Schedule so busy that you've not booked your 2014 vacatioin ? The snow is coming !

What a great use of your time, than plan and confirm your vacation ... Then while it is snowing !

In realness ...I'm amazed at folks who have yet to buy their 2014 vacation !
Sure ... We're only half way in the middle of Wave Season !  However, space is becoming limited. Cabins together for family and friends are becoming scarce !  The opportunity for us to give you  lock-in dates with amenities is already becoming a challenge !

When you don't win, neither does the industry !  Don't miss the boat.  Slow down ... Take the needed time ... Get your vacation confirmed !

 

How do Agents buy All-Inclusive land package. Insight worth knowing.

Many folks think that “agents” buy All-Inclusive land packages directly with the resort.  That’s not how it is usually done.

As a cruise specialist, I have been on 127 cruises.  My purpose is to have as much personal experience on the different lines, for the value of my client.  However, I have not been on every cruise line nor every ship.

There are millions of All-Inclusives around the World.  There’s no way agents can personally experience a even a valuable portion !

Therefore, agents turn to Tour Operators.  These operators “rate” the All-Inclusives so agents have a better feel for the property.

And not just any Tour Operator.  Like cruises, agents stick with Name Brands.  Tour Operators they can trust with their clients money.  This is for the safety of their client, just like buying a cruise.
Agencies like Cruises Inc offer Trip Cancellation Insurance that covers bankruptcy of a carrier.  However for the most part, these Tour Operators offer their own Trip Cancellation Insurance which is often more appealing to the client.  And if the Tour Operator insurance is what the client opts for, then they no longer have the opportunity to buy bankruptcy insurance.  Which is the value of agents sticking with a Name Brand Tour Operator for their clients.

Such Tour Operators include Apple Vacations, Fun Jet, Sandals, Beaches, Travel Impressions and there are a few others that the agent world turns to.  Though Sandals and Beaches are a Tour Operator of themselves, they also provide sales to regular Tour Operators such as Apple.  So clients can truly often receive a lower rate !

Again, Travelocity and Expedia are not a Tour Operator.  And I personally will not buy my client an All-Inclusive through them.  I realize, day in and day out, the average person will buy products from these folks.  And yes, many times, nothing has happened and all went well.  However, I will not buy airfare, hotel, nor an All-Inclusive from these folks.  There is fine print that the consumer never reads, yet it is worth reading !

Some Tour Operators, such as Apple with match pricing on Travelocity or Expedia.  So if you find something, then call an agent, to let them work this out for you.  It is TOTALLY worth every customers change at protection, and your better protection is through a Name Brand Tour Operator.

Select Tour Operators, like Travel Impressions or Premier Alaska, will not allow customers to buy direct.  You must go through an agent.  But whether they do or not, I’m telling you specifically, consumers should NOT buy their All-Inclusives nor Land Tours on their own.  Buy through an agent !  I can’t say this strong enough !  BUY THROUGH AN AGENT.

Even Cruises Inc now allows their customers to buy their All-Inclusives and Land Tours through them.  We decided 4 years ago, after the “Land folks” contacted us, to provide these packages for our customers.  Tour Operators like Cruises Lines, want the customer to buy through an agent.

Customers get a better understanding, when they buy from an agent.  The travel industry would NOT pay agents commission if they didn’t want the customer to buy from an agent.

Like I’ve told my own folks, the reason why cruise line and the tour operators also sell their own packages to the consumer, is not because they are trying to compete with the agent … They push for your business because they don’t want to lose you to another cruise line nor to another tour operator.  Make sense ?

Do yourself a favor !  Buy your All-Inclusives and your Land Packages from an agent.  I don’t care if it is just a Disney package !  Be smart !  Be safe !  It’s a big world out here in this travel industry.  Let those with experience do your battles.  Save your time, headaches, and energy for your own life and leave your travel worries in the hand of your agent !  In many cases, it’s FREE to the consumer !
 

Can buying a Carnival Cruise for your group leave you confused with their many options ? YES !

