“I spent a decade working for an airline. After 9/11, I accepted a severance package and founded a PR firm. Over the past few years, I’ve been yearning to get back into the travel business. When my husband and I recently took a cruise, I was hooked! I researched extensively for a business model that would let me continue running my PR firm while rediscovering my passion for travel. CruiseOne consistently surfaced as the top choice. Today, I am a CruiseOne Franchise Owner having the time of my life!"

Valerie Harris, Franchise Owner since 2010 Atlanta, GA

“I have been part of the CruiseOne family since 2007, and could not be happier. I love that I have the freedom of owning my own business and I have the support and expertise of a large corporate headquarters office. The week-long training was multi-faceted and set me firmly on a path for success. As my business has expanded, I have been able to count on the corporate staff to answer any questions and help me on my way. The booking technology far surpassed my expectations as well. As a work-from-home Mom, I have been able to build my client base in a manner that best suits me and the demands of my life. I am able to schedule networking and meetings around my family, which gives me a fabulous sense of overall success in creating a well-rounded lifestyle.”

Lisa Sipes, Franchise Owner since 2007 Pompano Beach, FL

 

“No matter where you do your research on becoming a franchise owner, several features will rise to the top in making your selection. Those key pieces include: How will the franchise prepare me to succeed? What is the ongoing support? Do they have a marketing program? How much money can I make? And, what are their plans for growth and improvement? I made the right choice selecting CruiseOne as my franchise. I can happily report I have received clear indications CruiseOne is capable of meeting those key issues. Within my first year, I recouped a large portion of my initial franchise investment and was promoted to the next franchisee level based on sales. On a weekly basis, I receive access to ongoing training, educational webinars, a central knowledge base and I have the opportunity to participate in many low-cost and free marketing programs. There was even a bootcamp class where we created our own marketing plans. While most of the success will depend on you and the time you invest, CruiseOne provides the best foundation to build your business and will continue to do so as they look forward to new opportunities. I'm excited about the future possibilities.”

Lucinda Belden, Franchise Owner since 2010 Carrollton, TX

“My husband Dale and I joined CruiseOne in 1996 so you may consider us moldy-oldies in the company. I work with the clients and Dale does the bookwork and we both plan marketing efforts. When we were trying to make the big decision whether to buy a franchise, we asked ourselves what is the worst case scenario if this doesn't succeed? Once we were able to face that possibility, we were comfortable with moving ahead and bought our franchise. We were both blown away when we went for our initial training after we joined, it's really comprehensive, and if you forget something there is always someone at headquarters you can call and refresher training is always available. After 12 years, there are some days where I need help. I call them my brain dead days! All I have to do is call and they are there to help me with whatever I need. Our booking engine is exceptional thanks to our IT department. The many marketing resources we have at CruiseOne help us to reach out to current and prospective clients and we choose the ones that work best for us. There is even a Sales Development Team Leader personally assigned and available to assist me. They help brain storm ideas related to marketing and sales. At CruiseOne, we really are like a big family, the tips and ideas that are shared amongst the franchise owners have helped me immensely in my business. Our annual national conferences are like "old home week" and we have a ton of fun while learning about what's new in the industry. The level of respect CruiseOne has with the cruise lines is exceptional. We are proud to be a Franchise Owner with CruiseOne and are overwhelmed when we think of all the great people we have met and the experiences we have had since joining.”

Becky Piper, Franchise Owner since 1996 Strongsville, OH

“I started in the business with another franchise for six years. After three years, I realized that I needed more support with a better booking system and website. I researched and compared many other host agencies and franchises and I finally decided on CruiseOne, because CruiseOne has it all. I also got a recommendation from another CruiseOne franchise owner who made the move to CruiseOne. Once I switched to CruiseOne, I regretted that I had not done it earlier, everything is better. I am really happy with CruiseOne.”

