Group Cruising question...

[Vicsgirl51802]

I was curious which Cruiseline offered the best group rates and amenities. I was thinking of getting together a group and was hoping to get some input.

Thanks in advance for our suggestions and comments.

[GottaLuvCruising]

Of the contemporary lines, I've gotten the best group fares on Carnival. Of the premium lines, Princess seems to value groups the most. I've also found their amenities to be better. You want to shop for your group space at least a year in advance.

[RachelisGoingOnHer2ndCruis]

What constitutes a "group"?? People booked? or cabins booked?? And how good of deals do they offer?

Thanks! :)

[GottaLuvCruising]

A group is typically eight or more staterooms. With some cruise lines, the fare is the same as available to the public at the time the group is blocked. By the time the ship sails, the group fare is often much lower than what's currently available. So the amount of savings by booking as a group can vary widely. Blocking the group far in advance is very much in your favor.

 

In addition to locking in your fares, groups generally get "amenity points" which they can exchange for value added items. The value of the amenity points varies by cruise line and depends on the number of staterooms booked.

 

Also, group space generally qualifies for the "tour conductor" credit. Typically that is one free berth with each eight staterooms booked.

 

Those three features (lower fares, amenities and TC credits) make group space very appealing.

[serene56]

Julie: From going over the group cruise board located up top-- I see CArnival does the most with amenities towards groups. With lower deposits, cabin credits..etc.

Princess gave me nothing.

 

To book a group-- all the people have to be set up in the group-- 16 people can not individually book then later you decide to book as a group.