cruise planners revenue

Cruise Planners Franchise Owner’s Salary & Failure Rate 2024

Looking for a low-cost but high-earning potential franchise opportunity to escape your 9-5 job or perhaps be closer to travel? Cruise Planners franchise is the answer you have been looking for!

In this guide on How Much Does A Cruise Planners Franchise Owner Make, we have answered all the possible questions that you may have regarding this newfound opportunity!

Make sure to read this guide till the end as we break down the investment you will need, the profit you will make, and other things for you!

About Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners is a traveling agency that offers lucrative services to explore the world by sea and land.

This American travel service takes pride in providing quality service at very competitive pricing to fulfill all your needs during your traveling .

This company was founded in 1994 by Michelle Fee , along with Lynn Korn and Marvin Davis.

However, the credit for the success of the Cruise Planners goes to Michelle, as her passion and willingness drove their business to success.

Today, Cruise Planners has more than 2500 outlets, and it is one of the nation’s largest home-based travel franchises.

Cruise Planners offers franchise opportunities to those investors who are willing to do traveling business and has a positive and travel-driven attitude in general.

As far as the experience is concerned, they are very flexible and do not need you to have any kind of prior background in the traveling business.

Everyone is eligible to buy a Cruise Planners franchise without any restriction.

Moreover, they also provide extensive training and other technical support for you to easily set up this franchise.

So far, so good. Let us now dig deeper and have a look at Cruise Planners Franchise money-wise.

How Much Does A Cruise Planners Franchise Owner Make?

If you are making up your mind as to whether or not you should get the Cruise Planners Franchise , then you must be wondering how much can a Cruise Planners Franchise owner make.

Well, as per records, Cruise Planners can generate $128,682 in annual revenue through its commission.

And as per an esitmated profit margin of 30%, we can find out that Cruise Planners franchise owners can easily make $ 38,604 annually on average.

Note: The displayed expenses are estimates based on industry averages and standard costs. Actual expenses may vary due to factors like location, business size, and market conditions. We recommend conducting detailed research or consulting with a financial advisor for a tailored financial analysis.

Interested In Cruise Planners Franchise?

How Much Does a Cruise Planners Employee Earn?

Cruise Planners Employee salary may vary depending on their location, job role, department skills, etc.

However, the average annual pay of a Cruise Planners employee is $66,450 a year in the United States.

If we break this down, then it comes to $31.95 an hour or $1,277/week and $5,537/month.

Furthermore, a Cruise Planners employee with the lowest profile may earn as less as $20,500 , or an employee with a high profile may earn as high as $125,000 .

The average pay for a Cruise Planners employee varies greatly, which means that there are many opportunities for advancement and hence opportunities for growth in terms of salary. (( https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cruise-Planner-Salary#:~:text=As%20of%20Mar%2015%2C%202023,%2Fweek%20or%20%245%2C537%2Fmonth. ))

Pros & Cons Of Cruise Planners Franchise

Pros Of Cruise Planners Franchise

Cruise Planners is one of the lowest-cost franchises to own at just $10,995 .
Does not require you to have any prior experience in the travel industry.
Successful franchise that has been running for 25 years now.
The company offers personalized coaching and comprehensive training.
Offers discounts and other offers to franchise owners for them to travel more.
Offer discounts to veterans military men, travel agents, etc.
Work from anywhere in the world.
Offers constant support.

Cons Of Cruise Planners Franchise

You do not get paid until clients travel.
Charge royalty of 1.5%-3% on gross commissions. (( https://franchisebusinessreview.com/top-franchises/cruise-planners/ ))

Cruise Planners Franchise Average Revenue & Profit

The average revenue and profit that you can make as a Cruise Planners franchise owner vary depending on how much time and effort you are willing to put in.

Cruise Planners has clients who work five hours a week and some who even work eighty hours a week. Clearly, the person putting in more time and effort will earn more.

Cruise Planners has not disclosed or made representations about a franchisee’s past your future sales and revenue record.

However, according to the data provided by the Cruise Franchise owner at Glassdoor, after calculating the royalty fees , the estimated average franchise revenue of the Cruise Planners franchise is $128,682 .

