I am throwing around the idea of using a repositioning cruise to get to Europe next year. We had always wanted to try one (as we have historically liked sea days). For the dates that would work for us, there are basically just a few choices - on MSC or RCCL. I don't think I want to spend a ton of money, so probably just a balcony cabin. We don't have any meaningful status with cruise lines.

Our cruising experience is somewhat limited - a couple of Alaska cruises, a couple of Caribbean cruises and a Galapagos cruise. I don't have a travel agent - in the past I have either booked direct with the cruise line or once with an OTA (Travelocity -- bad experience).

Given that this is not a complicated or expensive trip, would you look for a travel agent? Or book direct? Or use Costco? I also saw posts about the Amex cruise program, and briefly checked - they have the particular cruises at what looks like the same rates as booking directly (but then give the $200 shipboard credit).