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Wednesday, December 11th
When you book a cruise through Priceline, you'll find some great deals and bonuses you can't get elsewhere, including onboard credits starting at just $750 spent (as opposed to $1,000). Their website is easy to use with helpful search filters and live chat support, though you'll need to watch out for their $24.99 booking fee and strict cancellation policies. Unfortunately, many customers have reported poor experiences with Priceline's customer service, and their trustworthiness is questionable due to past controversies, leading to their mediocre rating here.
Expedia offers some savings on cruise bookings compared to direct bookings, with discounts (up to $126 in one case) and good search features. But there are major problems with this online travel agency. It has a very low 1.2-star rating average on Trustpilot, bad customer service, unclear fees, and confusing rules for cashing in your bonus offers like onboard credits. While you can sort cruise options easily and book different travel services together, the many negative customer reviews about refunds and communication issues make it too risky to book your cruise through Expedia.
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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