corpkid Posted May 19, 2020 #1 Share Posted May 19, 2020 (edited) Before anyone deletes this - I'm not asking for recommendations on specific agents (a big no-no here). I AM asking how do I find one? My old one retired, and I've contacted two and neither has responded to me. I've never used one before (in about 15 cruises over as many years except for once, of which I didn't get any added value) but everyone I mention this to thinks I'm nuts, so I'm reevaluating. I'm trying to book a segment of the 2022 ATW cruise and need to get this finalized ASAP as the B1/B2 cabins are in short supply after speaking with Oceania directly. Edited May 19, 2020 by corpkid Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hawaiidan Posted May 19, 2020 #2 Share Posted May 19, 2020 2 minutes ago, corpkid said: Before anyone deletes this - I'm not asking for recommendations on specific agents (a big no-no here). I AM asking how do I find one? My old one retired, and I've contacted two and neither has responded to me. I've never used one before (in about 15 cruises over as many years) but everyone I mention this to thinks I'm nuts, so I'm reevaluating. I'm trying to book a segment of the 2022 ATW cruise and need to get this finalized ASAP as the B1/B2 cabins are in short supply after speaking with Oceania directly. Search the internet for people......have a list of what you want and are planning to do and require ..stress loyality.... ask about rebates and %.......it takes time 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paulchili Posted May 19, 2020 #3 Share Posted May 19, 2020 Book directly to get your cabin and then you have 30 days to transfer to a TA 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare LHT28 Posted May 19, 2020 #4 Share Posted May 19, 2020 I agree with Paul Book now to get the cabin then work on getting a TA to transfer the booking to It is a small window Do you have friends you can ask about their TA? You could google "Oceania Cruise Connoisseur Club" & go through the ones you find to find the right fit for your needs Good luck Good TA's are hard to find 😉 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corpkid Posted May 19, 2020 Author #5 Share Posted May 19, 2020 (edited) 19 minutes ago, LHT28 said: I agree with Paul Book now to get the cabin then work on getting a TA to transfer the booking to It is a small window Do you have friends you can ask about their TA? You could google "Oceania Cruise Connoisseur Club" & go through the ones you find to find the right fit for your needs Good luck Good TA's are hard to find 😉 Thank you all - I'm going to book this tomorrow AM w/ O directly then go on a hunt for an agent. A couple questions if it wouldn't be too much trouble, please: 1) Physical location (in the US) doesn't matter, correct? 2) I'm not even sure what kind of things to ask for/expect/etc. since I'm so inexperienced using TAs. I know a little OBC is pretty standard, but what else should I be on the lookout for? 3) Does the TA act as a proxy between the Air Dept. and oneself? We don't usually take the air option, but might for an EU trip we are looking at for mid-2021 (God/vaccine-willing). Thank you again for your help. 🙂 Edited May 19, 2020 by corpkid Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KS&JW Posted May 19, 2020 #6 Share Posted May 19, 2020 (edited) 2 hours ago, corpkid said: Before anyone deletes this - I'm not asking for recommendations on specific agents (a big no-no here). I AM asking how do I find one? My old one retired, and I've contacted two and neither has responded to me. I've never used one before (in about 15 cruises over as many years except for once, of which I didn't get any added value) but everyone I mention this to thinks I'm nuts, so I'm reevaluating. I'm trying to book a segment of the 2022 ATW cruise and need to get this finalized ASAP as the B1/B2 cabins are in short supply after speaking with Oceania directly. deleted Edited May 20, 2020 by KS&JW Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KatieBelle Posted May 20, 2020 #7 Share Posted May 20, 2020 1 hour ago, corpkid said: Thank you all - I'm going to book this tomorrow AM w/ O directly then go on a hunt for an agent. A couple questions if it wouldn't be too much trouble, please: 1) Physical location (in the US) doesn't matter, correct?No, location really doesn't matter. Our TA is half a continent away. But she is very attentive and responsive. 