2011 - the Year of the Hawaii Cruise

Will 2011 be the year of the Hawaii cruise? It would seem that way from the new Travel Trends Survey from Travel Leaders.

The annual look at where Americans plan to vacation in the coming year finds surging interest in Hawaii cruises. Sailings around the Aloha State jumped six places to land at No. 8 among top domestic destinations, just ahead of San Francisco and just behind Washington, D.C.

Cruising to Alaska was No. 3 on the list -- the same as last year. It remains behind perennial top spots Las Vegas and Orlando (which flipped positions this year at No. 1 and No. 2, respectively). Rounding out the Top 10 among domestic destinations were Honolulu and Maui's Kahului (tied at No. 4); New York City (at No. 6); and Chicago and Phoenix (tied at No. 10).

Among international destinations, "Caribbean cruising" remains the top choice among Travel Leaders customers, as it has been in the past, placing ahead of perennial No. 2 Cancun, Mexico. "Mediterranean cruising" continues a multi-year upward climb to land at No. 3 for the first time, ahead of Mexico's Riviera Maya and Rome. Mediterranean cruising ranked at No. 4 last year.  Also on the list of top international destinations was "Mexico cruising," at No. 10 (up from No. 11 last year).

Conducted in November, the survey is based on actual booking data for 2011 from 547 Travel Leaders travel agency outlets across the USA.  The survey also found that a majority of customers (50.1%) will spend more on travel in 2011. A tad more than 38% said they spend the same amount, with the balance saying they'd spend less.

Among other findings: Last-minute leisure travel is starting to decrease after jumping during the economic downturn. The survey found just 23.3% of Travel Leaders customers were booking a domestic trip within four weeks of traveling vs. 29.8% a year ago. The percentage of customers booking eight weeks or more in advance of a trip has jumped to 61.4%, from 54.5% a year ago.

                       

Posted Dec 20 2010 9:10AM - By Gene Sloan, USA TODAY

The New Haven Firebirds Fundraiser

The New Haven Firebird Society (a professional Firefighters’ organization) has chosen The Cruise Outlet of Hamden, CT, to help them raise money to benefit their scholarship program.

A 7-day cruise sailing from New York on May 28, 2011, is scheduled.  It will be on the Norwegian Jewel and will visit 3 islands in the Bahamas. 

For every cabin booked on this cruise, a donation by the Cruise Outlet is being made to the New Haven Firebirds Scholarship fund.

The Cruise Outlet will also be providing some special gifts and events onboard exclusively for passengers who booked this cruise with them.

Rates are as low as $439.00 per person based upon double occupancy.  People interested in booking can contact the Firebirds at 203-641-0856 or call The Cruise Outlet at 203-288-1884.

Royal Caribbean Offers Refunds to Brilliance Passengers

December 13, 2010    3:35 PM

Royal Caribbean International will refund cruise fares to passengers onboard Brilliance of the Seas, which listed during a severe storm Dec. 12 as it approached Alexandria, Egypt. The company is also giving them an onboard credit of $200 per stateroom and $400 per suite.

As the ship continues its voyage, Royal Caribbean continues to assess the incident. About 30 passengers were injured, mostly bumps and bruises, although two guests suffered fractures. The medical facility onboard is fully operational and caring for guests.

The company said the severe ship movement caused damage to some public areas and a loss of electricity in some staterooms. Aesthetic damages to the ship’s interior forced the closure of three public venues for the remainder of the sailing -- the beauty salon, video arcade and disco. “There has been no impact to the ship’s operating systems or engines, and the ship continues to be fully seaworthy,” the company said.

During the approach to Alexandria, the ship experienced extreme wind and sea conditions, including heavy seas and 70 knot winds, nearly double what had been forecasted.

Brilliance of the Seas did not call at Alexandria and instead proceeded to the next port of call, Valetta, Malta, where it will arrive at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 14. The ship will conclude its sailing in Barcelona, Spain, on Dec. 17, as scheduled. Subsequent cruises will sail as scheduled and the ship will not require a dry dock, as repairs are under way.

“Royal Caribbean understands that this has been a frightening experience for our guests and crew, and our officers and crew onboard Brilliance of the Seas will make every effort to ensure that the remainder of the cruise is as enjoyable as possible,” the company said in a statement.

NCL Positions Two New Ships in Alaska, Bermuda for 2012-13

Announced December 08, 2010 

Norwegian Cruise Line is repositioning some of their ships which sail in Alaska and Bermuda in 2012-13.

