Paying the Balance for a River Cruise holiday

[Cleveleys Cruiser]

I am looking forward to a cruise on the Danube in August with Riviera. Their brochure states that the balance for the holiday is due 8 weeks prior to the departure date. I did not book direct with Riviera but used my usual cruise agency and they are asking for the full amount 17 weeks prior to the departure date.

 

Does anyone know why there is such a big difference. I have booked exactly the same cruise as in the brochure - same price and no perks of any kind.

[cherylandtk]

I would put this question to your cruise travel agency. Perhaps they are assuming a 120 day final payment deadline. If you point out the cruise line 56 day limit, and advise you will pay before that, they should agree to your date.

[Cleveleys Cruiser]

The cruise agents terms and conditions mean they want the balance 17 weeks before the holiday but I queried it with them and I am now going to pay my balance only 10 weeks before the holiday, 2 weeks before Riviera want it so I am happy with that.

[cherylandtk]

See, it was good you asked. Two extra weeks is very common among travel agencies; it gives them time to work out any snafus in the payment process.