Daejin Suh, Franchise Owner since 2011 Ramsey, NJ

“We have so much to be thankful for in our choice to go with CruiseOne and in the support we have received from everyone at headquarters. We were honored to be interviewed by the media and to gain exposure for our franchise and for CruiseOne. Additionally, we are deeply grateful to Vicki Freed of Royal Caribbean, for her ongoing encouragement and support of us. We look forward to growing our business and becoming successful contributors to the CruiseOne family.”

Bryan and Tricia Cox, Franchise Owners since 2011, Highlands, NC.

“In 1998, I was a potential franchisee with no travel industry experience. After careful research, CruiseOne was the clear choice. The personal attention CruiseOne offered me from day one allowed me to grow professionally and become successful. Today, my business is flourishing and I’m a proud member of the CruiseOne Advisory Board.”

Frank Santisteban, Franchise Owner since 1998 Miami, FL

“As a newcomer to the industry, I did my due diligence by researching several host agency and franchise options before deciding to become a CruiseOne franchisee. Having just completed the initial training, I can confidently say that I made the right choice in selecting CruiseOne and am well prepared to begin building my business. The training, support and networking opportunities, not to mention the excellent reputation within the cruise industry, would’ve taken me years to develop on my own. This truly is a turnkey business opportunity in a very exciting industry.”

Danielle Bartolomei Franchise Owner since 2010 San Diego, CA

“I have been part of the CruiseOne family for 16 years now. Being recognized by our vendors as the best of the best is very satisfying to me and my customers. Making people happy and helping them plan amazing vacations has been my job for a long time and I look forward to continuing to do so in the future. Thank you, CruiseOne, for your partnership and support. I really love my job!”

Matt Tadla, Franchise Owner Plainfield, IL

“I am very excited for my business venture and to be a part of such a reputable and successful agency. I am 100% confident that I have made the best decision to join CruiseOne. CruiseOne has been great to work with and I'm glad I chose to join the CruiseOne Family. I really appreciate the time Dwain Wall, Senior Vice President, took out of his busy day to meet with my husband Michael and me. It was a pleasure meeting with Dwain and the rest of the CruiseOne staff. I also thank them for answering the questions we had. I would also like to say that my Franchise Development Specialist was phenomenal to work with and answered all of my questions almost immediately of receipt. ”

Erica Minella, Franchise Owner since 2011 Aurora, IL

“I researched the franchise for two or three months as I had a lot of questions about it. I fell in love with the company and I’m having a lot of fun working with them. The support CruiseOne provides is incredible with access to all cruise lines around the world and matching the best prices available. It also connects me with companies for land vacations. They also have a mentor program and I think I would like to become a mentor with them.”

John Tarpy, Franchise Owner since 2010 Sylvania, OH

“Cheryl and I started our CruiseOne franchise in 1999. We searched out different opportunities within the cruise and travel industry. We found CruiseOne from a recommendation by a friend. We came to learn that we had booked our own cruises with a sister company of CruiseOne for years. After doing all of our due diligence on the purchasing of a franchise, we selected CruiseOne. Why CruiseOne, because they were honest, friendly and informed us of all we could expect from them. We have been fortunate. After beginning in 1999, we worked at this full time and worked hard. Today and since 2003, we are the highest producing franchise in the country. We have been able to make a good living and have received great perks. Obviously, we highly recommend CruiseOne as the best choice you can make. The reason we do, is not just that we are part of the company, nor is it because we have been successful within it but because we have not found or seen a better way to operate in this industry. Good luck with your future. If you choose CruiseOne, you will be extremely happy you did so.”

Cheryl & Ron Scavron, Franchise Owners since 1999, Coral Springs FL

“I definitely made the right decision over three years ago when I decided to purchase my CruiseOne Franchise. My sales have increased every year since then and I now have a thriving business with a flexible schedule that I can operate from anywhere. Gaining a deeper education through travel is very important to me and I love sharing the world with my clients, whether they are first-time cruisers or experienced travelers. The travel opportunities that come from owning my franchise help enrich my knowledge of various destinations and suppliers and the experiences so far have been amazing!”

