It Costs How Much?
"Do you think that price might go up?"
"It certainly could go up. We can’t predict the future, but you chose an excellent cruise line on a popular date, so it is likely to sell out. I strongly suggest booking today to lock in the current rate to avoid disappointment if the price does go up. Does that make sense?
[pause, wait for response]. Great, may I go ahead and set this up for you today?"
"I’ve never heard of your company before."
“We’ve been in business for 40 years and have helped more than 8 million travelers. I’m happy to share more about our company. What would you like to know?
[pause, wait for response]
Sure! I can definitely share more about…Do you have any other questions before we book your cabin?”
“I’m not quite ready. I need to talk to my partner."
“You mentioned that you’re [not ready to book yet/still shopping/etc.].
Can I ask what is holding you back?
[pause, wait for response]
If I’m able to remove that barrier, would you consider booking today?”
“I don’t think I can afford this.”
“Thanks for telling me that. It’s helpful for me to understand your needs and budget. What do you think about taking a cruise with fewer days/lower category?
[pause, wait for response]
There are some other really great options out there that may still meet your requirements. Would that work better for you?”
“Will I be safe visiting this destination?”
“I’m glad you asked! For me, the best part of a cruise is getting off the ship in a new destination. On this cruise you’ll have an option to take cruise line sponsored tours and activities with a guide who knows their way around. Is that something you’d enjoy?
[pause, wait for a response]
Great! I can’t guarantee your safety but I do think you’ll feel more comfortable sightseeing in a large group. Are you ready to set this up?"
“Is this the best price / promotion available? Can you give me a better price?"
“I appreciate the question. Price is really an important factor for most people so I understand why you’re asking.
It’s important to me that you get the best deal. This price is the lowest fare available from the cruise line you’ll be able to get today. I think it’s really a great value when you consider everything that’s included. Based on what I’ve shared with you already, doesn’t this sound like a great deal to you?
[pause, wait for response]
Great, would you like to go ahead and set this up?
“I’ve read complaints about you online and I’m hesitant to book with you. How do I know you will take good care of my cruise booking?”
“I’m glad you brought that up! Aside from finding you the best deal on your vacation, our number one priority is to make sure you are completely satisfied with your trip and our service. I don’t know the details behind the reviews you read online but I can promise you I’ll work hard every day to make sure you are satisfied with my service and that your cruise is well-planned.
Does that make you feel more confident about booking with us?
[pause, wait for response]
I’m glad to hear that! So, what do you think about the cruises we’ve talked about today?”
"Can you send me a quote? I want to think this over."
“Sure! I can certainly do that. What I can also do is hold a cabin for you. It is complimentary and locks in the price until you can get back to me. Will you be available tomorrow afternoon at 4pm CST for a call?”
[pause, wait for response]
Great! I’ll call you tomorrow at that time to finalize your booking. Does that sound good to you?”
"I needs flights."
I’m so glad you mentioned that! I can help with finding flights that may work! Which airport will you be flying from?
[pause, wait for response]
Great! If you have a few minutes now, I can check flight availability bundles with the cruise line and get everything set up for you.
Are you ready to set everything up if I can find you great flights?
"Want about an outbreak / pandemic"
"I understand the concern! I can never guarantee you won’t get sick, but your chances are quite small of getting sick on a ship because of all of the new protocols and sanitation measures.
I’m happy to go over them all with you. Would you like me to?
[pause, wait for response]
I personally wouldn’t hesitate to cruise now and have. Are you ready to get back on a ship?”
“That price is much higher than I expected. I think it’s too expensive."
“I can certainly understand how you might feel that way. The price is high but when you break it down per day, it’s really a great value. Where else would you be able to vacation in [destination] and have your accommodations, food and entertainment covered for only $100.00 a day? When you think of it that way, it’s really one of the best deals out there! Don’t you think so too?
[Pause, wait for a response] Great, which cabin would you prefer? "
“Zippy Travel says all of VTG agents are con artists!”
“I appreciate that feedback, and wish you hadn’t been given the wrong idea about us. It’s important for me to set the record straight so you can make an informed choice. Thanks for allowing me an opportunity to do that!"
“I’m just shopping.”
No problem, Most customers do the same thing and I’m happy to answer your questions. Which cruise(s) are you looking at?
[pause, wait for response]
Great! I’ll just ask you a few questions and see what our best deal is. Sound good?
[pause, wait for response]
By the way, I may have a special offer for this sailing. If so, would that change your mind about booking today?”
