fascination 5 JAX 11/30/2013 Bahamas $199 219
Carnival Legend 5 TPA 10/21/2013 Western Caribbean $259 $329
Carnival Paradise 5 TPA 11/25/2013 Western Caribbean $319 $359
Carnival Paradise 5 TPA 11/30/2013 Western Caribbean $219 $249
Carnival Paradise 5 TPA 12/9/2013 Western Caribbean $219 $239
Canival Victory 5 MIA 11/25/2013 Exotic E Caribbean $289 $349
Carnival Miracle 6 LAX 10/13/2013 Mexican Riviera $669 $699
Carnival Miracle 6 LAX 12/1/2013 Mexican Riviera $509 $589
Carnival Fantasy 7 CHS 11/2/2013 Exotic E Caribbean $399 $459
Carnival Valor 7 SJU 12/8/2013 Southern Caribbean $429 $449
Carnival Valor 7 SJU 12/15/2013 Southern Caribbean $469 $499

 


 

Are consumers aware of the current “competitive war” among the cruise lines for 2014. January Vacation Planners may just miss the boat on 2014 early bird opporunities

It’s natural for folks to fall into the same routine in much of everything we do.  Whether it’s, eating at the same restaurant each day or week, ordering the same meal, shopping at the same stores, etc. 

 

It’s the same with cruise buying.  Consumers tend to venture on the same cruise line each year, and even the same destination.

 

Though it’s easy to get comfortable in being drawn to the same product each vacation year, there’s much more available for cruisers to experience !  Whether it’s another cruise line or a different destination.

 

Why change something that’s not broken ?  But “what if”, there’s more value for your vacation dollar ?

 

Years back, when I first begin cruising in 1986, the local agency put me on the same ship, from cruise 2-8.  I would keep seeing other ships, as I sailed, such as Royal Caribbean. I just figured, since the agent never mentioned another, it must be out of my price range.  The cruise line I was cruising, no longer exists today.  Anyway, after that 8th cruise, I decided to come back and do my homework.  It was $100 per person difference for the whole week. Of course, that's when I decided to join Cruises Inc, so I could stay abreast of the cruise market, in the future. 

 

Value falls at different levels for everyone.  Whether it’s up front cost, over-all cost, complimentary/exclusive amenities, experience, culture, history, sites, adventure, culinary, meeting new people and making new friends, etc.

 

Though it’s always actually been there, right now, for 2014 sailings (and Holidays, 2013), many of the cruises lines and even River Cruises, are aggressively participation in what seems to be, a “competitive war”, in winning consumers business.  And though Internet advertising and marketing hoopla, have folks focusing more on, which Internet company “might” (don’t take that word lightly) have the better price, cruisers ought to be taking a closer look at the “product and perk” completion between the cruise lines !

 

 

 

Here’s a few opportunities. Note, many have around the corner deadlines !

 

Celebrity Cruise Line “Holiday” perks.  http://www.celebritycruises.com/genericHtmlTemplate.do?icid=hp_ab2_pckyrp_1308_spcl_timg_803744&pagename=pick_your_perk_holiday_promotion

 

Carnival Cruise Line & the “Holidays”.  http://www.carnival.com/bookingengine/sailingsearch/search2?dest=&bypass=t&rateCode=PD3&icid=CC_holiday-hmpg-b2_1627

 

Avalon Waterways, Europe 2014
http://www.avalonwaterways.com/Special-Offers/select-departures/

Carnival Group Leader 2014 offer.  Lower group rates & bonus on the 6th cabin.  Ends in two weeks !
 

Princess Cruises warm destination offer. 

http://www.princess.com/cruisedeals/endlesssummersale.jsp#.UjCODJ3D_IU

 

Princess 2014 in Alaska and Europe
http://www.princess.com/cruisedeals/threeforfree.jsp#.UjCOM53D_IV

 

Holland America destination offer.
http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/SpecialOffers.action?

