The Scoop: Whether people have taken a dozen cruises or want to experience their first, planning the trip can still be a challenge. The Shipmate app from Cruiseline.com helps singles and couples plan their ideal vacation, from picking a cruise line to finding the most exciting ports and packages. Shipmate shares cruise itineraries, deck cameras, other travelers’ photos, and pricing information so users can select the right trip. The app even notifies cruisers about price drops so they don’t miss out on the best price.
Going on a cruise is a favorite pastime of singles and couples around the world, but not many people enjoy the planning stage of that type of vacation.
That’s why many travelers download the Shipmate app from Cruiseline.com and navigate to CruiseMatch, a feature that helps them find the ideal cruise based on their preferences.
Shipmate’s cruise prices are perfect for couples because they’re based on double occupancy. Couples can tell the app they’re cruising together and search for more romantic options. Singles can also take advantage of cruise deals to sail the seas in search of love.
CruiseMatch allows users to select their trip preferences, including duration, budget, and lodging style. For instance, travelers can opt for “refined relaxation at a boutique hotel” or “going with the flow and Broadway shows” experiences.
The app then recommends several cruise options that fit the bill. Users can view the cruise details and also see pictures and reviews from others who have taken the same trips.
Once singles or couples find the best cruise, they can set a price alert that will shoot them an email whenever the cost of this cruise rises or falls. And Shipmate users can return to the app once they get back home to review their experience and pay it forward for future travelers.
The Team Makes Sure Clients Have Unforgettable Experiences
The Shipmate team strives to create a community of cruisers who can help each other through shared experiences.
“The Shipmate and Cruiseline.com team is a small but mighty group of individuals who love cruising. We’ve built a community of travelers who come to our app and website to talk about all things cruising,” the spokesperson said.
Shipmate is the top cruising app in the U.S. with more than 2 million downloads. Cruise lovers of all ages and experience levels — including newbies who don’t know what to expect — use the app.
“These users come to Shipmate to connect with others who share their passion for cruising. Our community is our most valued asset,” said the spokesperson.
The community shares reviews, tips, and photos of recent trips, along with advice for future cruisers to improve their vacations. New users can post questions to the Shipmate forum for an experienced cruiser to answer.
Reviews also contribute to a star rating for each cruise so users can choose trips based on how much others enjoyed an experience.
Singles and couples can meet and chat with others who will be sailing with them on upcoming trips using the Roll Call feature.
“Users can potentially plan things to do together, read and share insights, and connect with individuals who will be on their actual voyage,” the spokesperson said.
The Platform is Easy for Both New and Seasoned Cruisers
Shipmate helps couples find the right vacation and proves that planning a cruise doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
Couples can narrow down their cruising options to two ships that set sail in six months. If both cruises are similarly priced, they may compare the specific amenities of each option.
The app — available on iOS and Android — provides detailed information about each ship, including the passenger-to-crew ratio, the number of decks, and each ship’s refurbishment history. Users can also read a history of the cruise line, a description of the ports the ship frequents, and reviews from cruisers.
Many of the app’s satisfied users praise it for answering questions about cruises.
Martha S. wrote, “The app is fun and very useful for cruise planning. Wished it had been around when I first started cruising. You can get almost any question answered.”
New cruiser Chris G. agreed, writing: “It’s a great app for the new cruiser (me) and for veterans too. Lots of great ship and port reviews and pictures. Also the price alert is a really cool feature.”
Price alerts ensure Shipmate users can book their cruise when they’re most affordable. If users set a notification for a cruise they like, the app will alert them at the ideal time to book the trip.
Shipmate’s Price Alerts ensure users can book confidently knowing they have the best price available for their vacation. Once a user sets a notification for a cruise they like, Shipmate stays on the lookout for if a lower price becomes available. If there’s a price reductionShipmate will send an email alert to the user letting them know it’s the ideal time to book the trip.
If you are already in the process of booking, Shipmate’s Price Alerts can be used as a way of notifying you that a lower price is available on your sailing. You can contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly and get the price adjusted before your final payment is due.
“Thanks to their alert, I was able to call the cruise line and get a cabin upgrade. I also love being able to chat with experienced cruisers that are so pleasant and quick to answer questions or give advice,” user Wiz T. said.
Couples can navigate to the app’s Ship and Port chats to find advice about the best places to visit. If users are thinking of traveling to Bermuda, they could see what other travelers think are the must-see destination ports.
They could also scroll through their Newsfeeds to find inspiration for their next adventure.
Shipmate: Preparing Couples for Post-Pandemic Travel
Singles and couples who are excited about traveling after the COVID-19 pandemic ends can start planning their cruise through the Shipmate app now. And the Shipmate experience doesn’t end with a cruise booking.
Users can come back to the app to plan other outings around their cruise. For instance, if travelers plan a cruise that ports in Haines, Alaska, they can book excursions, including rafting in the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve or a Jet Boat Adventure.
They can spend time planning activities onboard the ship by reading about what others found interesting and find more information on port cities.
“If you are looking for the perfect romantic restaurant onboard your ship for a date night, our community likely has the answer,” the Shipmate spokesperson told us.
What’s more, singles and couples can get excited about their trip by tracking the countdown to boarding on Shipmate. Users can also start meeting others they’ll be sailing with and start planning activities onboard.
Shipmate users have said they are excited about all the options the app offers, and the team is thrilled to see travelers head back to the seas in 2021.
“Finding the perfect romantic cruise getaway is not easy. Between picking ports, cruise lines, cabin types, dining options, and more, your choices can feel overwhelming. Shipmate helps you seamlessly plan your dream vacation,” said the spokesperson.