TESTIMONIALS

What our Clients are Saying

A BIG thank you to Cruise Encounters for an absolutely fantastic Pinnacle Grill dining experience!!

We are having a fantastic time!

-Marcy, Raymond & Lesley

Robert, 

Highest compliments to you and your staff. I spoke with Ron today and he could not say enough about the arrangements made for their recent honeymoon trip - thanks to Robert. Everything, every detail was perfect. Need I be surprised; that’s why I campaign for Cruise Encounters, that is why you have been in business for 30+(?) years. You do what you do so, so, so very well. Thank you.

~Marcy



Hi Lisa

We had a wonderful time very busy had to come home for a rest. All our transfers and accommodations were great. We missed the floods of New York by one day perfect weather no rain until Quebec but still had a wonderful day walking around even had Poutine. Thanks for all you do for us to make our trips awesome.

~Olive A.



Good morning my friend,

The service and expertise you, Janice and Lisa provide is 110%+. We never fail to recommend Cruise Encounters to all our friends and acquaintance both here in Canada and overseas. You are most welcome, where I come from the old saying "credit where credit is due" still holds fast. Hopefully be contacting you in the new year. We were talking while in Alaska...Vancouver to Hawaii - Vancouver sounds inviting. Cheers my friend.

~-Bruce P.



Robert and his staff could not have been more accommodating in ensuring that I had a great travel experience. He rebooked my flights when necessary (not an easy task) and arranged efficient transfers to lovely accommodations both before and after the cruise. I enjoyed a sense of security knowing that he was looking out for me both before and during my trip.

~Maryann W.



1st I would like to say how smooth everything went and this was due to the hard work Robert and his team did. We were given concise and detailed information on every step of our vacation which made our trip a delightful experience. I will use Cruise Encounters for any and all future trips. Thanks again.

~Linda P. 



Hello Robert! Just thought I'd touch in and give you an update on the great Italy trip - happy to chat in person if that works for you over the next few days - let me know. You, once again, created a great experience Robert. The hotel in Florence was in a perfect location - across the bridge from the tourist part of Florence but easy walking distance to it.  We found some great restaurants, quite authentic nearby and were told that that area of Florence tends to be much less touristy and more for locals which was great.


The place on the Cinque Terre was perfect! I loved your idea of staying in one place and that was a great little place to be. We took the train up to the far north town and explored there and then hiked back to the fourth village. After that it was trains for us! Easy and lots of do there - loved it. The rooms were simple but actually quite lovely with separate little patios and everything we needed. No complaints about that place at all.


Our real challenge had to do with the wedding because it just wasn't doable to train and bus to Volterra without a whole lot of effort. So private driver and $300 per trip but there we go - such is life and good to learn. Your part worked fabulously. Thanks so much Robert. I'm not sure I would have done this trip without your encouragement to do the Cinque Terre. It was so beautiful and I loved every minute of it. Once again, you created a great holiday experience for me and Nancy.


If you want to discuss further, happy to do that. Just thought some initial feedback would be helpful. Thanks again, Robert - next stop Ireland in October!

~Helen



Just a thank you from Nancy and I. We really appreciated all your efforts and especially the yellow sheet with instructions on the transfers. Arrived home safe and sound and would definitely recommend your company in the future.

~Wenda F.



Hi Lisa,

You have ESP. Was planning to call you. As always the travel instructions your team provide is always on the mark. Our American hotel great, transfers were just fabulous. We met another very satisfied Cruise Encounters customer. What a great team.

~Valerie J.



Hi Robert, Janice & Lisa,

Our friends recommended Cruise Encounters and our multiple experiences have been great! Here are the factors which have produced our satisfaction.

  •  Local: People we can see in person and whose reputation and success requires delivering consistent great service.
  • Experience & Teamwork: The team is all very experienced and cohesive.
  • Everyone Serves All Clients: There is great continuity of service as the whole team serves everyone - as they are not driven by individual commissions.
  • Deal Sourcing: Their research and experience finds cruises which deliver value and interesting itineraries.
  • Customization: Cruise Encounters is willing and able to customize adventures.
  • Administration: Travel in general, and customized travel in particular, involves a lot of details - which are done excellently.
  • Customer Focused: Cruise Encounters works in the interest of the customer - which drives long term mutual success.

~Larry & Monica



Hi Lisa,

It was great thanks! And thanks for all the guidance for the apps and info we needed to complete - the embarkation process was very smooth and fast! The ship was really nice and we loved all of the food and the entertainment shows. We also had perfect weather which was a bonus! Thanks.

~Julie



Hi Lisa,

I've just been watching the opening ceremonies of the Olympics and counted at least 39 countries that I have to cheer for having visited them. To qualify we had to sleep at least 1 night and sight-see in the country so a few pass through or drive through like Andorra have not qualified. I want to thank you for sending me to many of those countries for fabulous vacays. We feel very lucky.