 

Holland America, pick your perks offer.
http://www.hollandamerica.com/pageByName/Simple.action?requestPage=explore4

Celebrity Cruises 2014 Alaska, Drinks & Gratuities offer.
http://www.celebritycruises.com/genericHtmlTemplate.do?icid=hp_cr5_lskcrs_1308_dtak_lk_581021&pagename=cruisetours_offer

 

Celebrity Cruises, pick your own perks offer.
http://www.celebritycruises.com/genericHtmlTemplate.do?icid=spe_cr1_pckyrp_1308_spcl_lk_759694&pagename=pick_your_perk_promotion

 

Royal Caribbean, 2014 Europe, complimentary Kids.
http://www.royalcaribbean.com/contentWithGallery.do?icid=kdstrf_tctclp_kds_hm_cntntr_1463&pagename=kids_tour_free_august_2013

 

Royal Caribbean, 2014 Europe offer.
http://www.royalcaribbean.com/contentWithGallery.do?icid=xtcbmr_tctclp_xtc_hm_cntntr_1250&pagename=europe_promo_august_2013

Royal Caribbean Exclusives (some ending tomorrow) - Once on page, scroll down to Royal Caribbean.
http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=536918334

 

Regency Seven Seas Cruise Line, a more inclusive style cruising.
http://www.rssc.com/default.aspx?s=msn&d=brand-regent&s_kwcid=TC-1026979-8078631524-be-933100935

 

 

 

Though it was back in 2010, when Travel Weekly first provided their new Official Cruise Guide www.CruiseLine4Me.com.

for consumers, it provided a nice little summary and even ranked the cruise lines by type.  For your enjoyment, go here: 

 

 

 

 

 

2014 is already promising to be a bigger cruising year than 2013.  Bookings are already bigger than the # of folks who cruised in 2013.  This years “January Vacation Planners” may just miss the boat on 2014 "early bird" of opportunities !

 

Royal Caribbean announces today, no more smoking on balconies, beginning January 1, 2014

Royal Caribbean's announcement below.
http://loyaltoyoualways.com/smoking-policy/

About a month ago, other cruise lines joined this pool.  See here.
http://thecruzladyblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/select-cruise-lines-no-more-smoking-on.html


Again, in one way I agree, because I believe this can begin more ship fires.  On the other hand, it's outside !  But again, restaurants, hotels, and now many cruise ships are banding, as long as you are on their property !

This new ruling is great for non-smokers !  Not so sure how happy smokers will be in continuing to buy a balcony cabin !  Though I'm not anti-this rule, as a smoker, I know I wouldn't spend my money on a balcony any longer.  And my only reason is because I might forget and go outside and smoke !

My next cruise is a Norwegian.
And my next is a Carnival.
But my 3rd is a Royal Caribbean, but it's in December 2013.

Carnival defines "small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages" that can be brought onboard

I'm glad to see it in writing on Carnival's site, the definition of "small quantity".  I have actually seen folks coming onboard with a dolly of drinks.  You can't blame them when these words aren't defined.

"On embarkation day, each guest may bring a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages on board and only in their carry-on luggage. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 bottles and/or cans, 20 ounces each or less."

Reminding cruisers which destination each Fall provides best cruising savings. 2013 has a few more cabins left. Cruisers getting a jump on Fall of 2014

Each year, many folks take advantage of off season savings !  There are many cruisers who are aware of these savings and automatically plan EARLY to sail each year, during this season. 

 

It's true.  Planning EARLY, for this low season, saves folks money each year !  Planning EARLY means booking before others catch on to the lower rates !  Early planners are already beginning to book for Fall of 2014 !

 

And this year, with many more savings, folks have chosen to book their 3rd & 4th cruise in 2013.  Of course, if cruisers don't hurry, all the great last minute deals for 2013, will be gone. 

 

Often, folks who aren't aware of when to buy wait too long !  And rates have begun moving back up !  The more who buy, it drives rates UP !  Truthfully, the best time to buy is a year or more out ... When rates are at it's lowest.  You get the better cabins and then watch the rates of your cruise, up till final payment, because rates could go down more. 

 

Though the savings this Fall , on select sailings have provided some all time lows, 30-60 days from sailing, the norm in finding last minute pricing is often, at it's lowest, by  months prior to sailing.  Last minute to the cruise lines is not usually  planned this late in the year !  It could be contributed to last minute cancellations !  If so, it's brought great savings for many this Fall.

 

In The Wall Street Journal this week, Cruise Critic reminds cruisers, “when to cruise in the fall” for your biggest yearly savings ! 

 

“Top cruise destinations to find off-season deals”:

Caribbean through early January (excluding holiday weeks).