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 !

Onboard “Tip” for the first time cruiser. Why add stress by being late for onboard events !

Many first time cruisers do not receive a lot of “insider tips”, due to booking direct at the cruise line or online by themselves.  A lot is missed by booking this way !

 

Though today, I asked some of my FB friend, to share insight, as to, “What NOT to be late for, while on a cruise”, I have a few tips of my own.  Though you’re on vacation, and want to relax, with all you choose to do, there are times you don’t want to be late.

 

Here’s 10 that came to my mind immediately:

 

• Getting back to the ship, when in port.  If the ship says, be back onboard by 5pm, then I like to be back by 4pm.  So much can happen that could cause your delay, if you wait till the last minute.  Such as traffic !  The ship will leave you !  Many cruisers, watch from on deck, all the many folks who are literally running back to the ship, to make it on time.  Why add such stress to your vacation !

 

• As a past guest to many cruise lines, when invited to a past guest party, I like to be early !  I prefer to show up 15 minutes early, so that I am at the beginning of the line.  This way, I’m not spending most of the event, outside of the event, in the line !

 

• Getting onboard, embarkation day, I like to be early.  I want to be one of the first onboard.  One of the first to get upstairs to enjoy lunch on the lido deck, before so many get onboard.  Prime time that most folks show up is 1-2pm.  The cruise lines usually announce, that you can board by 1pm, however, many cruise lines open the doors way before this.  I like to arrive to the ship between 11-11:30am.

 

• Many shows onboard are a hit, and often sitting space is taken up quickly.  And some activities are in smaller lounges.  For this reason, I often show up 15 minutes prior to the show.  Some shows are standing room only, and being late, could cause you not to get a seat.

 

• Signing up for the Spa.  Unless waiting for specials the spa may offer during the week, or on port days, if you want your time in the Spa, you need to sign up early.  Like the first day you board, just after lunch.

 

• Signing up for tours.  If I’m planning to buy tours from the ship, I order my tours, prior to boarding.  However, if I have yet to order, I order the first day.  Only if I want to hear more about the tour, do I go to the “tour lecture” and then sign up right away.  Many tours sell out quick !  Especially boat rides, helicopter rides, and the such.  They may not be available once you get onboard !

 

• If you want a lounge chair by the pool, many folks are outside, just after breakfast.  Folks are not to save seats for others, however, they do !  Also, pool games are fun to watch, and you want a good seat !

 

• Store sales onboard often draw large crowds.  These too, are events to show up early !  Cruisers love to shop !

 

• Midnight buffets.  Though the cruise lines do not have many of these anymore, when they do, it draws a crowd.   Especially the chocolate or desert buffets.  I usually show up 15 minutes early or I wait till closer to when it’s over.  The problem with waiting till closer to over is, you may miss many of the great picture taking opportunities and much of the food may be gone.

 

• Packing upon returning home.  Sometime I pack everything I have already used, the day before the last day of the cruise.  Then after breakfast, on the last day, a little more.  Then right after dinner on the last night, I finish up.  Folks who wait till bedtime, on the last night, to do all their packing, miss out on being with friends or the last show.  Many people think it will only take minutes to pack.  For some reason, it doesn’t always seem to go back in as quickly as you think.  Adding stress to your last night, and taking a chance of not remembering to leave something out, like your shoes, is not fun.  I’ve seen it happen !

Notice, I did not add dinner to my list.  Unless Norwegian Cruise Line, I choose 2nd dining.  I do not come early and get in the line.  Why should I ?  I have a seat !  The first night, I usually come down about 7 minutes past time that they open the door.  On the first night, everyone is taken to their seat.  This takes time.  I want the majority of the folks, already in the dining room when I arrive.  And the rest of the week, I show up 3-5 minutes after the doors open, so again, I am giving time for the line to get inside.  Of course, do not be 15 min's late or they can deny you entry !  Another tip:  If you're going on vacation with folks who tend to be late, choose a "set dining".  Then it is up to them to show up on time and not making you late !

