I am thrilled at the number of people who are involved in some type of organization.  I, personally, enjoy meetings; the speaker, the networking, the interacting with others with similar interests.  Every organization I'm aware of, at one time or another, organizes a fundraising event.  The proceeds either go to the organization or to a cause the organization supports.  We've all made baked goods, washed cars, sold raffle tickets, cooked pancakes, sold cookies and whatever else was needed to achieve our goal.  There is another way to raise money for your organization, sometimes BIG MONEY....take a cruise.  Interested?  Read on....

All major cruise lines offer free cruises to groups, based on the number of people.  A good rule of thumb is you earn one free cruise (one person), for every 15 people (8 cabins) in your group.  Taxes for free cruise are additional. Occasionally, we are able to negotiate one free for 12 people, or even one free for 10 people.  The policy varies by ship, destination, sailing date and cruise line. Great Fundraiser example:  A nationwide organization of retired employees promoted a 15 day Hawaii cruise to their local chapter.  We had negotiated a very attractive price and the chapter ended up booking 16 cabins.  In earning two free cruises, I wrote their organization a check for $2650 (the cash value of the free cruises earned), and 36 happy people cruised off into the sunset last Sunday for a fabulous 15 day Hawaiian odyssey.  P.S.  They are planning another 13 day Alaska cruise for 2006.  On this cruise, they will earn one free cruise for every 10 people (5 cabins).  Cha Ching!

The same policy holds true for 3, 4, 7, 8 10, 12, 14 night cruises, to all destinations.  Of course, the longer the cruise, the higher the cost, and the more money your organization can earn.  Regardless of the duration of the cruise, we recommend planning at least six to eight months in advance.  Prices will be better, the availability of cabin types, dining request confirmation, and a good, solid promotion.  The longer you promote the cruise, the more time people have to book it, giving you a better chance of earning the optimum free cruises.  We are happy to assist you in presenting this idea to your organization, as well as supporting your advertising efforts.  We've done everything from print a flyer to decorating a church entrance and a few entire banks!   Yes, you can also use tour packages as a fundraiser by promoting group departures, as well.  Yet, tour company policies for free trips are much higher.  The average "land only" free is earned one for 20 peope, or more.  Also, land packages generally do not include all meals and entertainment, as a cruise ship includes in the price.  There are alot less "out of pocket" expenses on a cruise.  99% is paid for before you sail.  It's also easier to arrange group get-togethers onboard a cruise ship, as none of your group can be very far away :) If you have any questions about a potential fundraiser for your group, please call us.  We have done several, various, fundraising cruises over the years. We have assisted several different types of organizations and have been able to ensure successful results. Let's talk....