This data is calculated after considering $12,880 as an initial investment amount and a profit margin of 40%.

Also, during 2021, Cruise Planners saw a 38.7% increase in revenue, which shows that they probably recovered pretty well from Covid-19 losses. And compared to 2020, the company saw a $9 million increase in net income in 2021. (( https://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/Cruise-Planners-Salaries-E773157.htm ))

Cruise Planners Franchise Failure Rate

Franchised Outlets:

For the Franchised outlets:

In 2019, the growth rate was (303)/2810×100≈10.78%
In 2020, the failure rate was (459)/3113×100≈14.74%
In 2021, the growth rate was (1)/2654×100≈0.037%

According to the above-mentioned data, we can see that the franchised outlets for Cruise Planners grew in 2019 and 2021, showing a growth rate between 10.78% and 0.037%. However, the company also experienced failure rate of 14.74% in 2020.

Cruise Planners Franchise Payback Period

As mentioned earlier, Cruise Planners Franchise is one of the least expensive franchises that you can get your hands on. As such, the franchise payback period is not that long.

The investment of Cruise Planners is $23,617, and the yearly profit is $38,604.

So, to find out how long it will take to earn back the initial investment:

Payback Period = Investment / Yearly Profit = $23,617/ $38,604= 0.6 years

Based on these figures, it will take approximately 6 months to pay back the initial investment for Cruise Planners. This time period could be longer or shorter depending on your sales, revenue, and profit figures.

Facts About Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners is the most extensive travel agent network in the United States.
The co-founder of Cruise Planners, Michelle Fee, worked as a travel agent before starting this company.
Cruise Planners coined the term “Cruisitude,” which basically refers to a person who has a travel-inclined positive attitude in life.
Cruise Planners has been named the #1 home-based travel franchise by Entrepreneur for 18 straight years.
This company has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list many times in recent years.
Cruise Planners offers a home-based franchise model, which means you can run it from anywhere in the world.
Cruise Planners is one of the cheapest franchises in the world, with a franchise fee of as low as $10,955 (sometimes you can also get it for $6,995).

What Is Cruise Planners Known For?

Cruise Planners is a travel company that is known for its service, quality, and affordable travel packages and they take care of everything right from planning your cruise to land tours.

Some more reasons why Cruise Planners is so popular is because they have access to special amenities and low travel fares on thousands of tour departures and cruise sailing.

They are also experts in specializing in destination weddings, reunions, group travel, and clubs and associations.

Not to mention that they accept all major credit cards and offer travel protection to ensure your trip, making it all the more alluring option for travelers.

Is Cruise Planners Franchise Profitable?

As per Small Business Administration, a typical franchise investment is around $20,000-$50,000, and an average franchise owner makes around $38,604 annually.

If we take this data into consideration, then we can conclude that, yes, Cruise Planer is a profitable franchise.

Other reasons supporting this statement are that this franchise requires a very low-cost investment of around $2,295-$23,665, and in return, it can generate an average profit of $58,000 annually.

Hence, this data proves that this franchise is giving more return than the investment.

However, this is an average profit. In reality, a Cruise Planners franchise owner can make more than $58,000 or even less; it all depends on your skills and business techniques.

Overall, the franchise’s performance is good, and it has the potential to make a high profit.

So if you do your best and put extra effort into the business, then you can easily make $28 per hour or more.

Cruise Planners Franchise Earning Potential

The earning potential of any company depends a lot on the number of hours and hard work one is willing to put into their business.

As far as the Crusie Planners Franchise is concerned, then its franchise owners make upto $50,000-$60,000 on average.

However, this franchise has a high earning potential, and you can even make as much as $101,000 annually .

Finding clients to get on board might be a bit difficult initially, but once you get the hang of how things work, then you can easily be among the top earners of this franchise business.

As we discussed above, Cruise Planners offers traveling service opportunities to entrepreneurs, and the policy of the franchise is very flexible.

You don’t need to follow any rigorous interview process, and also, you can buy this franchise without any experience.

