We always use Costco Travel for cruise bookings...have done so for at least 15 years. Typically, we'll book the cruise directly through the cruise line, and then transfer the booking immediately to Costco Travel. There are many perks, and no costs, to doing so. If there is a fare reduction prior to the sail date (it happens), a simple call to Costco Travel gets you the lower rate. We also usually get an unannounced extra onboard credit, and a boarding day gift, such as a bottle of wine from them. The biggie, though, is the post-cruise Costco cash card. Depending on the cruise, these can be substantial. On an 18-day Australia cruise, the cash card from Costco was over $900.00. Another much appreciated benefit is their customer service. When you call, you will speak with a USA based English speaker who is genuinely glad to help.

I’ve re-fared several times through Costco when fares have dropped. Just called them up, they called Princess and I had the lower fare. Easy peazy.

As previously mentioned, some credit card companies provide travel insurance if you purchase the trip (airfare, ground transportation and cruise) on the card. I have a Chase Sapphire Reserve card that provides us with insurance. It's yearly fee is somewhat high but becaue we usually take a couple of cruises ir sort of pays for itself. Not long ago we had 2 cruises in Asia and for additional protection I purchased a health only policy through Allianz to supplement the credit card coverage. It was very reasonable. I had an accident in Vietnam and had to seek medical attention at the ships infirmary. i submitted a claim on the Allianz policy while we were still on the ship and a few days later we were reimbursed. I'd use Allianz again if I needed a policy. Happy cruising.