For the first time, the 2,376-passenger Norwegian Jewel will sail Alaska’s Inside Passage, joining Norwegian Pearl, which is sailing to Glacier Bay from Seattle.  Norwegian Jewel will replace Norwegian Star and cruise from Seattle on a seven-day Sawyer Glacier itinerary. The cruises will depart on Saturdays from May 26, 2012, to Sept. 8, 2012, to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria. Norwegian Jewel will also sail a seven-day Sawyer Glacier cruise from Vancouver to Seattle on May 19, 2012, and a seven-day Sawyer Glacier from Seattle to Vancouver on Sept. 15, 2012.

Norwegian Pearl will operate seven-day Glacier Bay cruises departing on Sundays from May 13, 2012, to Sept. 9, 2012. The itinerary includes Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. Norwegian Pearl will also sail a seven-day Glacier Bay cruise from Vancouver to Seattle on May 6, 2012, and a Seattle-to-Vancouver cruise on Sept. 16, 2012.

In Bermuda, the 2,348-passenger Norwegian Star will sail to Bermuda from in New York City on Sundays to Bermuda, staying for three full days for the 2012 season.  The 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn will depart on Fridays from Boston with three days in Bermuda.

Pride of America will continue as the only U.S.-flagged vessel sailing among all four of Hawaii’s main islands. The seven-day cruises from Honolulu are available through April 7, 2013. Ports of call include an overnight in Kahului, Maui; Hilo, Hawaii; an evening sail by the Kilauea Volcano (weather permitting); Kona, Hawaii; an overnight in Nãwiliwili, Kauai; and an afternoon cruise off the Nãpali Coast.

The Cruise Outlet of Hamden, CT a certified Agency for Norwegian Cruise Line has begun to confirm passengers on these sailings.  Although many passengers feel they have plenty of time before bookings, according the The Cruise Outlet, passengers who they are booking now for the Bermuda and Alaska season of 2011 and 2012 will get the best possible rates and premier cabins and locations.  Almost every sailing for the 2011 and 2012 sailing carries with it on board credits of as much as $300.00 per booking.  This on board credit is “free’ money to spend on the cruise for almost anything. 

The Cruise outlet is available at info@thecruiseoutlet.com or 800-775-1884

Celebrity to Offer New AquaClass Suites, Expanded Lawn Club

December 08, 2010 9:45 PM

Celebrity Cruises is adding new features -- including spa-inspired suites and an expanded Lawn Club -- on its new Solstice-class ships due out in 2011 and 2012. Driven by high demand for Celebrity’s AquaClass category staterooms, Celebrity will introduce AquaClass Suites on Celebrity Reflection, with each offering 251 square feet of interior space and 57-square-foot verandas. The AquaClass Suites will include the amenities found in AquaClass staterooms, including exclusive and complimentary access to the specialty restaurant Blu. The new suites also will offer butler service.

In addition to the 34 new AquaClass Suites, Celebrity Reflection also will have an eight additional Sky Suites, 19 additional ConciergeClass staterooms, and 11 more inside staterooms, bringing the stateroom/suite total to 1,515.

Both Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Reflection will present the 56-seat Lawn Club Grill, an outdoor grill venue. A new specialty dining option overlooking the lawn and sea, The Lawn Club Grill will have stainless steel grills and other appliances, custom pizza-making tables and large ovens. By day, the venue will present a casual lunch menu with high-end burgers, but also will offer demonstrations and classes focused on pizza-making, grilling secrets, marinades and more, led by Celebrity chefs, as well as guest chefs participating in the “Savor Your Destination” program. By night, guests can choose meats to either grill themselves, side-by-side with Celebrity’s chefs, or have grilled to order. A nominal surcharge will apply.

The Porch will be a Hamptons-style spot for simple complimentary breakfasts and lunches. The 48-seat venue will be located on the starboard side at the entrance to Lawn Club and will serve complimentary fresh pastries, salads, Paninis and other sandwiches, in addition to specialty coffees, beer and wine.

“The Art Studio,” located within the area of the Lawn Club, will let experienced and novice artists to get hands-on instruction from experts in drawing, painting and beading, as well as the art of food, with plating, tastings, mixology and other culinary-themed classes. The Art Studio also will present pairing dinners hosted by guest chefs participating in Celebrity’s Savor Your Destination program.

For a private retreat overlooking the lawn, ocean and coastlines, Celebrity also will present within The Lawn Club, The Alcoves, eight cabana-style settings, each designed for two to four guests. Each of The Alcoves on Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Reflection will offer Wi-Fi, themed picnic baskets and an a la carte beverage menu. The Alcoves will be available as partial or all-day rentals. Adjacent to The Alcoves will be eight hammocks and two whimsical, oversized Adirondack chairs.

Michael’s Club -- a venue found on every Celebrity ship -- will add a selection of more than 50 beers, including craft beers, and will allow guests to participate in sessions focused on food and beer pairings, how to pour the perfect draft, or how to select the proper beer glass. Snacks will include gourmet potato chips, bread sticks and caramel popcorn, amid live music or sporting events airing on 46-inch TV screens.

