What type of payment do you accept?
For your protection we accept credit cards only, and all credit card payments are made directly to the cruise line or vendor, not to Starfish Travel. We simply apply all payments for you. At no time do we collect funds from you directly.
What is your cancellation policy?
Starfish Travel does not charge any fee for cancellation; however the various cruise lines and other suppliers have their own cancellation policies and charges. You would be subject to any cancellation penalties they assess. In most cases, your cruise deposit is fully refundable up until the time final payment is due. We will be happy to supply you with the cancellation policy details for any cruise you're interested in.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend you protect your investment and purchase travel insurance. We can help you determine the policy type and supplier that best meets your needs.
Do you book air travel?
The only air we book is the air add-ons offered by the various cruise lines. The advantage to airfare booked through the cruise line is that you will generally have transfers included (check with us to be sure) and the cruise line will generally assist you in getting to the ship should your flight be delayed. The disadvantage is that you will not find out your flights and times until about three weeks prior to your departure, and the air arrangements often are made with connections. Most lines allow you to pay extra for an "air deviation" to choose flights and times that you want, but by doing so you may be paying more than you would if you simply booked the air on your own.
In some instances cruise line air may be LESS expensive than air booked on your own, especially if you are on a repositioning cruise that ends in a city different from your embarkation city. Also, cruise lines sometimes run specials that include free or reduced airfare on certain sailings.
Some clients will find it less expensive to book airfare on their own. As part of our personalized service, we will be happy to help you research your airfare options and help find the best fares available, all at no cost to you. We always advise clients to fly in the day BEFORE their cruise vacation if at all possible. We would be happy to assist you with local hotel information and reservations in the port area.
What happens if the price of my cruise goes down?
We recommend booking early to secure the best cruise price. On occasion, cruise lines will discount certain categories of staterooms after you have booked, and if a discount is available for which you are eligible we will gladly have the cruise line adjust your pricing. Please be aware that some cruise line discounts are for new bookings only and that some lines will not allow price adjustments after the final payment has been made.
I booked my cruise directly with the cruise line. Can I transfer it to you?
Yes, in most instances, as long as you booked directly with the cruise line and not with another travel agency. Just give us a call or e-mail us and we will give you the details on what you need to do. It's a very simple process, and as a benefit you will be able to take advantage of any discounts we are offering on your cruise when you transfer!
Do you book group cruises?
Absolutely! Most cruise lines offer group rates and amenities for groups, starting with as few as five staterooms (double occupancy). Whether you are an extended family group travling together, an affinity group, a club or an organization, we can help your group find the best cruise line and itinerary for your dates.