Steve Rice
San Antonio, Texas Travel Agent
The Cruise Butler, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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Expert Recommendations for Luxury & River Cruises
As owner of The Cruise Butler website, I’ve been in the travel business for almost 26 years, Plus, I worked in the hospitality and tourism business for 15 years before that.
In fact, I was even born into the cruise business. Both of my parents worked for the Cunard Line on the original Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary.
Being in the travel business for so many years has allowed me to make personal contacts with many of the key decision-makers and owners of tour companies and cruise lines. My connections in the industry come in very handy when I need to help a client handle an unexpected issue.
If you visit the testimonials section of my website, you’ll see positive comments from the many clients we've assisted in the past.
Even though I arrange all kinds of travel, including all-inclusive land packages, I specialize in the river cruise, deluxe, and luxury cruise market.
From the many years I spent in upscale restaurants, I love fine foods and great wines. The cruises that I recommend satisfy my palate completely.
I have spent almost 26 years experiencing all the different cruise lines and a variety of destinations. What this means to you is that I can now provide first-hand feedback to guide you towards the perfect vacation.
I have also been on over 80 cruises to many destinations all over the world. People often ask me what my favorite destinations are. I would have to mention Tahiti, Alaska, Italy, and Germany as some of my all-time favorites. Exploring these fantastic destinations is so enriching and rewarding.
I love it when I visit somewhere special then get to come home and share my experience, tips, and suggestions with my clients. Because of what I learn from my travels, my customers can have a more memorable experience when they get to take their next trip.
Through the years I've taken specialist certification courses on many river cruises and upscale cruise lines. I have also attained certification as an Elite Cruise Counselor and as a Luxury Cruise Specialist. I'm especially proud to be 1 of only 700 Elite Cruise Counselors nationwide.
You can find a full list of all my experience, qualifications, and training on the qualifications tab of my website.
I am confident that all of my training, my years in the business, and my personal experience with different products and destinations will make me the travel expert you'll want in your corner when planning your dream vacation. I wish you happy travels and wonderful memories in your future.
What Some of Our Customers Say
"Our trip was perfect. Everything went extremely smoothly. Everything at the resort was outstanding! From meals to customer service, everything was handled professionally and with class. Thank you for another great trip!" —D. Fendley
"We had a marvelous time on the Rhine river cruise. The ship is beautiful and the rooms were very well-appointed. Thank you for your attention to detail and for helping this trip be one of the best for us. Steve took care to provide an amazing cruise experience for my wife and me who had never been on a cruise before." —H. Jones
My Areas of Expertise
Can't imagine booking a trip without Steve
Reviewed By Thomas Family - Texas | Traveled to
We've been using Steve now for about 15 years. Each trip we take we notice all the little things that Steve does that make it so great. He knows just what cabin to put you in based on your route. If disputes ever arise on the ship. he's back in Texas calling in favors and making things right. He is incredibly knowledgeable and seems to have been everywhere we go at least once.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
54 of 93 people found this review helpful
He knows every little detail about the Ships!
Reviewed By Sherrie - Alexandria, VA | Traveled to
My husband and I have recommended Steve to many friends. We have never met him but feel like he's the best there is. I could share many stories but I think this one will make you understand why he is a cut above the rest. We had been on several cruises he arrranged with great results - then we decided to try the Oasis of the Seas - we were a little overwhelmed because of the size but a week before we sailed Steve sent us a long email with everything you could imagine to make us feel like we knew the ship. He told us where to go for lunch on embarkment day to avoid the crowds, he told us about all the nooks and crannes that we shouldn't miss on the Ship during the cruise and he gave us great advice on reserving shows on the Ship - It was just like he knew our questions and answered them before we could ask them. We had a great time! No hiccups with luggage or Sea Excursions, we were well prepared travelers!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
44 of 77 people found this review helpful
Steve always leads us in the best direction wherever we go!
Reviewed By Bill & Karen - Fair Oaks Ranch, TX | Traveled to
We have used Steve's services for several years. He is always knowledgeable about places we are planning to go and always has recommendations about where to stay/eat, what to do, and how to get there that are right on! He knows where to go in foreign places and the best times to visit local attractions. We can't say enough about the help and service he has provided over the past several years.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
43 of 77 people found this review helpful
Long time client, very satisfied with the service I've received.