 

The whole purpose of discovering tips such as these, is to NOT make the same mistakes that many of us have already gone through.   With all the tips I provide my cruisers, they tell me when they return, that I was on their vacation, as they remembered my many tips, I hoped would help.

 

 

 

Many cruisers actually miss the boat on Early Savings while waiting for Last Minute Deals. The Early Birds do prosper !

Before 2000, cruisers booked their vacations a minimum of a year in advance.  From May to December, folks were buying for the next year.  And anyone who waited to buy in January for the current year, was considered “last minute”, even if the cruise didn’t sail till Fall.

The strange thing is, the “Early Savings Advantage” has NOT gone away !  It’s just that many folks miss the boat and don’t take advantage of them.  Part of the reason is that many cruisers today are last minute folks and the other reason is because some consumers “think” they are getting an advantage with Last Minute Offers.

Folks believe this is because of what they hear other cruisers say and from all the advertisement seen.  What happened to listening to your agent ?!  Not to hurt anyone’s feelings, but it’s strange that some cruisers today, listen more to the general public than the experts !  So many are missing the boat.

These cruise lines don’t wait till the last minute to fill their boats.  And unlike what some consumers believe, these ships are sailing FULL ! 

The cruise lines have it calculated that they must be at a certain capacity sold by a certain date.  And that’s not 2 months from sailing !  It begins at 12 months prior, 10 months prior, and even 4-6 months prior.  If they are not where they want to be, that’s why you see sales.  However, many consumers don’t realize, these sales are often, ONLY for select dates.  The sailings that are filling are not on sale !

They see all these sales and assume the cruise lines are having a hard time filling their boats.
Also, just because you saw a sale last month, does not mean this month, you have a better advantage over last month.  Most often, because so many cabins sold last month, this month, the cruise rate is higher.  The consumer just doesn’t know it !  You can only know this, if you are watching the rates all the time !

Folks ask me, when should they buy ?  My answer, as soon as you are thinking about going !  You as the consumer have no idea what sales you have already missed.  So why miss more, by waiting more months to book !

And yes, it is true, that there are often Last Minute Offers !  But Last Minute is not 2 months prior to sailing.  These cruise lines are doing tis 4-6 months from sailing.  Many times, when you see a new sale, 2 months prior, you are actually paying higher than folks who bought 2-4 months before you.

The way to take advantage of sales, is to read all the different emails that come out.  Though you may not have “thought” you were in the market, you should take a look at the sailings !  All of a sudden, there will be a give-away price, which will cause you to jump on it !  Missing that offer, can mean paying more, if another sale comes out.

All-In-All, I believe in buying 12 months to 15 months in advance.  There are two reasons.  One, better cabins.  And two, you have hopefully booked at it’s lowest cost.  And usually, if the rate comes down (not amenities) before final payment, the cruise line will honor.  For all these months, you can watch your sailing !

ONE MORE VITAL PIECE OF INFORMATION.  Cruise distribution houses, like Cruises Inc, buy space from the cruise lines 15-12 months from sailing.  Though the rate may not have an advantage when buying this early, the closer the sailing comes, a cruise can SAVE LOTS OF MONEY. 

The problem is, what is a consumers definition of “getting closer to sailing” ?  It is NOT 2 months from sailing !  Often, the consumer has waited too late, booking 6 months from sailing !  This space goes early … The Early Birds are buying up all of Cruises Inc’s space. So if you are waiting till last minute for the cruise line offer, you may have totally MISSED THE BOAT on the added savings that YOU could have received, had you only booked early !

Great example.  November 8, 2014, Norwegian Hawaii.  Balcony, category BF is $ 2209 at Norwegian.  Only $ 1699 at Cruises Inc.  Norwegian is offering till today, receive $100 onboard credit.  Cruises Inc has another $100 for folks who take advantage of the offer !  These advantages can be found in 2014, 2015, and 2016.  But deadline is today, Janurary 15, 2014, for Norwegians onboard credit.  If you miss this offer, Cruises Inc still has price advantages till their space is SOLD OUT ! 





