CruiseDirect

Unlike the cruise lines in this category, CruiseDirect does not operate ships; it is a US-based online cruise agency that sells sailings from many lines through a self-service booking engine and a team of phone agents. Its site lists major lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC, Princess and Celebrity, as well as luxury and river brands, with searches by destination, departure port, cruise line and themes such as family, honeymoon or last-minute sailings. Group bookings are handled through a dedicated section. Because it is an intermediary, the cruise line's fare rules, deposits and cancellation penalties still apply, and any agency-specific perks or fees should be read separately. Buyers should compare the total price and included extras with booking direct, check how changes are handled, and confirm who to contact if itineraries change.