Booking on overseas website?

[Sallyandtex]

Has anyone booked with an overseas agent, or cruiseline not in AUD?

 

If so, any pitfalls apart from exchange costs?

 

The deals and prices and availability even, seem much better.

 

 

Thanks!

[RosieCanberra]

Yes we have, the lead prices don't reflect taxes, port fees, gratuities so keep that in mind. But no issues. Great service, promptly respond to email, available on the phone too. 

[arxcards]

As above.

 

Also a possible difference in exchange rates in the time between paying deposit and final payment. It can work either was though. Paying by credit card, also check what charges your bank will take in fees and/or margin between their conversion rate and the official midpoint.

[MMDown Under]

I have booked cruises through an overseas TA.  Whether it is good value, it depends on how weak the Aussie dollar is.  It used to be excellent value, with efficient service, when our currency was stronger.

[MicCanberra]

Some overseas TAs (US) will also allow a refare for no fee when there is a price drop.

[seashell77]

I regularly use an overseas website and find that even after fees and taxes are added on (these aren't shown on the initial fare) I find it can be significantly cheaper than purchasing direct from the cruise-line or a NZ TA. The risk is the exchange rate as this is all done in US$- they do give indicative rates for other currencies though- that's how I work out if it's a good deal for me or not.

[Sallyandtex]

4 hours ago, RosieCanberra said:

Yes we have, the lead prices don't reflect taxes, port fees, gratuities so keep that in mind. But no issues. Great service, promptly respond to email, available on the phone too. 

Thanks Rosie