The Early Bird does prosper !
 

Looking for a vacation other than a cruise ? HelpFindLandTour.com

Often I receive calls who are looking for a different type vacation that a cruise.  Not that I would choose to venture outside of a cruise for my vacation, however, there are folks that would like to travel by way of land ... Or an All-Inclusive type resort.

There are millions of Tour Operators to choose from !  And there are all types of travel available ... Family travel, single travel, adult travel.  All-Inclusives, Ski Packages, etc.

Go here and use my cheat sheets for ideas on your next vacation getaway !
http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1611336629

 

Not sure I posted my Carnival Pride, Halloween 2013 pictures. I loved the Carnival Pride.

I loved the CARNIVAL PRIDE !







Go here, my review:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1612445504

Go here, pictures:  Don't know that I ever posted my Carnival Pride pictures, Halloween, Oct. 2013.  https://cruisevacationpictures.shutterfly.com/pictures/1958

My RCI Graneur of the Seas cruise, December 2013

Enjoy !






Go here, Pictures:  https://cruisevacationpictures.shutterfly.com/pictures/1756

Go here, My review:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1612463707



 

Hawaii Bound. When is the best time to travel to Hawaii.

Great article by Guide of Hawaii:  http://www.hawaii-guide.com/content/posts/best_time_to_travel_to_hawaii

Cruise Vacation Group Leader role “responsibility” clarity. Group cruising is simple !

In talking with a couple of customers over the last week, there may be a Group Leader role misconception.   Of course, if the Group Leader opts to buy their group cruise through the cruise line versus relying on an agent, then yes, I can clearly vision, the added responsibility.

However, when working with an agent, it should be as simple as … Tell ... Excitement ... Pack & Go !   Of course, if it’s a short cruise, like 1-2-3-4 nights, where less client hand holding is needed, an agent may opt to add a  “Questionnaire completion with deposit” step, to the process.

 

The process includes …

·         Telling others they have planned this cruise.  I can make a computer link or make flyers !

·         Keep the excitement built.  Group Leader may decide to have a get together.   

·         Pack & Go !

 

And once they are onboard the ship … The Cruise Line takes over … Meals … Entertainment … And

more.  And if someone were to have an issue, they themselves, go directly to the purser’s desk to seek help/guidance ! 

It’s that simple !

 

 

Between these two client callers, they were under the misconception …

·         They had to collect the deposit.  NO.  That’s my job.  You give me the phone number and I’ll call the group member directly.  I need to know that the client “hears rules” directly from ME !  And clarify any misconceptions and answer questions.

·         That one CC had to be used by everyone.  NO.  Each cabin should use their own CC; responsible for their own payment.  Now if they don’t have CC for deposit, then it’s the Group Leader’s choice to take the group member’s cash and put on their CC.  Final payment can be made with check, as long as that check is on time !

·         Remind them of final payment. NO.  Cruises Inc sends an invoice to each cabin by email.  If the Group Leader is taking responsibility for receiving the email invoice, then Yes.  The only time I would need to contact the Group Leader, is if the group member is late.

·         Answer all their questions.  NO.  The Group Leader should NOT opt in taking on this task !  I send many cruising tips out by email.  AND, they have direct access to our Customer Service Team for their questions.

·         Collect the final payment.  NO.  Each cabin calls my staff with their final payment.

 

Only thing left to do is PACK & GO !
 

Isn’t it time YOU invite your family & friends to join YOU !

 

 

 

  

 

 

Save You time & Money. What is a Cruise Distribution House ? Can I book there too ? Where do I find one ?

Why do many folks “shop” rates for cruises ?  They’ve heard from other cruisers and much TV and  Internet hoopla (advertisement), that lower rates may be found.

Lower rates compared to what ?  Lower than a cruiser can get through buying directly at the cruise lines.  Lower than through mom-pop Travel Agencies. 

