Cruise Planners Tops Low-Cost Franchise Business List

American Express Travel Representative Cruise Planners was just ranked as a top franchise opportunity for under $50,000 by Entrepreneur Magazine. On the publication's "Top Franchises For Less Than $50,000" listing, the country's biggest home-based travel agency came in at number four and was the only travel franchise in the top ten.

Industry analysts at Entrepreneur create the list by using scores brands received on its famous Franchise 500 list, which evaluates brands in areas such as fees, costs, growth and size, brand strength, support for franchisees, and financial stability and strength. At an investment level of less than $15,000, the travel franchiser is considered a top franchise opportunity in the lost-cost segment.

Brand CEO and Founder Michelle Fee noted that many people who try to start a business struggle with making it a success without breaking the bank. According to Fee, Cruise Planners' low-cost option at startup still comes complete with their hands-on training, the American Express Travel partnership and cutting-edge technology.

As independent advisors, franchisees with this travel brand earn money by helping their clients plan cruise and land tours. The home-based model gives franchisees the flexibility to run their business anywhere they are, and franchisees also receive the brand's mobile tech, marketing help, tools for lead generation, hands-on training, and business coaching. For the last 16 years, this brand has come in as the top travel franchise business on the Franchise 500 and is currently seeking franchisees. The initial total investment for this opportunity is $10,995.