TA or not?

[perlgirlnj]

I'm getting ready to book Alaska southbound on either Diamond or Island (depending on schedule). We've never been to Alaska before and never been on Princess before, and the TA I've used for Caribbean cruises isn't Alaska-knowledgeable. I feel like I can book directly with Princess and keep myself up to date on prices, etc. I'll almost definitely be booking land portion independently, as well as excursions independently.

 

Given this, is there any reason for me to find and use a TA, or can I do this on my own?

[Putterdude]

We use a TA who works for a company that is both online and B&M and we have found that it works very well. These large companies blank out large numbers of cabins at a discount and pass at least a portion of the discount on to the client.

[m steve]

than the cruise line site and I get on board credits and a booking discount as well.

[flamomo]

Personal preference, but I like to book directly with Princess, because I feel I have better control of the booking, and am able to communicate with Princess if I have questions or concerns, rather than having to go through a 3rd party (TA).

I am capable of monitoring for fare decreases myself, and have always gotten refared to the new lower fare with no problems whatever by just calling Princess.

I know some like to use a TA for lower fare offers, but to me it's worth a few extra dollars to feel comfortable and like I have a handle on things.

[ocngypz]

Find yourself an Alaska cruise specialist. You won't find them working the phones at Princess.

 

You'll save money, avoid pitfalls.......and if you find the right one... you'll get some free spending money in terms of onboard credit.

[perlgirlnj]

Find yourself an Alaska cruise specialist. You won't find them working the phones at Princess.

 

You'll save money, avoid pitfalls.......and if you find the right one... you'll get some free spending money in terms of onboard credit.

 

How?

[WeBeGone]

Call around, ask for references from friends, or google. ASK if the person has taken a cruise to Alaska. There are many TAs who have never stepped foot on a cruise ship (just like Princess reservation people) but there are TAs who really know Alaska, have cruised there many times, and are quite knowledgable. ASK QUESTIONS before choosing an agent. You will always be able to beat the Princess price via a TA.

[Katie333]

Price is a big motivator for me and since I enjoy doing my own research and planning, I generally only use a TA if the price or 'deal' is the best. I am loyal to one local TA and get prices from her and online. I generally go to the TA with the precise cruise, cabin location and category that I want and all she has to do is get a price. I book my own air as well.

 

One thing I will say is that I have caught 3 price drops for my upcoming cruise and my TA has dutifully processed each one. Not sure if an online agency would be that flexible. Mind you, I did the investigation myself.

[sunsetbeachgal]

Dear Perlgirl,

 

We book our cruises both ways-on-line or Princess, and I compare each on a case-by-case basis for the best price (since I usually know exactly what I want).

 

If you are doing the land portion of Alaska yourself (we did a cruisetour, but most on the Alaska Boards recommend doing it on your own-check out the Alaska boards as there are some very knowledgeable, helpful folks), then the ships you mentioned both do pretty similar itineraries. We sailed on the Coral, a sister ship to the Island, and really loved her!

[janina]

I agree with using a TA. Many agencies get group bookings, discounts, onboard credits that you won't find booking directly with Princess. In addition, you can really benefit for their knowledge and experience. Alaska is huge seller now, and a good TA or agency will have sold a lot of Alaska cruises, and have learned from their experiences. Shop around, great TA's are out there!!:)

[Carolina Cruisr]

Most of the time I book with Princess and just before final payment I turn over to an ageny to get any discount and on board credits.

 

No one will monitor my booking more than I can or will. ;) I keep control until I am close to final.