~Sandy



​Good afternoon!

Thank you so much for all of your help. It's great knowing you take such great care of your clientele. We certainly appreciate it. We always recommend your agency over all the others! Hope to cruise once again when this pandemic is over. Again A Big Thanks to you all.

~Rita an Geoff



Hello. Thank you for great customer service. We posted the following on Facebook as a public post. Ida and Julius Hayek We would like to express our Thanks and Gratitude to Cruise Encounters of Langley, BC and to Viking River Cruises for keeping us informed regarding the cruise we had booked and paid for, that we hoped to take this summer. They were in touch with us promptly when the COVID-19 issue first came up, and continued to keep us informed as decisions were made regarding travel to Europe and the cruise itself. We are very pleased to say that we have received a full refund for all portions of the trip with no hassles or anxiety for us. This is a big relief for us as we do not have the income to make up such a loss, if a refund was not provided. It is a pleasure to say we have not had any of the problems and hassles encountered by so many others. We hope that when the disease is under control we will be able to book the trip again, and actually go. Of course, we will again deal with Cruise Encounters and Viking Cruises, and recommend their services to anyone considering a cruise anywhere in the world. Their consideration and communication has been exceptional

~Julius and Ida H.



Hi Robert, just to let you and Lisa know we received a full refund from insurance policy. Thanks to you and Lisa for your prompt assistance with providing us the necessary paperwork they requested. When this pandemic is over will use your services again.

~​Barry & Shirley B



I wish to let all know how pleased I am with the service given on the cancellation of our trip. We received every penny that I claimed and cannot thank you enough for the treatment all have given us. If you wish you may use my name and address for future customers if you need a reference. Thanks again….

~Austin C



Hi Lisa,

Thank you for all of your help through this. I received my refund about 3 weeks ago. Everything went very smoothly and again I thank you for all of your assistance. I have already bragged to friends about how helpful you and Cruise Encounters have been . From the time I booked the holiday, and throughout this Covid19 ordeal. I know somewhere in the future, when this all settles , we can once again book a holiday. Hope you are doing well, regards.

~Kim



Thanks, Janice. I have diarized it so I’ll check back in August if I don’t already have the refund. Wishing the best for all of you at Cruise Encounters. It must be a real challenge.

Anyway, until our next cruise adventure – when we will definitely call you. As always, thanks for your help.

~Toni



Hi Robert and all the staff,

We have just finished filling out the form for our cancelled cruise in October. Sad as it is, but we are happy that it is all settled. We know it must be taking a very heavy toll on your business and hopefully things will improve and you will be successful once again. You have been such a great outfit to deal with and we appreciate all your help over the years for us to enjoy our many cruises. We look forward to the time when our mail comes from you with the funny little poems and the wonderful yellow sheet of cruises. Many Thanks, always.

~Marty and Elaine



Thank you so much for keeping us informed with all you have to do you are really stepping up for your customers and we appreciate it. I hope you and the staff keep healthy, again, Thank you so much, regards.

~Jim and Pat B



Hello, have just returned from the Panama Canal cruise and it was very enjoyable. We were a bit apprehensive when we left on February 5 as the onset of the coronavirus was just beginning, but we didn't experience any unusual behavior at any of the airports or ports we visited. February is a lovely time through the Panama ... this was our third time and on Holland America we really enjoyed the ongoing commentary throughout the whole day. We were delighted to learn that the upcoming cruises will stop in Panama City for a day for tours.


HA ships have very good food and the crew on the Oosterdam were very good natured and friendly, the captain was outgoing and it was reflected in the behavior of the rest of the staff. We were fortunate to land a stateroom on the main deck on which guest services and the port shopper and future reservations were located. Perfect deck as it was one floor from the dining room and the theater for anyone that is not wishing to walk too far.


The hotel in Fort Lauderdale was the same one that we stayed at last year, just a different name! There is a 'bakery' a block away that has wonderful meals and beverages, which worked out well for those of us arriving later in the evening. They have a lovely breakfast buffet and the transfers to the ship went well. Thanks for asking, it was a very good cruise!


P.S. While we were waiting at the airport, I gave your company info to a couple from the lower mainland that were interested in the American Steamship cruises!

~Annette



Hey guys...we just want to say thank you for putting up with all our calls (Pete , Pete and Repeat LOL) & questions. It’s been great working with all of you. We have lots on our bucket list and we look forward to working with you in the future. Many Thanks.

~Larry & Sharon



Cruise Encounters attention to detail, excellent service and friendly staff has always scoured high with me. Would highly recommend their service. Thanks.

~Diane W.



Thank you for prompt service – glad to have found your company and will only deal with you guys.

~Ann L.



