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.
-----------------------

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


Cruises Inc Exclusive dates

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 

How tourist friendly is Honolulu, Hawaii ? By land or ship ? How much time do you need in Honolulu ?

How tourist friendly is Honolulu, Hawaii ?  By land or ship ?  How much time do you need in Honolulu ?

By Vivian M Webb, MCC, CPLC
Go here:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/cruise_articles/CMSStandardPage.html?edOid=1612408316

What does Best Price Guarantee mean in the cruise World ? Few cruise industry secrets

On many Internet sites, one may find the words ... “Best Price Guarantee”.

What do most folks think this means ?

 

I asked 5 people I knew, who had never taken a cruise what they thought it meant.

And I asked 5 people, who had cruised before, the same question.

I also asked, in seeing such words, to you believe these words to be a true statement.

 

Almost all of them told me, they thought it meant, this Internet Company had better rates than anyone else out there.  And they expressed, they believe it to be true, because it says so !

 

It’s understandable that Internet media persuasion, just like TV, have led folks into believing this !

Power of Persuasion is the key to finalizing most sales !

 

Though the topic today is not about scams, Dayton Daily News reported last year, that $10 billion lost per year in travel scams ! 

This alone should make folks, not only more fearful in buying on the net, but realizing that you CAN NOT take everything you see on the Internet, as truth or gospel !

 

That’s why, such as the industry of travel, there are EXPERTS IN THE FIELD that you want to turn to ! Listen to them; ask them; don’t rely on anyone else’s word !  Just because they're on the Internet, does not an expert make !  Are you, or your friends and co-workers, experts at every topic that's brought up ?  Then neither should one rely on every word of the Internet !

The title of “Expert” comes with many years of experience and schooling in this industry (like any degree out there).  AND … It also has to do with that agency’s personal level connection with the major cruise lines.  Be careful !  For your benefit, of your money and your vacation, choose only to get your guidance from the experts. 

 

Now back to … What is the definition of BEST PRICE GUARANTEE ?

Best Price Guarantee actually means … There are no lower rates out there.  These words DO NOT mean that the rates are you seeing are lower than anywhere else !   It only means, you will NOT find a lower rate elsewhere.  That's it !

It’s saying … STOP HERE … There’s nothing better elsewhere … so BUY HERE !  Don’t waste any more of your valuable time.  If you want the cruise, BUY IT HERE … BUY IT NOW !

Carnival themselves, are a prime example and proof of what these words mean.  These words are specifically seen on Carnival’s website.  And what they are telling the consumer is  … You will not find a lower rate elsewhere >>> But it DOES NOT mean their rates are lower than anyone else.

Industry Secret:  The cruise lines CAN NOT give you a lower rate by calling them and buying from them directly.  Not even past passengers.  It’s UNETHICAL in the travel World.  The cruise lines have this agreement with the agent community.  The cruise lines, not only NEED THE AGENTS for filling their ships, the cruise lines commend agents for their expertise (for their experience and schooling) !

 

Please note, I am NOT saying that lower rates do not exist (except for Carnival).  I'm only saying that the words Best Price Guarantee DOES NOT MEAN "lower rates found here or we have better rates".

 

 

More well kept industry secrets  ...

·        The cruise lines do have lower rates, but they give these lower rates to LARGE SALES VOLUME agencies !  Look for a cruise-only agency if you want volume ! 

·       These major Internet Co’s, you see on the net and on TV ... They want the lowest rates too !  They actually get their rates from buying through the Nations “Largest” Cruise-Only volume agency !  These Internet Co's have EQUAL rates to that of the distribution house ... NOT BETTER ... EQUAL !

·         Consumers can by-pass the Internet Co’s and buy directly from these LARGE VOLUME agencies ! 

 

In reality ... WHO CARES what anyone is saying on their website !  If you can buy YOUR CRUISE directly from a cruise-only distribution house, then you already know YOU have the LOWEST RATE AVAILABLE !   Of course, do YOU know who these cruise-only large volume agencies are ?  Do you know where the closest one is to YOU ?

 

There's nothing like saving yourself TIME and MONEY both !

 

 

Cruising is about all the memories

Perfectly said on facebook, said Dayton House Resort's photo

How the cruises lines are attracting the "boomers" generation

Sharing article
http://www.petergreenberg.com/2013/07/23/how-cruise-lines-compete-for-the-boomer-audience/

This 2013 Fall season, up till Christmas, “last minute” cruiser buyers are truly amazed at how much money they’re getting to keep in their pocket ! Actually planning a 2nd vacation.

