This is why you need to use a good TA

[Flatbush Flyer]

Though not new to commercial cruising (went or our own [NCL] or with young child in tow [RCCL] many years ago), we recently retired and, among a ton of other long back-burnered travel plans, decided to head to Alaska. While I enjoy DIY research and grew up in Brooklyn NY with the mantra "never pay retail," I opted to rely on a travel agency to do the legwork. Of course, I did have to research TA's and one of my first steps was to check for recommendations at Conde Nast Traveler and, locally here in SF Bay Area on Yelp and SF Chronicle . Also talked with neighbors/friends, etc.

We were looking for a brick/mortar cruise specialist here on the west coast and found exactly the right one including a great "luck of the draw" first contact that netted us a terrific TA with both cruise line and cruise TA experience.

 

So, why a TA?

 

First, from our initial discussion of personal taste, means, etc. she quickly drew our attention to Oceania (we wanted small ship, good itinerary with at least 2 sea days, great food and service, other baby boomers and a price point that didn't wipe us out).

 

Some reading this may say Oceania and "price point" would be a problem. Perhaps this is true without a TA. But, at the bottom line our TA brought the price down to a level comparable to or better than HAL or Princess. She did this with a combination of two Oceania cabin price adjustments (including a very significant one after we had made our full payments), air credit, late addition of free gratuities from Oceania and a sizable OBC from the travel agency.

 

Overall, and beyond the savings, what a pleasant experience we've had - enough so that we've got her looking for the next cruise.

 

 

 

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[Krazy Kruizers]

We are also fortunate to have a TA that we have used for over 24 years.

[dorisis]

Oceania costs a bit more than the WALMART type lines, but is well worth it. You get what you pay for and it looks like you have a very good agent.