Robert, Janice, Lisa and Lois,

We had a wonderful time on our Holland America cruise. 40 days did not seem long as there was so much to see. We were wondering whether we would like the .longer stretches at sea but found it very peaceful. The lectures by Dr. Joseph Kess about the history and culture of the Polynesians enhanced our visits to all of the South Sea Islands. We also enjoyed the entertainment in the theatre and the Lincoln stage. The food in the Dining room was superb. Mostly we were impressed by the level of service. The staff were helpful and courteous. 


The tour you arranged in Auckland was excellent. A perfect way to end our visit. Thank you for the complimentary dinner at the Pinnacle and the wine. Also, thanks Lisa for the extra help with the visas and our frequent questions. We will certainly take another Holland America cruise. Thank you again.

~Veronica and Doug



Robert...we had a great time everything went according to schedule. The hotel in Barcelona was excellent and all our flights and connections were as scheduled. The weather was warm (20-25C) only one day of rain. Thank you for the $50 credit it was well used on lemon drop martinis. Thanks again....

~Wendy & Bob



Good morning, we had a wonderful time on our cruise. Everything was perfect. The staff on the ship make everyone feel special. Our room attendants made our cabin so comfortable. We especially enjoyed High Tea at 4:00, Manfredi’s and the spa. Having the ship excursions included was very nice and gave us a great overview of each stop. We have been to New York and many of the Islands before and we saw more of them this time because of the tours. We will definitely be interested in another Viking Cruise and will be recommending them to our friends. Thanks for all you do.

~Karen and Jim



Dear Cruise Encounters...

Very formal as you are our friends. As always what was advertised is what we got, great flights, transfers from airport to hotel and ship and back....spot on. Hotel in Barcelona was great, not too big and within walking distance of many attractions, the guy on the desk recommended a tapas bar which was fantastic. The stateroom on the ship was great as was the cruise, we enjoyed the open dining and shore excursions. We can't wait for our next adventure that you will find for us, thank you so much for you help, professionalism and making our hold such a great experience. Cheers!

~Bruce and Linda



Hello from paradise! We are having a fantastic time. The weather has been hot but beautiful. The ship is very nice...the staff are top notch and the food very good! Off to Roseau, Dominica today. Whole lobster for Thanksgiving dinner!

~Val and Armin



Hi Robert,

We had a great time. Thanks Robert for all the help on putting together an amazing cruise and getaway in the Mediterranean, celebrating our two milestone birthdays. You

answered a lot of questions on the phone and in emails and were a lot of help to us when I was feeling nervous about things. Our time in Israel for three nights on this cruise will stay with us forever. An amazing country!


We appreciated that everything we needed to know was written up for us in a document, and we made sure we read your briefing before we left, and even during our trip, just to be sure we knew what was ahead for us. We really appreciated your suggestions to make the holiday even more special, so the trip you helped plan for us to Santorini after the cruise ended was such a highlight! Oh, how we wanted to spend more time there!


Cruises can be pretty busy with shore excursions and taking in as much as you can on their "daily cruise planner" so it was a complete delight at the end of the cruise to have the extra days to unwind. Your recommendation for a quiet and simply-perfect hotel in Santorini was awesome. The flight there was short, the hotel was quaint and we just never wanted to leave. Their breakfasts were as delicious as the cruise ship breakfasts, and all included! So good!


This was a very well-planned-out holiday that you helped us with. Thanks Robert, very much!

~Cher and Marno



Hi Robert,

We have just returned from the Fall colors cruise with you and would like to say how organized it was. We were impressed with the transfers and tour in New York, we would recommend Cruise Encounters to friends.

~Davina and Bill



Lisa and the team at Cruise Encounters:

Our trip was our “trip of a lifetime” as Angela said more than once. Our transfers during our trip were always there as planned. Never late, professional and friendly . There service was an 10 out of 10. We have booked another trip for 2021 and will be in touch. Over all this was such an overwhelming positive experience for Angela’s first cruising experience. Thank you all for providing such a top notch experience for both of us. We look forward to working with you all on our next trip.

~Valerie and Angela



Hi Janice,

As you know we just returned from our Viking River Cruise.....14 night Budapest to Amsterdam. Wanted to let you know that it was a wonderful cruise and we really had a great time. Viking did a superb job in every way...organization, food, excursions and service. We would not hesitate to recommend them to friends and hope to cruise with them again.

Thanks!

~Hilary



Good afternoon, Robert. I just wanted to thank you for the ship OBC of $50. I had a fabulous time. Also, the taxi that you recommended for our Rome excursion couldn’t have been any better. Vinnie, the driver was so informative and took us to places we hadn’t heard about. He wasn’t a taxi driver, he was a host. He made the excursion one I won’t forget.

Thanks again.

