The surprising ways travel agents can make your cruise holiday better

Welcome to cruise matchmaking

There are nearly 500 ocean, river and speciality ships in operation, so the sheer volume of choice can be baffling. However, for a professional it’s a cinch to ascertain which liner has the perfect clubs for your kids, or has speciality restaurants to make your mouth water.

Agents are constantly ploughing through training courses, sail on their own holidays, and make regular ship visits when vessels are in the UK. Bolsover Cruise Club’s 100 employees have spent more than 17,500 nights at sea, so know each ship’s style, atmosphere and typical clientele.

“We believe there’s a cruise ship out there for everyone, whether you’re an experienced cruiser or are thinking about your first ever cruise holiday,” says sales manager Helen Moore.

Expect your agent to ask detailed questions, from who you’ve travelled with before and what you normally do on holiday, to whether any itineraries already appeal. Your budget will be pivotal in finding the right cruise, so have your figures ready.