The Cruise Outlet in Hamden, CT, is foremost in booking passengers on the Solstice class of ships with resident experts of Celebrity and these ships on staff to provide their clients with all the most knowledgeable information for this cruise experience.

Also, the Cruise Outlet is managing a program with American Express for clients who hold the Platnium Card to provide for additional benefits when booking with them for Celebrity.

The Value of the Travel/Cruise Agent

©NABA Cruise Consultants - July 2010

Neil Gorfain, CEO of NABA Cruise Consultants, Hamden, Connecticut, provides Cruise Line Senior Management with objective information of their product via live unannounced cruise visits.  He is regarded by most of the Cruise Executives as one of the most objective people in the industry and provides them with detailed information on much of the positive operations within the ship.

This is an excerpt of an article published in major consumer publications during 2008 and 2009.

You can reach Neil at Neil@thecruiseoutlet.com

Get the best value from your Cruise

You should rarely have to pay the published price shown in the brochure for your cruise. There are, of course, exceptions to this rule. But the first thing a consumer needs to know is what are the “prices” published in the brochure and when was the brochure printed.

It is possible to get a really cheap price for a cruise and save lots of money.  YES, but what if you end up with a lousy cabin (like one under the kitchen, or next to the Disco), or on a dirty ship with terrible food? Would you consider that a "Good Deal"?

Smart cruisers want the best Value for their dollar.  Remember, each person going on a vacation or cruise is looking for something different.  So, price should be the last factor involved in your decision to cruise and on what ship.

Use a Travel/Cruise Agent

Here is a list of Questions every consumer should ask the person they are dealing with in regard to booking their cruise:

• What other products does the company sell?  The more things they sell, the less they will know about the cruises.
• How long has the company been in business?
• Does the company have an office and operate from a real location? (this is against many people who are selling cruises from their homes and bedrooms!!)
• How long has the person you are dealing with been in the business?
• Has this person you are dealing with cruised before?
• Has this person you are dealing with cruised on the cruise line and ship you are interested in? (This is very important in regard to the questions you may have)
• Are they certified and accredited by that cruise line?
• Are they accredited by the Cruise Association? This is in regard to further training and education they mayhave in regard to taking care of you and knowing the differences between the ships.
• Can you call and speak with the same person each and every time?  Are they on incentive (they will say anything to get your business) or salary?
• Do they have “preferred” agreements so they have to sell, promote and push certain cruise lines?

This may sound like a lot of work, but it is your money and we know we can save you hundreds of dollars for a great cruise with a little planning.

           

Bottom line - you are always better off using a Professional Cruise Agent to book your cruise!

Things to Consider When Planning a Cruise

©NABA Cruise Consultants - July 2010

Neil Gorfain, CEO of NABA Cruise Consultants, Hamden, Connecticut, provides Cruise Line Senior Management with objective information of their product via live unannounced cruise visits.  He is regarded by most of the Cruise Executives as one of the most objective people in the industry and provides them with detailed information on much of the positive operations within the ship.

This is an excerpt of an article published in major consumer publications during 2008 and 2009. You can reach Neil at Neil@thecruiseoutlet.com

ARE YOU TRAVELING ALONE?
If you are a single traveler, you should be aware that most Cruise Lines charge what is referred to as a "single supplement". Cruise Lines base their rates on two people staying in each cabin. If you are going to travel by yourself, they will charge you a supplement fee. Some cruise lines will charge as much as 200%, so you are basically paying for the other person. The single supplement rates will vary from one cruise line to another and from one sailing date to another. A good Cruise Professional can be an invaluable resource, especially if your travel dates are flexible.

CONSIDER A REPOSITIONING CRUISE
A "repositioning" cruise takes place when a ship is moved from one part of the world to another, generally on a seasonal basis. For example, many Cruise Lines will position ships in Alaska during the summer months when the days are longer. In September or October, they will move these ships back to the Caribbean. You can often find some very reasonable rates on these repositioning cruises.

CHOOSING THE TIME OF YEAR
If you have some flexibility as to when you are able to travel, it can make a big difference in your cruise fare. Holidays are always more expensive as is winter school break & spring break. If you are planning a Caribbean cruise, consider a fall time frame as kids are back in school.  Many people are concerned about Hurricanes in the Caribbean.  The actual Hurricane season is June 1 through Dec 1. Being a smart cruiser, you are not too concerned about hurricanes. The ships do not head into storms; they alter their route to avoid any bad weather.  So the worst case situation is that you will miss a certain port of call and the cruise will visit a different one or have an extra day at sea.  Programs, activities and shows all go on as usual.