Even lower than past guest rates ? Very often yes.  And when new cruisers go with you, and they do not qualify for these past guest rates, these lower rates can often be made available for them too.

Where are these lower rates found ?  Cruise-Only Distribution Houses.

Why doesn’t the cruise line provide the lowest rates ?  It’s not how it works.  Cruise-Only Distribution Houses sell in LARGE VOLUME.  The cruise lines in turn, give lower rates to LARGE VOLUME.  These lower rates are NOT make up by Cruise-Only Distribution Houses.  They are awarded the lower rates by the cruise line, because of LARGE VOLUME.

Are Internet companies like Orbitz, Hotwire, PriceLine, the Airline, and others, large volume agencies ?  NO, they are what they are, Internet companies.  A 3rd party company.
Where do these Internet companies get their lower rates ?  Cruise-Only Distribution Houses.

Why wouldn’t these Internet companies just buy directly from the cruise lines ?  They too, want the lowest rates, so they too, reach to a Cruise-Only Distribution Houses.

What is the name of the Cruise-Only Distribution House that provides cruises to the above specific Internet companies ?  For these particular ones, they have a contract with Cruises Inc/CruiseOne-WTH.

I’ve heard of Cruises Inc.  Can’t a cruiser buy directly from Cruises Inc ?  Yes.

So a cruiser can by-pass the cruise lines and these 3rd party Internet companies and get these lower rates, directly through Cruises Inc ?  Yes.

Why don’t more folks do this ?  Most folks are not aware of HOW lower rates exist.  Many folks call every local agency, hoping to find a lower rate.  And get on the Internet and shop every Internet company. 

Isn’t that time consuming to the cruiser ?  Very much so.

So if a person knows Cruises Inc exist, they can call one place and stop all the shopping ?  Yes.  Cruises Inc is provided, by the cruise lines, BEST PRICE GUARANTEE !

How & Why ?  Cruises Inc-WTH is the LARGEST Cruise-Only Distribution House for the major cruise lines.  It’s just the position that the major cruise lines have provided to Cruises Inc-WTH.
Can all cruisers book their cruise directly through Cruises Inc ?  If they know we are here.  It’s up to other cruisers to pass the word.  Will make folks a Winner Among their friends … SAVING TIME AND SAVING MONEY.

What if I receive an email or see a great rate on an Internet site or at the cruise line ?  Call Cruises Inc when you are ready to buy.  They too receive every rate you see.  Whether a cruiser is buying early or buying last minute !

Does every date sail date offer a lower rate ?  NO. 

What sailings can a cruiser find lower rates ?
• If buying early (6 months to 15 months in advance), Cruises Inc-WTH buys space, so cruisers receive EXCLUSIVE amenities (onboard credit, wine, etc).  Also, as rates climb at the cruise line, if a cruiser buys early enough, they will get the lower rates that Cruises Inc-WTH has saved !   Cruises Inc-WTH has 1500+ dates, and often, if your date does not have an amenity, Cruises Inc can still get an added EXCLUSIVE for you.
• The Cruise Lines offer EXCLUSIVE SALES to Cruises Inc-WTH, that can only be seen if a cruiser visits the website, such as www.BestCruiseSavings.com or has signed up for emails, www.SignUp4CruiseDeals.com.   It’s a marketing thing, to see if cruisers are reading emails (often code is needed to receive deal).  These EXCLUSIVE SALES are all year round; often it’s for last minute sailings too.

Why don’t all sailings have a lower rate and/or amenities ?  If cruisers buy early (6 months to 15 months in advance), many many dates do !  The early bird gets the worm (lower rates).   Cruises Inc got in this business to provide lower rates for the individual cruise (not in a group).

So why don’t more folks buy early ?  Cruisers listen to other cruise and think the best way to say is buy at the last minute.  Though sometimes, they can get the same low rates as the folks who bought early, these last minute folks get the left over cabins (unless and early bird cancels).  But why take a chance that the rate will go back down before sailing, or space will still be there, when you can book early, and most often, continue to have the lowest rate available (not new amenities offer), up till final payment. 

