Michele Harkins with Dream Vacations has turned her passion for cruising into a unique advantage for travelers seeking unforgettable vacations. The luxury travel specialist personally embarks on six to ten cruises annually, building firsthand knowledge that helps clients navigate the overwhelming world of travel options.
“I don’t just know cruises—I live them,” says Michele. “I can tell you what it’s really like to sail on a particular ship or visit a specific destination because I’ve done it myself.”
This hands-on approach sets Michele apart in an industry where many agents rely solely on promotional materials and supplier information. Her two decades of experience span destinations from the turquoise waters of Tahiti—her personal favorite—to the rugged wilderness of Denali National Park.
The veteran travel professional specializes in crafting personalized itineraries through detailed consultations with each client. Rather than pushing predetermined packages, she focuses on understanding individual preferences and travel goals to design the ideal experience, whether for romantic escapes, multi-generational family gatherings, or group adventures.
Michele’s expertise covers the spectrum of luxury cruise options, from MSC Yacht Club experiences that she recommends for couples to Royal Caribbean’s activity-packed Oasis-class ships perfect for families. With escorted group journeys to Alaska in 2026 and Japan in 2027 already on the horizon, her forward-thinking approach highlights a passion for curating meaningful global adventures.
One persistent myth Michele encounters is the belief that booking directly with cruise lines saves money. “That’s just not true,” she says. “Because I work with the largest seller of cruises in the world, I have access to exclusive, unpublished rates and perks travelers simply won’t find online.”
Her ability to secure better pricing became clear when she recently saved a client $6,000 on a Viking River Cruise booking. These savings come at no additional cost to travelers, who also benefit from avoiding the time-consuming research process that often leads to booking mistakes.
“You don’t have to watch 60 hours of YouTube videos. Just call me,” she adds with a smile.
The experienced cruise consultant describes her service as concierge-level, emphasizing that her role extends beyond simple bookings. “My job isn’t to sell a vacation. My job is to craft the right vacation,” she explains.
Michele’s commitment to client satisfaction includes surprising travelers with gifts and maintaining regular communication through travel tips and updates. She currently runs quarterly dream vacation giveaways for those who sign up for her travel newsletter.
“Trust me with your bucket list,” she says. “You’ll never vacation the same way again.”
For travelers overwhelmed by choices or seeking insider knowledge about cruise destinations and ships, working with a seasoned travel professional who personally experiences the journeys she recommends offers a distinct advantage in planning memorable vacations.
Not just giving to her clients, but Michele also gives back to the community with an annual cruise drawing that benefits Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. This past year she raised $3300 for the organization.