Frequently asked questions

For most cruises and vacation packages, our planning is free to you — we’re compensated by the travel suppliers, not by charging you a markup. For complex custom itineraries we may quote a modest planning fee, always disclosed upfront before any work begins.

No. We have access to the same (and often better) pricing, plus supplier promotions, group rates and perks like onboard credit that aren’t always advertised. You get expert guidance and a real person to call — at no extra cost.

You call or text us, not a 1-800 queue. Delayed flight, itinerary change, a question at the port — we advocate for you and sort it out, drawing on supplier relationships built over 20+ years.

Cruises are our specialty, but we plan full trips: flights, hotels, tours, transfers, all-inclusive resorts and multi-destination itineraries. If it’s travel, we can help.

It depends on who’s traveling and what you want. Families lean Royal Caribbean; couples and foodies love Celebrity; adults-only travelers pick Virgin Voyages; value-seekers choose MSC or Norwegian; and Alaska devotees favor Princess. Tell us your group and vibe and we’ll match you precisely.

For the best cabin selection and pricing, 9–18 months ahead — especially for Alaska, Europe and holiday sailings. That said, we can also find strong last-minute deals; ask us either way.

For most cruises, yes. It protects a large prepaid, non-refundable cost against illness, delays and emergencies — and can cover costly medical evacuation at sea. We’ll explain your options and recommend appropriate coverage.

Generally your cabin, most meals, entertainment and access to onboard facilities. Extras like specialty dining, alcohol, Wi-Fi, gratuities, spa and shore excursions vary by line — some (like Virgin Voyages) bundle far more in. We break down the true all-in cost before you book.

Cruise-line air can add protection if a delay threatens your embarkation, but independent flights often cost less and offer better routings. We weigh the trade-offs for your specific sailing and usually recommend arriving a day early.

It’s the single best way to avoid missing your ship. A day’s buffer absorbs flight delays, cancellations and lost luggage — and lets you start the trip relaxed rather than racing to the port.

Typically trip cancellation and interruption, travel delays, lost or delayed baggage, and emergency medical care and evacuation. Coverage varies by plan — we help you choose one matched to your trip cost, health and activities.

Standard policies cover specific named reasons. A “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) upgrade adds flexibility for a higher premium and usually must be purchased soon after your initial deposit. Ask us early if flexibility matters to you.

For “closed-loop” cruises that begin and end at the same US port, US citizens can often sail with a birth certificate and photo ID — but we strongly recommend a passport for every cruise. It’s required if you ever need to fly home from a foreign port mid-trip.

Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your travel dates. If yours is close to expiring, renew before booking — processing can take weeks, longer in peak season.

For domestic US flights, a REAL ID-compliant license (or a passport) is required. If you’re flying to your cruise port, make sure your ID qualifies or bring your passport.

Most cruises take a deposit to hold your booking, with the balance due before sailing (often 75–120 days out, depending on the line and length). We’ll give you a clear payment schedule and reminders so nothing is missed.

Cancellation terms are set by the cruise line or supplier and depend on how close to departure you cancel. We explain the exact penalty schedule for your booking upfront, and travel insurance can protect your prepaid costs.

Usually yes — between deposit and final payment you can pay down the balance on your own schedule. We’ll set it up and keep you on track for the final due date.