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Wednesday, December 4th
If you're looking to book a cruise, Cheap Cruises offers about 5,500 sailing options from 10 cruise lines through their user-friendly website. While they advertise attractive bonuses like up to $3,000 in onboard spending and have a loyalty program, you could still find better deals booking directly with cruise lines. You should be cautious about their nonrefundable booking and cancellation fees, and be aware that some customers have reported misleading practices by their agents regarding refunds and promotional deals.
You'll want to steer clear of Orbitz for booking cruises, despite their large selection of over 51,000 sailings from 25 cruise lines. While you might save a small amount through their Agency Specials and onboard perks, their "C-” rating from the Better Business Bureau and poor customer service make them a risky choice. Their website lacks helpful features like curated collections, and they're not transparent about their fees and policies, making it safer to book directly through cruise lines or use a more reputable travel agency.
Cruise vacations are an experience like no other, combining relaxation, adventure, and a variety of destinations - all while unpacking your bags just once. Whether you're a first-time cruiser looking for a family-friendly getaway or an experienced traveler searching for a luxury experience, online cruise vacation booking sites can help you find the perfect match. These platforms solve common problems, such as comparing different cruise lines, finding the best deals, or narrowing down your options based on specific needs like budget, amenities, or destination.
Some booking sites offer sailings from dozens of cruise lines, from mainstream ones like Carnival and Royal Caribbean to more specialized luxury brands like Seabourn or Oceania. The more options available, the easier it is to find the perfect cruise for your preferences.
Some sites focus only on cruise bookings and offer specialized knowledge, perks like onboard credits and included gratuities, and great customer service. Other cruise vacation sites may seem to have lower prices but charge booking and cancellation fees and offer less specialized help. General travel agency sites may include cruise bookings as part of their services, but they may offer fewer perks and don't handle cruise-specific concerns as well as the specialists can.
Some cruise booking services charge booking fees, cancellation fees, or both - sometimes in addition to the cruise line's fees. Look for a booking site that is transparent about their cancellation, refund, and booking policies - and in writing.
When you shop for cruises online, there are several important factors to consider before making a booking. Here's a quick overview to help you navigate your options:
Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked the best cruise vacation booking sites available. We hope this review helps you find the best service for your cruise adventure. Bon voyage!
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