SHIPBOARD CREDITS
Many Agencies, such as us, will offer shipboard credits and other amenities as a bonus on certain sailings. It is a promotion to get more bookings on certain sailings.  An onboard credit can be as much as $2000.00 on a particular cruise.  Ask us about these offers. Remember, on most cruises you pay for your drinks (sodas, cocktails, beer & wine), shore excursions/tours, spa treatments and gratuities. Having the shipboard credit helps to offset those expenses. Many amenities such as this are available if you book early enough.  Those that wait until the last minute because they think they will get a deal, lose!

BUY TRIP INSURANCE
An important part of getting a good deal is protecting your investment. An independent insurance company (one that just sells insurance) is far better that the insurance offered by the cruise lines. The difference in coverage is so vast; don’t look at the cost of the premium without considering the coverage and how it will be paid to you.  The Independent companies pay you the amount of the claim while many cruise line insurance coverage’s give you a credit for another cruise with limited terms and conditions.

A Letter to Our Clients

The following article was written by Richard Turen, contributing editor for the national magazine Travel Weekly. Richard Turen owns Churchill and Turen, Original article published September 6, 2010

We have added some information to assist you further which is specific to cruising and the Cruise Outlet.

Dear Client:

I hope and trust that you will book your next vacation with our firm. But we know there are alternatives out there, and we know you are receiving mailings and seeing ads that often urge you to book directly with a cruise line or online.

We enjoy an open and honest relationship with our clients. So I would like to share some straight talk with you about using toll-free numbers or websites to book your vacation directly with the provider.

The best-kept secret in the travel industry is that those who book direct are paying for something they are not receiving: the services of a professional travel consultant.

I realize you are being told that it is easy to book your cruise online. You can do it yourself. Just trust the supplier to take care of everything and have your credit card within easy reach.

Be thrilled that you live in a time when you can just click and travel. It's all so easy, isn't it? Turn over your credit card number and personal information to someone in a cubicle in a reservations factory or, better still, to outsourced labor working out of a call center overseas. Now your credit card information is in Bangladesh, and your vacation will be expertly planned and delivered.

So why use The Cruise Outlet.com and its services?

Well, the first thing you need to know (the industry's best-kept secret) is that you are going to pay my fee or commission when you book directly because it is always -- not sometimes, always -- built into the price of any brochure program. It's the way the industry prices.

Cruise Lines, (& even top-grade hotels), love direct bookings because a portion of the travel agent's commission that is built in to every program simply goes into their pockets. They believe that it costs them far less to maintain order-takers in a reservations center.

Most telephone res agents who work for cruise lines are commissioned salespeople with little knowledge of the industry. Their goal is simple: Try to get a direct booking, earn their smaller commission, and let the company pocket the rest of the total commission built into the fare.

So when you book something directly, you are making a sucker bet that the person on the other end of the line has your best interests at heart, will look out for further discounts and apply them to your record and will be there for you in an emergency.

Imagine what happens when you make a direct booking. Your credit card information is stored, and you receive a computer-generated invoice. That's it. You are now a travel statistic. The computer software that is now your "agent" will notify you when final payment is due, and you will receive final documents.

Of course, you will not receive any of the amenities available through our office, so you might actually be missing out on pricing incentives and advantages.

Let me state it as clearly as I can: With the exception of certain websites that run occasional online "sales," you will never receive preferred pricing on any online site.

If a cruise line did not give us pricing that was equal to or better than what they offer on their site, no reputable travel consultant would ever again sell their product. It just never happens. You can always count on the fact that our pricing will be as good or better than any tour or cruise prices you see on direct booking sites.

But frankly, I don't want you to book with us because it is always a better value than booking directly. There are other, more important reasons that have little to do with price.

There is not enough space to list all of the things we provide to our valued clients that are never provided when you book directly with a cruise line. But here are just a few to keep in mind:

We are going to compare what competitive companies offer. We are going to advise you on the very best product to meet your needs. We can point out the advantages and disadvantages of several options. Booking directly puts you in touch with a single-product sales person. That is all you get.

We can provide special documentation and advice about ports and sightseeing options and even hotels in that area.

One of the most important things we can do is analyze your travel insurance needs. If you book direct, you get no options, no discussion. You are offered only whatever the site happens to be selling. We offer options that often saves you money and provide better coverage.

Suppose something goes wrong? Suppose someone gets sick, and you need help getting home in a hurry? Suppose your vacation experience was unsatisfactory? Who is your advocate if you are dealing directly with the company operating the program? You have none.

Perhaps the most important single thing that we do is give you an honest, unbiased view of both the upside and downside of the vacation option you are considering. Book direct and you get none of that. Everything about the product will be painted in glowing terms. Everything will smell like a strawberry.

