Book a Group Cruise and Go Free!
Did you know that if you organize a group cruise, you can actually go free? All you need on most cruise lines is eight cabins or sixteen people and you get your cabin free! But, you ask, how do I do it?
Step 1 Once you’ve decided to organize a cruise, select the group you want. It could be your family/relatives, sports fans, school group, military squad, business associates, sports teams or clubs, singles, hobby enthusiasts, church, or community group. Choose a large enough group so that, worst case scenario, you will book at least eight cabins. List the names and number of people you must contact and begin contacting them at least a year before the proposed cruise date.
Step 2 Select a cruise that is attractive, affordable, and exciting and not so far away for most that the airfare alone will discourage them. Gather information, advice, and ideas. Listen carefully to cruise package options and take notes. If you sell the cruise halfheartedly, people will respond the same way. See if the cruise line will provide attractive brochures and even brief DVDs about the cruise and/or the ship. Present these enthusiastically to prospects and follow up.
Step 3 By this time you should have contacted a travel agent who can book your group cruise. An agent working with you and the cruise line is imperative and can save you tons of time and the group big money. Negotiate cruise details, such as where the cabins are located and perks for the group. Keep the group informed and make sure they know about cruise deposits, port activities, exact length of cruise, and due date for final payments. It’s very important to get that first cruise deposit from every interested party. Many times, if people don’t invest that first financial chunk, it’s too easy to spend on other things and back out of their verbal commitment.
Step 4 Remind individuals to procure a passport if necessary, and, if they choose, travel insurance (a wise decision). They can save money by getting their passport early and there can be penalties if individuals don’t purchase their desired travel insurance at least 70 days prior to departure. Step 5 Involve everyone in planning the fun on and off the ship. Create an itinerary after discussion. Advertise your plans in group newsletters and on a website. Or create a flier with itinerary and circulate it to each member of your group. Make sure everyone’s on the same page regarding all details.
Step 6 Make the final payment. Pack your bags and set sail. Bon Voyage!
Debra Fortosis is an independent travel agent with her own travel booking site. She would love to assist you with a group cruise.
Check out her user friendly site at: http://www.mndgetaways.com
Contact her directly at mndgetaways@comcast.net
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