How to Really Save on the Price of Your Cruise: Put Together a Group

In this modern world, many people love to search the internet for the best price on their cruise. Let's face it. It's a challenge! The problem is how do you really know if you truly found the "best" price? I understand the thrill. I'm the type person who likes that shopping thrill. It's the victory of the hunt when you find the perfect deal. Now, some people don't enjoy the endless hours on the computer searching for the perfect deal. They would rather just pick up the phone and call their travel agent. However, others actually get a kick out of the research and bargain shopping. For them it's the beginning of the cruise experience. I can relate to this. I'm a coupon shopper, a sale shopper, and before I became a travel agent, I was one of those cruise bargain shoppers. However, one of my best deals was through a travel agent when she had an exclusive offer from a cruise line. My point is....if you REALLY want the best possible deal on a cruise - Put together a group, and travel for practically free. This is the ultimate way for you bargain shoppers out there to get a great deal on a cruise!

Free? There must be some kind of catch. Right? Not if your travel agent negotiates the group contract with the cruise line and you're able to obtain the required number of group members. With most lines, a group of 16 full paying adults will earn a tour conductor credit. This is the person who is deemed to be the group leader. If you have 15 friends to travel with, why not let that person be you? If you can organize these people to join in on the fun, then you have just earned yourself a free cruise fare. Of course, if you are married or are taking another traveling companion, you'll have to pay for them, and you do have to pay for taxes and government fees. But it's a steal of a deal! Doubtful that you can beat that deal anywhere else! Usually, you'll also be awarded other amenities for your group that your agent will negotiate for you. All the cruise lines have great deals for groups, but I've grown particularly fond of working with the Princess Groups Department, as they negotiate special rates and amenities for your group.

You might ask why the cruise lines would be so generous? It's a win-win situation for everyone. You have your "berth" paid for, and they have someone out there providing free advertising to help sell those cabins. They're also counting on the fact that you just might spend some of the green stuff onboard their lovely ship. Yes! It's a win-win situation all the way around.