Reviewed By Lou - Boerne, Tx | Traveled to
Very knowledgeable and up to speed on the latest and best options. Helps to steer me in the right direction. I've been using Steve for over 20 years. First trip was "Land and Sea" on Princess to Alaska. Very memorable and enjoyable trip. All of my experiences since that time have "exceeded expectations". Several years ago Steve put together a cruise for my RV club. He had to work with many different personalities and with people who had never cruised before. It went like clock work. He satisfied everyone - and that isn't easy. But, this is typical of his ability. In my opinion, he ranks with the "Best of the Best"!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
44 of 81 people found this review helpful
Very helpful in planning
Reviewed By Ph - Bulverde | Traveled to
Had a large group go on a cruise and he helped make it a very enjoyable time
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
39 of 75 people found this review helpful
Excellent Customer Service!!!
Reviewed By RMK - Boerne, Texas | Traveled to
When it's time to plan our vacation, I make one call and that's to Steve, The Cruise Butler. He's very knowledgeable and always makes great recommendations. We have used him for many years and Steve has always taken good care of us! We love his attention to detail and his personal customer service! We know that no matter the situation, Steve will be there to help us. Recently, I broke my foot right before our vacation and Steve went above and beyond to make sure that the resort knew about our situation and took care of us. We have recommended Steve to our family and friends and we highly recommend him to anyone planning a vacation. Thank you Steve and Lynette for caring and for the awesome service that you provide!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
35 of 69 people found this review helpful
Cruise Butler Review
Reviewed By Mark - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
Working with Steve and Lanette at the Cruise Bulter has been a wonderful experience. They are both so knowledgeable and ready to help with any concern. I would highly recommend the Cruise Butler for any travel needs, but of course especially for cruises.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 61 people found this review helpful
Steve is absolutely the BEST
Reviewed By Merlin & Pat - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
We have used Steve, the Cruise Butler, for over 15 years. We use him for all our cruises, tours and air travel. Steve is very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. When we present a travel idea.to him he finds us the best trip available and when we approve he makes sure all of the arrangements are completed promptly and accurately. Steve ensures our travel dollars are well spent. We have been extremely pleased with every arrangement Steve has made for us. Steve devotes whatever time is required to ensure our vacation or trip is a complete success. We count Steve as much more than our professional travel advisor - he is a good friend!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
32 of 63 people found this review helpful
Would never use anyone else.
Reviewed By Beatty's - Texas | Traveled to
Steve Rice has been booking cruises for us for 17years. We have never had a problem or issue. He is very knowledgeable and responds usually within minutes. Our 1st trip was a wedding party of 50 and it was our first cruise and perfect. I would never use anyone else. When you have the best you can relax from the first step of the plan.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
40 of 80 people found this review helpful
No Stress Cruise Vacation Planning
Reviewed By Susan - Cibolo, Texas | Traveled to
I just want to say that I have found the secret to non-stress cruise vacation planning - call Steve Rice at the Cruise Butler. He is very informative on all things cruise related and was able to answer all of my questions with thoroughness that I truly appreciate. From cruise lines, to the excursions, to amenities, to choosing the stateroom, to the best place to park your car at your port of departure, Steve listens to you and can help you plan the cruise vacation of your dreams. He treats you as his best customer and explains everything in detail. You will be very happy and there will be nothing left to do but pack your bags if you book with Steve, The Cruise Butler. Bon Voyage!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
28 of 57 people found this review helpful
They take the worry out of planning a vacation
Reviewed By Bill - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
I have booked a number of cruises with Steve & Lanette. They are very knowledgeable and are always ready to answer any questions I may have. I have recommended the Cruise Butler on more than one occasion.
I am planning to book another trip in the near future.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
33 of 69 people found this review helpful
Great Agent! Wonderful Service!
