Is it really worth it to transfer to a TA?

[TrySomethingNew]

Yes, when I logged into my Costco account with our Costco card number, every time I would try to book through them on the same deck/ level/category as DCL, it was always almost $500 or even more through Costco, I was probably doing something wrong. Our cruise is in two weeks from today, so really too late to do anything about that now since we are paid in full

There is a different login/password needed for Costco Travel. You probably already know this, but if you were able to see prices just from clicking through the regular Costco site where you may have been logged in, they may be different (higher). It should be the same price (as the DCL website) when you use your Costco Travel login.

 

[RedSox68]

The cruise lines I've sailed don't give me a refund when the price drops after final payment. However, I was able to upgrade to a better cabin on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity when those cabins dropped to the price I paid - or less.

I've gotten a refund on one line, the different added as an onboard credit on another, and a fabulous upgrade on Princess because the price dropped after final payment.

 

[Billinaz]

Yes, when I logged into my Costco account with our Costco card number, every time I would try to book through them on the same deck/ level/category as DCL, it was always almost $500 or even more through Costco, I was probably doing something wrong. Our cruise is in two weeks from today, so really too late to do anything about that now since we are paid in full

I would like to try it and see..... what date and what ship??

 

[meliscan]

I like transferring to the travel agent, not only for the OBC but also because they will hang on the line with Disney to make changes/ updates. For instance adding in my transport from the airport, cruise insurance and final payment. She said she does them all at the same time each day because it is often a 15 minute hold time to get on the line with Disney. I also like it as she waits on hold later to tie my reservation to my friends so we can sit together. It is all about what you feel most comfortable with for your trip.

 

[MSPeeler]

I would like to try it and see..... what date and what ship??

We booked in early April, a 4 Night Disney Dream May 23- May 27

*Costco isn't showing any rooms available now, but they are on DCL

 

[Billinaz]

For 2A and 2C I found this. I didnt know what cat, but these are on the Costco travel website now.


4 Night Cruise from Port Canaveral (Round Trip)


View Detailed Itinerary
Cruise Line: Disney Cruise Line
Ship: Disney Dream
Departure Date: May 23, 2016
From: Port Canaveral

Return Date: May 27, 2016
To: Port Canaveral

Travelers

Adults: 2
Children: 2
Infants: 0

Includes additional govt taxes, fees and port expenses per person: $69.07

Inside Stateroom
$4,225 - $4,281

Ocean View Stateroom
$4,305 - $4,337

Balcony Stateroom
$4,401 - $4,793


Running the prices, the difference in the DCL fare and the Costco one is EXACTLY the amount of the port taxes and fees. It appears they may be added twice in the costco price.

No worry though, the price when they set the invoice up is exactly the same as the DCL price to the penny. You get a $330 to $350 cash card though with costco.

Try it next time!

 

[MSPeeler]

For 2A and 2C I found this. I didnt know what cat, but these are on the Costco travel website now.


4 Night Cruise from Port Canaveral (Round Trip)


View Detailed Itinerary
Cruise Line: Disney Cruise Line
Ship: Disney Dream
Departure Date: May 23, 2016
From: Port Canaveral

Return Date: May 27, 2016
To: Port Canaveral

Travelers

Adults: 2
Children: 2
Infants: 0

Includes additional govt taxes, fees and port expenses per person: $69.07

Inside Stateroom
$4,225 - $4,281

Ocean View Stateroom
$4,305 - $4,337

Balcony Stateroom
$4,401 - $4,793


Running the prices, the difference in the DCL fare and the Costco one is EXACTLY the amount of the port taxes and fees. It appears they may be added twice in the costco price.

No worry though, the price when they set the invoice up is exactly the same as the DCL price to the penny. You get a $330 to $350 cash card though with costco.

Try it next time!

That is so strange. I don't know why I couldn't find anything! It kept telling me all rooms were booked??

 

[Tonka's Skipper]

If we are not booked with our DVC points, we use a TA.

AKK

 

[tink1970]

I am usually torn...I love having the control to call DCL myself and tinker with my reservations BUT I hate giving up the TA's OBC. So if I know it's going to be pricey (like our most recent cruise which had 8 people, 1 suite, 1 non suite) I go with a TA. If it's a 3 day or last minute military rate I usually don't.
My last TA wouldn't take the DVA but DU has no problem with my calling and using it (thanks!!!). So that's another benefit: TA OBC+ Disney Gift cards bought at Target put in the DVA will add up to a little tiny bit of savings ...but every little bit counts

 

[OKW Lover]

I've contacted Dreams Unlimited and it looks like we'd get about $150 OBC, it is worth it to transfer for the $150 or are there times when it's just easier/better to keep the reservation direct w/ DCL?

How much is $150 worth to you?

We book through Dreams all the time. Never found it to be any harder or worse that way.

 

[Billinaz]

I have done that in the past and transferred a cruise to DU. There is really nothing you need to talk to DCL about.

A little OBC perk is a good thing!

 

[CinderellaDreamer]

I just booked my first cruise and decided to go with Dreams for the OBC. It was $350! I think that is definitely worth it. My agent has been super quick to respond to any requests I make. I like that she has a lot of experience and knowledge that I might not have as a first time cruiser. I gave her the payment info, and once I got the reservation number, I could log onto the DCL website and see and modify my cruise preferences; or I can write to her and ask her to call and change things, like dining times. She wait listed us for early dining. I have never used a TA for planning trips to Disney (been over 20 times) or to Europe (been four times in the last 6 years), but I am pleased to do so this time for the on board credit. Honestly, it's been kind of nice, like having a concierge!

 

[Billinaz]

I figured out why some are getting a different price on Costco.

Here is the explanation of the error:

http://disboards.com/threads/costco-cruise-cost-controversy-finally-figured-out.3510685/