RonE

Yes you have been missing out booking direct with RCI. However if booked with RCI, you have full control of your own booking. If booked through a travel agent, any changes etc will have to go through your agent which could be a hassle to some people. When booking through a travel agent, the agent might book you as a group i.e with other cruisers who are using the same agent and on the same sailing. By doing this the agent can offer you better perks such as OBC or drinks package as the agent gets more incentives from RCI. It is good to compare prices and see which one gives you the best offer. There is no significant drawback booking with a travel agent over RCI.