Austin Koonz, Travel Agent in Rensselaer, NY

Austin Koonz

Rensselaer, NY Travel Agent
Super Agent

Austin Koonz

Rensselaer, NY · 6 Years of Experience

Yankee Trails, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(59)
100% Recommended
Goes above and beyond duty to take care of his customers. A true professional dedicated to his job. Total confidence that everything is always put together... Read More >
About
My Travel Specialties
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Travel Stories & Media
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Egypt, At Sea, British Columbia, Bermuda, Netherlands

Interests:

Adult Only, Adventure, All Inclusive, Beach Vacations, Bespoke Travel

Suppliers:

Avalon Waterways, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Rocky Mountaineer

About Me

Luxury Travel Concierge

Step into a world of effortless, elevated travel. As your dedicated travel concierge, I specialize in curating exceptional, tailor-made experiences for discerning travelers - from bespoke solo getaways to luxurious group expeditions. With an expert hand in Ocean Cruises, Expedition Voyages, Cruise Tours, River Cruises, LGBTQIA+ Travel, All-Inclusive Escapes, Escorted Journeys, Destination Weddings, Adults-Only Retreats, and Custom Tour Packages, I take care of every detail -so you can focus on indulging in the experience. Whether you dream of sipping champagne on a private balcony at sea, exploring the Arctic in style, or celebrating with your closest group at a five-star resort, I’m here to deliver seamless, stress-free travel with world-class service. Let’s design your next extraordinary journey - where every moment is planned with precision, and every experience is nothing short of unforgettable.

My Travel Specialties

Wellness, River, Cruises, Groups, Tours

Wellness, River, Cruises, Groups, Tours
Greetings, I'm Austin Koonz, your personal world wide travel concierge. I am currently living in New York, and frequently visit Florida.It is important to note that you do not need to live near me to utilize my services. I offer multiple ways to conn...Read More ▶

Worldwide Travel Concierge Services

Worldwide Travel Concierge Services
As a Certified Travel Concierge, I specialize in luxury vacations, all-inclusive resorts, river, ocean, and expedition cruises, group travel, destination weddings, and escorted tours. From cruises and luxury beach escapes to cultural city-hopping and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions, I’ll expertly ...Read More ▶

River Cruise Fanatic

River Cruise Fanatic
As someone who's absolutely passionate about river cruising, I can tell you, there’s truly nothing like it. Waking up in a new storybook village each day, docking right in the heart of historic towns, and watching castles and vineyards drift by your panoramic stateroom window… it’s magical....Read More ▶

Group Travel Expert

Group Travel Expert
I make the process of organizing and streamlining group travel seamless and stress-free. Negotiating contracted rates and value-adding amenities on your behalf. Having me as your group travel coordinator gives everyone peace of mind and ensures that the group's needs are met....Read More ▶

LGBTQIA+ Travel

LGBTQIA+ Travel
As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am dedicated to helping fellow travelers find safe and welcoming destinations for LGBTQIA+ travel. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and preferences within our community, I strive to offer personalized and supportive travel planning servi...Read More ▶

Celebrity Cruises RETREAT Specialist

Celebrity Cruises RETREAT Specialist
Why Book The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises? Because this is more than a suite. It's a sanctuary at sea.When you book The Retreat, you're not just cruising. You're elevating every moment with an exclusive experience focused on luxury, personalization, and world-class service. Here...Read More ▶

Norwegian Cruise Line HAVEN Expert

Norwegian Cruise Line HAVEN Expert
I Love to travel in the Haven with Norwegian Cruise Line!Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. Not only will you have access to all the ship has to offer, you'll enjoy the personal service of a c...Read More ▶

Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer
I had the most incredible experience riding the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West with GoldLeaf Service! It all began in the vibrant city of Vancouver, where we explored everything from the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge to the exhilarating Fly Over Vancouver. We even rented E-b...Read More ▶

Avalon Waterways Specialist

Avalon Waterways Specialist
SEE THE WORLD YOUR WAY Avalon Waterways invites you to see the world your way. Expansive. Unhindered. Utterly unique. For cruisers who don't follow the crowd — who forge their own path to experience the world in their own style, Avalon Waterways delivers a river cruise exp...Read More ▶

MSC YACHT CLUB EXPERT

MSC YACHT CLUB EXPERT
As an MSC Cruises Yacht Club specialist, I’ve cultivated a strong, ongoing partnership with MSC and have personally orchestrated numerous group sailings within their most exclusive offering, the Yacht Club.This is more than just a cruise; it's a completely elevated experience. Yacht Club guests e...Read More ▶

Bermuda Expert

Bermuda Expert
Bermuda's beaches are among the main reasons to visit. There are many gorgeous beaches around the island, but the curved Horseshoe Bay Beach is one of the most popular in Bermuda, thanks to its iconic pink sands and azure water.This is one of my FAVORITE places to go for a beach getaway! I ...Read More ▶