You’re saying, LOWEST RATE & BEST CABIN WINS ?  YES !  If you wait till the last minute to buy, all that is available is the cruise line’s last minute rates (unless we have an EXCLUSIVE SALE).  We’re here for folks because we wish to do better than this !  The last minute cruiser is not taking advantage of what Cruises Inc is offering all the early birds !  Last minute buyers think they know how this industry works !

What if the rate at the cruise line is the same as Cruises Inc, and there’s no added advantage in price and/or amenities ?  It happens, especially if the cruiser has not taken advantage of buying early ! 

Then why book with Cruises Inc ?  For one, building personable relationships !  That’s what we’re about.  Secondly, this business is not only about BUYING POWER, it’s about PROBLEM POWER.

What is PROBLEM POWER ?  The more cruises a company “services (and know, Cruises Inc only services individual cruise who buy from us directly; Cruises Inc does not service the cruises bought off the net at Orbitz, Hotwire, PriceLine, the Airlines, and others, that we provide our cruises to)” the more problems and the most experience in dealing with the cruise lines, when there’s an individual cruiser problem.

What kind of problems can happen ?  Oh, don't go there.  If we, as an agent, wake up to new problems customers or the cruise lines provide, every week !  Picture it this way ... You know how you go along for days, or months, or year, and everything just seems to be going your way.  Then one day, or even 3 times in a row, you hear yourself saying, "I can't believe this happen to me" !  This industry is far from free from "stuff happening".  And what better way to get out of a bind than with someone who has PROBLEM POWER !

But what if I’ve never had a problem when buying my cruise from the cruise line ?  Great.  Very thankful for you.  Cruises Inc is here to be on guard to problems.  Avoiding problems.  Keeping you safe.  It’s about your next cruise, not your past cruise !  Cruises Inc even has specific staff that are specifically paid to find mistakes and problems.  What other company, that you know, offers this ?

Why couldn't I fix my own problem at the cruise lines, if there was one ?  If you are on your own, you have no other choice, but in relying on yourself.  If you do not buy on your own nor buy off the Internet, why not have a company behind you !

Cruises Inc-WTH has a personal relationship with the cruise lines.  Not just in buying cruises, but with our bond and friendship, with the decision making folks at the cruise lines.  We’re in this business specifically FOR THE CRUISER !  If we can save you money or help you receive an EXCLUSIVE amenity, that’s a bonus.  Our main purpose, to Cruises Inc, is to be here in protecting you !

Our mission is to deliver a remarkable experience through providing superior quality/service and a passion for having real conversations with our customers.

Read more about Cruises Inc yourself:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/cruises/Editorial.html?edType=Custom%20Page&pagename=CruisesIncExperience


 

Oasis of the Seas in St Maartin

Short video ... Oasis of the Seas, new dock in St Maartin.  http://www.royalcaribbean.com/connect/videos/caribbean/?et_cid=em_4073333&et_rid=330739302

 

Carnival Splendor is truly PINK !

Carnival Splendor was designed by Joe Farcus.




I was just on her over Thanksgiving, 2013.  See my review I sent to my customers.
http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/admin/CMSTemplates/DisplayDraft.html?draft_display=true&edOid=1612452670

And my 190 pictures.  https://cruisevacationpictures.shutterfly.com/pictures/1550

Enjoy ! 

Next Cruise Givaway drawing is December 16, 2013. Are you signed up yet ?

Go here:
http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/cruises/Contest.html?PG=1&SWEEPSTAKE_NAME=3Q05

What cruises are available out of Baltimore ? Remember, Carnival is leaving after November 2014

Just got back from the Carnival Splendor out of New York.  Have about a week to rest, loose a little weight, and wash up some clothes ... Then I'm off to Baltimore, by way of Amtrak n... For 10 nights on Royal Caribbean's Grandeur.

Lots of changes have been made to the Grandeur, and I'm looking forward to seeing these changes.