Posting earlier than Wednesday this week, because of this hot topic.

According to the cruise industry, it’s seemingly some of the “all time savings seen” in last minute cruise space.  Those folks, who have yet to plan their Fall get-away, can plan to have more money, in their pocket for spending while away.  Many are using this savings to deposit 2014 now ! 

This savings have caused many folks to getaway twice this year.  Why not !  Of course, if folks wait much longer to take advantage of these savings, the quicker decisive folks will be the only to not be left behind !

 

Amenities, upgrades, special promos and more.  !  Personally, I haven’t yet looked to see if there’s’ any additional savings for Seniors, Military, Past Guest, Resident rates, and others, with the rates for the “general consumer”, already at all time lows.  Cruise-only prices below are per person; Govt fees additional.  Here, feel free to use my cheat sheets to view Itineraries and additional category rates: www.VivianWebb.com; just search by name of ship, month, or destination.

 

First, I looked close to where I live, Norfolk.  Remember, October is the only month left and the last month, for ships to sail from Norfolk for awhile.  It’s amazing, how the 5N’s, on the Carnival
Glory, are pricing close to the same as their 2N.  Starting from, just over $ 300 pp.  That’s a no brainer !

Then I glances at Baltimore, such as on Royal Caribbean’s Granduer.  October 17 for 8N’s to Canada/New England, from $ 669.  October 25, 7’s to Bermuda, for Halloween, from $ 399.  November 1, baloncy from only $ 1199/Suite from $ 1299.  November 8, their 8N Bahama cruise includes Key West, from $ 449.  November 26, after Thanksgiving is always a great price for cruising; and it’s a 10N from $ 599.  If you can get away before Christmas, December 14 for 10N’s, from $ 499.

 

There are of course, so many sailings in the Fall.  For now, when looking at other embarkation ports, I just focus on 9N – 72N examples in September.  Listed below is either inside or balcony rates. Remember, there can be amenities available and lower rates for select folks ! 

 

Many 7N and shorter cruise deals are “beyond giveaway”, see here.  See www.VivianWebb.com

Europe Cruise deals have not been included below.  See www.VivianWebb.com

 

12N, on the 6^th, Royal Caribbean Rhapsody, Vancouver to Honolulu, from $ 1099.

10N, on the 7^th, Grand Princess, Alaska R/T San Fran, from $ 1249.

14N, on the 7^th, Holland America on the Veendam, R/T Boston, all the way to Quebec, from $1249 pp.

11N, on the 8^th, Royal Caribbean Explorer, Canada/New England, R/T NJ/Bayonne, balcony from $ 1519.  Amtrak is great way to get there from Virginia.

9N, on the 13^th, Celebrity Millennium, “Wine Theme Cruise”, West Coast, Vancouver to San Diego, Balcony from $ 1199.

10N, on the 13^th, Royal Caribbean Radiance, Hawaii, Vancouver to Honolulu, Balcony from $ 1569.

10N, on the 13^th, Celebrity Solstice, Wine & American Cup Theme Cruise, West Coast, Seattle to Ensenada, Balcony from $ 1249.

11N, oon the 15^th, Celebrity Century, Ultimate Alaska, R/T Vancouver, from $ 1149.

10N, on the 17^th, Grand Princess, Mexico, with stops “different from the norm”, R/T San Fran, from $ 1099.

15N, on the 17^th, Carnival Miracle, Vancouver to LAX, to Hawaii, Balcony from $ 1529.  What a great opportunity with “no flying” over the ocean to get to or from this cruise.

10N, on the 19^th, Royal Caribbean Explorer, to Canada/New England, from NJ/Bayonne, from $ 599. Great way to get there from Virginia is Amtrak.

14N, on the 19^th, Holland America Zaandam, Panama, San Diego to FTL, from $ 1399.

14N, on the 21st, Holland America on the Veendam, R/T Boston, all the way to Quebec, from $1249 pp.

15N, on the 22^nd, Celebrity Millennium, Panama, San Diego to FTL, from $ 1399.

11N, on the 23^rd, Celebrity Solstice, with extra night in Hawaii on ship, Ensenada to Honolulu, Balcony from $ 1499.

16N, on the 23^rd, Norwegian Sun, LAX to Miami, Balcony from $ 1899.

11N, on the 26^th, Celebrity Century, Wine Theme Cruise, West Coast, Vancouver to San Diego, from $ 699.

16N, on the 27the, Panama cruise, LAX to New Orleans, on Norwegian Jewel, from only $ 849. 