Moreover, it is a home-based franchise and requires a low-cost investment. It even makes a decent amount of profit without any huge investment.

So overall, we do not see any massive downfall in this franchise.

If you want, you can also work on a part-time basis with this franchise.

To Conclude, Cruise Planners is one of the best franchise opportunities to invest in.

Still, if you have any confusion, you can read the Franchise Disclosure Document to understand the policy in-depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monthly royalty fee of cruise planners.

Cruise Planners charge a royalty fee of 1.5%-3% on commissions as their fees.

Where is the initial training for Crusie Planners franchise held?

The initial training for the Crusie Planners franchise is held in the Cruise capital of the world – Fort Lauderdale, FL .

Does Cruise Planners offer international franchise opportunities?

No, Crusie Planners does not offer international franchise opportunities and is only available for people in the United States.

Who founded Cruise Planners?

Cruise Planners was founded in 1994 by CEO Michelle Fee along with the veterans of the travel industry, Lynn Korn and Marvin Davis.

How many locations does Cruise Planners has?

Cruise Planners is the nation’s largest home-based travel agency franchise with more than 2500 franchise owners in 50 states.

Where is Cruise Planners headquartered?

Cruise Planner is headquartered in Coral Springs, Florida, United States.

Amit Gupta is an experienced expert in digital marketing and co-founder of DrFranchises. With more than 11 years of knowledge in franchise digital marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media marketing, Amit has helped many brands achieve incredible success online. As a passionate entrepreneur and owner of 7 franchises, he continues to study franchise models, looking at costs, revenue, and profitability to guide brands toward profitable growth. When he’s not working on digital marketing, Amit enjoys spending time playing with his beloved dog.

2 thoughts on “Cruise Planners Franchise Owner’s Salary & Failure Rate 2024”

Thank you for your evaluate franchise (cruse planner) but i have comments that there is no proof or statistic profits given to the owners of franchise ? Did you aske any one of then informed the right in-com.? is there is any one cancel it? We need to know the stars of customer evaluations for cruse planner.

Thank you Mohammed

Hi, we do not represent Cruise Planners, please get in touch with the company for more details regarding this.

This Travel Franchise is Cruising Strong Cruise Planners and its franchisees are riding an exciting wave of renewed passion for travel and adventure.

By Entrepreneur Partner Studio Staff Jan 16, 2024

The global travel industry is experiencing a resurgence. Leisure and business travel are growing at the same rate — a 42% year-over-year-to-date change from 2022 to 2023 1 .

Riding this wave of renewed interest in travel and adventure is Cruise Planners , the travel agency founded in 1994 by CEO Michelle Fee along with a crew of travel industry veterans. Today, the brand boasts more than 2,700 franchise units with strong positive franchise growth in 2023.

This is why Cruise Planners comes in at #122 on this year's Franchise 500 list. The 2024 Franchise 500 is Entrepreneur 's most competitive ever with 1,389 franchisors submitting which is a record number. This year, Cruise Planners scores in the top 5% for brand strength and top 10% for financial strength.

"The travel industry, and particularly the cruising sector, is experiencing a level of growth never seen before," says Theresa Scalzitti, Chief Sales Officer at Cruise Planners. "With overall travel sales up significantly and cruise sales growing remarkably over the past year, the pent-up demand has transformed into pure demand. This surge indicates a thriving market and an opportune time for franchisees to capitalize on the booming industry."

Pushing forward in 2024.

As a continually recognized leader in the travel franchise industry, being associated with Cruise Planners means being part of a brand known for excellence and innovation. "We offer more than 25 in-person training and networking opportunities, ensuring our franchisees are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed," Scalzitti says. "Our support extends beyond just technology, encompassing marketing, business development, and a collaborative culture that values each advisor's success."

Looking to the months ahead, Scalzitti says Cruise Planners will have a busy year, introducing several innovative tools and enhancements designed to empower their travel advisors and elevate the travel planning experience. Some examples include:

Maxx Intelligence: This new AI-powered tool within the CP Maxx platform is set to "revolutionize content creation for our agents," she says. It uses artificial intelligence and ChatGPT technology to help advisors effortlessly generate engaging content, enhancing communication with clients, and marketing efforts.

