As the holidays come to an end and the winter months set in, nothing sounds better than relaxing under a tropical sun. Winter and spring are prime cruising months, but Better Business Bureau (BBB) is advising consumers to read all the fine print before signing up for a special cruise deal.
In 2011, BBB received more than 1,300 complaints nationwide related to cruises. While many cruise deals are legitimate, a few end up taking thousands of dollars from victims. BBB is urging consumers to be cautious of unsolicited mail with offers of free or discounted cruises.
“Many times, scammers will send numerous e-mails, postcards, and other mailings trying to get consumers to call and claim their ‘free cruise,’” said Matthew Fehling, BBB President/CEO. “Don’t be fooled by professional looking websites either. Gather as much information as possible about the business and ask a lot of questions before signing on the dotted line.”
BBB recommends the following tips for consumers looking to book a cruise getaway:
- Be careful of “free” offers. Some consumers reported attending a presentation as a requirement to receive a “free” cruise. In the end, they discovered the presentation was only a sales pitch to join a travel club and no “free” cruise was actually awarded.
- Don’t give in to high pressure sales tactics. Oftentimes, vacation scammers will use high-pressure sales tactics and make consumers feel coerced to buy the limited-time deal on the spot. A reputable business or travel agent will provide any information requested, and give ample time to decide before booking a vacation.
- Always check the business first. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Before providing any personal information, check out their BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org/search.
- Pay with a credit card. For the best protection against a dishonest seller of travel, always pay for cruise fare -- both the initial deposit and the final payment -- with a major credit card. If problems arise, consumers may be able to dispute the charges with their credit card company. Important note: This protection may not apply to those using debit or check cards; it's important to confirm policies with the issuing bank before making a charge.
- Ensure money is in the right hands. After making a payment, reviewing the credit card or bank statement to make sure any applicable charges originated directly from the cruise line, not with the travel agency, is a good idea. This way, consumers can assure the cruise line definitely received the money. If payment is required by check or money order, it should be made payable to the cruise line -- not to the agency or the individual.
- Get proper confirmation of the booking. Insist on getting the actual cruise line's confirmation numbers, not just a confirmation number from the agency. This will not only confirm that the information and money is in the right hands, but consumers will also be able to pre-reserve shore excursions, restaurant reservations and spa appointments (where available) on the cruise line's website.
- Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Before signing on the dotted line make sure all details have been clearly outlined and the pricing has been thoroughly explained. Double check whether there are hidden cancellation fees, port charges, or insurance processing fees that haven’t been covered.
- Consider investing in travel insurance. Travel insurance can provide protection in the event of an accident, illness, lost luggage, or a canceled or interrupted trip, among other things. Follow the same steps outlined here when buying travel insurance.
For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/us/bbb-news.
About BBB Serving Central, Northern & Western Arizona
BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. Incorporated locally in 1938, today your BBB serves communities in Central, Northern and Western Arizona, supported by over 9,400 BBB Accredited Businesses. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews® and charity BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust.