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Booking direct or through a TA? (UK)


AJ22
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Hi,
 

We are looking at SeaDream for the first time, and are considering a Caribbean cruise in the new year. Does it make much difference if we book direct or through a TA? Is there any benefit either way?
 

If we get a complete package through a TA I think we would get ABTA/ATOL protection. However,  we would probably use frequent flyer miles to get from the UK to Bridgetown and might only use a TA for the cruise plus a couple of days in a hotel  before and after.

 

Another advantage of the frequent flyer flights is that we can easily cancel or change (for a small admin charge).  
 

Any suggestions would be appreciated. Many thanks.

Edited by AJ22
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We have always used a TA for cruises, SeaDream and otherwise.  It gives you somebody with clout to stand behind you if anything goes wrong.  You get the same pricing for the cruise, but our TA throws in some other things, such as a spa credit and limo service to and from O'Hare.  We always book our own air, and it hasn't made any difference for our TA.  Most American airlines have either eliminated or minimized commissions, so they would rather not have the bother.  We tell her, however, what our itinerary is so she puts together a complete booklet for our trip.  If we pay for air, which we usually do for my ticket, it is included in the travel insurance we purchase through her.  For some of our European sailings, she has also found guides for us in the ports.

 

All that being said, we generally do our SD bookings whilst onboard to take advantage of the discount.  They then notify our TA and she get her commission as if she booked it herself.

 

Here's hoping your sailing happens.

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I agree with Trapper.  We usually book on-board to get the discount and indicate our TA.  I also like the idea of someone on my side for negotiations with any issues.  We always book Air on our own and unless we are familiar with the hotel, we usually use a TA for hotels, etc.

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Thanks, both of you. I’m sure we’ll be very happy to make future bookings on board! Just need to book the first one. 

I’ll have to phone round some agents and try and find a good specialist. The only time I ever had an issue, the TA was no help. We usually book direct. In the UK it seems that it has been easier to get COVID refunds if you booked direct, and not all TAs have been very helpful.

 

Anyway, I hope we are able to experience SeaDream this winter. It seems that we are able to fly out to Barbados from the UK with no problem, but insurance is the main issue. The UK government is currently advising against ocean going cruises (although It’s fine to take a river cruise) so insurers won’t cover you. Maybe the fact that SeaDream are yachts will help.
 

We hope to meet some of you soon!

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