Debby Hughes, Franchise Owner since 2007 Big Bear City,CA

“CruiseOne - Why do I love you? Let me count the reasons: When I first called CruiseOne and spoke with the head of franchising, he said, "I hear you want to join our family". You notice that the word family and not the company is a very important distinction. The company flew me to their headquarters for 6 days of intensive training. This was training all the way, and not brainwashing to the CruiseOne way of operating. The training course is the most comprehensive in the industry. We were taught not just about the computer operations, but also about the extensive marketing, how to optimize advertising and how to use the internet to increase business. While I was taking my training, I met and spoke with a lot of people who work in the CruiseOne headquarters and most of them have been there 5 years or longer. This tells me, that the headquarter staff enjoys their jobs and likes working for the company. They really do want us all to be successful. CruiseOne has the highest standards of any Cruise agency and all of the cruise lines have only the highest regard and respect for the CruiseOne Franchise Owners. Which company should you pick; it's really a no brainer, CruiseOne!”

Mike Brodlieb, Franchise Owner since 2008 San Juan Capistrano, CA

“I was very fortunate to have met my husband on a cruise back in 2002! Many changes were happening in my life at the time, including a career change. I had worked in the travel industry many years ago so I was somewhat familiar with the industry. I have always wanted to return to travel but the right opportunity and perfect company just never fell upon me until I came across a wonderful travel agent at CruiseOne; she was the one who recommended the cruise I met my husband on! It seemed too good to be true that the cruise travel business would be my new career for my life together with my new husband. Owning and operating a CruiseOne franchise has been a perfect fit. My husband will be retiring in a few years and joining the CruiseOne family to work full time on the next chapter of our cruising life!"

Peg Andrules, Franchise Owner since 2004 Gurnee, IL

“Although we have extensive business backgrounds, my wife I bought our CruiseOne franchise with no travel business experience in 2008. The decision to buy a CruiseOne franchise came after careful consideration of other franchise opportunities both in and out of the travel industry. We read every bit of material sent to us from CruiseOne. We contacted about a dozen current franchisees and even called people who were no longer franchisees. We were very encouraged by the fact that everyone told the same story, "It's a great organization with an incredible support staff and if you work hard, you will succeed." The advice we got was 100% accurate. This company is seriously dedicated to my success. The training program is excellent and best of all, ongoing. You always find helpful, cheerful people on the phone when you call for support and our fellow franchisees are an endless source of support and knowledge. We couldn't be happier with our decision to purchase a CruiseOne franchise."

Neil Lazinsky, Franchise Owner since 2007 Wheatley Heights, NY

“I enjoy being a CruiseOne Franchisee because it has allowed me to be able to turn my adoration for travel and cruising into a profession. Plus, I was able to exit the hustle and bustle of the 8-to-5 corporate financial services world. In addition, I have introduced my extended family, friends and acquaintances to the hassle-free experience of cruising. And, through my contacts, I have been able to provide a less-dangerous option for high school & college spring break vacations. I love what I do, and can’t imagine ever retiring.”

Jo Fresse, Franchise Owners since 1996 Eden Prairie, MN

“I've owned a CruiseOne franchise since January 2003 and it was the best decision I made in my life! After my extensive experience in the airline business, I embarked on an exciting and fulfilling career with various cruise lines. Again, this career gave me the opportunity to see even more of the world. I was hooked on cruising! I, then, heard about CruiseOne and thought what a perfect fit for me to take all my experience in the travel industry and open my own business. Owning my own franchise has been so rewarding and I have learned so much. Being your own "leader" allows you to use your own creativity, be independent and make your own decisions. CruiseOne headquarters is very supportive with our needs; however, they do not try to micromanage us. They give us the flexibility. We get to have it "our way." I'm thrilled about assisting my clients in fulfilling their dreams.”

Carol Le-Bert, Franchise Owner since 2003 Jupiter, FL

“I’ve owned my franchise for 13 years and it has been a great experience. I have met some wonderful people, made great friends and I have seen the world. I love making people happy with great cruise experiences and since I have been to most of the ports I can advise them of what to see and what to do.”