Where2Next Virtual Series: Enhancements to this series will provide an interactive experience, allowing clients to embark on a journey of learning and discovery about various destinations and travel suppliers, complete with exclusive offers.

LivePlanner Group Sessions: An upcoming feature that will allow advisors to conduct interactive planning sessions with multiple clients simultaneously, perfect for coordinating group travels or family vacations.

Traveltek Integration: Cruise Planners' enhanced booking engine will offer more robust capabilities, enabling advisors to make live bookings with an expanded array of cruise lines and access to cruise tours and group space.

"Cruise Planners is a brand that's built on a foundation of innovation, support, and community." Scalzitti says. "We're not just a travel agency network; we're a family of passionate travel enthusiasts committed to creating unforgettable experiences for our clients. Our investment in technology, comprehensive training, and a culture that celebrates success at every level make us a unique and exciting place for anyone looking to enter the travel industry."

Click here to learn more about Cruise Planners and their exciting franchise opportunities.

1 Travel Industry Trends 2023 | Mastercard

Entrepreneur Staff

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Cruise Planners Ranked ‘No. 1 Travel Franchise’ for 17 Years in a Row in Entrepreneur’s Highly Competitive Annual Franchise 500®

The nation’s largest home-based travel advisor network remains untouched and continues reign as the best travel franchise to own.

Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative , recently ranked No. 1 Travel Franchise in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 ® , the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Cruise Planners is the nation’s largest travel agent network with more than 2,500 travel advisors in all 50 U.S. states.

Now, in its 41st year, the annual Franchise 500 Ranking ranks Cruise Planners as the No. 1 Travel Franchise for 17 years in a row based on the brand’s outstanding performance of costs and fees, size and growth, support, financial strength and stability, and brand power. It is highly competitive and a sought-after honor in the franchise industry to be recognized on the annual Franchise 500 ranking, as aspiring entrepreneurs continue to use the list as an invaluable resource to research different and reputable franchises.

Since 1994, Cruise Planners’ franchise model has changed the travel world and given entrepreneurs the ability and flexibility to start a travel agency business from anywhere, even while traveling. Cruise Planners provides its travel advisors with access to award-winning, innovative marketing; cutting-edge mobile technology; dynamic, hands-on training; lead-generating tools, as well as professional coaching and development. “Being named Entrepreneur ’s No. 1 travel agency franchise for 17 consecutive years is an incredible feat for a home-based model. Cruise Planners’ unstoppable innovation allows our franchise owners to stay ahead of the curve when planning and booking all types of travel,” says Michelle Fee, CEO and founder of Cruise Planners.

We’re committed to challenging the status quo and being a leader in the travel industry while always providing superior training, top-notch marketing, support and advanced proprietary tools to help our travel advisors run their business effectively and efficiently from anywhere in the world.

Cruise Planners is the best franchise to own as its No. 1 position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity. As independent travel advisors, Cruise Planners ® franchisees earn the highest commission in the industry helping their clients plan amazing travel experiences from cruises and land tours to all-inclusive resorts and more.

At the annual Cruise Planners’ Convention , more than 100 Cruise Planners travel advisors were recognized for their outstanding sales for the year and joining the Millionaires Club for selling above and beyond a million dollars in travel. Laura de la Horra, Cruise Planners ® franchise owner since 2012 and a member of the Millionaires Club, says, “I wish I had started my business many more years ago than when I did. ”

When I left my demanding corporate America job to join Cruise Planners and start a travel agency, I liberated myself. I had no travel experience, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made , and I haven’t looked back.

