Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

DH got a postcard in the mail offering a free 8day 7 night Caribbean or Mexican cruise on Royal Caribbean. It was a "Grand Opening' offer and said "This is not a time share offer" or something to that effect.

I figured there had to be a catch- so DH called up. They said they're a travel agency and the cruise is in return for going to take a survey at a local hotel. We would be responsible for port fees and all taxes. It comes to about $400 per person- including airfare for an outside cabin. We have to use it within 18months and we have until the day we leave to pay the fees/taxes.

We were planning on taking a cruise next March for DHs 30th birthday, so this would be awesome- if it's real.

Has anyone done anything like this before?

We decided to go do the survey- we have to bring a credit card for "identification purposes" but I plan on bringing an old card that is no longer active. If they are only using it to verify my identity, it shouldn't matter.

Any input?

There is no name on the postcard, and DH couldn't remember what they said on the phone so I can't google until I get home and can call the number again.

Re: Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

I'm skeptical. We did a time share presentation in FL to get free tix to Disney/Sea World. We thought the free tix would be worth an hour of our time. It was NOT. I actually though DH was going to physically HIT the woman doing our presentation she was that much of a *****. Now I know this said it's NOT a time share thing but a survey, but even still, I'm skeptical. Personally, I'd never do one again. They just aren't going to give you a free cruise for nothing, they're going to make you work for it and jump through hoops. And IMO, it's not worth it. Just my thoughts though!

ETA: I'm not saying it's a scam, per say, but that it's probably not worth the time and aggravation.

Message edited 5/3/2012 11:05:06 AM.

Re: Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

im always skeptical with these "freebies"
there is usually a catch
check the company out online and with the better business bureau

good luck

Re: Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

My DH got the same thing. Google it--its bs.

Re: Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

What is the travel agency? My guess is they are trying to sell you something. I'm a travel agent. I don't work for one of the huge companies, but even they don't give cruises away for free. I can't really imagine a legit purpose to this.

Re: Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

Ya know what they say... If its too good to be true...

Dh and I once did a timeshare presentation for $100. Never again... They basically tortured us once we turned them down. What was suppossed to be an hours worth of time turned into 2 bc of this sleeze bag salesman.

I can't imagine what you'd have to go through for a free cruise

Re: Free Cruise Offer- Scam?

I get those all the time. Total scam. Sorry