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Why Use a Travel Agent for Your Next Expedition Cruise?

Travel experience team member standing on the sea ice in front of Le Commandant Charcot
By Andy Marsh
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I often get asked the following question: Why use a travel agent for expedition cruises?

As a travel agent for over ten years, I am biased. I highly recommend using a travel agent to plan your expedition cruise (and remember, it doesn’t cost any extra).

In this article, I will explain why you should use a travel agent for your next cruise expedition. A travel advisor can help you avoid common pitfalls, provide personal guidance and enhance your travel experience by handling the logistics and advocating on your behalf. I will cover all the main points and give you a deeper insight into what a polar specialist can do for you.

Remember, if you need any advice on planning your next expedition cruise, you can contact our travel experience team at North Pole Cruises.

We have over ten years of experience travelling to the polar regions and are here to help.

When to use a travel agency

For expedition cruising, whether it’s your first time or you are a seasoned polar traveller, I recommend booking through a travel agency. There are so many new ships and itineraries, and there are many options (some are better than others). Here at North Pole Cruises, we get feedback from our guests and pass it on to our travellers to find the best experience.

So, How Will A Travel Agent Help Me Plan My Cruise?

A travel agent will help you in many ways, from informing you about the options before you book to supporting you on your trip. Here are a few points to consider when deciding whether to use a travel agent or not:

  • Expedition cruises look similar, but each ship is very different. Are you interested in wildlife and adventure? Or do you prefer gourmet food, relaxation and luxury? We use our first-hand knowledge of each ship to help you find the right one.
  • Unlike a single operator, a travel agent can search all cruise lines and help you find the best deals. There are over 25 expedition cruise lines so that we can save you time. Remember, booking through a travel agent is the same price as booking directly, and an extra level of service is included.
  • A travel agent offers additional travel support when you are on the expedition. If you have a problem while travelling, we will help you sort it out, giving you peace of mind when travelling to remote places. We can also assist with travel insurance claims.
  • A travel agent offers another level of protection with 100% financial protection included. Remember, an expedition cruise is a significant investment; this extra cover is essential.
  • North Pole Cruises has a rewards programme for guests who travel on multiple trips. So, if you go on expedition cruises regularly, it’s a great way to save money. We can also help you find great deals that are not advertised online and other perks.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Travel Agent For Vacation Planning And Expedition Cruises?

Using an experienced polar travel agent for your expedition will make things easier and give you more information to help you plan your expedition.

Here are just a few ways we add value:

  • We can arrange the entire trip including everything from advising you on the best expedition cruise to booking flights, hotels, activities and additional transportation.
  • We save you hours comparing prices across different operator websites.
  • We offer personal recommendations and expert advice based on our firsthand knowledge of many ships so you can have peace of mind that you have chosen the right one.
  • We provide insights and recommendations on a particular destination so your travel plans are well-informed and tailored to your preferences.
  • We can arrange additional activities and advise on good places to stay before and after a cruise.
  • We know the polar regions inside out and can offer valuable advice and recommendations.
  • We work with tour operators to obtain exclusive travel deals and benefits, financial protection, and advocacy during unexpected events.
  • We offer a free no obligation polar consultation to help you plan your expedition cruise.

Cost and Value

It’s a big myth that using a travel agent costs more. We don’t charge our guests for our service, so you get an extra layer of service and support for free.

We pass on all savings and operator offers to our guests so you get the best booking price. We also have a loyalty programme for guests who want to travel with us again and save even more.

Help and Support

Travel agents don’t just help with travel planning. Did you miss a flight or lose your luggage?

Travel agents can resolve any issues during your trip, such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, and travel insurance. They can also book all group members on the same flights so everyone can travel together seamlessly.

We can provide support and help to ensure that your trip runs smoothly and that you have a stress-free holiday.

Travel agents can also offer advice and recommendations to help you through any problems during your trip. All for free!

Expert Advice and Recommendations

When you plan your next trip, the expertise of a travel agent is worth its weight in gold. Travel agents have knowledge of many destinations, activities, and accommodations so that they can offer you informed recommendations. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise or an action-packed adventure, a travel agent can provide you with advice you won’t find on online booking engines. Their guidance means every trip aspect is thought through, making your holiday planning more accessible and fun.

Personalised Service and Support

One of the biggest advantages of using a travel agent is their personal service and support. From the moment you start planning until you get home, a travel agent is there to understand your needs and preferences. They will offer you tailored recommendations and solutions so every detail is aligned with your wishes. If you have any questions or concerns during your trip, your travel agent is just a phone call away to help. This level of personal service means your holiday is not only memorable but stress-free.

Planning and Organisation

A well-planned trip is critical to a successful holiday, and this is where a travel agent really comes into its own. They take the hassle out of planning by managing everything for you. From booking flights and accommodation to arranging activities and transport, a travel agent will take care of every detail. So you can sit back and enjoy your journey knowing everything is handled.

Customised Itineraries

Travel agents are experts at creating customised itineraries to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break or a family holiday, they will work with you to design a trip that fits your interests and budget. From booking flights and accommodation to arranging activities and transport, a travel agent will ensure your itinerary is tailored and unforgettable. This bespoke approach means your travel experience is one of a kind.

Group Travel and Logistics

Group travel can be a nightmare, but a travel agent can make it easy. They will manage the complexity of booking flights and accommodation, arranging activities, and coordinating transport for the whole group. With their expertise, they will make sure all the logistical details are taken care of so you can focus on enjoying the trip with your group. Their knowledge and experience mean group travel planning is stress-free and successful for everyone.

How to Choose a Travel Agent

  • Look for an agency with experience in the type of travel you want (adventure or luxury travel). At North Pole Cruises, we specialise in Small ship and luxury expedition cruises to the polar regions, including icebreaker cruises to the North Pole.
  • Find an agent who knows your destination and can offer advice and recommendations. Travel advisors are key to this; they offer personalised recommendations and support. We know the polar regions, from the Arctic to Antarctica, so we’re a great choice if you love frozen places.
  • Research and read agency reviews to find a reputable and trustworthy agent.

I hope you found this article helpful as you plan. You can search all our expedition cruises here.

If you want to gain knowledge, please sign up for our free polar consultation and talk to a polar travel advisors.

From the Arctic to Antarctica, we look forward to exploring the polar regions with you.

In this article

About The Author
Travel experience team member standing on the sea ice in front of Le Commandant Charcot
Andy Marsh
Founder of North Pole Cruises
Andy is a passionate explorer and an expert in the polar regions. With over 15 years of experience travelling to some of the most remote places on Earth, Andy has extensively explored Antarctica and the Arctic.

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