Finally, a personal note.
When I go to sleep at night, I am generally aware of where my clients are traveling and what current conditions they are likely to encounter. I am concerned about my clients. I think about their welfare, and I think about ways that I can enhance their cruise experience.

I am fairly certain that the direct booking tied up somewhere in a supplier's software booking program is incapable of showing a "booking statistic" much empathy.

We feel that “Our knowledge equals your best Cruise Experience”

Sincerely,

Neil Gorfain

CEO

PS:

I make sure that all of my staff including the receptionist have training on the different cruise products.  That all of them cruise at least annually to know more about the product.  The entire staff is required to be certified and accredited by each cruise line in the industry.  This is necessary in order to enhance your experience and be able to provide the correct and factual information.

Our website is not designed to have you book a cruise online, because we are a company that requires you to call our office and speak to a staff member in order to book.  Yes, a real live person who is going to ask questions, verify information and make suggestions.  Different?, Yes. Beneficial to you? YES!

Cruise West goes out of business and all sailings are cancelled.

The Cruise Outlet, in conjunction with a number of the small ship cruise lines, have arranged for clients to be re-booked on similar itineraries with American Safari Cruises.  Even clients who have not booked with the Cruise Outlet are welcome and will be taken care of properly and with their best interest.

The Cruise Outlet stopped booking Cruise West a number of months ago when the cruise line started to show indications of something not correct.  All clients who did book on that line with the Cruise Outlet, were required to take out full cruise and travel insurance which would protect them in the case of default, which is what has happen.  

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has announced that Cruise West “is cancelling all cruises that were scheduled to begin Saturday, September 18, and on all dates that follow.” With the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Cruise West, The Cruise Outlet feels confident that American Safari Cruises and new sister company InnerSea Discoveries are two leading alternatives for accommodating their passengers immediately.
American Safari Cruises operates in 4 of the same west coast destinations as Cruise West. We are offering compelling options to salvage your clients’ vacations on fall/winter 2010 and 2011 departures of Mexico’s Seas of Cortés and Columbia River, and Alaska 2011 departures. To make re-booking as easy as possible, The Cruise Outlet has set up a program with American Safari Cruises to  match Cruise West fares for fall 2010/spring 2011 Columbia & Snake Rivers cruises and 25% savings for Mexico’s Sea of Cortés. Sailings in Southeast Alaska, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés and the Columbia & Snake Rivers can be rebooked on American Safari Cruises’ yachts or with the company’s new sister brand, InnerSea Discoveries, which offers moderately priced adventure cruising in Southeast Alaska starting May 2011. Both brands offer small yachts/ships, with guest capacities from 12-49 guests, exemplary service and delicious cuisine, a high crew to guest ratio and active and unique itineraries that include kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and hiking. 

American Safari Cruises pioneered yacht cruising in Southeast Alaska 12 years ago, and operates three luxury yachts carrying 12, 22 and 36 guests sailing round trip from Juneau between mid-May and early September. In addition, the yachts operate on the Columbia & Snake Rivers, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés and interisland Hawaii (new for fall 2011). Guests can expect a superlative yacht experience combined with adventure in a casual, yet elegant atmosphere.

InnerSea Discoveries offers highly experiential adventure cruises aboard two 49-guest small ships, the Wilderness Adventurer and Wilderness Discoverer that will sail between Juneau and Ketchikan. The boats were purchased in October 2009 and are currently undergoing major renovations to prepare them for an outdoor-oriented small-ship experience for the 2011 Alaska season.

We welcome passengers who were booked via other means to  contact us and ask for  Neil Gorfain, CEO of TheCruiseOutlet.com who will personally work with each client needed assistance from the demise of Cruise West.

Limited Time Offers from The Cruise Outlet

We have some great rates on Winter Break, Spring Break and April Vacation 2011 cruises that are booking fast! Give us a call today at 1-888-775-1884 to speak with one of our Cruise Professionals about booking your trip on any of these amazing cruises, or visit www.thecruiseoutlet.com to browse our other deals!

Winter Break 2011

February 12, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Epic 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing from Miami starting at $656 per person + free dinner

February 13, 2011 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Allure of the Seas 7-night Western Caribbean sailing from Ft. Lauderdale starting at $884 per person + $25 on board credit

February 19, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Epic 7-night Western Caribbean sailing from Miami starting at $599 per person + $75 on board credit

February 19, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Gem 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $801 per person + $50 on board credit

February 19, 2011 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Oasis of the Seas 7-night Western Caribbean sailing from Ft. Lauderdale starting at $985 per person + $75 on board credit 

Spring Break 2011

March 5, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Gem 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $414 per person + $50 on board credit

March 12, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Gem 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $634 per person + free dinner 

March 13, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Jewel 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $464 per person + $50 on board credit

April Vacation 2011

April 9, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Gem 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $532 per person + free dinner

