I recently won a Carnival cruise through a co. called Odenza Marketing Inc, but it seems really suspicious..?

Question

Before I sign over any money (and my honeymoon) to them, has anyone ever had any experience, or even heard of the company?

Answer 1

You didn't win anything. There are so many scams out there. I bet you didn't even enter a contest. No one, I mean NO one would ever ask you for money that was a legit company. No one would say you won something unless you actually entered a contest. The if you did really win, they would send you some legal documents showing that you won and would never ask for any money.

Answer 2

If you have to pay more than port fees and departure fees... total about $100, then it's a scam.

Answer 3

Definitely right to be suspicious.  It's likely not a total scam, but it's almost certainly not a good deal.

Odenza is a big "promotional" travel agency.  Basically companies that want to sell you stuff buy travel certificates through Odenza.  Then they send those to you.

Odenza itself isn't shady, but sometimes the companies that send you the certificates are.  Usually they will add on a lot of fees and/or there will be some really annoying mandatory sales pitch for time shares, etc.

You can usually get a Carnival or RCI cruise pretty cheap, and that way you'll know what you're getting and what it costs.  If you're new to cruises, you might want to read up on them here:

http://www.cruisesavvy.com/savvyguide

The articles on "what it really costs" and how to choose a cruise that's right for you might be especially helpful.

Answer 4

If you have any doubts, DON'T!!!

If you didn't enter a contest, it's a scam.

If you didn't contact this company, it's a scam.

Nothing is free, my friend, except advice.  This is mine.

RUN!!!!

Answer 5

I've gotten things in the mail that say I've won a cruise on Royal Caribbean and all I have to do is call such-and-such number to claim my prize....Trust me, I would love nothing more than winning a free vacation, but those things have got to be too good to be true...