A cruise is a great idea for these types of groups because not only can the group members participate in a whole variety of organized group activities, but it also offers participants the freedom to explore their own interests as well. And, everyone takes advantage of the incredible group savings! 

Taking a group of family and friends on a vacation? If you have a special group of 8 cabins or more, before you do anything else, consider a cruise!

Our experienced and well trained staff are available to help your senior cruise group every step of the way - from choosing the cruise that fits the needs of your special group, to arranging group gift packages and even planning special onboard parties. The biggest advantage of planning your group with us is our huge buying power. This allows our staff to negotiate the best possible deal available to you. 

Unlike the usual land-based vacation, cruises are all-inclusive. And, they are surprisingly affordable - especially for groups! The price of your cruise includes accommodation, all meals, entertainment, activities and more! Also, a cruise vacation lets you visit several different places without having to pack and unpack every day! Rather than staying in just one place, let your cruise ship take your group from one exciting port to another. Cruising is definitely the best value for your vacation dollar.

How to earn a free cruise!

If you're planning to book (8) or more double occupancy cabins, then you may be eligible for group discounts and other privileges. You will receive one FREE berth for every (16) full-fare passengers booked (Sorry, 3rd & 4th passengers in a stateroom do not count towards a group). Book (32) full-fare passengers and receive a FREE cabin. While in most cases, you will be responsible for transportation to the port and related port fees and taxes, your cruise is FREE!

Based upon the size of your group and the cruise line that you select, you may also qualify for other amenities such as a private cocktail party, a free shore excursion, color portrait, group leader suite upgrade, complimentary champagne, etc.

Taking advantage of group rates and amenities is easy. Simply invite your friends, neighbors, relatives or business associates on the same cruise. You'll be amazed at how quickly the numbers add up!

I have a group so what's next?

Now that you have your group, schedule a group meeting. Make it a social event by having everyone bring snacks and drinks. You are the group coordinator so be ready for the many details you will be faced with. The following are some ideas that you will want to discuss with your group:

• How long do you want your cruise to last? Examples: 3, 5, 7 days or longer.

• What dates are possible cruise dates? It is wise to have more than one date available.

• The itinerary — where do you want to cruise? Examples: Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, or Eastern U.S. and Canada

• What cruise lines are you interested in?

• What type of cabins are the group interested in: inside (the least expensive), outside, or suites (the most expensive).

• How many people are interested? Do you expect to have more people than showed up for the first meeting?

• How many in the group will be bringing children?

• Does anyone in the group need a handicapped cabin or have any special needs.

• Does everyone require air travel and if so from where?

• Do you have anyone who is not an U. S. citizen?

• Will anyone be traveling as a single?

Now that you have discussed the basics with your group, it is time to call one of our Group Travel Consultants to begin getting prices and discussing the particulars that your group will require.

Your Group Travel Consultant will be asking the questions that we have listed above. They will work with you on prices and the planning materials that will make your job easier. If you feel it necessary, your Travel Consultant will be able to supply you with informational flyers to pass out at your next meeting. Prior to discussing your group's plans with your Travel Consultant it is extremely helpful for you to complete our Group Cruise Planning Form. 

After discussing the details of the form with your Group Travel Consultant your Group Travel Consultant will begin booking your group.  A couple of weeks before your groups scheduled departure date, your documents will arrive in our office and will be checked for accuracy. Upon completion, your documents will be forwarded to the group leader or to each individual cruise vacationer (your preference).

We hope that these suggestions have been helpful to you. When your group is ready to book, please contact our Vacation Discounters, Inc. Group Department at 888-626-0523 or email to:
grouptravel@vacationdiscounters.net.