Our detailed process typically takes several hours for a family or small group, and may take as much as a week for a larger group. It’s in this process where Sea Freedom Vacations exceeds the standards, going well beyond the work of a travel order-taker. For this reason, we charge a planning fee which covers some of our expense in doing the extra work. Once you have confirmed bookings, we return some or all of that planning fee to you in the form of onboard credit on your cruise ship.
Cruise Options
Compare Potential Cruises
Overview
We determine which cruise lines have an itinerary available that fits your preferred dates and location. Our comparison engine returns dozens of options for mot places. So we narrow down to the three that best fit what you’ve told us and obtain quotes from the suppliers based on room type, amenities, and current promotions.
Result
A list of three potential cruises with dates, prices for multiple room types, amenities and specials. The itineraries are pulled into our Quote Tool to begin producing your detailed quotes.
The Things YOu Can See
Research Excursions
Overview
In our Discovery Session we talked extensively about the types of things you like to do and see. Adventure, Cultural, Culinary, Nature and other excursion types are possible. We pick potentials based on your desires and the level of physical activity. We consider the cruise line options as well as options available through our various supplier relationships.
Result
For small groups, a list of 1-3 options in each port. For larger groups, we generally make as many options available as are needed to keep the group size on any one excursion between 12 and 20 people. These go into our Quote Tool along with detailed information about the port and things to do.
So Let’s talk
Onboard Event Research
Overview
We reach out to our contacts with the cruise lines and discuss scheduling and costs for any events, for example vow renewals or large-group reunion events. We make tentative arrangements with each line, pending your choice of itinerary.
The Result
We now have an idea of the costs and other factors to consider regarding your onboard events. This goes into our Quote Tool so you can compare the events along with their associated itinerary.
Getting There is Half the Fun
Research Air & Ground Transport
Overview
We research air options, weighing the factors you told us during the Discovery Meeting were most important. For large groups, we contact our air partners and find out options for your group. Ground transportation is also crucial, and we reach out to our ground partners to discuss costs and options.
Result
A detailed plan for connecting you (or your group) with your cruise and any pre- or post-cruise activities. This also goes in the Quote Tool along with a few recommendations for your consideration when selecting from these options.
The Devil is in the Details
Customs, Visas, and Bags
Overview
International travel comes with a boatload (excuse the pun) of additional details. You may need a Visa for entry to a country. You need to know what to expect in the arrival and departure process in each country. We research all these and provide costs and time frame as part of your quote.
Oh, and what about the bags? We look into options for getting your baggage to and from the ship and airport pre- and post-cruise…an especially important thing if you’re doing any sight-seeing in those cities.
Everything has a Deadline
Develop Your Custom Timeline
Overview
Travel, especially for groups, comes with what can seem like a never-ending list of deadlines. After all your options are in the Quote Tool, we develop a day-by-day timeline of the things which need to happen between booking and travel.
Result
You’ll have increased confidence that something won’t be missed, and you can actually start your vacation relaxing now! Of course, some things may change from the preliminary time line based on your choices, but once you’ve chosen we’ll revise the timeline, which will be set when we get your options booked and we present your Confirmed Itinerary.
