Best place to book

[travelinteach]

Where is the cheapest place to book a cruise. It seems that expedia right now is cheaper than cruisesonly.com or carnival.com. Any other suggestions or does it make a difference who you book with??

[firefly333]

No one should show cheaper prices, as Carnival does not allow discounting. If you think you are seeing lower prices advertised in public, then it could be a typo (unlikely) or it could just be you are seeing a 1A as the lowest inside, when carnival uses 4A etc.

 

None of the prices you see in public are allowed to be lower than Carnivals and you give up control if you book thru one.

 

Do be aware you cannot mention any specific TA on these boards. There are some TAs who will discount or give perks in private .. but you would not be seeing the prices publically. It would be over the phone or via email if you get a lower price, as a TA sometimes will take it out of their commission.

[jks336]

you really need to research that as you generally will not find 'cheaper" on travel agent sights. sometimes what you may find is on board credit which makes the price more attractive, but the cabin price is generally the same. and make sure of your cabin location prior to booking with anyone

[okgirl]

I find the best place to book is directly with the cruise line 800#. They have cabins that aren't available to TA's or when booking directly on their website. If you book early saver you are in complete control of submitting your price drop forms in a timely manner, a TA can be reluctant to do so. And you have 24 hour access to your booking through the 800# without waiting for the office to open or your personal vacation planner to be in.

 

BUT.......that's my opinion after booking 26 cruises over the years. If you are newer to cruising and don't know all the questions to ask and issues to check for you might be better useing a TA that specializes in cruises.

 

The most important things are to do your own research and don't allow anyone to select a cabin for you without your PRE-approval (there are many undesirable cabin locations), and get trip insurance.