Europe's Rivers, October through December. Enjoy the castles, cathedrals and quaint shops without the summer crowds. Even special Christmas market shopping cruises.

Hawaii through mid-December.  Less crowds and good deals, especially between Thanksgiving and Christmas vacation.

Mediterranean, October thru April.  More competitive fares and fewer crowds in port. Flights to Europe are generally lower around this time as well. Look for cruises in the warmer regions of the Mediterranean, such as Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands.

 

 

If you want 2013 savings for 2013 sailings ... Hurry ! 

 

A cruise I personally booked in December, just 6 weeks ago, has already gone up $ 300 pp and all the ocean view, balconies, and suites are now gone !

 

There are cruisers who treat the goal of cruise saving like folks who clip coupons !  These folks know when to buy !  You can learn too ! 

 

First, find the cruise you want ... Then, based on when you can travel, check every date available. 

 

Select cruise lines, no more smoking on balcony cabins. Will this determine the cruise line you venture on next

New announcement September 5, 2013, from Royal Caribbean.  No more smoking on balconies, beginning January 1, 2014.
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TravelMole announced today, August 16 2013:
 
Disney Cruise Line, Cunard and P&O all announced this week that they will no longer be permitting smoking on private balconies on their ships.

Disney said it will charge a $250 cleaning fee if guests are caught breaking the rule.



It was only a matter of  time, other cruises lines would follow other cruise line rules.  Celebrity, Princess, Oceania and Crystal already ban smoking on balconies.

Smoking on a balcony isn't actually the safest place to smoke (hotel or ship) !  I can promise you, I'm not anti-smoking; I'm a smoker.  But the wind can blow ashes, especially when the ship is moving !  And butt's easily get blown away !

Though this ruling was surely done for safety issues, many cruiser have been buying balconies in order to smoke.  Sales rose in balconies, when the cruise lines banned smoking in non-balcony rooms.

I admit, as a smoker, this will deter me from buying a balcony for awhile.  Until it becomes a normal practice, of not smoking on the deck, I know I would be too temped to go out on the balcony to grab a quick one, during the night, etc !

Please know, my choice is nothing against the cruise lines or balcony cabins.  Matter of fact, I am the first to commend the cruise line in taking this step to better protect us !

Besides, balconies are truly a wonderful way to cruise.  And usually, once a person "goes balcony", they never go back !

Hopefully, if TravelMole's statistics are correct, and only 1 out of 4 cruisers are smokers, this leaves many non-smoking cruises to now enjoy their balcony smoke free !  And if only one smoker in a family, the non-smoker will remind them "why they really love balconies" !

Otherwise smokers ... Carnival and Norwegian still allows it.   Royal Caribbean is no longer in this pool of ships !






 

Carnival Cruise Line is leaving Norfolk after October 2013

Though this information was relayed awhile back, just wanted to remind folks, this is the last year for Carnival to sail out of Norfolk.  No better time than now, with all the great savings, to sail, one last time out of Norfolk !  Say your goodbyes formally, while sailing !

I have sailed from Norfolk several times.  The convenience to where I live, in Lynchburg, VA, made Norfolk an easy port to get to and sail from.  Not to mentioned the income made in VA when this ship sailed from Norfolk !  She will truly be missed by many in many ways besides cruising !

This article came out from Travel Weekly in June.

http://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Carnival-to-leave-Norfolk-in-2014/

Which Alaska Land/Cruise Package ? See sample 2014 comparisons and an August 2014 customized package. Or wait & buy what other folks don’t want.

 

 

 

Which Alaska Land/Cruise Tour Package ?  See sample 2014 comparisons and an August 2014 customized package.  Or wait & buy what other folks don’t want.     By Vivian M Webb, MCC, CPLC

 

Go here and view article on my Alaska Blog.

http://ilovealaskablog.blogspot.com/2013/08/which-alaska-package-see-sample-2014.html

 

 

 

Why many cruisers are switching to Regent Seven Seas Cruise Line. Could it leave you feeling less nickeled and dimed.

