Question about placeholder and Caribbean sailings

[shosh1530]

We did our first ever cruise in June (Alaska) and booked a placeholder our last night. I understand that we need to use it within 24 months and that there are blackout dates.

But, I don't really know how to use it? I don't recall getting an email confirmation. Should I see it when I log in? Can I book myself online, by phone, or do I need to use a travel agent? Can I transfer to a travel agent once we do book since it has been more than 30 days since we made the placeholder?

Also hoping for some itinerary advice. DS (age 12) wants to do a warmer, "more fun" cruise than Alaska, so we are looking at the 7-night Caribbean cruises on the Fantasy. We are limited to school break periods, which I've heard can make things feel crowded. Is early June (like June 1) an ok time to go? (crowd-wise, weather wise)? The other option might be March 9/spring break or waiting for our October fall break (cheaper, but hurricane season doesn't excite me).

I'm leaning Eastern Caribbean based on my initial research over Western if that makes any difference. But that choice may be driven more by dates.

 

[PrincessShmoo]

We did our first ever cruise in June (Alaska) and booked a placeholder our last night. I understand that we need to use it within 24 months and that there are blackout dates.

But, I don't really know how to use it? I don't recall getting an email confirmation. Should I see it when I log in? Can I book myself online, by phone, or do I need to use a travel agent? Can I transfer to a travel agent once we do book since it has been more than 30 days since we made the placeholder?

Also hoping for some itinerary advice. DS (age 12) wants to do a warmer, "more fun" cruise than Alaska, so we are looking at the 7-night Caribbean cruises on the Fantasy. We are limited to school break periods, which I've heard can make things feel crowded. Is early June (like June 1) an ok time to go? (crowd-wise, weather wise)? The other option might be March 9/spring break or waiting for our October fall break (cheaper, but hurricane season doesn't excite me).

I'm leaning Eastern Caribbean based on my initial research over Western if that makes any difference. But that choice may be driven more by dates.

Placeholders must be applied via phone call. You have 30 days from original purchase date of placeholder to transfer it to a TA.

 

[shosh1530]

Placeholders must be applied via phone call. You have 30 days from original purchase date of placeholder to transfer it to a TA.

Thanks!

 

[Cfabar1]

I would think if you want a summer cruise, early June would be the best option. The south will be out of school, but not the north and the south which would be the case later in the month and in July.

 

[Calantha]

I would vote Early June Eastern Itinerary Fantasy.

 

[Geomom]

You should have received an email confirmation after booking the placeholder. My DH received it the next day (and forwarded it to me)and my TA emailed me 4 days later.

 

[shosh1530]

You should have received an email confirmation after booking the placeholder. My DH received it the next day (and forwarded it to me)and my TA emailed me 4 days later.

Hmmm. Now I'm wondering if I did something wrong and the booking didn't work. Do you recall the subject line of the email? Did it have the word "placeholder" in it?

 

[bcwife76]

Hmmm. Now I'm wondering if I did something wrong and the booking didn't work. Do you recall the subject line of the email? Did it have the word "placeholder" in it?

I currently have two placeholders and two emails, the subject line of the email states DCL Onboard booking confirmation for and then the reservation#.

 

[shosh1530]

I currently have two placeholders and two emails, the subject line of the email states DCL Onboard booking confirmation for and then the reservation#.

Aha! I did a new search and found it buried in my email! Phew!

 

[Geomom]

Hmmm. Now I'm wondering if I did something wrong and the booking didn't work. Do you recall the subject line of the email? Did it have the wor

Edited: Nevermind, just saw your last post... Glad you found the email from DCL!