As of 2024, America’s largest cruise agencies include two standout companies: CruisesOnly and Vacations To Go, both dominating the cruise booking landscape with vast inventories and unmatched industry recognition.
1. CruisesOnly: America’s Largest Cruise Agency
CruisesOnly, a division of World Travel Holdings, has established itself as the largest cruise agency in the U.S. through an extensive network of partnerships with major cruise lines. The agency has been consistently recognized for excellence, earning top industry accolades from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, among others. Its vast selection spans from luxury to budget-friendly cruise options, making it a go-to for both seasoned travelers and first-time cruisers.
One of CruisesOnly’s competitive advantages is its exclusive deals, including onboard spending credits, stateroom upgrades, and discounted rates through its membership in the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and affiliation with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). It offers dedicated travel agents certified through training programs like Carnival’s “Bachelor of Fun” and Norwegian’s “Freestyle Certification.” Such programs ensure that the agents provide knowledgeable and tailored advice to clients, helping them select the best cruise experience
Exclusive Offers and Awards
Over the years, CruisesOnly has garnered numerous awards, such as the Carnival Cruise Line’s President’s Award, Royal Caribbean’s National Account Partner of the Year, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Elite Travel Partner of the Year. These awards underscore the agency’s stellar performance in both customer service and sales, making it a trusted partner across the cruise industry
. Additionally, its technological innovation, with a user-friendly website and mobile app, allows customers to easily search for and book cruises, while also benefiting from special offers not available through other agencies.
2. Vacations To Go: Leading Discount Cruise Agency
Vacations To Go is another heavyweight in the cruise industry, known for offering discounted cruises with savings of up to 85% through its “90-Day Ticker,” which lists last-minute deals on cruises departing within three months. Established in 1984, this Houston-based company has become synonymous with cruise discounts and budget travel, catering to millions of customers annually.
Vacations To Go stands out for its ability to negotiate exclusive deals with top cruise lines, providing clients access to deeply discounted rates on cruises that are often unavailable elsewhere. With an easy-to-navigate website, Vacations To Go allows users to filter cruises by destination, cruise line, departure date, and budget, making it a convenient tool for finding the best cruise deals.
Family-Friendly and Luxury Cruises
Both CruisesOnly and Vacations To Go offer a wide range of options for all types of travelers. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly Disney cruise or a luxury voyage on Cunard or Crystal Cruises, these agencies provide comprehensive booking solutions that cover itineraries worldwide—from the Caribbean to Alaska, the Mediterranean, and beyond. They also offer specialized packages like river cruises, adventure cruises, and themed voyages.
Customer Service and Industry Trust
What truly sets these two agencies apart from others is their reputation for excellent customer service. CruisesOnly’s partnership with travel advisors and cruise lines allows them to provide unparalleled perks and insider knowledge, while Vacations To Go has maintained a strong customer base due to its expertise in finding affordable deals for budget-conscious travelers.
Vacations To Go’s vast experience has also made it a popular choice among retirees and those looking for extended cruises, such as world cruises or repositioning cruises, which often come with significant discounts. Their “90-Day Ticker” is especially popular among flexible travelers who can take advantage of last-minute cruise deals
Conclusion
For those planning a cruise, CruisesOnly and Vacations To Go offer some of the best options available in the industry. CruisesOnly’s long-standing partnerships and exclusive perks make it ideal for travelers seeking a tailored and premium experience, while Vacations To Go’s focus on last-minute deals and significant discounts makes it a top choice for budget travelers. Both agencies continue to grow, offering a variety of itineraries and cruise experiences to cater to the diverse needs of modern travelers. Whether you’re booking a luxury cruise or looking for an affordable escape, these agencies are the go-to sources for a smooth booking experience and exceptional value.