Reviewed By JoeBoy - Boerne, Texas | Traveled to
Steve Rice (AKA The Cruise Butler) has been my vacation/travel agent for over 10 years. Never a problem! Always there when you need him. Highly recommend to anyone. Top flight service. A real keeper.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 67 people found this review helpful
East Mediterranean Cruise
Reviewed By Joe - San Antonio | Traveled to
Very thorough, knowledgeable
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
29 of 63 people found this review helpful
top notch service
Reviewed By Lorenzo - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
best travel agent in the business
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
29 of 64 people found this review helpful
Steve always covers all the bases=HOME RUN
Reviewed By Jeff - Westbrook,Maine | Traveled to
I've had many travel agents over the years and then we met Steve. This will be our last travel agent as Steve is the BEST. He has been a friend over the years as he has booked at least 10+ vacations for us andalways follows up to make sure we had a GREAT VACATION. Thanks Alan(Jeff) Powers
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 68 people found this review helpful
He always makes us feel comfortable in our planning
Reviewed By Peeptootie - Mt. Pleasant, Michigan | Traveled to
We have been clients of Steve Rice for many years. Our first cruise was planned by Steve. We live in Michigan and had no concerns that we would not be happy. We have complete confidence in him and we are always very satisfied with the reservations he makes for us. He knows our likes and dislikes. Steve goes the extra mile to ensure that our plans are exactly what we are expecting. He will even research needs that other travel agents might over look.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 69 people found this review helpful
Steve is absolutely the BEST
Reviewed By Merlin & Pat - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
We have used Steve, the Cruise Butler, for over 15 years. We use him for all our cruises, tours and air travel. Steve is very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. When we present a travel idea.to him he finds us the best trip available and when we approve he makes sure all of the arrangements are completed promptly and accurately. Steve ensures our travel dollars are well spent. We have been extremely pleased with every arrangement Steve has made for us. Steve devotes whatever time is required to ensure our vacation or trip is a complete success. We count Steve as much more than our professional travel advisor - he is a good friend!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
33 of 73 people found this review helpful
Steve
Reviewed By Mary - San Antonio, Tx, | Traveled to
Steve does above and beyond the normal expections of a Travel Agent. We wouldnt use anyone else
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
32 of 71 people found this review helpful
He is a life saver
Reviewed By Klaus - Schertz, Texas | Traveled to
Steve has always been there for me when we needed him. He has helped with flight delays, a 40+ person wedding in Cozumel, and many other family trips. He is very knowledgeable and very responsive with any phone calls or emails.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
28 of 64 people found this review helpful
Knowledgeable and Responsive!
Reviewed By NJW - TX | Traveled to
We have partnered with Steve Rice for 14+years and many cruises, with a sprinkling of land vacations also. His responsiveness is very important to me, and he's on top of his e mails, calls, etc. He also personalizes the info which shows he knows his clients. His knowledge has helped for smooth transfers and knowing what to expect upon arrival. We also enjoy his appreciation of us as clients; it's fun to receive the lovely bottle of wine, etc. in the cabin. Definitely consider Steve as your "go to" person for vacation planning - I've recommended him to several friends.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 71 people found this review helpful
planning the trips were no hassle. He took care of it all.
