Dee, in todays economy and oil prices driving everything, do you see any impact on bookings in the cruise industry? With things as dim as they are and an ever increasing saturated market of cruise ships; at what point does the failing economy start to impact pricing structure for the cruise industry. The airline industry alone is severely impacting one's ability to get to a cruise port anymore. 1000's of flights have been wiped off the slate (further increasing demand by providing fewer seats), not to mention the steep fare hikes and countless little extra charges to boot. Anne and I wonder how this will affect our ability to cruise out of Florida. As I look at pricing for future cruises, I see substantial increases and regular increases in fuel supplements. Like the airlines, I see a cruise industry that has steadily invented chargeable "specialty" items and significantly increased alcohol / duty free pricing (really noticed this past cruise). I would have to think we are not alone in wondering if cruising is once again just for the "haves" and not us little people. With an over-saturated cruise ship market, can the cruise industry sustain it's current booking levels without the "average Joe"? Like us, I'm sure the scuttle in everyone's circles are centered on cutting back on the luxury items during these lean times. And while the average Joe is well aware of the impact todays economy is having on their bottom line, I'm not to certain the cruise industry is based on their current pricing structure. As a travel agent, do you see a slow down in bookings either currently or on the horizon? In your industry, I have to think there is considerable chatter amongst yourselves, about the economy and what impact it's having on the travel industry. Please share, I'm curious of your thoughts.