April 9, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Epic 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing from Miami starting at $703 per person + $75 on board credit

April 10, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Jewel 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $561 per person + free dinner

April 10, 2011 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Allure of the Seas 7-night Western Caribbean sailing from Ft. Lauderdale starting at $893 per person + $75 on board credit

April 16, 2011 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Oasis of the Seas 7-night Western Caribbean sailing from Ft. Lauderdale starting at $1187 per person + $75 on board credit

April 16, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Gem 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $745 per person + free dinner

April 16, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Epic 7-night Western Caribbean from Miami starting at $644 per person + $50 on board credit

April 17, 2011 Norwegian Cruise Lines Jewel 7-night Bahamas sailing from NYC starting at $745 per person + free dinner

April 17, 2011 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Allure of the Seas 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing from Ft. Lauderdale starting at $1197 per person + $75 on board credit      

Why Use a Travel/Cruise Agent?

The best way to insure that you are getting the best deal is to use the services of an experienced, knowledgeable cruise professional. It may be tempting to go online and simply book your cruise directly with the cruise line, but you will not get the best  price. Often, Cruise Agencies will have  promotions and specials available to them which cruise lines do not offer. Cruise line personnel who do bookings are given a script and the majority of them do not know anything about cruising.  They are hired for their skills to work in a call center and are only concerned with moving numbers.

A Professional Cruise Agent can tell you which of the MANY cabins on the NCL Epic is the perfect one for your upcoming trip!

Using a Professional Cruise Agent gives you an advantage in the event that a problem may arise. The agent can act on your behalf as your advocate to resolve any issues. Your travel agent may do hundreds of thousands, or even millions of dollars in business each year with a cruise line, so they will have more leverage than you will on your own. In today’s age of experts and specialization, there is a group of companies who specialize in selling only cruises.  These are the people with whom you want to deal with and here is why:

• A professional Cruise Agent working at a company which specializes in cruises does only that.  In today's complex world trying to be a “jack of all trades” does not work.  Look around and you will see that to be an expert in a specific area is the only way to be effective and provide the correct information.

• The cruise industry has become very complex and the ships extremely large.  Even the “sales” and management teams which work for a specific cruise company acknowledge that the new ships are complex. Thus you want to deal with a person who has cruised, cruised on the ship you are planning to cruise on, and does not operate out of the basement or bedroom in their home.  That person is not a professional, that is someone who does cruises as a hobby!

Cruise Outlet Named Agency of Record for National Recording Artists SHILOH

National Recording Artists SHILOH asked the Cruise Outlet (for the 10^th year in a row) to coordinate their upcoming Reunion Cruise sailing from Galveston on April 11, 2011.  It is going to be a 5-night cruise with all the cruise bells and whistles, but as with each Shiloh cruise, their fans from all over the US come on-board and participate in their exclusive concerts, events and programs.

Each year SHILOH travels to another part of the Country and for the past 10 years they have been cruising.  According to Brian White, the lead singer of Shiloh, “we met Neil on a Gospel cruise that his company had put together and I was very impressed with the smooth and organized style he had”.

SHILOH, based out of Texas, have a national and international touring schedule annually performed all over the United States as well as the White House for Christmas a few years ago.  Founded in 1995, many have described their style as Contemporary Southern.  Their trademark sound is derived from their extraordinary musical arrangements, closely-knit harmonies, and powerful and distinctive vocals with a special Texas flair.

National Recording Artists SHILOH

 “The following year I asked him if he would put a package together for our followers that would combine the pleasures of a cruise and its programs with private concerts and events just for our fans. Since then, we have traveled with our fans every year to Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, the Caribbean.  The fans love that they are able to hear private concerts and attend private parties”.

According to White “The Cruise Outlet never loses track of who is number one and makes sure that everyone feels special”.

The Cruise Outlet, according to Neil Gorfain, handles many of these special groups throughout the year and is gaining a reputation for making each of these special programs a "smooth sailing".

According to Gorfain, “I am happy to work with Shiloh.  They are wonderful people. Each year there are some challenges as each cruise line has its own uniqueness, but the key to our success with these programs is not to let the “customer” or performer know the errors that have occurred.  They go on stage without a hitch.”

Create a Better Cruise Budget

It's always great to know you received a good deal on something, but few things are better than getting a good deal on a fantastic cruise! However, creating an airtight budget for your cruise vacation could end up hindering your overall enjoyment of the experience. Our staff here at The Cruise Outlet want to share their tips on where to spend and where to splurge, to ensure that your cruise budget is big on both savings and fun.

