DIY honeymoon or travel agent?

Wigglesx2

We are looking to book a cruise for our honeymoon but I have never been on one nor do I know where to start to make sure we get a good deal. FH and FMIL thinks we should book everything ourselves, meaning I research and book everything, but I think we should go through an agent. Has anyone had the experience both ways? What was your experience? Which would you rather? Thanks in advance!

Jells2dot0

I have done a mix of DIY (when I used a ton of points/miles or am comfortable with the destination) and I have used a TA. A really good TA can get you the best prices (or price match if you do happen to find something better) and if you choose one that specializes in cruises, you can get some great perks and on board credits that you cannot otherwise find. A specialist can also tell you which line best fits your wants and needs best. I highly recommend working with a TA when someone is going to an exotic destination or if they really just don't know where to start and/or aren't well versed on what they want to do.

JoanE2012

Wigglesx2 said:

We are looking to book a cruise for our honeymoon but I have never been on one nor do I know where to start to make sure we get a good deal. FH and FMIL thinks we should book everything ourselves, meaning I research and book everything, but I think we should go through an agent. Has anyone had the experience both ways? What was your experience? Which would you rather? Thanks in advance!

I usually book cruises myself through Expedia or the like.  Which is a travel agent too, I'm just not talking to a live person (though I suppose I could!).  I research enough ahead of time (islands, ship layout, cabin preference and location, etc) to feel comfortable not speaking to anyone.  I am also just more of a hands-on person who likes to do the research ahead of time and be in control.  

We booked our honeymoon through a "live" travel agent that was familiar with our destination (French Polynesia) and because of all coordination among the main flights, inter-island flights, hotels, transports, etc.....it was too much for a "novice" and I just didn't want to be bothered with it.

We just booked another river cruise and opted to use the same "live" travel agent.  I could've done it myself for the same cost very easily (the cruise line we picked does not discount through agents apparently), but we chose to give her the business because we liked working with her. I booked our airfare though.  

If you are not comfortable, find someone you can talk to.  Otherwise, Expedia or one of the online travel agents is a great tool.  Also check out cruisecritic for great information, especially once you decide on a specific cruise.  Good luck!

Wigglesx2

Thank you for taking the time to give your opinions! I think I am comfortable booking weekend trips through Expedia/etc but not our first "grand" trip. I think I will find a TA to help - especially if they get paid through the cruise line. I always thought they were an extra cost. Thank you all again! I think you saved me from a panic attack.

jenfromjersey

I would price it out through several before you book.  We got at least 4 price quotes when we were looking for our cruise, and all of the prices were the same, the difference is what they included.  We chose the one that gave us the most perks, including 8 airline miles for every one dollar spent!  On top of $100 On Board Credit, dinner in a specialty restaurant, a meal at the on board Johnny Rockets and no deposit (they will charge it 10 days before the final payment is due).