 

There are more folks than you can imagine, that prefer the longest cruise for their money and they are not all retirees: 

24N, on the 19^th, Norwegian Star, Copenhagen to Miami, Transatlantic, from $ 1939.

22N, on the 21^st, Norwegian Jewel, Panama, Vancouver to New Orleans, from $ 1729.

20N, on the 28^th, Holland America Zuiderdam, Panama, Vancouver to FTL, from $ 1899.

 

Here’s the best price ever for the longest cruise available, beginning in September 2013.

72N, on the 23^rd, Holland America Amsterdam, R/T LAX, to the Pacific and Asia, from $9,999.  What better opportunity to go to Asia, WITHOUT having to fly there !  WITHOUT flying outside the US.  The savings alone in airfare is unbelievable !

 

 

 

 

You too can agree, that getting away this Fall, even if this will be your 2nd cruise vacation, is a great way to keep money in your pocket, for that destination on your bucket list !   Act now ... Space is getting away from you as you just sit there visualizing and dreaming about it !

 

July is a big purchase month for next year’s cruising folks. How Groups, families, and balcony lovers affect YOUR space and PRICE.

Many folks take their yearly or family vacation in June.  Naturally, what better time to plan next year’s vacation than right after you return !  So July is most  often, the biggest month, for confirming next year’s vacation.

Group space, cabins which hold 3 & 4 in a room, best balcony locations, and even the suites, are the first to go on a cruise ship !  Especially for peak seasons, like summer and holidays, “and” cruises that are in a destination for limited time (or for just one sailing).

 

Why does group space sell out early ?  Consumers may not realize …

(A)“How many” groups are actually sailing.  Not even all the ones on your own cruise.  It’s the best vacation for groups !  For reunions ! For getting away together !  Whether it’s 4 cabins or 50 cabins.

(B)Cruise Lines will not allow but so much space reserved for groups.  Reserved and “not deposited” is space that the Cruise Line could be left holding, if groups do not sell all their space.  The Cruise Line can not afford to leave but so much space vulnerable.  So it sells out !  It does not mean that group folks can’t still book; it just means, they can’t receive group amenities and the Cruise Line does not treat it as a group (only cross referenced together).

(C ) Group Leaders know that their members need time to plan and pay for that next vacation.  These folks book early.  As early as 15 months to 10 months in advance. 

 

Why do cabins for 3 and 4 sell out quickly, especially for peak sailings, like Summer and Holidays ?

(A)Families are cruising big time !  For the most part, these are the cruisers who need cabins that hold 3 and 4 in a room. 

(B)What consumers don’t know … The Cruise Lines have a “capacity control”.  Just cause they have beds, it does NOT mean every bed can be sold !  The ship may look empty, yet, if they reach their capacity, then the cabins that hold 3 & 4 can no longer be sold.

 

Why best balcony locations sell out first ?

(A)Majority of folks cruising today, have turned to balconies.  So that’s why they are selling out first !

(B)Many folks who are spending money for a balcony, want the best cabin location too !  To some, that means, highest deck or by the pool, yet to others, it means, mid-ship.

(C )Also, select Cruise Lines, such as Princess, often advertise balcony sales first; or complimentary upgrade to balconies.  Once balconies are sold out, they often charge the same rate for inside.  Why not; makes up for loss in money on balcony sales !  See how Princess does, balcony sale tomorrow:  http://content.princess.com/pcan/?Xzaz7TQ67CdFcmkuXJxu52yXpw0pwFrnX

 

Why suites, when they are the most expensive ?

(A)The rich or folks who like to cruise with all the luxury of home, do cruise !  And it’s high demand and competition in getting these cabins !  Many times, these cabins are sold BEFORE the pricing ever comes out.  These folks pre-buy without price known !

(B) Families love these cabins and being together !

 

 

What does this have to do with YOU, when you do not fit into one of these type cruisers ?

The more cabins that sell on any sailing, DRIVES RATEs UP.  So when you are ready to buy, rates have possibly gone up !  Early planners, even if only sailing as 2 in a room, know this.  These folks also book early !

 

See why July is so busy ?!

If you’ve yet to think about booking for 2014, these are reasons to jump onboard and do as the other cruisers do !  Why miss the boat !

 

Late bookers wait till January.  Last minute bookers, who do not care their location, cause they think this is the best way to get a deal or cause they can’t plan early (whether it’s work or personal preference), book 3-6 months in advance.

 

 

Cruises are truly a “complete escape” vacation. Hear what folks say.