Balcony Cabins

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, you've probably heard the argument that as you're only sleeping there, inside cabins are a better value. While this may be true for some, our clients have told us the experience of having a private view from their cabin was well worth the added cost. From watching magnificent sunrises over coffee and croissants, to taking in the lush landscapes at each new port of call, a balcony cabin can give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience seeing some of the worlds marvels.

Smaller Ships

Big ships offer a tremendous variety of activities, which for many families may be the way to go. But small ships carrying 1,000 or fewer passenders provide a different value for cruisers not looking for a floating city. Many times smaller ships can call on ports that larger ships cannot. Also, with a much smaller number of passengers aboard smaller cruise ships, guests are not part of a mass tourism experience. You can get to know many people on board and develop lasting friendships with like-minded people.


Book Your Next Cruise While on Your Current Cruise

Cruise lines know they have a captive audience when you're onboard their ships, so they typically offer incentives for booking your next cruise while still on vacation. Usually this type of booking requires only an open ended deposit with no specific sailing committed. However, it is vitally important that you make sure they give your booking to your agenct of record to keep all of your travel details in order for you. Not only can your agent ensure everything about your next cruise runs smoothly, they can almost always readjust your rate to give you a better deal and add other perks and amenities to your upcoming cruise. The Cruise Outlet regularly handles these types of bookings for our clients. Just make sure to bring a copy of your booking to your travel agent when you're back on land.

Pre-Cruise

Explore and enjoy the cities where your cruise begins by adding on at least one hotel night before you set sail. In addition to the extra time you'll have to relax, unwind and dispell any jet lag you may have, booking a pre-cruise hotel night assures that you and your luggage will arrive to the ship on time, and that you will miss any delays due to inclement weather or unforseen circumstances that may otherwise cause you to miss your departure.

Book Back to Back

Even better than disembarking when your cruise is over is staying on board. The Cruise Outlet can often offer incentives for booking back-to-back cruises that will allow you to enjoy an even wider variety of amazing destinations, sometimes without even having to switch cabins so you won't have to pack and unpack. 

Cruising for a Cause

The New Haven Firebirds Society invites you to cruise for a cause, aboard the luxurious Norwegian Jewel, on a special 7-night Bahamas cruise benefiting their Firebirds Society Scholarship Program. Offered exclusively through Firebirds partner The Cruise Outlet, this once-in-a-lifetime journey sets sail from New York City on May 28th, 2011 with rates starting as low as $439.

Sailing from New York and visiting Port Canaveral, Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau Bahamas, Firebird guests aboard the Jewel will enjoy dazzling days of sun, fun, rest and relaxation while supporting a great cause. From a leisurely afternoon of shuffleboard and sun tanning by the pool, to catching a Las Vegas style revue before a high-stakes night in their full casino; Norwegian Cruise Line offers limitless onboard activities and amenities for every taste and lifestyle.

Guests setting sail to support the Firebirds will also enjoy exclusive onboard offers and events, including a private cocktail party, as part of this special rate offered exclusively by The Cruise Outlet.

Early booking is recommended for this amazing cruise, offered exclusively by The Cruise Outlet. Call (203) 288-1884 or email info@thecruiseoutlet.com and get ready to say “Bon Voyage” for a great cause!

How to Choose the Right Cruise

Every cruise line is as different as day and night.  This is where a Professional Cruise Agent can offer much assistance. Each cruise line appeals to different groups or different lifestyles such as senior citizens, young couples, families, adventure seekers, etc.

Today's cruiser can pick from a wide variety of cruise lines when booking their trip. Contemporary, Premium, Upscale, Luxury. Each offers significantly different experiences, as well as differences in prices.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CRUISE LINE

Most of the contemporary cruise lines have a very broad appeal to their potential passengers. In other words, they try to be everything to everyone.  Again, this is where your Cruise Professional can be an invaluable resource when planning your trip. A good Cruise Professional will take the time to learn your needs and match you with the right ship and sailing based on their experience. How long you are going to cruise for, what time of year, and where you want to cruise to are all important factors to consider when choosing the ship and cruise lines.

If you want to cruise the upscale or luxury cruise products, then they must be booked in advance as each sailing for them is different.  The Contemporary Cruise Lines will sail the same itinerary weekly when in the Caribbean, Alaska and Bermuda.  The Luxury lines sail different itineraries every week or every sailing.  Most of their sailings are 8, 10, 12, 14 or more days each time.  They can start in one country and end in another.


CHOOSING THE RIGHT STATEROOM and LOCATION

Your best value and smoothest ride  is on a lower deck in the middle of the ship.  Years ago, the lowest priced cabins were on the lowest decks  toward the front or aft end of the ship. Over the past 20 years, ships have changed significantly in layout and design.  The cheapest cabins were always next to or right above the engines. Also, the “cheapest cabins” can be found in a multitude of locations and on many different decks.
Again, a Cruise Professional becomes a very valuable asset in your planning.