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/ships/class/ship/home.do?shipClassCode=VI&shipCode=GR&br=R

Here’s a virtual tour of the Vision Class ships.

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/multimedia/virtualTour/ship.do?shipClassCode=VI

 

Reminder, Carnival Pride is leaving out of Baltimore, after November 2014.

Very soon ... Dec 2014 & after will climb in rate because of no competition !

And ... Though the Grandeur is scheduled till March 2015, we won’t know till March 2014, if she might too, leave !  It’s all due to high fuel cost to operate in the Chesapeake.  This is why Norfolk is no longer available.

 

 

 

 

I currently have these Grandeur dates reserved for December 2014.  Prices include r/t bus from LYH, leaving day of cruise.  If you do not need bus, Call for rates without.  This space “only” available when I am in town to provide.

Dec 9 to 19 – 10N – EASTERN CARIBBEAN (San Juan, St Thomas, St Martin) - “only 4 dates for this itinerary, all year”.  Receive EXCLUSIVE $75 per cabin onboard credit.  Inside from $ 764(N)/oceanview from $844(H)/Balcony from $1454(D2).

Dec 19 to 27 – 8N – CHRISTMAS - Port Canaveral/Bahamas/Key West – “only 7 dates for this itinerary, all year”.  Receive EXCLUSIVE $50 per cabin onboard credit.   Inside from $949(N)/Oceanview from $1094(H)/Balcony from $1634(D2).

Dec 27 to Jan 6, 2015 – 10N – NEW YEARS – some great rates here for NY’s !  Cozumel, Grand Caymen’s, Falmouth-Jamaica (I’ve never been), and Labadee (RCI’s private island)  – “only 5 dates  for this itinerary, all year”.   Receive EXCLUSIVE $50 per cabin onboard credit.  Inside from $1009(N)/oceanview from $1144(H)/balcony from $1834.

 

 

Currently out of Baltimore: (www.CruiseClose2Home.com)

Caribbean:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/results.do?places=C&p=BWI

Bahamas:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/results.do?places=BH&p=BWI
Bermuda:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/results.do?places=BM&p=BWI
Canada/New England: http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/results.do?places=NN&p=BWI

 

 

 

New Royal Caribbean "drink" packages and everyone in the room no longer must buy

Now Royal Caribbean has decided that everyone in the room no longer has to buy the drink package.  And now offering more packages.


My view only.  Many folks take vacation as their opportunity to have some fun and lots of drinking.  It is fun, I totally understand. 

However, I was on a cruise last week, where folks had purchased the drink package.  I notice, these folks did nothing but drink.  No shows.  Often didn't go to dinner.  Maybe it's worth to many, to drink 24/7 and opt to miss all that has already been paid for ? 

I have a friend cruising with me in December, who wants to buy the top package.  I told this person, it doesn't interest me, because I personally don't look at cruising as a focus to drink !  I like to have fun and I don't want to feel bad the next day.  I don't want the opportunity to drink all I can, just to try and get my money worth !  I had finally convince this person not to buy the package, but now this change.  This person will learn once we are there, but I do not plan to mention the change.  Of course, I do like the coffee/water package, but I drink very little water, and I don't need more calories than I plan to already take in, with special coffee !

I can see a disadvantage to everyone not having to buy the package ... One staying sober while the other choosing a more drunk state.  I can see this causing relationship problems; not particular fun.  Yet, thank goodness cruising is all about each person's choice ... Even folks who want to drink their vacation away ! 

Of course, drinking can be a plus for the cruise lines ... I've noticed, folks often tend to spend more when under the influence.  Jewelry ... gambling ... pictures ... more shots !  I've always said, let folks drink ... Helps lower the cruise price for us who don't see cruising as a drinking opportunity !

