Book with RCCL or use a T.A.

[cruisingallover]

Just wondering should I be booking with RCCL directly or using a travel agent and why?

[mommypenguin29]

We always use a travel agent because she watches for the deals for us and takes care of everything...just easier in my opinion.

[lj1231]

I used a TA and got a generous OBC.

[MCC retired]

If you already are set on a ship/date why not compare both ?

 

If the TA is quoting you exactly what is offered by RCI , try another TA.

Price may be the same but expect something extra thrown in (like OBC) Especially if it's a big ticket booking (expect possible group rate and/or OBC , ect.) ;)

 

Be sure the TA isn't charging you any fees for changes, booking or cancelation:rolleyes:

 

If you need help choosing a cruise , who better can help you do that than a good cruise specialist TA ?:)

[clean1owner]

Either way you are using a commissioned travel agent. Go with whomever gives you the most perks.

[Host Faith]

I used a TA and got a generous OBC.

 

That's why we use a TA. :)

[silentbob007]

I tend to use a TA for benefits. HOWEVER, I also don't need or expect much service because I'm comfortable making other arrangements myself.

[Toyland]

I used a TA and got a generous OBC.

 

What is considered a generous OBC?

[wwcruisers]

We prefer to book directly with the cruise line, as that gives us complete control over the entire booking process. Some of our friends have travel agents that they swear by, but our experiences with travel agents (in our early cruising days) were not very positive. When you book your cruise directly, however, you are responsible for every detail of your entire vacation. Now, I love doing that -- but it's way too much hassle for some folks! :p

[riclop]

What is considered a generous OBC?

We just got a 222 obc,125 spa credit and specialty dinner for 2.

[Rancher Dave]

We just got a 222 obc,125 spa credit and specialty dinner for 2.

 

To be fair you have to share what your cabin cost to give folks an idea of what you paid to get that OBC. A $222 OBC for a low cost cabin is very different than for a $10,000 cabin.

 

To OP, keep in mind if the TA is giving away most of their income back to you as OBC, they aren't able to dedicate much time to helping you. So if you go for a deal with lots of OBC...keep in mind when you need them to change cabins etc...you may pay service fees and/or have to wait until the normal working 40 to get help.

[firefly333]

What is considered a generous OBC?

 

about 10% would be generous, imo.

 

If no perks, book with RCL.

[Toyland]

I was considering moving my booking to a travel agent, but the one that was recommended to me offered nothing more than to "continually check prices" and help with pre and post cruise transportation. No OBC or other perks. I'll pass. I'll check the prices myself much more often than they would anyway.

[Babyberger]

We are using a TA that offers 10% OBC and NO FEES!!! I mistakenly once used a TA that charged change and cancel fees, never again!!!

[rummenroman]

I use a TA as well, but my TA is family, and booked all my cruises before she was a TA anyways.

[bluefintuna]

Out of 29 cruises we have probably booked 20 with the same online TA; never a problem. If booking a RCCL cruise at this time ours offers free gratuities. It pays to shop around whichever cruise line you choose, but we find dealing with the cruise line directly offers nothing.

[aml716]

We just got a 222 obc,125 spa credit and specialty dinner for 2.

 

wow. I just got $50obc.

but I'm eyeing another cruise which I'll get obc, dinner for 2 at 2 speciality restaurants, and prepaid grats

[maxxedout2]

OP..

 

I wish I knew how to find a good TA. Nobody on this forum

can give names. Used a TA once, long ago. It was horrible. Decided

then that TAs couldn't pay me enough OBC to use them again.

 

 

...so I book all my trips, cruises, flights and excursions for myself.

Have been since the '80's.

 

 

However, since reading posts to the contrary here on CC...I might,

try to find a good TA. There must be one out there.

:cool:

[Braidburn2]

I used a TA for the two cruises I've been on so far but have just booked a RCCL cruise direct online with 5% discount and $100 OBC.

 

BB