The cabins range in prices from the least expensive interior cabin, to ocean view cabins with either a port hole or picture window, to a balcony cabin, then a mini suite, and then a full suite/penthouse. Most Cruise Lines have a multitude of different “categories” for each type of cabin and of course the costs vary. If you plan ahead far enough, getting a cabin mid-ship is the best. Especially convenient and wise when cruising on the newer ships which hold over 3500 passengers.

Tips for Solo Cruisers

If you are a single traveler, you should be aware that most cruise lines charge what is referred to as a "single supplement". Cruise lines base their rates on two people staying in each cabin. If you are going to travel by yourself, they will charge you a supplement fee. Some cruise lines will charge as much as 200%, essentially charging you enough to cover a second passenger. The "single supplement" rates vary depending on cruise line and sail date. However, flexible travel dates and guidance from your Cruise Professional can help solo cruisers avoid many of the pitfalls of traveling alone.  

CONSIDER A REPOSITIONING CRUISE
A "repositioning" cruise takes place when a ship is moved from one part of the world to another, generally on a seasonal basis. For example, many cruise lines will position ships in Alaska during the summer months when the days are longer. As the days grow shorter in the fall, these ships are moved back to the Caribbean.  You can often find some very reasonable rates on these repositioning cruises.


CHOOSING THE TIME OF YEAR
If you have some flexibility with your sail dates, it can make a big difference in your cruise fare. Holidays, winter school break and spring break are always more expensive. If you are planning a Caribbean cruise, consider a fall sail date once kids are back in school.  Many people are concerned about Hurricanes in the Caribbean. Hurricane season is officially June 1 through Dec 1. While many people tend to shy away from booking a cruise during this time, it is important (and smart) to keep in mind that not only are the rates much lower during hurricane season, but that a cruise vacation is the only vacation that allows you to avoid severe weather completely! Ships will never head into a storm, but rather their route to avoid any bad weather. In a situation like this, the worst case scenario is a change in port of call or an extra day at sea.  Programs, activities and shows offered on the ship will all go on as usual, regardless of a route change due to weather.


SHIPBOARD CREDITS
The Cruise Outlet, as well as many travel agencies,will offer their clients shipboard credits or other amenities as a bonus for booking a trip on certain sailings. An onboard credit can be as much as $2000.00 on a particular cruise!  Remember, on most cruises you pay for your drinks (sodas, cocktails, beer & wine), shore excursions/tours, spa treatments and gratuities. Having a shipboard credit helps to offset those expenses. The earlier you book your cruise, the better the amenities are.  Those that wait until the last minute because they think they will get a deal truly miss out on these great perks! 

BUY TRIP INSURANCE
An important part of getting a good deal is protecting your investment.  An  independent insurance company (one that sells insurance only) can offer coverage that is far better than the insurance offered by the cruise lines. The difference in coverage is so vast, don’t look at the cost of the premium without considering the coverage and how it will be paid to you.  The Independent companies pay you the amount of the claim while many cruise line insurance coverages give you a credit for another cruise with limited terms and conditions.

The importance of planning your cruise

The myth that you will get a better price and deal by booking at the last minute is just that - a myth. It is important to know the industry and product if you are going to be a smart consumer!

On a cruise ship, there are many different price categories.  The price categories are for the different cabins of which many of these are the same in size and amenities, but in  different locations.  Unless you are purchasing a suite, almost every cabin on the ship has identical amenities.

When you book your cruise early you get to choose the cabin you want, or if you are dealing with a Cruise Professional, they will recommend a certain cabin in a certain location because they know the ship.  Remember, cabins are booked by specific number and location.  Once deposited, it cannot be sold to another person.  (In hotels it does not work this way.  The rooms are issued when you check in.).  How often have you had to wait hours before checking into your room?  Not on a ship!!

One of the benefits to booking in advance is you get a better choice of cabins. If you wait until the last minute, you are basically going to get a cabin that nobody else wanted.  (i.e. rooms under the kitchen, next to the disco, in a location where you will hear and feel the propellers, etc.). When you book your cruise six months to a year in advance, you are only required to put up a deposit to hold the cabin.

An interior cabin on a ship can have 6 different prices depending on its location.  All cabins are the same, just the price is different.  As the lower cost cabins are sold, the next person has to pay more for the same type of cabin.  The cabin can actually be next to each other and one is priced more just for the sake of the cruise lines making more money.

Yes, like any business, many companies will run a sale or promotion to generate business.  Cruise Lines are no different.  If you booked with a Cruise Professional, and the price was lowered they might have arrangements to protect the lower rate. Many of these “Cruise Agents” will let you know automatically, other companies you will have to check everyday. Remember if you booked with the Cruise Lines directly, this protection will not happen.