The Royal Replenish Package

$20 per guest each day, includes:

• Premium coffee 
• Premium tea 
• Bottled water 
• Sparkling water (375ml) 
• Still water (500ml) 
• Fresh squeezed orange juice 
• Non-alcoholic cocktails
• Fountain soda with souvenir Coca-Cola cup

The Select Package

$40 per guest each day, includes:

• Beer 
• Wine by the glass (up to $8 value) 
• Non-alcoholic cocktails 
• Fountain soda with souvenir Coca-Cola cup
• 20% discount on purchases of bottles of wine

The Premium Package

$55 per guest each day, includes:

• Call and premium cocktails (up to $10 value) 
• Frozen cocktails 
• Beers 
• Premium wine by the glass (up to $12 value) 
• Non-alcoholic cocktails 
• Still bottled water (500ml) 
• Fountain soda with souvenir Coca-Cola cup 
• 20% discount on purchases of bottles of wine

The Ultimate Package

$65 per guest each day, includes:

• Premium coffee 
• Premium tea 
• Bottled water 
• Sparkling water (375ml) 
• Still water (500ml) 
• Fresh squeezed orange juice 
• Call and premium cocktails (up to $10 value) 
• Frozen cocktails 
• Beers 
• Premium wine by the glass (up to $12 value) 
• Non-alcoholic cocktails 
• Fountain soda with souvenir Coca-Cola cup 
• 20% discount on purchases of bottles of wine

The other major change to the unlimited alcohol packages is now any eligible guest in a stateroom may purchase a package. This is a change from the previous policy where all eligible guests in a stateroom had to purchase a package. 

The new unlimited beverage packages will be available for guests purchase starting today, November 15th on all ships, and pre-purchase online the first week of December at http://www.royalcaribbean.com/beforeyouboard/cruiseEnhancements.do or by calling our pre-cruise planning specialists at 1-800-398-9819. Once available online, you can purchase them approximately 2 months before sail date.

All package prices include the 15% gratuity.  Also the the basic soda package and water package stay intact.

Guests who have already bought a ‘Classic’ package prior to the changes in November/December 2013, will receive the new Select package once on board and a refund to their onboard account for the $5 per day difference in pricing.

Guests who have already bought a ‘Premium’ package prior to the changes in November/December 2013, will receive the new Premium package once on board.  If they wish to upgrade to the new Ultimate package, this can be done at a cost added to their onboard account of the $10 per day difference in pricing. 

 

Why families love spending vacation aboard a “floating resort”. Not just families … All type of groups !

 

First of all, families love cruising in general.  It’s a vacation, where not only is there something for everyone, it’s a vacation, where select activities may be together as a family, and then there are other activities where members can go do the special thing that only they enjoy !

It’s a vacation, where the family can be together or not be together, as much as they choose.  Where they can set up some quality time together and then opt for some personal choice times !

 

It’s a vacation where parents, or the family member who is paying, not only knows the general cost upfront, they can pay for it all before they ever sail !  And then once onboard, the food, activities, and entertainment is included.  And if individuals want added-extra once onboard, this can be place on that person’s sign-n-sail account (parents can add a daily cap for children).

 

And what could be more exciting, then everyone coming together, after a fun-filled day, and dining together.  Then allowing each member to open their menu and order whatever they want till their

hearts content !  It’s a great time to try cuisine you’ve never tried before.   A great time to order 2 entries or 2 desserts !

And if someone doesn’t like the item they ordered, they can return the dish to the kitchen and then order another.  Or if you get full or decide not to eat what you’ve ordered, that’s not a problem !  No where else, other than an All-Inclusive, can you have such freedom of choice at dinner !  Just imagine how much money families with 4 teenage boys can save on a cruise vacation !

 

And once in port, family can plan shore excursions together, or again, make personal choices and feel safe to go off on their own (age 21 & above).  They can even meet up later for shopping or beach time together.

 

You can see why cruising continues to be voted as the #1 vacation for families !  Matter of fact, all type groups:  Classmates, College groups, Vet groups, church groups, social groups, and more !

 

Have you reserved your 2014 vacation yet ?  Hurry, it's just around the corner !

 

And remember to invite ...