Cruise Planners’ South Florida-based headquarters, affectionately named Home Office, is a powerhouse of marketing, technology and business development teams with one main goal in mind: To support a nationwide network of more than 2,500 travel advisors from the ground up. The successful business model offers aspiring entrepreneurs with a love for travel, an opportunity to do what they love with the full support of a proven model of success behind them. The record-breaking company continues to grow and relocated to a new, modern office last year to accommodate its rapid growth and create an optimal work environment for its team members. Entrepreneurial-spirited individuals who are interested in owning a Cruise Planners ® franchise , can invest in their own business for a low-cost, one-time franchise fee of $10,995. Special incentives are available for active and retired military, first responders and travel industry professionals.

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Cruise Planners Marks 30 Years with $1 Billion in Sales

February 3, 2024

Cruise Planners is celebrating several milestones, including three decades in the industry and reaching $1 billion in sales in 2023, according to a press release.

In addition to having January 29 as the official “Cruise Planners Day” since 2019, Cruise Planners is celebrating three decades of success in the travel industry this year as well as the achievement of reaching $1 billion in sales in 2023.

“As we celebrate our fifth Cruise Planners Day in Broward County and our three decades in business, we want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation to the incredible community that has been at the heart of our success,” said Michelle Fee, founder and CEO of Cruise Planners.

“Cruise Planners Day is not just about our achievements but about the relationships we’ve built, our incredible network of 2,500 successful franchisees and the unforgettable experiences that have been created over the last 30 years.”

Cruise Planners plans to honor the team, family, network and community that has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s success.

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Business valuation frameworks, cruise planners franchise in 2024: costs, fee & fdd.

Explore the investment potential of Cruise Planners, the largest home-based travel franchise in the U.S. Learn about costs, fees, and financial expectations, and discover whether this franchise aligns with your entrepreneurial goals.

Table of Contents:

Cruise Planners is a well-established franchise that has carved out a significant niche in the travel industry. Founded in 1994 by Michelle Fee, who had a vision to create a business model that empowered travel enthusiasts to run their own travel agency from home, Cruise Planners has grown into a powerhouse. It stands out as one of the largest travel agent networks in the U.S. and has consistently been recognized for its excellence in franchising. Michelle’s leadership and industry insights have positioned Cruise Planners as a leader in the travel franchise world.

The core offering of Cruise Planners revolves around selling cruise vacations, but the franchise has expanded its services to include land tours, all-inclusive resorts, and various travel-related products. This allows franchisees to cater to a diverse clientele, from luxury travelers to family vacationers and corporate clients. The franchise’s target market includes middle to upper-income individuals and families who value personalized travel planning and are looking for both relaxation and adventure. The ability to offer a wide range of travel options makes Cruise Planners appealing to a broad customer base.

As of now, Cruise Planners boasts an impressive scale, with over 2,500 franchisees operating across the United States. While primarily based in the U.S., the franchise has a global reach thanks to its affiliations with major travel providers. This vast network allows Cruise Planners to serve thousands of clients daily, providing tailored travel experiences that meet the unique needs of each customer. The franchise’s size and scope give it significant buying power, which translates into competitive pricing and exclusive deals for its customers.

Cruise Planners offers robust support to its franchisees, including a comprehensive training program that covers everything from booking systems to marketing strategies. New franchisees participate in a six-day training program called “Star University,” which is designed to get them up to speed quickly. Beyond initial training, Cruise Planners provides ongoing support through marketing tools, technology platforms, and a dedicated business development coach to help franchisees grow their business. The franchise also places a strong emphasis on technology, providing tools that allow franchisees to manage their businesses efficiently from anywhere.

Cruise Planners Franchise Insights

Cruise Planners is the largest home-based travel franchise in the U.S., with over 2,500 franchisees, offering a proven model for those looking to enter the travel industry.
Consistently ranked as the #1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine, Cruise Planners has a strong reputation that enhances franchisees’ credibility and trust with clients.
The franchise requires a relatively low initial investment, typically ranging from $2,000 to $20,000, making it accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs.
As a home-based franchise, Cruise Planners offers flexibility in work hours and location, making it an attractive option for those seeking work-life balance.

Cruise Planners Franchise Key indicators

Unit Growth YOY (%)

vs industry 2%

Total U.S. Franchised Units

3-Year Failure Rate

vs industry 6%

Total Investment

How much does it cost to open a Cruise Planners franchise?

