It’s that time of year again….and no, I’m not talking about the leaves changing (although that is awesome too)!

I’m talking about the time of year when the cruise lines offer GREAT sales, and my clients book their trips for the following year!  National Cruise Vacation Week is October 20-27.  This is one of the best times to book a cruise and save money.  I’ve written about cruises many times – so if you’d like to read more about why cruising is a great vacation, check out some of my past blogs here.

Pretty much all of the cruise lines will have special offers this month.  Here is an example of what you can expect:

• Discounted cruise fares
• Onboard credits per stateroom
• Reduced deposits for booking

To take advantage of the deals, you’ll need to book a cruise through a Cruise Lines International Association agent – of which I am one.  I’ve booked so many cruises in my years as a travel agent that I can help you identify what aspects of the vacation are important to you and which cruise lines will meet your needs.  Doing this is one of the best parts of my job – I just love it!

Here’s a quick overview of some cruise lines I really like:

Oceania

Formed in 2002 by two luxury cruise industry experts, Oceania is one of the few cruise lines that caters to adults-only.    Their luxury, mid-size ships are sailing the world to more than 330 ports in the mediterranean, Alaska, South Pacific and so much more.  This is a great option for travelers who want to cruise in style and comfort and are interested in not only the larger ports but the “boutique”, off-the-beaten-path ports that can make a vacation really memorable.  I recommend this line for my sophisticated travelers that have cruised before and are looking for world-class cuisine, outstanding service and, of course, the unique port experience.

Cruise line in a word (or two):  Casually elegant

Holland America

If experience is what you’re looking for, look no further than Holland America.  This cruise line has been around for 140 years (seriously!), currently taking travelers to all seven continents through over 500 sailings a year.  Holland America is known for its spacious and comfortable ships with award-winning service and extensive activities.  It’s definitely the combination of service, amenities, activities and destinations that makes Holland America able to deliver the “entire package” of luxury cruising.  This is one of my favorite cruise lines for sailing to Alaska, which many of you know is I place close to my heart, as I have a sister who lives there.

Cruise line in a word (or two): Complete package

Seaborn

So if the larger ships are daunting and not up your alley, a Seabourn cruise may fit the bill.  The smaller ships allow this cruise line to go to destinations the larger ships cannot.  The company is all about creating an intimate, customized experience for its travelers.  Its fleet of six ships is staffed by a hand-picked crew that almost numbers the travelers.  The company’s website states:

Our ships attract interesting people, who seek to share experiences beyond the expected in places beyond the ordinary. Our acclaimed staff offers a unique style of heartfelt hospitality that is sincere, thoughtful and personal.

Cruise line in a word (or two):  Intimate adventure

Royal Caribbean

And finally, I couldn’t wrap up this article without mentioning one of the most popular cruise lines for the masses – Royal Caribbean.  Hands-down, Royal Caribbean is one of the best values for the price.  I have a lot of clients from various places in life who choose this cruise line again and again.  If you want lots of destination options – from 3-nights in the Caribbean to 14 in the Mediterranean – Royal Caribbean has many options on twenty-two different ships.  There is never a shortage of things to do on a Royal Caribbean ship, making it a great choice for families or family reunion-type trips.

So if a cruise has been on your list of possible vacations for 2014, take advantage of the deals by booking during the sale week!  The sale is not until the end of the month, but we can start evaluating options NOW to find the best cruise vacation for you.  Ya’ll know where to find me!