Susan Traub, Franchise Owners since 1998 Cheshire, MA

“I've been in the travel business for 34 plus years. I’ve had 10 years experience in sales with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. In 2010, I went back into the agency side of the business and the only choice for me was CruiseOne. As a sales representative, I dealt with many CruiseOne agents. Everything about the CruiseOne agents and organization impressed me from their knowledge to their professionalism. On top of that, with a wonderful support program, I am now a successful CruiseOne Franchise Owner and loving every minute of it.”

Marsha George, Franchise Owners since 2010 Williamsburg, OH

“The staff at CruiseOne headquarters knows the meaning of ‘service.’ Whenever I have called to seek assistance with my business, they have been professional and gone the extra mile to help me find a solution. As a franchisee in a middle-sized southern city, I appreciate the work that goes into establishing and maintaining good working relationships with our cruise-line partners. These relationships would be impossible for me to work out on my own; so I owe CruiseOne a big ‘Thank You’ for all you have done!”

Fred McBride, Franchise Owners since 2008 Huntsville, AL

“We are very happy CruiseOne Franchisee owners. We stand behind the organization in every way. CruiseOne is a very family-oriented business that is there behind you in all ways from marketing to support departments. Support is available 6 days a week with extended hours to help you from the initial sale and right through to the end of the booking process whether it is an individual booking or group booking. Plus, commissions are always paid on time. The home office, other agents and cruise lines representatives are always there to help you no matter how big or small your question is through our Intranet Communications board. Our IT department is the best - they are there to help in any way possible. Your opinion counts and is always taken into consideration to improve current policies and procedures through our internal Advisory Board that is made up of colleagues like you. Communication throughout the company is excellent and from our Exec VP down you will receive either a call or email to discuss your particular situation.”

Debbie & Chris Gibbons, Franchise Owners since 2004 Vero Beach, FL

“I started with CruiseOne in 1994 when there were only about four employees. I am totally dedicated to my business and would not have survived had it not been for the tremendous, consistent support of the CruiseOne corporate staff. They have never failed to get me the answers I need at any given time or to navigate me through some technical issues that may be a little over my head. If I had it to do all over, I would not hesitate to choose CruiseOne again. This is what I tell others who are looking into purchasing a CruiseOne Franchise and it is absolutely true.”

Ralph Barker, Franchise Owners since 1994 Ellijay,GA

“Ed and I purchased our franchise in 2004. Our headquarters staff has been invaluable in helping us grow our business by suggesting ways to "find" potential clients and creating loyalty. When we call for assistance, our questions and/or concerns are always answered on the spot or with a prompt return call. I have never worked with a company that has been so eager to keep us on top of our game with training, information and constant updates on the industry. And, they do it with a smile that you can hear over the phone!"

Frankie Pennington-Groff and Ed Groff, Franchise owners since 2004 Banner Elk, NC

“As a recently minted CruiseOne Franchisee, I have nothing but glowing words for an organization that is totally dedicated to making us number #1 in cruise sales. They constantly support us with daily e-mails, reminders, travel tips, cruise specials and a technical support team that is exceptional in both technical and functional knowledge. Before I purchased a franchise with CruiseOne, I had cruised for 37 years and thought I knew everything about cruising. From day one, they taught me how to approach potential clients with insight and care. They trained me on their highly sophisticated cruise software and put me through intensive training In Ft. Lauderdale with other franchisees who have become good friends. My friends tell me that I am a changed man and I owe it all to CruiseOne."

Jeffrey Taylor, Franchise Owner since 2008, Scottsdale AZ

“I chose CruiseOne in part because it was apparent the support for the franchise owners was superior to the competitors. That was confirmed during the initial training and since with my interactions with Support Services. The trainers were outstanding and each presentation by other headquarters staff confirmed I made the right decision. The initial training was so great it simply lit a fire under me and I'm ready to get going. I'm ecstatic about the opportunity and I look forward to turning my franchise business into a successful venture. "

Brian Cianfichi, Franchise Owner since 2012, Lakewood CO