Cruise Planners Franchise Fee & Initial Investment Costs Explained

When researching franchise opportunities, one of the first questions people ask is simple: “How much does it cost?” If you’re exploring Cruise Planners, you’ll be glad to know it’s considered one of the most affordable, home-based franchises in the travel industry. 

With over 30 years of success and a proven business model, Cruise Planners gives first-time business owners an accessible way to start a travel agency franchise—without the heavy overhead costs of brick-and-mortar businesses. 

Here’s a clear breakdown of the franchise fee, initial investment, and why Cruise Planners stands out as a low-cost, high-value franchise opportunity. 

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Cruise Planners Franchise? 

The initial franchise fee for Cruise Planners is typically under $10,000, making it one of the lowest-cost franchises in the U.S. For perspective, many restaurant or fitness franchises require $100,000 to $500,000 just to get started. 

• Franchise Fee: Under $10,000 (with promotions available at times). 
• Startup Investment Range: Among the lowest in franchising, especially compared to other industries. 
• No Real Estate or Inventory: Because it’s home-based, you avoid costly leases, equipment, and overhead. 

That means you can get started as a business owner faster and with significantly less financial risk. 

What Does the Cruise Planners Franchise Fee Include? 

Unlike other low-cost franchises, Cruise Planners provides a turnkey business package. Here’s what’s included: 

• Comprehensive Training: Access STAR University, a six-day travel agent certification program that covers travel products, sales, marketing, and technology. Plus, ongoing training, webinars, and specialist certifications. 
• Technology Tools: A fully functional booking website, CRM system, and Cruise Planners’ proprietary software (CP MAXX) to manage itineraries, payments, and customer data. 
• Marketing Programs: Done-for-you email campaigns, social media content, and direct mail options designed by in-house experts. 
• Supplier Access: Partnerships with top cruise lines, resorts, and travel suppliers, often with exclusive deals you can offer clients. 
• Dedicated Support Team: Business coaching, live webinars, and on-demand assistance from Cruise Planners’ 150+ corporate staff. 

In short—you’re not just buying a brand name. You’re investing in a proven system that’s built to help first-time business owners succeed. 

Ongoing Costs of Running a Cruise Planners Franchise 

While the initial franchise fee covers setup and training, like any business, there are ongoing costs. The difference is Cruise Planners keeps them affordable and transparent: 

• Monthly technology and support fees (covering CRM, website hosting, and marketing tools). 
• Optional marketing upgrades (like enhanced direct mail or premium social media packages). 
• Travel costs if you attend supplier events or FAM trips (many of which are discounted or hosted). 

Compared to franchises that require rent, payroll, and utilities, Cruise Planners’ ongoing expenses are minimal—making it easier to stay profitable. 

Beyond the Numbers: What Sets Cruise Planners Apart 

When comparing any travel agency franchise, it’s important to look beyond the initial franchise fee and investment range. A strong business model should also deliver the tools, support, and network you need to grow with confidence. 

Here’s what Cruise Planners provides to every franchise owner: 

• A Proven Business Model: Cruise Planners has refined its systems over more than 30 years, giving first-time business owners a turnkey structure that works. 
• Training and Support: From STAR University to ongoing webinars and live coaching, you’ll receive continuous education designed for both new and experienced travel advisors. 
• Technology and Booking System: Proprietary platforms like CP MAXX streamline client management, vacation planning, and reservations for cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and land tours. 
• Supplier Partnerships: Exclusive access to preferred cruise lines, tour operators, and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) resources strengthens your ability to serve clients. 
• Dedicated Home Office Support System: Backed by a professional team in Coral Springs, Florida, Cruise Planners offers marketing, business coaching, and technology updates—so you’re never alone. 
• Franchise Network and Travel Agent Network: Join a nationwide community of 2,500+ advisors who share best practices, insights, and strategies to succeed in today’s travel industry. 
• Comprehensive Travel Experiences: Beyond cruises, franchise owners can sell air, hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and complete vacation planning packages—earning commissions on every element of the trip. 

This combination of training, technology, and community makes Cruise Planners one of the most supportive and future-ready opportunities in franchising. 

Cruise Planners vs. Other Franchise Investments 

Here’s how Cruise Planners compares to more traditional franchise industries: 

As you can see, Cruise Planners keeps costs low while offering scalability, global market reach, and robust support—a combination few industries can match. 

Is Cruise Planners a Low Investment Franchise? 

Yes. Cruise Planners is consistently ranked as one of the best low-cost franchises by Entrepreneur and Franchise Business Review. With a franchise fee under $11,000, no real estate requirements, and full marketing + technology support included, it’s an ideal entry point for first-time entrepreneurs. 

Better yet, demand for travel is at an all-time high—making now one of the best times to launch a home-based travel agency. 

Final Thoughts on Home-Based Travel Businesses

For aspiring entrepreneurs, the question isn’t “Can I afford a Cruise Planners franchise?”—it’s “Can I afford to miss this opportunity?” 

With low startup costs, full support, and the chance to build a flexible, home-based business in a booming industry, Cruise Planners offers one of the smartest franchise investments in 2025. 

Claim $2,000 off your home-based travel business today and take the first step toward taking back control of your time. 

Cruise Planners Franchise Fee FAQs 

Is the Cruise Planners franchise fee worth it? 

 
Yes. The franchise fee covers training, technology, supplier access, and marketing support—everything you need to launch without guesswork. 

Do I need travel experience to own a Cruise Planners franchise? 

 
No. Nearly 80% of Cruise Planners franchise owners had no prior travel industry experience before joining. 

How much can I earn as a Cruise Planners franchise owner? 

 
Earnings vary by effort, client base, and marketing. Many franchisees scale into six-figure businesses over time. 

What ongoing support is included? 

 
Live coaching, technology upgrades, webinars, and a dedicated business development team—all included.