Planning a cruise is like dreaming up the ultimate escape: ocean views, endless buffets, and zero responsibility. But while cruise deals are just a click away, the process of booking your trip is not as simple as it looks.
If you’re new to cruising—or even if you’ve been on a few—you might not realize how many ways a booking can go sideways. Travel agents live and breathe this stuff, and we’ve seen it all. Here are 10 mistakes travelers often make on their own that experienced travel agents know how to avoid every single time.
You saw “oceanview” and clicked “book,” right? But did you know not all oceanview cabins actually face the ocean? Some have obstructed views or weird layouts. Booking the cheapest inside cabin to save money might mean sleeping right above the nightclub (hello, 3 a.m. bass drop).
What agents do: We get to know your needs—Do you get seasick? Traveling with kids? Want something quiet?—and match you with the right cabin and location.
We get it. Travel insurance feels like an extra cost you’ll never use—until you need it. Illness, job loss, weather delays, or missing the ship because of a flight hiccup? It happens more often than you think.
What agents do: We’ll help you choose a policy that covers your actual risks—not a one-size-fits-all add-on you blindly accept during checkout.
This is the most common mistake: landing at 11 a.m. for a 4 p.m. cruise departure. Spoiler alert—if there’s a delay, that ship will leave without you.
What agents do: We recommend flying in at least one day early and can help you find a pre-cruise hotel with shuttle service and breakfast included.
That $199 cruise fare you saw? It probably doesn’t include taxes, port fees, gratuities, or any perks. Also, it's likely for the least desirable cabin during hurricane season.
What agents do: We help you compare total value—not just price. And we often have access to exclusive offers not listed on cruise line websites.
Not all cruise ships are created equal. Some are built for party people, others for foodies or retirees, and some for families with toddlers and water slides galore.
What agents do: We get to know your travel style, then match you with a ship and itinerary that fits your vibe and your vacation goals.
Cruise fare doesn’t cover everything. Port taxes, drink packages, internet, shore excursions, daily gratuities, and specialty dining all add up.
What agents do: We break it all down up front so you’re not blindsided by the final bill—and can budget smart from the start.
Cruise lines lure you in with slightly lower fares if you choose “non-refundable.” But plans change—and those savings can quickly turn into big losses.
What agents do: We walk you through the pros and cons and offer flexible options that keep your investment protected.
Did you book a flight or excursion without checking if the ship’s time matches local time? Many first-timers miss port excursions or even the ship itself this way.
What agents do: We stay on top of time zone shifts and cruise line policies, helping you plan logistics so you don’t end up stranded in paradise.
Booking direct often means you miss the bonuses—onboard credits, drink packages, Wi-Fi, spa discounts, and more.
What agents do: We know how to unlock promos, stack perks, and sometimes even offer extras exclusive to our agency or host network.
Cruising with family or friends? Booking multiple cabins, linking dining times, managing payments—it can turn into a full-time job.
What agents do: We handle all the coordination, set up group benefits, and act as your cruise concierge from planning to post-trip.
Cruising is fun. Booking it should be, too. When you partner with a travel agent, you don’t just get help—you get expertise, stress-free planning, and a backup plan when things go sideways. And bonus? You pay the same (or less) than booking it alone.
So skip the rookie mistakes and sail like a pro.
Want help planning your next cruise? I’ve got you. DM me, or shoot me a message at cruisewithkristi@gmail.com to get started and let's make your next getaway your best one yet!