Reviewed By Carr - San Antonio, Tx | Traveled to
Steve Rice is very efficient and professional in every sense of the word. He goes above and beyond any expectations of a Travel Agent. I wouldn't use anyone else. He takes care of all your needs.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 71 people found this review helpful
Been with Steve for more than 15 years
Reviewed By Wally - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
I really like doing business with Steve. He is extremely responsive to my questions an concerns. If I want to take a trip, all I have to do is contact him and the plans are made. Everything one could want in a travel agent. Wish I could give more than 5 stars.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
30 of 69 people found this review helpful
16 YEARS OF FLAWLESS SERVICE
Reviewed By TheFoodFactoryBuilder - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
Steve has been booking my cruises for 16 years without a single glitch. As a detail oriented person I have lots of questions and Steve has always had the answers and guidance that I needed. His knowledge of the ships, ports, and excursions have always helped me to be prepared to enjoy my trip and know what to expect when I get there. I thought I had become savy enough and I tried booking my own cruises via the internet for a while, but something went wrong each time and the folks on the other end of the 800 line treated me like a number not a client. So I went back to The Cruise Butler. Steve and his wife will always treat you with the courtesy and respect that is sometimes hard to find these days. Anyone can sell you a cruise ticket. It might be the cruise to hell, but the agent got you the ticket and made their commission. Every cruise line and even ships within the line have their own personality. Steve can help to insure that he is matching you to the cruise line and ship that match the cruise vacation that you want to experience. Do not ever let an agent tell you the ships are all pretty much alike - that is far from the truth. I have been on over 25 cruises visiting over 20 countries and I can speak from experience when I tell you Steve knows his stuff. I trust Steve with my family's and friend's arrangements and I would not dream of booking with anyone else - you shouldn't either!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
34 of 78 people found this review helpful
Superb
Reviewed By Tom - La Vernia TX | Traveled to
He made our trip phenomenal!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
31 of 72 people found this review helpful
Planned our trips
Reviewed By Happy traveler - Boerne, Tx | Traveled to
The Cruise Butler has always and continues to take care of my family as well as any other family and friends that I send their way. You leave it up to them and they take care of it all for you. No matter how large or small of a trip I always call on The Cruise Butler. Every detail is taken care of for you. I have been using Steve and Lynette for the past 1O years. You can't go wrong. Thanks Steve and Lynette!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
34 of 79 people found this review helpful
Every detail/option is presented for best trip
Reviewed By TomR - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
I have used Steve Rice for over ten years mostly for cruises and tours. He is always knowledgeable is every aspect and finds answers to off the wall questions I ask. He always gets back with me when I leave a message. I am on his mailing list for every sort of vacation travel imaginable and helps me make decisions. He calls with suggestions as opportunities arise. I have recommended friends and family to him over the years.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
32 of 75 people found this review helpful
Puerto Rican Excursion and Cruise
Reviewed By Charley "D" - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
Steve and Lynette have handled several cruises for our group. Never had any problems as they are well planned and it is also great when they accompany the group on the cruises. Yes I would recommend them for anyone planning to travel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
35 of 81 people found this review helpful
Steve knows everything about cruising
Reviewed By Norman - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
I met Steve through my parents, who booked over a dozen cruises with him. They loved him and I now know why. For the past six years Steve has been my "GoTo" travel agent. Best cabins, best flights, best deals. He handled a cruise for a group of 12 of our friends last year and everyone remarked how knowledgeable and helpful he was. I wouldn't think of taking a trip without consulting him.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
28 of 67 people found this review helpful
Service is AMAZING
Reviewed By Susan D. - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
Steve is incredibly knowledgeable about the different ships and cruise routes. On our cruise we got a priority boarding and reservation line at dinner that we wouldn't have known about on our own. He positioned our room so it wasn't over a dance club ensuring us a quieter room. There are so many perks to having an agent, I cannot mention them all. I would choose the knowledgeable help from Steve over booking online.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 63 people found this review helpful
Cruising with the Cruise Butler
Reviewed By Al R - San Antonio Texas | Traveled to
Since I retired in 2007 we have taken numerous cruises all of which we arranged through Steve Rice at the Cruise Butler. One was a world cruises of 116 days. We have also taken two 70 + day cruises, a 40 day cruise, a 30 day cruise and a several other shorter cruises. Steve has been great in helping us set up the cruises themselves, including all transportation to and from the ships. He has also aided in setting up shore excursions, including several spectacular overland trips off the ships. He also is able to add ship board credits and amenities we would not have gotten on our own. Plus there is always a surprise in our cabin at the beginning of each cruise. He and his wife are also experienced world travelers themselves and a great source of information on cruise possibilities on general.
W have taken both ocean and river cruises with them. Although our favorite cruise line is Regent Seven Seas, we have also arranged cruises through him with Oceania, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and Viking. All were wonderfull experiences from start to finish. We do not take take a cruise without going through Steve and The Cruise Butler
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
29 of 70 people found this review helpful
Steve and Lanette were very helpful for cruise
Reviewed By Pat - San Antonio, Tx | Traveled to
Very helpful
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 64 people found this review helpful
Anticipates your needs and likes.
Reviewed By Pete - Shavano Park, TX | Traveled to
Most knowledgeable and accommodating. Have recommended Steve Rice to new and seasoned travelers and the results are always predictable. The new become repeat customers because he is easy to work with, you are made to feel that you are his only customer. We have been with Steve since our first cruise.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
25 of 62 people found this review helpful
A true professional.