Virgin Voyages - Adults Only Getaway - Expert

Virgin Voyages - Adults Only Getaway - Expert
I hold a profound appreciation for Virgin Voyages, having had the privilege of experiencing the unparalleled journey aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Miami. Our ports of call included the enchanting destinations of Cozumel and Bimini, Bahamas. Scarlet Lady, in every facet, exceeded my expectati...Read More ▶

Flavors First, Passport Second

Flavors First, Passport Second
As a travel advisor and self-proclaimed foodie, I believe the best way to truly understand a place is through its flavors. Whether I’m indulging in warm stroopwafels by the canals of Amsterdam, savoring a perfectly crisp croque-monsieur at a café in Paris, sipping wine in a Tuscan vineyard,...Read More ▶

Norwegian Aqua Expert

Norwegian Aqua Expert
As one of the first to sail on the brand-new Norwegian Aqua, I can confidently say I’m your Norwegian Aqua expert. If you’re considering traveling with Norwegian, I’m your go-to Personal Travel Concierge!& chances are I already have exclusive group space reserved on the sailing you’re inter...Read More ▶

Celebrity Reflection

Celebrity Reflection
I recently cruised with Celebrity cruises aboard the Reflection, from Fort Lauderdale with stops in Bimini, Ocho rios and Grand Cayman. As your expert travel advisor, let me paint the picture for you, because Celebrity Reflection isn’t just a cruise ship, it’s a floating sanctuary of ...Read More ▶

Banff

Banff
My Recent Adventure in Banff: The Ultimate Canadian Rockies ExperienceI just returned from an unforgettable trip to Banff, and I truly can’t recommend it enough! Tucked away in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is the perfect mix of breathtaking scenery, outdoo...Read More ▶

Vancouver Specialist

Vancouver Specialist
I am a certified Vancouver Specialist, ask me anything. I recently had the incredible opportunity to travel to Vancouver and spent two amazing nights there before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West. What a way to start a trip!I stayed in the heart of the city at the ...Read More ▶

STAR OF THE SEAS EXPERT

STAR OF THE SEAS EXPERT
As a top advisor at my agency, I was exclusively invited by Royal Caribbean to fly out and experience Star of the Seas before it was available to the public. I toured the suites, explored every venue, and got a firsthand look at all the excitement this incredible ship has to offer. That makes me ...Read More ▶

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
59 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
Search reviews:

Showing 59 reviews

Austin made it easy!
Reviewed By Diana - Lewiston NY | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
Goes above and beyond duty to take care of his customers. A true professional dedicated to his job. Total confidence that everything is always put together well.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Excellent cruising experience
Reviewed By Eva - The Villages , Fl | Traveled to Caribbean
Andy was very patient with our questions and covered everything we asked with enthusiasm. We received everything we needed and had a wonderful cruise . It’s surely is a pleasure working with him
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Austin is the best cruise agent!
Reviewed By Happy Cruiser - THE VILLAGES | Traveled to Caribbean
Austin Koonz is the best travel agent. I have booked and rebooked four cruises through him. He has responded rapidly to my requests and has provided the best deals available. His travel recommendations are terrific!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
I highly recommend working with Austin.
Reviewed By Chong - The Villages, Florida | Traveled to Caribbean
Austin is knowledgeable, patient, and personable. He consistently goes the extra mile to ensure I have the best cruise experience. I highly recommend working with Austin.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Destination Wedding
Reviewed By Col - Clifton Park, New York | Traveled to Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
Austin has been very responsive and knowledgable regarding our trip. Even helped with changes after a 17 hour flight delay. We could not be any happier with our experience.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

Certifications & Awards

The Book with Confidence logo tells you that this Travel Advisor has direct access to comprehensive resources for safe and healthy travel, available at their discretion for sharing with clients.  This includes vetting the details on the health and safety protocols implemented by each travel provider in order to recommend the ideal itinerary for each client’s unique needs.
Globus family of brands Specialist
Globus family of brands Specialist
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Hurtigruten Expeditions Certified Agent
Hurtigruten Expeditions Certified Agent
MSC Masters
MSC Masters
NCL University - Associate Degree
NCL University - Associate Degree
NCL University - Bachelor's Degree
NCL University - Bachelor's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
NCL University - PHD Degree
NCL University - PHD Degree
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Travel Advisor
Oceania Certified Travel Advisor
Pleasant Premier Ambassador
Pleasant Premier Ambassador
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Scarlet Certification
Seacademy - Scarlet Certification
Seacademy - Silver Certification
Seacademy - Silver Certification
Seacademy - Violet Certification
Seacademy - Violet Certification
TRACKS (Rocky Mountaineer Specialist)
TRACKS (Rocky Mountaineer Specialist)
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
World Azamara Academy
World Azamara Academy
AMA Academy
AMA Academy
AmaWaterways Specialist
AmaWaterways Specialist
AMResorts Master Agent
AMResorts Master Agent
Avalon Waterways Specialist
Avalon Waterways Specialist
Celebrity Learning Certification
Celebrity Learning Certification
Certified Celebrity Cruises Consultant
Certified Viking Cruises Consultant
Certified Princess Cruises Consultant
Certified Norwegian Cruise Line Consultant
Certified Tauck Consultant

