Can travel agencies sell RC cruises for less than RC's website?

[Coastaljen]

I know with Celebrity they can't discount the price (but can give OBCs), but I thought there was one other cruiseline that worked that way. Is it RC?

[nanfromatlanta]

I know with Celebrity they can't discount the price (but can give OBCs), but I thought there was one other cruiseline that worked that way. Is it RC?

 

 

You are correct. Royal does not allow TAs to discount. They can give OBCs, though.

[mamacat3]

I second that answer.

[silentbob007]

They can't publically advertise a lower price, but I believe in some circumstances they can offer something lower (if they have group space blocked out, etc).

[Mickg]

Hi,

TA's in the UK can discount RCI cruises, but I guess with the current exchange rate this wouldn't interest you.

 

Mick.

[rubrrick]

If a TA wants their arrangement with RCI to continue uninterrupted, they cannot advertise or sell anything less than what is advertised on the RCI website.

 

Discounting of any advertised RCI price, by a TA in the US could mean the TA's suspension of any further dealings with RCI.

 

They can dip into their commission with OBC's etc.

 

Group rates are a different matter.

 

Rick

[cruisePRN]

RCL owns Celebrity so both policies are alike regarding discounts.

[Moeve]

Stop there may be a very legal reason!!! Some TAs actually set up groups and get at least 10 cabins. (This often happens as soon as bookings open.) They could have sold most of their cabins quickly but due to cancellations or left over cabins they could still have cabins in their block and they are allowed to offer them at the rate they bought them for which if it is closer to sailing could be a lot lower than the going RCCL rate on the website. This is legally ok and not in violation of the RCCL contract. So this is something you could be looking at.

[villager70]

I have seen many on the net offering the same base rate as RC but some pay for gratuities,offer cash for excusions and several gave a $50.00 rebate on credit card use. Bob & Nancy the Villages Florida:) :) :)

[Italy52]

I have seen many on the net offering the same base rate as RC but some pay for gratuities,offer cash for excusions and several gave a $50.00 rebate on credit card use. Bob & Nancy the Villages Florida:) :) :)

 

 

Noticed on your post that you are from "The Villages" in Florida - I have an aunt and uncle that live there. What a great community.

[lgazz]

Not that I wouldn't use an OBC, but I booked my most recent 2 cruises through a TA affiliated with a Discover Card promotion.

After I complete my cruise, I will receive a 5% "rebate" on my Discover Card which can be taken as CASH or redeemed through one of their bonus partners.

 

For my JOS sailing in November, I expect to get a ~$200 rebate.

 

How does that compare with OBCs from your TAs?

 

BTW - I realize that the TA is technically not selling the cabin at a lower rate than RCI...But, any refund (no matter what it is called) is appreciated!