~Teresa



​Hi Robert,

We are presently in Zadar and spent the day at Plitvice Lakes a marvelous National Park. The cruise was absolutely wonderful. The food was good and the other people on the cruise were very enjoyable to be around. We had people from Britain, Australia, Tanzania, Germany, Canada and even a token US couple. The ship was a perfect size for us and we were able to meet everyone and get to know them reasonably well. All age groups so that was good as well. The different stops provided us a good opportunity to see the islands. Each day we had an opportunity to swim in the Adriatic and most stops had a guided tour of the stop. They were very informative. The three of us would highly recommend this cruise. Thanks for recommending it.

~Dave



Hi Lisa,

Thanks for the welcome home! Our trip was fantastic. David and I thoroughly enjoyed staying at the Hilton in Budapest prior to the river cruise and touring Budapest and the countryside. When we got to our hotel room and opened the curtain it was a wow moment. We were directly overlooking the Towers of the Fisherman's Bastion. Just loved the location. Having been on many ocean cruises I really wasn't sure what to expect but the crew, ship ambiance, etc was wonderful. All of the included tours were excellent and everything was highly organized.


All the transportation you arranged worked very well. Thanks. We will definitely take another Viking river cruise one day. I very much appreciated everything you helped me with for this recent vacation. Until next time.

~Zelda



First of all, a big thank you to you and your crew, ​you were patient and understanding. Again, thanks for everything; we really enjoyed the whole adventure, loved all of the ports, especially Rotorua, the most beautiful island we have ever seen, clean streets, well kept properties, miles of walking trails and extremely kind and helpful people everywhere we went on a day full of sunshine from docking to departure. Couldn't imagine a better way to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. Thanks again.

~Jeannine & Gary



Just wanted to thank both you and Lisa for all your assistance during our recent paddle wheel trip down the Columbia River. Everything went so smoothly and there was nothing but positive vibes the entire trip. Since I have been home and told everyone I know about this trip, there has been lots of interest and questions about this cruise. This is the third cruise vacation that I have booked through you and as the previous two, there were no disappointments, glitches, etc. that could have easily happened on such a busy multi-transportation tour. Thanks again for helping to make this unique vacation a memorable one!

~Marie



Got back three weeks ago... and the cruise was fabulous!


Celebrity Millennium was fine and very “caring” Pleased with the cruise photographers as we were often photographed when we didn’t expect it and the photos do bring back nice memories... often of people we never saw again! Onshore tours were so informative and often gave an interesting taste of where we were visiting. Exceptional was the route too! Each port pulled us in as there was so much history from my lifetime that we crisscrossed over. Thanks for organizing it...

~Ralph



Just a short note to let you know that we really enjoyed the Baltic cruise package that Cruise Encounters put together. All flights and transfers were on time and the Monet Garden Hotel in Amsterdam was perfect. The DenRus tour was great, as was Nadya, the tour guide, who was very knowledgeable, spoke impeccable English, and gave us more freedom to wander on our own than we had expected. We had great tours in the other ports of call as well as in Amsterdam before the cruise started. Thanks for organizing this package that went off without any problems.

~Murray & Heather



Hi Lisa,

This is just to let you know that we thoroughly enjoyed our Apr/May, Holland America voyage around Japan, but we particularly wish to thank you for arranging our ground transportation from Haneda Airport to the Shinjuku District which went perfectly. Also, the hotel you selected for us in Shinjuku for our three day stay there could not have been better for our needs.

~Russell



Hi Robert,

I am very pleased with the effort you have put into this trip and every one we have ever done with you. In particular, finding Premium Economy seats to and from New Zealand/Australia. Back in Grade 6 we studied Australia and I have wanted to go there ever since. As the years passed the remoteness of Australia put that dream out of mind. Now, having been to the Galapagos, Machu Picchu, Antarctica and Southern Africa with you, Australia and New Zealand don't seem so far away. Thanks.

~Jim



Hi Lisa,

Just a quick note to thank you for all that you did for Gary and I on our recent cruise of the Med, it was everything I had hoped for and more. We were both blown away by all of the history and beautiful architecture and the cruise ship was just the right size for a first time cruise. Thanks for being so patient with me and all of my concerns beforehand.

As it turned out, it was an amazing time that we will never forget and maybe if I’m lucky enough we will go back and experience more of Europe In the future. I highly recommend it to anyone that can go, you will not regret it. It turns out I took 2500 pictures with my camera…LOL it’s going to be a big job trying to pick my favorites! Thanks so much.

~Maria



Hi Robert,

We had an awesome trip. Just wanted to thank you for all your efforts in getting the trip arranged. I have shared your contact details (as a trustworthy cruise travel agent) with my friends. Hope you have a great day! Regards.

~Wayne



We had a wonderful trip. Really enjoyed every minute of it and found Viking to be excellent.

~​Mavis 


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