Understanding the potential investment size and capital requirements is crucial when considering opening a Cruise Planners franchise. These financial commitments, including initial franchise fees, equipment costs, and ongoing operational expenses, impact the feasibility and profitability of the venture. Thoroughly evaluating these factors ensures that potential franchisees are prepared for the financial responsibilities and can make informed decisions about their ability to sustain and grow the business, ultimately contributing to long-term success.

Min & Max Investment

Opening a Cruise Planners franchise involves several key costs, which are outlined in Item 7 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). You can see a breakdown of the costs to open a Cruise Planners below from the most recent Item 7 below:

Item 7 in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is the “Estimated Initial Investment” section. It outlines the total costs a franchisee can expect to incur when starting a franchise, including the initial franchise fee, equipment, inventory, real estate, and other startup expenses. This section is crucial because it provides potential franchisees with a detailed understanding of the financial commitment required, helping them assess affordability and plan their investment strategy effectively.

Required Capital

To open a Cruise Planners franchise, the required capital involves a relatively low initial investment, and there are also considerations for liquid assets and net worth. Let’s take a closer look below:

Initial Investment The total estimated initial investment for a Cruise Planners franchise ranges from $2,000 to $20,000. This includes the franchise fee, technology package, and initial marketing costs. The wide range in costs depends on the package and level of service the franchisee opts for. Assuming that you will finance your franchise investment, you should plan to have 20% of the total investment amount in the form of equity (cash) for the investment. This makes Cruise Planners one of the most affordable franchises available on the market.
Liquid Assets Requirement While Cruise Planners doesn’t have a strict liquid assets requirement, it’s advisable for franchisees to have sufficient funds to cover the initial investment and any additional marketing or business expenses that may arise in the early stages. This could be estimated at around $10,000 to $20,000 based on the franchise model.
Net Worth Requirement Cruise Planners does not specify a particular net worth requirement. However, as a home-based business with a low initial investment, it is accessible to individuals with a more modest net worth compared to other franchises in the travel and hospitality industry. Having a net worth that covers the initial investment and allows for business growth is recommended.

These figures are based on available information, and potential franchisees should always verify the most current requirements directly with Cruise Planners.

How much does a Cruise Planners franchise owner make?

Calculating the salary of a Cruise Planners franchise owner involves analyzing gross sales to determine total revenue, assessing operational efficiency to understand profit margins, and accounting for franchisor fees and additional expenses such as rent, utilities, and payroll. Effective management of these factors can significantly impact the profitability and financial success of a Cruise Planners franchise owner. This comprehensive financial analysis helps estimate net profits, from which the owner’s salary can be derived. A clear understanding of these factors ensures accurate salary projections and financial planning for sustainable business operations.

Cruise Planners Revenue & Gross Sales

While specific revenue figures for Cruise Planners franchises are not publicly disclosed, the franchise is well-regarded for its potential financial performance, driven by the growing demand for personalized travel services. Generally, travel franchises like Cruise Planners can achieve impressive sales figures when franchisees leverage the brand’s reputation and extensive network of travel partners. By focusing on customer service excellence and tapping into the expanding market for customized travel experiences, franchise owners have the potential to generate significant revenue and achieve attractive returns on their investment.

However, potential franchisees should note that the gross sales are highly variable and are more dependent on the franchisee owner than the brand itself.

Which key factors impact the average revenue performance of Cruise Planners franchisees?

The performance of U.S. franchisee gross sales for franchises like Cruise Planners can likely be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the increasing demand for personalized and curated travel experiences has driven more customers to seek the expertise of travel advisors, boosting sales. Additionally, Cruise Planners’ strong partnerships with major travel suppliers provide franchisees with access to exclusive deals and competitive pricing, enhancing their appeal to customers. The robust training and support system also plays a crucial role, equipping franchisees with the tools and knowledge to effectively market their services and build strong client relationships. Lastly, the continued investment in technology by Cruise Planners has enabled franchisees to operate more efficiently and reach a broader audience, further contributing to revenue growth.

