Listen, I know what you’re thinking.

Of course I’m going to tell you to use a travel agent. I own a travel agency.

But honestly, if you’re sailing Virgin Voyages, there are some very real reasons why working with a travel agent can make your experience better. And the biggest one is this:

It doesn’t cost you anything.

We’ve Been With Virgin Voyages Since Day One

Kelly and I have been following Virgin Voyages since before the first ship ever sailed.

I’m talking about the days when they were showing computer renderings and saying, “Here’s what we think it’s going to look like.”

We attended every event, every presentation, and every training we could get into. We were constantly looking for more information because we fell in love with the concept from the very beginning.

While everyone else was waiting to see what Virgin Voyages would become, we were already all in.

You’re Not Paying Extra to Use Us

One of the biggest misconceptions about travel agents is that they cost more.

They don’t.

Whether you use a travel agent or book directly, you’re paying the same cruise fare. The difference is that when you work with a travel agent, you get someone in your corner who can answer questions, help with planning, and assist when things don’t go as expected.

Why pay the same price and not have that support?

We’ve Actually Been There

One of the biggest advantages we bring is experience.

Between the two of us, we’ve sailed Virgin Voyages countless times and visited almost every port Virgin has offered over the years.

We’ve been throughout the Caribbean, sailed Iceland itineraries, explored Mediterranean sailings, transited the Panama Canal, and experienced destinations all over the world.

When we make recommendations, we’re not reading them from a brochure. We’re sharing firsthand experiences.

We Can Often Find Extra Value

This is where a lot of people are surprised.

We have access to group rates, My Next Virgin Voyages placeholders, and other opportunities that can sometimes provide additional savings or extra Sailor Loot.

Sometimes we have group space that was secured years ago at pricing that simply isn’t available today.

We also have access to resale opportunities when sailors can no longer travel. Occasionally those deals can be incredible.

Before booking direct, it’s always worth asking what options might be available.

Let Us Deal With the Headaches

If you’ve ever spent time on hold with customer service, you already understand this one.

When you book with us, we’re the ones handling the questions, changes, and follow-up.

That’s our job.

You shouldn’t have to spend your vacation planning time trying to figure out who to call or whether the answer you received is correct. That’s what we’re here for.

We’re Not Just Travel Agents

One thing that makes us different is that Virgin Voyages isn’t just another cruise line we sell.

It’s a product we’ve been passionate about from the beginning.

In fact, Kelly and I are the only two people who have been recognized as Top 10 First Mates by Virgin Voyages every year since the program began.

We know the ships. We know the ports. We know the promotions. And most importantly, we know how to help our sailors get the most out of their vacation.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, using a travel agent for Virgin Voyages is simple.

You get expert guidance, access to potential savings and perks, help when you need it, and someone advocating for you throughout the process.

And the best part?

It doesn’t cost you a penny extra.

Samantha Robichaud is a Top 10 Virgin First Mate 4 years in a row and has sailed over 50 times! Check out her podcast, Talk Virgin to Me, if you would like more Virgin Voyages tips and tricks!