Twenty-Six years ago, my mother suggested I take a cruise vacation, since I loved traveling and usually traveled alone.  Once I took my first cruise, I was hooked.

At the time, I was in banking.  Very stressful  job.  I’m sure I took on more than I should have, but I had been taught by my parents to give 110%. 

Fortunately, I had 6 weeks vacation when at  the bank !  Once discovering a cruise, I took 6 a year.  I needed every one of them.  This meant, cruising every over month. 

Go away, recoup, and come back and stand the stress for another 7 weeks, till I could ESCAPE again.  Today, I have been on 117 cruises; it would be more, but my father was sick the last 3 years.

Princess cruise folks say:

·          It’s just US.   (True, you can make it just you and your mate; or invite the kids; or invite all your family and friends – There can be bonuses to you for inviting folks)

·         Step into another World (You can take that 2 ways:  Yes, you can see the World and another World can mean, it’s so unbelievable, which is true)

·         Feel right at home (Again, 2 ways of taking this: One, the folks who work for the cruise lines, make you feel you are family and the 2^nd reason is, that you actually believe you live there forever and never have to go home, till you do).

Other Princess folks say more … Hear it  for yourself:

http://www.princess.com/learn/cruise_vacationing/escape_completely/index.html?IgnBnr=10

Can you make a list of things you would like to ESCAPE for just a few days ?

Isn't it time to commit and plan your ESCAPE TODAY ?


 

More folks need to venture towards River Cruising. If you don't know where to start, why not the Rhine

Though many folks are venturing on river cruises ... In my opinion, "not enough" !

I totally love River Cruising.

If I could get away more than I already do, I would take more river cruises !  And if more folks chose River Cruising over ocean cruising, I would take more River Cruises, not only for me, but for having more experience to share with my clients !

It's laid back and less stressing.  Being in Europe, even less people can find me !  There's internet onboard, "if you must".

It's open dining; everyone eats at the same time; separate tables.  Before dinner, many folks meet in the lounge; and again, after dinner.

So many of the River Cruise ships are so elegant !  The beds look better than many homes !  The bedding is wonderful !

Not many folks are onboard; so you personally meet most of them (if you don't want to, you don't have to).

Most tours included.  Often, several paces are offered.  So if your mate or roommate is faster than you, you can let them go at their own pace, while you go at yours.

Wine at dinner.  And now they are beginning to offer more beverages and amenities !

There's minimal entertainment, however, they often bring in speakers.

Know ... River Cruising is NOT for the old !  River cruising includes mostly walking tours.  If you can't walk, you may have to stay behind !  So don't wait to choose River Cruising once you can no longer get around !

The Rhine - "Tips"
Douglas Ward offers his expert advice on river cruises along the Danube and the Rhine

The Romantics referred to the Middle Rhine as the "landscape of the soul".
Its most famous stretch is dotted with fairy-tale castles and fortresses, as
well as terraced vineyards and the Lorelei Rock, on to which sirens were said to
lure sailors to their deaths with the beauty of their singing. In July and
August, look for a "Rhine in Flames" cruise, when some hilltop castles and
palaces are lit up at night with fireworks. History, in the shape of visits to
castles, cathedrals and Roman antiquities, is a big element of most cruises;
some lines also have lectures, musical evenings and wine tastings.

Key stops

The most popular section of the Rhine itself is between Cologne and Mainz.
Moselle cruises operate between Koblenz and Trier. The main route along the
Neckar is between Mannheim and Stuttgart. Some vessels cover considerable
distances by sailing through the night; others berth overnight.

For something different, take a cruise during the Christmas holiday season,
when seasonal markets fill the squares in many cities, towns and villages along
the Danube and Rhine. At night, lights form a magical backdrop. Cologne,
Regensburg, Vienna and Nuremberg are among the best, providing an old-world
setting and festive ambience.

 

Telegraph tips

• Take a sweater or jacket for those chilly nights on deck if you go in spring
  and autumn.
  
• The Danube's water level can be too low for navigation, particularly during
  the warm, dry summer months. Conversely, it is frequently too high for vessels
  to pass under the bridges of the upper Danube section beyond Passau. Be prepared
  for changes to the schedule.
  
• If you book a cabin with a balcony, you probably won't use it that much -
  there are just too many flies around the river, particularly in the afternoon.
  
• Although some river cruise companies offer internet access (with one or two
  computers provided), connections are often lost when the vessel's mast is folded
  down to negotiate low bridges.
  
  
  
  Happy cruising the Rhine !