NEWSFLASH: New Carnival Policy goes in effect August 1st, 2012


Carnival has just announced that effective 8/1/12, they will not allow travel agents to give ANY cash equivalent value-adds (i.e shipboard credit, pre-paid gratuities, gas cards, airline miles, reduced airfare; free or discounted travel insurance, hotel nights, or shore excursions) and will be limiting any booking incentives to a $ 25 pp non-cash equivalent item (like a tote bag, hat, beach towel, memory book, sunglasses and Carnival gifts delivered onboard (Bon Voyage items)). This new policy applies not only to advertising, but all forms of communication, including in-person, phone or any other means. If any travel agent is caught violating the policy, (whether big, small or even a home based agent belonging to a host agency) their commission can be eliminated and they can be put on a "no book" status.

What does this mean for you??

If you are a consumer and have been thinking of booking a Carnival cruise sailing in 2012, 2013 or 2014...make sure you book it before July 31, 2012 with a CLIA certified travel agency so that you can maximize your booking bonus before this new policy becomes effective. If you have a Travel Agency you already book with, use them. If you don't, give us a try. Either way, support the Travel Agent community and make sure you book with a cruise specialist before August 1, 2012.