Why all Agency Prices different?

Question

Im looking to take a cruise on the Carnival Celebration and I want a outside room, Now the cheapest price I got so far is $683.00 for a OV, it departs on Dec 1st. But how come every other agency is way more? I got this price from http://www.vacationsnbeyond.com they tell me they are a discount agency that sells in volume, what does this mean, anyone else use them, they said there top #2 agency in the US, can anyone find a better price?

Answer 1

Additionally, be aware that some people have group space and may be marketing that space. When you book a group they freeze pricing for a limited period of time, while public prices can continue to rise.

In general, a cruise price fluctuates according to supply and demand, just like airline seats. Plus there are sales, specials, senior and state discounts, etc. Rates can and do change several times a day accordingly.

Keep in mind there is more value to a cruise besides pricing. Be sure you're getting the cruise that fits all your needs not just your pocket book.

Find an agency that will offer you  service. They can request a price match, as long as it's not a group rate, for any booking though it's up to the line to decide whether they will honor that request.

Watch agencies that do a bait to get you in the door then charge you anytime they touch your account.

They charge you to mail the tickets, they charge you to cancel, they charge you to change a form of payment or change your cabin.

Make sure you're getting an agent that can watch out for your best interests or that discounted price may not be the great bargain you thought it was.

Check all the fine print, not just the price.

Answer 2

Carnival is having a special sale on the Celebration's December 1 sailing.  The OV category (it's a guaranteed status --  your cabin will be ocean view, but you won't know which cabin you've been assigned until you board the ship) is $329 per person plus taxes and fees.

Depending on when you contacted companies for their pricing, this special may not have been in effect.  Or other companies may be quoting on a different category with an assigned stateroom.

Also, make sure the price you received includes all the taxes and port charges.

The OV category is a good deal -- you might receive a super upgrade!