Concord, NH (Jan. 9) - Although New Hampshire hasn’t seen much snow this winter, temperatures have dropped to freezing single digits. With the cold winter months slowly ticking by, many of us day dream of sandy beaches, pineapple smoothies, and relaxing by the pool on a tropical vacation or cruise.
With winter and spring being the most popular time to cruise, scammers are now out in full force trying to take advantage of excited travelers by advertising, “Free Cruises” through email, postcards and newsletters. In 2011, the BBB received more than 1,300 complaints filed against cruises, many concerning dishonest sales resulting in the loss of thousands of dollars. Vacationers should gather as much information regarding professional-looking advertisements and websites before giving in to great deals. The BBB of New Hampshire and CruiseCitic.com offer the following advice to consumers looking for a great cruise deal.
For all great deals, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The first step to avoid getting scammed is to check out a business before giving anyone your personal information. Consumers can check out BBB Business Reviews online or contact the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) for information on finding a reputable travel agent.
Oftentimes dishonest travel agents use high-pressure sales tactics to make you feel coerced to buy the limited-time deal on the spot. One way you might be able to separate the scammers from reputable business or travel agents is in their willingness to work with you. Reputable agents will answer all of your questions and give you time to think the offer over. Before agreeing, make sure all of the 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.
For your best protection against a dishonest seller, always pay for your cruise fare – both the initial deposit and the final payment – with a major credit card. Using a credit card gives you the option to dispute the charges if a problem arises. This protection may not apply to those using debit or check cards, so confirm policies with your issuing bank before utilizing these options.
After you've made a payment, review your credit card or bank statement and make sure that any applicable charges originate directly with the cruise line, not with the travel agency. This way you'll know that the cruise line has definitely received your money. If you must pay by check or money order, it should be made payable to the cruise line - not to the agency or to an individual.
Once you have submitted your payment, get the actual cruise line’s confirmation number. Getting the real confirmation instead of a number from your agency will let you know you that your information and money is in the right hands. You'll also be able to pre-reserve shore excursions, restaurant reservations and spa appointments (where available) on the cruise line's website.
You may also want to consider travel insurance which can provide protection in the event of an accident, an illness, lost luggage, or a canceled or interrupted trip, among other things. Follow the same steps outlined here when buying travel insurance.
When signing up for an expensive vacation, do your research and ask questions to make sure your money is really being spent on your island getaway and not a scammers’.
For more consumer tips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/us/bbb-news.