How can a traveler book a cruise ship for a wedding or other large group? Organizing a group cruise can at first seem daunting, but it's actually quite easy - and sailing as a group can form the basis for some wonderful memories.
"Organizing a group cruise can at first seem daunting, but it's actually quite easy - and sailing as a group can form the basis for some wonderful memories," said Emily Motycka, a travel agent with AAA Travel in Omaha, NE. One of Ms. Motycka's specialities is helping travelers find the right cruises to meet their needs, including group sailings and wedding cruises.
"We do group bookings quite often," said Ms. Motycka, "and with good advance planning, they go off without a hitch!"
Many types of groups choose to book a group cruise. Wedding cruises are, of course, quite popular, as are family reunion cruises. Planning a cruise for other types of reunions is becoming more popular, as well, from school reunions to military reunions.
A cruise offers many benefits to those who are planning an event or reunion. First, the cost of the cruise includes all onboard dining and most onboard activities. Shore excursions can be booked - and paid for - at the time the cruise is booked, as well. This cuts down on the amount of money handling necessary during the trip itself. Second, cruises offer plenty of activities for all ages and for all kinds of varied interests. Third, there are plenty of opportunities to participate in activities as a large group - or as several smaller groups. However, ships are also large enough to afford group travelers some "apart" time, as well - which is perfect if Aunt Sally just can't stand your Mother In Law - or if you just can't stand Aunt Sally. Fourth, on a cruise ship, everything is taken care of for you. Your room is cleaned twice daily. Someone else cooks - and washes the dishes! Room service is available around the clock, and is included in the cost of your trip. You don't have to drive anywhere, you don't have to get groceries, and you don't have to worry about whether you've ordered enough ice to last through the event.
A fifth benefit of booking a group cruise is the cost savings. "You can sometimes get a better rate when booking eight cabins or more, based on double occupancy," said Ms. Motycka. Be sure to book your cruise as far in advance as possible and to book all of the cabins at the same time for the greatest cost savings. This will also allow you to reserve cabins that are all in close proximity if you so desire.
To book a group cruise, "it's usually easiest to work with a travel agent," said Ms. Motycka. She explained that, because travel agents book group cruise trips regularly, they are perfectly suited to help those organizing a group trip make sure that everything goes smoothly. However, you can also call the cruise line directly if you prefer to handle all of the details yourself.
Finally, if you're planning to have your wedding take place on board the ship or in port, "the cruise lines will assist in setting up the wedding ceremony onboard the ship or in port," said Ms. Motycka.
