The Advantages of Using a Travel Advisor vs. Booking Online
Published Sunday, April 6th 2025 - Updated Wednesday, April 16th 2025Why It’s Smarter to Book Your Cruise with a Travel Advisor (Instead of Online)
By Rob & Lauren Paul—Cruise Planners - CrazyForCruisin.com
Cruises are one of the easiest ways to travel—your room, food, entertainment, and multiple destinations are all in one package. But when it comes to booking a cruise, things can get a little tricky.
With dozens of cruise lines, hundreds of ships, and thousands of itineraries, booking online can feel like diving into rough seas without a life jacket. That’s where a travel advisor comes in—and they can make all the difference.
Let’s break down why using a travel advisor like Cruise Planners for your cruise is a better deal than clicking “Book Now” on a website.
1. Travel Advisors Know the Right Cruise for You
Booking Online:
You see options for every cruise line—from budget to luxury—but how do you know which one is right for you? Each cruise line has its own vibe (some are party-focused, others are family-friendly, others are all about luxury).
With a Travel Advisor:
You tell them what kind of experience you're looking for—romantic getaway, family vacation, adventure cruise, solo escape—and they match you with the perfect cruise line, ship, and itinerary.
Example: Want a quiet, kid-free cruise with gourmet dining and spa days? Your advisor might suggest Viking or Oceania instead of a big party ship.
2. Better Deals + Bonus Perks
Booking Online:
Cruise websites show prices, but they often don’t include taxes, port fees, or extra costs like drink packages and shore excursions.
With a Travel Advisor:
They often have exclusive offers like onboard credits, free drinks, prepaid gratuities, cabin upgrades, or free shore excursions. They’ll also explain what’s included—and what’s not—so you avoid surprises.
Example: Your advisor might book you on a Princess cruise with $100 onboard credit, free specialty dining, and priority boarding—just for booking through them.
3. They Know the Best Cabins (and the Worst)
Booking Online:
You’ll see deck plans and cabin categories, but not all rooms are equal. A “balcony cabin” could face a lifeboat or noisy area.
With a Travel Advisor:
They know which cabins to choose and avoid. Whether finding a midship room to reduce seasickness or booking you away from elevators and nightclubs, they ensure your room is comfortable and quiet.
Example: Your advisor knows that Cabin 8123 on Deck 8 might be under the pool deck—hello, 6 a.m. chair dragging.
4. Full Support Before, During & After the Cruise
Booking Online:
If your flight is delayed and you miss the ship, or if your itinerary changes mid-cruise, you're left calling customer service—or no one at all.
With a Travel Advisor:
They’re your lifeline. They can rebook missed flights, get you on the next port, or help with travel insurance claims. You’re not alone.
Example: A hurricane reroutes your ship? Your travel advisor can cancel or shift your hotel at the next port, saving you stress and money.
5. They Handle the Extras So You Don't Have To
Cruising isn’t just about booking the ship. You may need:
- Flights to the port
- Hotels the night before departure
- Transfers to and from the ship
- Travel insurance
- Shore excursions
- Passport and visa help
A travel advisor plans all of this for you. One stop. One expert. Less worry.
Example: Going on a Mediterranean cruise out of Rome? Your advisor might book you two nights in a charming hotel near the Colosseum, with a guided tour included.
Final Thought: Cruises Are Easy. Booking One Should Be Too.
Booking online might seem simple, but with a travel advisor, you get so much more:
Personal advice
Special deals
Expert planning
Peace of mind
Cruising should be smooth sailing from start to finish—and a travel advisor makes that happen.
Ready to Set Sail?
Reach out to our cruise specialists at CrazyForCruisin.com before you book your next cruise. You might end up with a better room, more perks, and a much easier trip.
Bon voyage!