Cruise Planners Franchise Operational Costs

If you were to open a Cruise Planners franchise, there are several key ongoing operational costs to consider:

Technology and CRM Costs Maintaining the technology platforms and customer relationship management (CRM) systems provided by Cruise Planners is crucial, and there may be ongoing costs associated with these tools.
Travel and Networking Expenses To grow your business, you might need to attend industry conferences, trade shows, or networking events, which can incur travel and accommodation costs.
Insurance As a business owner, you’ll need to maintain various types of insurance, including liability insurance and potentially errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, especially in the travel industry.
Continuing Education and Training While initial training is included in the franchise fee, staying updated with industry trends and continuing education may involve additional costs over time.
Office Supplies and Miscellaneous Expenses Even though Cruise Planners is a home-based business, you’ll still need to budget for office supplies, internet, phone service, and other miscellaneous business expenses.

These ongoing costs are essential to maintaining and growing your Cruise Planners franchise, and planning for them will help ensure your business’s financial stability and success.

Cruise Planners Franchise Fees

When considering the ongoing operational costs of a Cruise Planners franchise, it’s important to be aware of several key fees and expenses that will affect your budget. Here’s a breakdown:

Royalty Fee 1.5% – 3% of Gross Commissionable Fares, depending on the commission rates paid by travel suppliers. This fee is typically deducted from the commissions you receive, and there may be opportunities to reduce it through sales incentive programs.
Annual Maintenance Fee Ranges from $0 to $2,000 per year, varying based on your experience level, Departed Commissionable Revenue, and the number of years you have been a franchisee. This fee is due annually on the anniversary of your franchise agreement.
Annual E&O Insurance Fee $180 annually per person, covering you, any co-owner, and each associate. The first year’s fee for one person is included in the Initial Franchise Fee.
Administrative Service Fee $70 per month, due monthly. This fee covers continuing support and access to various franchise resources.

There might be additional fees associated with specific services or support that can arise over time, so it’s essential to review your franchise agreement carefully to understand all potential costs.

Cruise Planners Franchise Earnings

While specific earnings data for Cruise Planners franchises is not publicly available, we can provide an informed overview based on industry standards and the unique characteristics of this travel franchise. Cruise Planners, with its extensive network of travel partners and strong brand reputation, has the potential to generate significant revenue in the travel industry. Factors such as marketing efforts, client relationships, and the ability to capitalize on travel trends play crucial roles in determining a franchisee’s financial performance.

Industry benchmarks for travel franchises suggest that earnings can vary, with successful franchisees leveraging the brand’s tools and support to achieve substantial commissions and repeat business. The relatively low initial investment and ongoing costs, such as royalty and marketing fees, should be considered when projecting potential earnings. Franchisees who effectively utilize Cruise Planners’ comprehensive training and support system are typically better positioned to achieve profitability.

Prospective franchisees should conduct thorough market research and consider variables such as local travel demand, target demographics, and competition. By leveraging Cruise Planners’ strong vendor relationships and adhering to best practices, a Cruise Planners franchise can become a profitable venture, aligning with the earnings potential observed in successful travel franchises. Consulting with current franchisees and financial advisors can provide valuable insights into realistic earnings expectations.

How to Open a Cruise Planners Franchise

Becoming a Cruise Planners franchisee involves a series of well-defined steps, beginning with your initial inquiry and culminating in the start of your travel business operations. Here’s an overview of the process:

