Hi, I'm Linda.

I’ve worked in travel since 2005, and today I help people plan cruises that fit everyone going, not just the person doing the booking.

Why “Crafted”?

For years, I thought good cruise planning meant nailing the logistics: the right ship, the right itinerary, flights that connect.

Then I planned a Mediterranean cruise for my family. I chose the ship based on reviews and what I wanted to experience, and I booked Celebrity, assuming it would work for my adult children, who were in their early twenties. In hindsight, I think Royal Caribbean would have been a much better fit for them. I had planned around my own preferences and never asked what the rest of my party wanted from the trip.

That’s the difference between booking a cruise and crafting one. Logistics get you from point A to point B. They don’t tell you whether the ship, the itinerary, and the excursions fit the experience you want, for everyone going.

How I Work With You

Full details on the Work with Me page.
 

1. We talk it through. We’ll meet to go over what you want from the trip and who’s coming.

2. I handle the booking. I’ll need each traveler’s details as they appear on their ID, which you’ll provide through a secure intake form. Nothing is charged without your okay, and I’ll walk you through the cruise line’s cancellation rules first.

3. I make sure nothing is missed. I’ll help with pre- and post-cruise hotels, transfers, and excursions, and I’m happy to assist with reservations. I check in when payments are due, about 30 days before you sail, and again just before departure.

Ready to plan a trip that fits everyone going? Let’s talk →

My Background

I started as a travel agent in 2005, earned my Certified Travel Associate (CTA) designation and a Hawaii Destination Specialist certification through The Travel Institute, and ran Lauregan’s Travel, a host agency where I trained and supported other travel advisors. In 2010, I wrote Travel Agent Diaries: How to Plan Your Vacation Like a Pro, and I’ve since published several travel planning guides.

I stepped back for several years to raise my kids, then relaunched Crafted Travel Co. in 2020. Today I focus on cruise planning and share what I’ve learned on YouTube and Pinterest. I’m an independent travel advisor with Fora Travel, and I make my bookings through their platform.

Cruise-Line Training and Memberships

Norwegian Cruise Line: Master level
Princess Cruises: Commodore (Princess Academy)
Royal Caribbean: Bachelor’s and Master’s in progress
Celebrity: Bachelor’s and Master’s in progress
Member, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)

What I’ve Sailed

Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, Crystal, Carnival, and Disney.