Think You Don’t Need a Travel Advisor for Your Cruise?

July 8, 2025

Here’s What Most DIY Planners Miss

If you’re someone who loves planning trips, comparing options, and falling down the research rabbit hole—you’re my kind of traveler. You probably can plan your own cruise. Honestly? So can most of my clients.

But after they work with me, I often hear the same thing:
“I didn’t realize how much I didn’t know.”

Cruising isn’t like booking a hotel or flight. There are layers—cabin types, perks, promotions, dining assignments, port logistics—that don’t always show up in a quick online search. And while booking a cruise on your own isn’t hard, booking the right cruise for your specific goals? That’s a different story.

From Overwhelmed to On Board

One of the most common things I hear from people after they start looking at cruises is:
“I thought this would be easier.”

I get it. Cruise websites make the process look simple—just choose your dates, pick a ship, click “book.” But behind the scenes, a lot of nuance goes into making sure your cruise actually fits your vibe.

Here are a few details that often get overlooked:

  • The deck and cabin location can affect how much motion you feel and how much sleep you get.
  • Not all balcony cabins are created equal—some have obstructed views or are located under noisy venues.
  • The cheapest sailing might leave from a port that’s expensive or difficult to get to.
  • Promotions change constantly, and rebooking to capture savings isn’t always straightforward unless you know the system.
  • Different cruise lines offer very different experiences and not every ship is right for every traveler.

That’s where I come in—not to take over, but to help you avoid common missteps and enjoy the kind of cruise you were really hoping for.

It’s Not Just About the Price (But That Helps Too)

Sometimes the value shows up in big ways—like the time I saved a client over $1,000 compared to the cruise line’s website rate and got them onboard credit they didn’t even know was possible.

Other times, it’s smaller but just as meaningful:

  • Making sure your cabin isn’t directly below the nightclub
  • Tracking promotions that drop after you book
  • Explaining what’s included so you’re not surprised later
  • Helping you decide if a drink package or excursion is actually worth it

This kind of insight comes from deep experience and a genuine focus on your best possible experience—not just getting the booking done.

Saving Time = Saving Sanity

Let’s be honest: life is full. Even the most organized person doesn’t always have time to sift through 10 tabs and 6 YouTube videos just to figure out which ship is best for a birthday trip or what the difference is between a sea terrace and a veranda.

I stay on top of the details so you don’t have to:

  • Payment reminders? I’ve got you.
  • Pre-cruise checklists? Already sent.
  • Questions about dress codes, gratuities, or Wi-Fi packages? Ask away.
  • Issues with the cruise line? I’ll sit on hold—not you.

For many of my clients, the biggest win isn’t the money they saved—it’s the peace of mind they had along the way.

Who I Typically Work With

While every client is different, I tend to work with people who are:

  • Busy professionals who want a great vacation without spending hours planning it
  • First-time cruisers who feel overwhelmed by all the choices
  • Solo travelers who want guidance and reassurance
  • Groups planning something special like a milestone birthday, girls’ trip, or reunion

If that’s you, you’re in the right place. (Want to know more about how I work? Click Here.)

Will You Still Be in Control?

Absolutely. My job isn’t to take over—it’s to help you plan smarter, not harder. I’ll always give you options, explain the pros and cons, and leave the final decision to you. Think of me as your sounding board, your shortcut, and your advocate. You can still be as involved as you want—just with a lot less guesswork.

A Trip That Actually Feels Easy

If you’re already investing in a cruise, you deserve for the planning part to feel just as good as the vacation itself. I started doing this because I love making things easier for people—and because I know from experience how much better a trip can be when it’s planned with intention. So if you’ve been thinking about cruising but aren’t sure where to start—or you’re just tired of trying to piece it all together alone—know that I’m here. No pressure. No hard sell. Just honest help, and the kind of care I’d want someone to show me.

Want to talk through ideas or get a few questions answered?
You can reach out here: Book a Consultation Call

Virgin Voyages cruise ship sailing at sea on a sunny day, showcasing the ship’s signature red and white design and multiple balcony cabins.
Virgin Voyages Cruise

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