Hello and Happy Father's Day Greetings

How is you Summer going? Did you make travel or cruise plans? Where is your next destination?

Cruise travel is quite robust this year and so are the bookings for 2024 and 2025. So many new ships will becoming out in the next months or years. Keeping up with the names and itineraries can be challening. Many new experiences await.

Post Covid, the cruise industry is changing. Waiting for last minute deals for a good price is getting pretty difficult to find space. There are a few things that are becoming noticable.

1) Cruise prices are not dropping. Anything I book for you is getting the lowest price due to our group rates. When we sell out of group space, then prices climb.

2) Prices are up about 25% from pre covid.

3) Demand is high with ships sailing full.

4) Drink packages and internet services are up about 35%

Right now, if you want to sail during Spring Break, I suggest you do this as soon as possible. Space is going fast. Thanksgiving and Christmas still have some space but closing rapidly. Don't delay, I can help you find a winter vactation.

What about sailing on a river cruise? I know everyone has seen at least once the Viking commercial. But there are many other river cruise companies offering their special features. Here is what is good about a river cruise - they hold only 150 to 190 passengers. So the service is very personal and top notch. You have more of an intimate experience. Some river cruise companies such as Viking delve deeply into history, AmaWaterways, is more relaxed luxury and Uniworld encompasses both. I will be on AmaWaterways in Oct and you can expect to hear from me about my experience.

What type of group do you belong to that you would want to travel with in '24 or '25? Cards, crafts, golf, book clubs, pickleball or girlfriends to name a few. What more can be exciting than traveling to wonderful destinations with those who you share similar interest? I am here to help you and your friends plan a great vacation experience. Reach out to me and I can help you put this together. Remember, planning it the most important part to having a great cruise vacation!

Book Early - Book Early - Book Early.

I can't stress this enough, but if you want to take a cruise vacation look at your calendar and start planning for the future. I know this seems much different for so many, but it is the truth. Remember when you could say you wanted a cabin lower and midship? Finding those cabins is rare, because someone else booked early and got that location. So be flexible and book early! Because everyone else is booking early and getting the good rates!

Finally, if you are already set for vacation plans that is awesome, but share with your friends my name and contact information. I am ready to help them get the best price and have a wonderful vacation experience.

Enjoy your week ahead!

Kathy Hays Cruises