 

 

 

 

Why many cruisers are switching to Regent Seven Seas Cruise Line.  Could it feel you leaving less nickeled and dimed.  Using my website allows for links to valuable info with Regent Seven Seas and a comparison chart you'll want to see.  Written by Vivian M Webb, MCC, CPLC 

 

http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1612408360


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Mariner 09/06/2014 7 Mediterranean           
Voyager 09/08/2014 10 Europe                    
Navigator 08/06/2014 7 Alaska                    
Voyager 02/01/2014 18 Pacific/Sydney/Auckland   
Navigator 07/30/2014 7 Alaska                  $100 Onboard Credit
Navigator 06/04/2014 7 Alaska                  $150 Onboard Credit
Navigator 06/04/2014 7 Alaska                    
Mariner 12/07/2014 11 Pacific/Sydney/Auckland   $400 Onboard Credit
Navigator 01/04/2014 10 Caribbean-Western       $400 Onboard Credit
Voyager 05/18/2014 15 Europe                    $400 Onboard Credit
Mariner 06/15/2014 7 Mediterranean - Western   
Mariner 08/20/2014 7 Europe                    
Voyager 02/01/2014 18 Pacific/Sydney/Auckland   $500 Onboard Credit
Mariner 04/07/2014 10 Europe                    
Navigator 11/13/2014 10 Caribbean-Eastern         
Mariner 11/19/2014 18 Hawaii/Tahiti             $500 Onboard Credit
Voyager 03/21/2014 18 Orient/Asia/Africa/Egypt  $500 Onboard Credit
Navigator 03/22/2014 10 Caribbean-Eastern       $400 Onboard Credit
Voyager 03/06/2014 15 Orient/Asia/Africa/Egypt  
Navigator 07/30/2014 7 Alaska                    
Navigator 04/01/2014 10 Caribbean-Extended      $400 Onboard Credit
Mariner 07/29/2014 10 Europe                    
Mariner 10/03/2014 10 Europe                    
Mariner 10/03/2014 10 Europe                    $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 11/03/2014 16 Transcanal/Panama Canal   
Mariner 03/10/2014 18 South America             $500 Onboard Credit
Navigator 06/25/2014 7 Alaska                    
Navigator 02/03/2014 10 Caribbean-Western        
Navigator 02/13/2014 10 Caribbean-Western       $400 Onboard Credit
Voyager 02/01/2014 18 Pacific/Sydney/Auckland   $250 Onboard Credit
Navigator 04/21/2014 18 Transcanal/Panama Canal   
Voyager 06/14/2014 7 Europe                     
Navigator 11/13/2014 10 Caribbean-Eastern       $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 08/08/2014 12 Europe                    
Voyager 01/07/2014 10 Pacific/Sydney/Auckland   $400 Onboard Credit
Mariner 11/03/2014 16 Transcanal/Panama Canal   $250 Onboard Credit
Voyager 03/06/2014 15 Orient/Asia/Africa/Egypt  $200 Onboard Credit
Navigator 04/21/2014 18 Transcanal/Panama Canal $250 Onboard Credit
Mariner 02/08/2014 20 South America             $500 Onboard Credit
Mariner 02/28/2014 10 South America             
Mariner 06/29/2014 10 Mediterranean             
Mariner 09/23/2014 10 Europe                    $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 04/17/2014 10 Europe                    
Mariner 12/07/2014 11 Pacific/Sydney/Auckland   
Navigator 11/06/2014 7 Caribbean-Western         
Voyager 07/26/2014 10 Europe                    
Navigator 02/23/2014 7 Caribbean-Western       $100 Onboard Credit
Navigator 03/12/2014 10 Caribbean-Western       $200 Onboard Credit
Navigator 03/12/2014 10 Caribbean-Western         
Voyager 06/14/2014 7 Europe                    $150 Onboard Credit
Voyager 08/15/2014 12 Europe                    
Mariner 11/19/2014 18 Hawaii/Tahiti             
Mariner 01/25/2014 14 South America             $400 Onboard Credit
Voyager 10/21/2014 7 Mediterranean             
Voyager 06/02/2014 12 Europe                    
Navigator 07/02/2014 7 Alaska                    
Navigator 02/23/2014 7 Caribbean-Western         
Mariner 05/19/2014 10 Mediterranean             
Navigator 02/03/2014 10 Caribbean-Western       $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 02/28/2014 10 South America             $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 06/29/2014 10 Mediterranean             $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 04/17/2014 10 Europe                    $200 Onboard Credit
Mariner 08/08/2014 12 Europe                    $200 Onboard Credit