World’s Largest Cruise Night offers savings, education

On Wednesday, October 17, travel agents across North America will hold simultaneous events to promote cruising and offer would-be cruisers the chance to ask questions and book sailings. The idea comes from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as a way to advertise cruise vacations. However, you can save big if you do your research ahead of time.

The actual events will vary from agency to agency and can range from luncheons to cocktail parties to online presentations. However, each get-together will involve some education about cruise vacations and special cruise pricing if you book that day. Several cruise lines are also getting involved, offering incentives such as sale fares and reduced deposits to guests who book cruises at a World’s Largest Cruise Night event.

If you want to make the best use of this 24-hour opportunity, do your research in advance. Have an idea of which itineraries and sail dates interest you, and check around to see what the going rates are. Then, when you talk to an agent at an event, you can quickly ascertain whether the offered price is a good deal or a not-too-special fare wrapped up in flashy paper. Know, too, that there will be buying pressure—after all, the purpose of the event is to sell cruises—but if you’re not ready to plunk down a deposit, this day won’t be your only chance to get a great deal on a vacation at sea.

To find an agent hosting a World’s Largest Cruise Night event near you, visit CLIA’s website.