“We’ve decided to hold off. There’s just too much going on right now.”
“I’m sorry to hear that but I completely understand. Is there anything about this deal that caused you to change your mind?
[pause, wait for response]
Okay, I just wanted to be sure. What if we pushed your departure date out further? Would that make a difference?”
“I’m concerned that a hurricane will derail my cruise plans. Should I cruise elsewhere?”
That’s a good question. I’m glad you asked!
Some cruises are impacted because the departure city is in the eye of the storm, and in those cases, a departure might be canceled or delayed by a day or two.
In most cases, it’s more likely for an itinerary to be modified. Does that make sense?
[pause, wait for response]
Great! Do you have everyone’s dates of birth handy?
"What do you mean the price on website is no longer available/Cruise has sold out."
"Unfortunately this deal has already sold out. The good ones always go fast!
Luckily, I was able to find space for you on [similar ship/sail date/price] for only $100 more per person. with the same/ similar itinerary. What do you think about this option?
[pause, wait for response]
Would you like to set this one up before it sells out?"
“I just have some basic questions. We’re already working with an agent at another travel agency.”
“Okay, thanks for telling me. Have they already priced out this cruise for you?
[pause, wait for a response]
Okay, great! Can I earn your business today if I can match or even beat their price?”
"Sorry, I have to cancel. I’ll get back to you in the future."
“Thanks for taking my call! I’m disappointed to hear that. I hope everything is okay. Are you planning to resume your cruise search soon?
[pause, wait for response]
I’m glad to hear that! Would it be okay if I stay in touch and perhaps call you in a few weeks and book something then?”
“Are there a lot of activities on board to keep us busy?”
Great question! Honestly, There is something for everyone – the pools, spa, cooking demonstrations, trivia competitions, yoga, art auctions, shopping events and much more. I’m confident you’ll find your trip entertaining Doesn’t that sound great?
[pause, wait for response]
Do you prefer the balcony or the ocean view cabin?”
"I have, I am worried about motion sickness."
“Don’t let the worry of seasickness stop you from cruising. Considering the large size of today’s ships, seasickness is rarely a problem. All modern cruise ships use stabilizers which reduces side-to-side motion.
Even if you happen to be affected, there are plenty of methods to prevent seasickness.
Does that help? [pause, wait for response]
I’m glad! Let’s select your cabin and get you booked, okay?”
“Why should I book with you if your rate is the same as the cruise line?”
"A nice benefit of working with me is that I’ll be your personal agent and will have all of your travel details and requests when you call.
I can make recommendations, when needed, and will work on your behalf to make sure everything is set up to your exact specifications. All you have to do is dial my extension when you call or send me an email, and I will personally respond. Most of my clients really enjoy that type of personalized service.
But with a cruise line, you never get the same person twice. How about you – do you like the idea of dealing with just one person?"
“Zippy Travel has the same cruise for $30 cheaper per person.”
Wowl, that deal does sound cheaper than our offer. Our Best Price & Service Guarantee states that if you ever find a lower price for the same ship, date and stateroom category, before booking, we’ll match it.
The next step is to make sure we are comparing apples to apples. Would you mind sharing the details with me?
pause, wait for response]
Great, thanks! Are you ready to book if I can do that for you today?”
"I’m no longer interested."
“Thanks for letting me know! I’m sorry you guys won’t be moving forward with the cruise but I’m glad we were able to connect, and I hope you’ll think of me when you are ready to cruise again.
Out of curiosity, why did you decide against the cruise? [pause, wait for response]
That’s good to know! I do have other options. Can I share those with you?”
“I’m worried about long lines and lots of people. Should I be worried about that?”
“I completely understand your concern! I worried about that, too, before traveling on one of the larger ships. What one of my clients experienced is that while there’s more people on board, there’s a lot more space as well. You can always find a quiet corner. Plus, the cruise lines have systems in place to maximize the flow of traffic and keep things organized. Most of the feedback I’ve received has been positive.
Is there anything besides the ship and passenger size that bothers you about this cruise?
[pause, wait for response]
Then is this the cruise or should we can look at some smaller luxury style cruises?”
"I'm worried about the ship being attacked by pirates!"
"With everything that is going on in the world today I can definitely understand the concern! Attacks like these while extremely rare can happen and cruise lines avoid areas where piracy is common against large vessels.
Cruise ships also have anti-piracy protocols and their security teams will use water cannons or fire hoses in the event of an attack.
I hope this addresses your concern. [pause for response] Great! do you prefer early or late dining?