Sources for Booking a Cruise

I've only been on two cruises and booked both directly with the cruise line. I have heard that it is usually best to book with a travel agent instead of directly with the cruise line. I'm planning to book a 14-day repo cruise on Celebrity's Summit in May 05 to Alaska for my parents 50th anniversary. This will be a bit pricey since we want to book a balcony cabin, so I'm looking for the best deal. I have a travel agent that I have never booked a cruise with and my husband and I are also members of AAA. I was planning to use one of these two sources. However, I often see great deals from the "Online Vacation Center" and have spoken with them on several occasions just to do some pricing comparisons and they often come up with good deals. But, I don't know anything about them and I am a very cautious person, especially when spending thousands of dollars! What would your advice be on this matter? Thanks for your help!

GailM

[LisaK]

one of the best sources is right here, post your cruise request in the Bargain Finder section, you will be contacted by reputable travel agents.

[Cruiseguy]

If you know the exact date, catagory, or room you want, you can book it thru the cruiselines then down the road (up to final payment) you can turn your booknig over to an on-line traval agency or a TA. This gives you plenty of time to shop around for best price.