Reviewed By Dr. Steve - Greenwich, CT | Traveled to
Steve Rice at the Cruise Butler made cruising for a rookie as easy as could be! He booked us a PHENOMENAL room, and got our kids rooms nearby. We never could have made it work so perfectly without him. Then, after we were booked, he patiently spent time on the phone with me whenever I had questions about activities, add-on packages, and even on-shore excursions. It really helped that he had so much cruising experience himself. Then, to top it all off, he sent along a gift that was waiting in our stateroom, and finally, followed up after we got back to make sure everything went as well as it could have. Like I said, a true professional!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
28 of 68 people found this review helpful
Always there for you!
Reviewed By Judy - Kerrville, TX | Traveled to
Answers all my questions quickly and efficiently. Makes taking a cruise easy. Makes cruising a pleasure with gifts and help. All my family uses the Cruise Butler and have been entirely satisfied.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
20 of 55 people found this review helpful
confidence from the planning stage through end of trip
Reviewed By mil - San Antonio | Traveled to
Always knowledgeable and caring.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
19 of 53 people found this review helpful
Worry Free Planning and Travel!
Reviewed By K - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
Steve does an excellent job of getting you information in order to make an informed decisions as far as travel plans go. He replies almost instantly to email and is always available via text/phone. I like using a travel agent like Steve because I want to make sure it's done right and if there are any problems I have a "go to" person. This is my third trip with Steve and I have find him to be pleasant, professional, and willing to go the extra mile. I have recommended him to friends just as a friend recommended him to be several years ago. This review applies to Lanette as well!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
22 of 61 people found this review helpful
One of the Best!!
Reviewed By Tex - San Antonio | Traveled to
Steve has worked on several individual travel and group travel (40+ travelers) trips for me and has always provided excellent service and support.. My wife and I have recommended him to many of our friends. He is one of the best!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
20 of 57 people found this review helpful
Fun to plan a trip
Reviewed By wpeters - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
He laid out all the options for our upcoming European river cruise. We haven't made the trip yet but we are expecting all to go smoothly. We selected Steve because friends had used him and recommended him.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
30 of 78 people found this review helpful
Awesome sevice
Reviewed By alyse24 - san Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
We have been using Steve's services the last few years...he is always helpful and gets us the best bang for our buck! He goes well above and beyond to make sure we are satisfied. I always recommend him to friends family.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 71 people found this review helpful
Superb travel agent
Reviewed By Mary Ellen - San Antonio, Texas | Traveled to
We have used Steve Rice for five or six cruises and trips and are always extremely satisfied. When we travel with him we wonder if he ever stops "working" as he is constantly making sure that everyone is happy and having a good time. If he's not on the trip, but only arranged it for us, we know we could call him and he would make sure we were well taken care of. As 70 year old customers of his, we have used other travel agents over the years until a friend recommended him. We have never changed and never will. He is able to recommend trips and excursions for us wherever we go. Steve must be a world traveller because he is up on almost any questions we have. If he doesn't know the answer to a question we have about a trip he checks into it and calls us right back with an answer. We love our trips with the Steve Rice, the Cruise Butler!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 71 people found this review helpful
Knowledgeable and thoughtful...
Reviewed By Karen - San Antonio, TX | Traveled to
We are so happy to have Steve and Lynette help us with our travels, especially with cruises. They mostly have first hand knowledge of their recommendations, having traveled with so many companies and cruise lines. Steve is able to match our likes/dislikes and make recommendations that are to our desires and needs, which vary at times. He has been very helpful when we've had to cancel and reschedule trips due to work changes, as well.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 74 people found this review helpful
European Cruise Planning a Snap!
Reviewed By H - Austin, TX | Traveled to
Steve provided all information necessary to plan an exceptional river cruise with Viking. He was informative, helpful and immediately responsive to any questions. I trusted him implicitly with all facets of this trip, and he delivered a first-class vacation. I will use Steve again for any vacation I take in the future involving cruising. He was great!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
19 of 75 people found this review helpful