Bowman’s Travel Brief: Cruise Through Wave Season

It’s an exciting time of the year for the travel industry, especially for anyone and everyone associated with cruises.

So, how will you ride the wave this winter?

Over the next couple of months, several travelers will be booking their travel plans for the 2019 calendar year. Some may even be looking out in advance and booking trips for 2020.

It’s a busy time for travel agents, who see this time of year as a crucial period for their business. Wave Season can put travel agents off to an excellent start for the year or put them in a hole.

Agents will see an influx of repeat clients and potential new clients calling to inquire about vacations, so staying on top of the news and the available deals is critical.

From rivers to oceans, there are cruise deals aplenty.

Maintaining good relationships and making sure to follow up on calls are also important factors to remember this Wave Season. After all, many sales you make often require a follow-up or two. Sadly, plenty of professionals out there give up after the first follow-up call.

Don’t start 2019 by making that mistake. Be relentless an aggressive this Wave Season, but don’t be too pushy.

Casual travelers out there considering a cruise vacation – now is the best time to book! And using a travel agent is the best way to book a cruise!

In addition to saving you money by finding great deals, an agent will help pair you with a cruise that best fits your needs and desires, ensuring you have a terrific vacation.

Why risk it by waiting to book later when the top deals and itineraries are available now?

Get Caught Up

In case you missed it this past week:

The government shutdown is causing several travel-related headaches for many, as national parks are suffering and TSA agents are reportedly calling out sick since they’re working without pay. Pilots have also written a letter urging President Trump to end the shutdown.

Disney’s CEO says that the new Star Wars: Galaxy Edge in Disneyland could open in June. No word yet on an official opening date though, and as of now, the Star Wars land in Disney World is slated to open in the fall.

The State Department issued a warning for Americans traveling to China. However, China hit back saying the US travel advisory is overstated.

These are the 10 airlines projected to be the safest in 2019.

Follow these tips and trends to become a better traveler in 2019.

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Advice from an Agent

Paul Stroncek is a travel agent at Dreamlines USA based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He can be reached at paul.stroncek@dreamlines.com.

When asked what advice he would give travel agents during wave season, Stroncek said:

“My go-to is if the client is not happy with the price, explain the value of it per person/per night, and always have a second option in your back pocket. The cruise industry has ships for everyone, from 3-day Carnival Cruises to a 100+ night world cruise for $100,000.00.

“Whether it’s a bachelor or bachelorette party for a group in the Caribbean on a mass-market ship, a Europe, Alaska, Hawaii Cruise, Greek Isles, or Caribbean Cruise, or a world cruise, make sure you are matching the client to the right product.

“If a client wants to go on a three to seven-night Disney Cruise Line, I try to quote a Norwegian or Royal Caribbean newer ship as a backup in case if the premium niche product is out of their budget. Ask which hotels they stay at, ask what restaurants they go to, which vacations they’ve enjoyed, etc.”

As for travelers interested in a cruise vacation, Stronceck’s advice is to maximize your value.

“The main gist of it is, there is an extreme value in cruises. I’m a firm believer in the product, and I wouldn’t want my clients to go on it if I didn’t find extreme value. You’re on a floating resort: activities, entertainment, destinations, meals and accommodations are included. Some of these ships have Vegas-Style shows, ice skating shows, comedy clubs, piano bars, and world-class chefs. Some of them are going to parts of the world that trains cannot access.

If you break down the costs, then there’s no doubt there’s an extreme value in cruising. I get excited just talking about it to first-time cruisers from all the lasting memories and friends I’ve made.”

Top Offers

Save up to $1,500 per stateroom on 2019 Wine Cruises from AmaWaterways.

Kids sail for free on select voyages from Crystal Cruises.

Save 60 percent off the second guest, 30 percent off third and fourth guests and up to $150 instant savings with Royal Caribbean International.

Don’t miss these Free at Sea offers from Norwegian Cruise Line.

Earn $900 worth of air and resort credits at Couples Resorts.

Travel agents can earn $100 AMEX gift card bonus when booking with CIE Tours.

And as always, for all your travel offer needs be sure to bookmark www.travelpulse.com/deals.