2) I'm not even sure what kind of things to ask for/expect/etc. since I'm so inexperienced using TAs. I know a little OBC is pretty standard, but what else should I be on the lookout for?We receive a combination of perks. Flatbush probably gets a sweeter deal than most. But the exemplary service we receive is worth a lot to us. 3) Does the TA act as a proxy between the Air Dept. and oneself? We don't usually take the air option, but might for an EU trip we are looking at for mid-2021 (God/vaccine-willing). Ours does an outstanding job for us in dealing with O Air Dept. Working with O Air Dept. can be enough to make one crazy. We don't have enough air miles anymore to do our own international travel. Add to that the fact that we often extend before and after an overseas cruises, the options and all the back and forth is daunting. Our TA handles it all without any hint of exasperation. 49 minutes ago, Flatbush Flyer said: If you're in a hurry, you can start your search on the Oceania website: https://www.oceaniacruises.com/find-agent/. It's just a data base (without reviews) that will show locals in your zip code. But, that doesn't mean you can't look elsewhere (DO THE RESEARCH). Normally, I'd suggest you ask anybody/everybody on your next O cruise who they use/like. Do it enough and you'll start hearing the same TAs (agencies and agents). Mr. Flyer will always suggest that you start here. 2 points: 1) I have never found the O search for a TA to be very intuitive/helpful. I have tried to search for my own TA on their site and have never had the Agency nor the agent appear. 2) If you do find an agency on the O search site, be aware that not all agents in an agency are Connoisseur Club/O specialists. That makes all the difference. We found our agent many years ago by privately contacting CC members who were kind and helpful in their responses. Sadly, the likes of Don Horner are no longer with us. But there are still a few dear souls around who can be very helpful. Good Luck! -Katie 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CintiPam Posted May 20, 2020 #8 Share Posted May 20, 2020 I agree with Katie Belle that you privately contact CC members whose advice on this Oceania board you respect. That is how we found our agent as well. Thirty days is plenty of time to check around. Good luck! 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare LHT28 Posted May 20, 2020 #9 Share Posted May 20, 2020 3 hours ago, corpkid said: 1) Physical location (in the US) doesn't matter, correct?My TA is in California ..I am not 😉 so do not think it matter 2) I'm not even sure what kind of things to ask for/expect/etc. since I'm so inexperienced using TAs. I know a little OBC is pretty standard, but what else should I be on the lookout for?Pre paid gratuiities? 3) Does the TA act as a proxy between the Air Dept. and oneself? Yes unless we cannot find cheaper air we will use the Oceania air but lately we try for BUS class & O is not any better than what I can find JMO 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alcpa1 Posted May 20, 2020 #10 Share Posted May 20, 2020 I know the Connoisseur agents are highly recommended but they do not always provide everything. I guess we got lucky because our regular agent, who gives us great service, just happened to have the best fare and perks when we booked a cruise for 2021. Her agency is a preferred company but not a member of the Connoisseur Club. I think you will find the air department a little difficult to use particularly if you want to deviate their schedule to arrive a few days early or stay after your cruise. There are fees for deviations. Then the fares may be at the same rate, or higher, as your preferred carrier and you lose direct control with your carrier. Business class fares are generally higher with O's air too. Flight sites live Kayak will be an easy tool to find what works for you. I hope everything works out well for you and you can sail safely and enjoyably. FYI, Oceania did a great hygiene job as we sailed in February. No one on our segment or the extended Marina voyage after ours got sick with the Covid 19 virus and we had passengers from all over the globe. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corpkid Posted May 20, 2020 Author #11 Share Posted May 20, 2020 8 hours ago, LHT28 said: Yes unless we cannot find cheaper air we will use the Oceania air but lately we try for BUS class & O is not any better than what I can find JMO Thanks - I'm one of those credit card points guys so BUS is usually not a problem (in fact, supposed to be on a Singapore Air flight right now in BUS (before Covid)). I am booking this cruise this early to hit a minimum spend of $4k on a new card and to take advantage of the crazy price reductions. I won't bore you but this is my new favorite hobby and it really does pay off if you play they airline loyalty game correctly. Thank you again - I think I have found our new agent. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare LHT28 Posted May 20, 2020 #12 Share Posted May 20, 2020 2 hours ago, corpkid said: Thanks - I'm one of those credit card points guys so BUS is usually not a problem You are lucky then Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare LHT28 Posted May 20, 2020 #13 Share Posted May 20, 2020 I do not understand the problem with the air dept I give my TA the flights/dates/carrier I want She tells me if O can do it & if there is an upcharge or not Once they could not give me what I wanted we just ask for what they could give us Paid the deviation fee done Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corpkid Posted May 20, 2020 Author #14 Share Posted May 20, 2020 (edited) 39 minutes ago, LHT28 said: I do not understand the problem with the air dept I give my TA the flights/dates/carrier I want She tells me if O can do it & if there is an upcharge or not Once they could not give me what I wanted we just ask for what they could give us Paid the deviation fee done We used it once and deviated and it was fine. Honestly though we have business credit cards and literally rack the "miles/points" up so might as well fly in style. LOL Also work for Marriott/Starwood so no need to spend points on hotels - I got that. 😉 Edited May 20, 2020 by corpkid Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare LHT28 Posted May 20, 2020 #15 Share Posted May 20, 2020 3 minutes ago, corpkid said: We used it once and deviated and it was fine. Honestly though we have business credit cards and literally rack the "miles/points" up so might as well fly in style. LOL Also work for Marriott/Starwood so no need to spend points on hotels - I got that. 😉 I was not referring to you as you did say you have points I see others posting about problems with the air dept Maybe they just do not ask for what they want ??? 😁 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corpkid Posted May 20, 2020 Author #16 Share Posted May 20, 2020 3 minutes ago, LHT28 said: I was not referring to you as you did say you have points I see others posting about problems with the air dept Maybe they just do not ask for what they want ??? 😁 LOL. On that point... Nobody seemed to answer this for me. What do you ask for with your TA? About to break into the 5+ club with Oceania (in 7 years). And probably going to 8+ because of pent-up vacation time and desire. Do I have leverage? How do I not be a jerk and ask for concessions? I don't even know what to ask for. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare LHT28 Posted May 20, 2020 #17 Share Posted May 20, 2020 23 minutes ago, corpkid said: LOL. On that point... Nobody seemed to answer this for me. What do you ask for with your TA? About to break into the 5+ club with Oceania (in 7 years). And probably going to 8+ because of pent-up vacation time and desire. Do I have leverage? How do I not be a jerk and ask for concessions? I don't even know what to ask for. I am happy with my TA & the service so I am not one to ask for part of her income (commissions) It is not easy being a TA with the WWW so easy for people to book their own travel Maybe when you are interviewing agencies ask what they give as perks & if that is their best offer Keep shopping around until you find the TA that gives you the deal you are looking for it is a personal choice IMO As for air (probably not for you) I check the ITA matrix site find the flights I want/ dates I want & ask my TA to see if Oceania can do those flights Most of the time they do have contracts with the airline I want Happy hunting hope you find a TA that works for you Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare pinotlover Posted May 20, 2020 #18 Share Posted May 20, 2020 Corpkid; Great to see you back posting again and still cruising! Hope all has been going well for you and the mad ex Top Gun! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flatbush Flyer Posted May 20, 2020 #19 Share Posted May 20, 2020 (edited) 37 minutes ago, corpkid said: LOL. On that point... Nobody seemed to answer this for me. What do you ask for with your TA? About to break into the 5+ club with Oceania (in 7 years). And probably going to 8+ because of pent-up vacation time and desire. Do I have leverage? How do I not be a jerk and ask for concessions? I don't even know what to ask for. In all fairness to TAs, some customers require a lot of handholding -particularly when their travel savvy is zero. And how many cruises you've had is somewhat irrelevant if you still need handholding. Thus, as you book more with specific agencies over time, how much care you need will become clear and that can help a TA decide how much commission to share. Again, the average range for rebate or non-refundable SBC is about 5-10% of the COMMISSIONABLE fare (not your total fare). Plus, remember that