Wave Season 2017 – Best Cruises Deals of the Year

What is wave season?
Wave Season is the first 2 – 3 months of the year when cruise lines release their best promotions and open up their space for 2018. It is like Black Friday for cruises but without the camping out at midnight.

When is it the best time to book a cruise?
Booking early is always the way to get the best deal. It is not too late to book for 2017 and it would be ideal for 2018 to ensure you get the rooms you want at the absolute best value for your money. This year we have seen additional bonuses such as:
• Reduced Deposits
• Bonus Onboard Credit
• Discounted Upgrade Costs
• Complimentary: Specialty Dining, Shore Excursions, Beverage Packages, and WiFi Offerings.

What if I change my mind about which cruise I want to go on?
Most of the cruise lines offer refundable deposits, so there is very little risk and major reward!

What if I find a better rate in the future?
If the rate goes down before final payment, Harr Travel can rebook you and get the updated offer.

Why should I book with Harr Travel?
Harr Travel is now a part of The Travel Leaders Group With 40,000 travel agents and over $20 Billion a year in bookings, this gives us the bargaining power for the best rates and amenities for you. We have a dedicated in-house flights department to take care of all of your transportation needs. We always get you the best value for your money. During Wave season we are offering our Concierge Consultation at no cost.

What is the Harr Travel Concierge Consultation?
During Wave Season we are offering our Concierge Consultation at no cost, which includes:

• 30+ minute consultation with Danny, a Master Cruise Counselor.
• Short and long term travel planning.
• Curated options based directly upon the results of your consultation.
• $50 off your next cruise or tour booked through Harr Travel.

What are some of the current Wave Season promotions going right now?
Below is a collection of some my favorite Big Ship, Small Ship and Luxury Ocean, and River Cruise promos. There are terms and conditions for each sailing, give us a call and we will find the one that works the best for you.

Big Ship Cruises – Fun For the Whole Family

I was blown away by my time this past year on the biggest, most innovative ship ever built, Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas (pictured to the left).  If you love having a ton of options for dining, activities, entertainment and more, one of these big ship options could be perfect for you!

New, innovative, extraordinary ships are here and they offer something for every member of the family. True high speed internet at sea, countless dining options from celebrity chefs, skydiving, surfing, full Broadway production shows, Ice Skating, robot bartenders, massive suites and more are now the norm.  I am incredibly excited about the new ships that were launched this past year, especially those from Royal Caribbean, Princess, Carnival and Norwegian.

Smaller and Luxury Ships – Exclusive Ports and Luxury Service

My two favorite cruise experiences of the year were sailing on the Oceania Regatta this summer in Alaska and sailing with my family onboard Holland America’s Westerdam to Mexico.  Oceania blew me away with their service, food (this is where the REALLY stand out), and plush bedding. Their ability to adapt and accommodate to our needs also was very noticeable and appreciated.

While the big ship cruise lines were building new, massive ships, many of the small, midsize and luxury ships received some major makeovers and product improvements. Some of these major upgrades were to higher speed internet, luxury upgrades to finer linens and soft products, upgraded menus and specialty dining, as well as new on shore experiential offerings.  There are also two brand new Super Luxury ships that were introduced in ’16, the Regent Seven Seas Explorer and the Silverseas Silver Muse.  They are considered the most luxurious cruise ships ever built.

River Cruises – See Europe, Africa, or Asia while in Luxury

My favorite river cruise experience of 2016 was sailing during Tulip Time with AMA Waterways. Here is a picture of me with Kristin Karst, Executive Vice President & Co-Owner of AmaWaterways, aboard the stunning AmaPrima. This was my first time cruising with AMA and their product is impeccable.  The food was far and away the best I have ever had on a river cruise, or any cruise for that matter.

The river cruise lines have been building ships like crazy over the last several years (Viking alone has launched over 50 ships in the past 5 years) and the big winners are you, the customer.  With so many ships to fill, the major river cruise lines are offering new, innovative itineraries, spectacular products and even better pricing.  I am highly anticipating Crystal Cruises entry into the river cruise market with new ships that offer unprecedented inclusions and luxury.