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

My Photo Albums and Videos

Royal Caribbean Star of the seas
View Album
Crowns Edge on Star of the seas

My Travel Stories

Vancouver

  One Perfect Day in Vancouver: From Suspension Bridges to Sea LionsVancouver delivered everything I'd hoped for and more. There's something magical about a city where you can bike along the waterfront in the morning and find yourself suspended above ancient rainforest by afternoon.I started at Granville Island, and honestly, I could have...
Read more

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Our stay at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was absolutely unforgettable!During our visit, we had the incredible opportunity to walk the entire length of the frozen lake, an experience that was nothing short of magical. The beauty of this destination truly transcends seasons, though I must admit there's something particularly spectacular about the ...
Read more

Thrill Island on Star of the seas

Star of the Seas Royal Caribbean

My Experience on Star of the SeasRoyal Caribbean personally flew me out to sail on their brand-new Star of the Seas for its inaugural voyage and I have to say, this ship absolutely blew me away. From thrilling slides to serene escapes, it delivers a true “wow” factor at every turn.Getting There...
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Grand Cayman

I spent an unforgettable day in Grand Cayman, docked with Celebrity Cruises, and packed it with a blend of relaxation, adventure, and a touch of luxury.In the morning, I headed straight to the Cayman Turtle Centre in West Bay, The 23-acre wildlife park balances conservation with interaction - you’ll find hatchlings, juvenile turtles, and g...
Read more

Bimini

As an expert travel advisor, I’ve had the chance to visit some amazing ports - and Bimini, Bahamas never disappoints. On my recent stop with the cruise, I spent the day at the Beach Club at Bimini, and it was an absolute highlight!From the moment I arrived, the vibe was electric. This exclusive beach club offers the perfect mix of relaxati...
Read more

Client Testimonials

Extra added value
Austin at Travel Leaders didn't just match our deal—he made it significantly better. My husband and I were ready to book a Regent Seven Seas cruise. We called the cruise line directly and received an exclusive lower price that wasn't available online—a deal we were told would only last a few days. Before committing, we decided to reach out to Austin at Travel Leaders to see what he could offer. From his very first response, his expertise was exceptional. Not only did he match the exclusive pricing Regent had offered us directly, but he also secured a complimentary shore excursion valued at nearly $500. We got the same cruise, the same price, plus an additional $500 in value. The choice was easy. If you're booking a luxury cruise, call Austin first—you have nothing to lose and potentially hundreds of dollars to gain.
Travel Lover NY
The Best Alaska Cruise Tour Ever!
Austin Koonz - you hooked us up! Great rooms and tours! The past 48 hours have been busy and amazing. We left Albany on Thursday afternoon and landed in Fairbanks, Alaska Thursday evening. On Friday we took a riverboat up the Chena River to a traditional Athabaskan fishing village. We also got to see a demonstration by the dogs who live and train with at Susan Butcher’s family. Susan Butcher is a four time alaskan Iditarod campion. We then went to a gold mining dredge where we also go to see the Alyasken Pipeline. Our guide was Dexter who looked like a gold miner and had a ton of great stories. We also experienced panning for gold. I was the big winner with $32 of gold. Denali National Park was amazing! We saw a bull moose, a cow (moose) with her calf, a lynx, a porcupine, a grizzly bear, three caribou, a few ptarmigan, and a couple of snowshoe hares.
Julie
Austin is truly a blessing
For an older couple who isn’t tech-savvy, Austin is truly a blessing. He completes our check-in on our behalf and ensures all of our documents are printed and mailed directly to our home. We never have to worry about a thing, just pack and be on time for the shuttle service he arranges. Thank you for everything, Austin!
Mrs. Edwards
Care and attention to detail
Austin went above and beyond. I have worked with many travel agents in my life, but none have shown me the level of care and attention to detail that Austin has. Moving forward, I will only be booking my vacations with Austin.
Kryzs
Greece Cruise with Pre and Post in Athens
Have worked with Austin for over a year now planning various vacations. We always had several questions and were impressed by how quick and thorough his answers were. Since we have traveled for decades and dealt with several travel agents, we feel that he is the best we have ever dealt with.
Happy Client - Clifton Park, New York
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