Oceania pays TAs on a sliding scale associated with sales volume. And, then another factor is whether the TA belongs to a consortium with its own Oceania deals for gratuities coverage or other incentives - thus not eating into the commission. IMO, if you're booking 2-3+ Oceania cruises per year, understand the maze of O Life and other O idiosyncrasies, DIY air and pre/post cruise arrangements AND have demonstrated that savvy to a particular TA over time, it would not be unreasonable to ASK to split the commission. But, do have some sense of how much below that you are willing to go as well as what help you may end up needing for any SNAFUs. BTW, asking (nicely) for a deal has little to do with being perceived as a jerk (ergo, the importance of being reasonable). Want to hone that skill? Go car shopping! Finally, when it comes to shopping, I am always thankful that I grew up in Brooklyn where the first sentence you are taught to speak is: "Never pay retail." Edited May 20, 2020 by Flatbush Flyer Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare pinotlover Posted May 20, 2020 #20 Share Posted May 20, 2020 (edited) One of the sad parts in these conversations is the abbreviation TA is far to often used interchangeably, even in the same paragraph. TA gets used for both Travel Agent and the Travel Agency for which they work. Many of the perks discussed are provided by the Agency not the Agent, while most of the service is provided by the Agents. Agents are compensated by a variety of different methodologies, and often not by commissions. This is especially the case on high value “ house” accounts that demand significant rebates from the Agency. Edited May 20, 2020 by pinotlover Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flatbush Flyer Posted May 20, 2020 #21 Share Posted May 20, 2020 38 minutes ago, pinotlover said: One of the sad parts in these conversations is the abbreviation TA is far to often used interchangeably, even in the same paragraph. TA gets used for both Travel Agent and the Travel Agency for which they work. Many of the perks discussed are provided by the Agency not the Agent, while most of the service is provided by the Agents. Agents are compensated by a variety of different methodologies, and often not by commissions. This is especially the case on high value “ house” accounts that demand significant rebates from the Agency. Agreed. TA(gencies) may have limits set on what their TA(gents) can provide and compensation formulas may vary (as might added incentive funds from a cruise line). In any case, my use of TA in this thread does ultimately refer to the agency. What they do with their half of the commission (in the simplest sharing scenario) is their business. I'm just trying to give OP a ballpark understanding. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flatbush Flyer Posted May 20, 2020 #22 Share Posted May 20, 2020 4 hours ago, corpkid said: ..... Thank you again - I think I have found our new agent. So, now it's time to "pay it forward." Without naming the TA, please share (for others also looking) what steps you took to ID the new agency/agent. Thanks! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corpkid Posted May 20, 2020 Author #23 Share Posted May 20, 2020 3 hours ago, pinotlover said: Corpkid; Great to see you back posting again and still cruising! Hope all has been going well for you and the mad ex Top Gun! Hola our friend! We're supposed to be on the ATW cruise in SE Asia right now! LOL That didn't work out. How have you been? We are doing well - bored, and very ready to get on the first plane that is safe, but well. 🙂 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
corpkid Posted May 20, 2020 Author #24 Share Posted May 20, 2020 2 hours ago, Flatbush Flyer said: So, now it's time to "pay it forward." Without naming the TA, please share (for others also looking) what steps you took to ID the new agency/agent. Thanks! Let's just say my old agent read this thread and connected me with my new agent (who I originally defaulted to, but didn't get two responses so figured I'd made them upset or something). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare pinotlover Posted May 20, 2020 #25 Share Posted May 20, 2020 5 minutes ago, corpkid said: Hola our friend! We're supposed to be on the ATW cruise in SE Asia right now! LOL That didn't work out. How have you been? We are doing well - bored, and very ready to get on the first plane that is safe, but well. 🙂 😢. That’s sad! You got him to retire, do a 6 month cruise and that happens! Hopefully we’ll soon sail together again ! 🍷 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Please sign in to comment
You will be able to leave a comment after signing in
Sign In Now