Initial Inquiry You or your franchise specialist submits an initial inquiry basic information about your interest and background. You should also conduct thorough research on the franchise, including seeing all of the information available on the Vetted Biz franchise intelligence platform, including access to the most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Application If your initial inquiry is accepted, you’ll be invited to complete a more detailed application. This application will ask for comprehensive information about your personal and professional background, financial status, and reasons for wanting to become a franchisee.
Discovery Process Upon review of your application, you’ll be invited to participate in a discovery process, which includes franchise overview calls, webinars, and presentations. These sessions provide in-depth information about the Cruise Planners business model and the travel industry, allowing you to ask questions and assess the opportunity.
Financial Review Cruise Planners will conduct a thorough financial review to ensure you meet the required capital, liquid assets, and net worth criteria. This step ensures that you are financially prepared to invest in and operate a franchise.
Meet the Team Next, you’ll attend a Discovery Day, where you’ll meet the Cruise Planners team either virtually or in person. This event provides a closer look at the support system, company culture, and what to expect as a franchisee, allowing you to ask any remaining questions.
Final Decision After Discovery Day, if you decide to move forward, you’ll sign the franchise agreement, officially becoming a Cruise Planners franchisee. This step marks your formal commitment to the franchise.
Initial Training Once the franchise agreement is signed, you’ll participate in the six-day Star University training program. This comprehensive training covers everything from booking systems and marketing strategies to sales techniques and customer service.
Business Setup Following your training, you’ll set up your business, including technology tools, CRM systems, your business website, and marketing materials. This step ensures you’re ready to start operating efficiently from day one.
Grand Opening With your business set up and initial marketing in place, you’ll proceed to the grand opening of your Cruise Planners franchise. This is when you officially start operations, begin serving clients, and work towards building a successful travel business.

Pros & Cons

Low Initial Investment: Cruise Planners offers a relatively low-cost entry into the travel industry, making it accessible for many potential franchisees.

Home-Based Business Model: As a home-based franchise, you have the flexibility to work from anywhere, which can significantly reduce overhead costs and provide work-life balance.

Strong Vendor Relationships: The franchise has established strong relationships with top travel suppliers, giving you access to exclusive deals and higher commissions, which can enhance your competitive edge.

Diverse Product Offerings: Beyond cruises, Cruise Planners offers a wide range of travel services, including land tours and all-inclusive resorts, allowing you to cater to a broad clientele.

Established Brand Reputation: Cruise Planners is a well-known and respected brand in the travel industry, which can help attract clients and build trust quickly.

Commission-Based Earnings: Your income is largely commission-based, which means earnings can be variable and depend on your ability to secure bookings and build a client base.

Competitive Industry: The travel industry is highly competitive, and with the increasing use of online booking platforms, you’ll need to effectively market your personalized services to stand out.

Dependence on Travel Trends: The business is heavily influenced by travel trends and external factors like economic conditions and global events, which can affect demand for travel services.

Learning Curve: If you’re new to the travel industry, there may be a steep learning curve as you get up to speed with the systems, products, and customer expectations.

Who owns Cruise Planners?

Cruise Planners is privately owned by Michelle Fee, who is also the founder of the franchise. She launched Cruise Planners in 1994 with a vision to empower individuals to start their own travel agencies from home. Under her leadership, the franchise has grown into one of the largest and most successful home-based travel agency networks in the United States.

Is Cruise Planners a franchise?

Yes, Cruise Planners is a franchise. It operates as a home-based travel agency network, offering individuals the opportunity to own and operate their own travel business under the Cruise Planners brand. Franchisees benefit from extensive training, marketing support, and access to a wide range of travel products and services.

Who is Cruise Planners’ biggest competitor? What are alternatives to Cruise Planners?

Cruise Planners' biggest competitor is likely Travel Leaders, another large network of home-based travel agencies. Alternatives to Cruise Planners include other travel franchises like Dream Vacations, Expedia CruiseShipCenters, and Avoya Travel. These franchises also offer home-based business models with various levels of support and product offerings.

Is Cruise Planners a good investment?

Cruise Planners can be a good investment for individuals who are passionate about travel and have strong sales and customer service skills. The franchise offers a low-cost entry, comprehensive training, and the flexibility of working from home. However, success depends on your ability to build a client base and navigate the competitive travel industry. Prospective franchisees should consider their personal strengths and conduct thorough research before investing.

How many locations does Cruise Planners have?

As of 2024, Cruise Planners has 2,797 locations in the U.S., of which 2,796 are franchised locations.

What is the failure rate of Cruise Planners?

The most recent calculated 3-year failure rate of Cruise Planners was 35% in the U.S. This is quite a high number and is likely inflated due to the low barrier to entry.

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