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Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

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A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

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Passports for Cruises FAQ

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List of Passports for Cruises FAQ

Passport for Cruise to Bahamas   Question: We are planning on taking our teenage grandson on a cruise this summer, probably to the Bahamas. Does he need a passport? It could possibly .

Passport Requirement for Closed-Loop Cruise   Questions: We are going on a cruise to Bermuda. Actually it is a closed-loop cruise (New York-Bermuda-New York). My husband's .

What is the best way to get a passport for a cruise in 3 weeks?   Question: I don't have a passport. I plan on going on my cruise in less than 4 weeks. What is the best way to get my passport in time and how much...

My daughter needs a passport in about 6 weeks - where or how can she get one?   Question: My daughter needs a passport in about 6 weeks. She works from 8am to 4pm M-F and cannot take time off. How can she accomplish this? She .

Do I need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?   Question: Going on a cruise in two weeks and have never had a passport. I'm aware I can have on expedited using a service but don't want to incur extra .

Does my 6-year-old daughter require a passport to visit Bahamas by cruise?   Question: My daughter was born in the USA. I am a permanent US resident. My daughter is 6 year old. She has a birth certificate. Does she require a .

my family wants to go on a cruise   Question: My husband cannot get a passport because he owes past child support. He has been paying faithfully over 23 years. We really want to go .

Does a minor need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas?   Question: My daughter will be 13 at the time of travel. We will be leaving Florida and going on a 3 day cruise to the Bahamas. We will then be returning .

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Guide to Cruise Passport Policies for U.S. Travelers

• February 20, 2024
• Laura Soper

Embarking on a cruise is an exhilarating experience, a perfect way to combine international travel, daily entertainment, and opportunities for relaxation—without having to worry about the logistics and challenges of air and land travel.

Cruises offer a unique opportunity for travelers to experience multiple destinations all in a single vacation. However, this also means adhering to the diverse entry and exit regulations of each country visited.

For U.S. citizens, there are specific passport and travel document policies tied to both the cruise line and destination that must be adhered to for a smooth vacation. Our guide aims to explain these requirements, preparing you for potential emergencies and ensuring you’re well-equipped for cruise travel.

We’ll also spotlight the most sought-after cruise lines among American travelers , delving into what sets each one apart, their distinctive offerings, and the travel documents you’ll need for a hassle-free voyage.

In this guide, we will explore all these detailed elements of cruise travel to make sure you understand exactly what you need to know for your upcoming vacation on the seas.

Table of Contents

Do you need a passport for a cruise.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a set answer to this question. Whether you need a passport for a cruise can be both yes and no —it largely depends on the specifics of your cruise .

If you’re embarking on a closed-loop cruise, which starts and ends at the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens might not need a passport. However, for cruises that begin or end in foreign ports, a passport is typically required.

The cruise line you’re traveling with may also have its own documentation requirements, which can include a passport book or passport card regardless of the itinerary.

Furthermore, even if your cruise doesn’t require a passport, the international destinations you visit might. Some countries mandate a passport for entry, regardless of how you arrive—land, air, or sea.

So, while a passport may not always be necessary for a cruise, it’s a good idea to carry one for maximum flexibility.

Always check with your cruise line and the countries on your itinerary to understand the specific requirements.

Let’s get into the details of the different types of cruises and the general travel requirements to help you better understand the travel documents you will need for your voyage.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Travel Documentation

The need for a passport during cruise travel is primarily determined by the nature of the cruise— specifically, whether it’s a closed-loop or open-loop cruise.

Closed-Loop Cruises

A closed-loop cruise starts and ends at the same U.S. port. For instance, a week-long cruise around the Western Caribbean & Perfect Day , which begins and ends in Miami, Florida, is a closed-loop cruise. It visits several countries like the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti, and Grand Cayman, but returns to the original U.S. port.

Passport books are typically not required for closed-loop cruises, U.S. citizens can usually exit and enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license); however, every cruise line has a strict set of required travel documents that guests must present and carry during their voyage. For specific travel requirements, it is always best to check with the cruise line.

Open-Loop Cruises

On the other hand, open-loop cruises always require a valid U.S. passport for American travelers. Open-loop cruises start in one U.S. port and conclude in a different U.S. port. An example would be a 16-day Panama Canal cruise that sets sail from Seattle and ends its journey in New Orleans.  Open-loop cruises require guests to present and carry a valid passport book with (typically) at least 6 months of validity remaining after the last date of their cruise.

Popular Cruise Lines and Their Passport Policies

Setting sail on a cruise is an exciting getaway, offering an abundance of memorable experiences and opportunities for serene relaxation against stunning ocean views. As you plan your voyage, a top priority must be to acquaint yourself with the necessary travel documents and passport rules of the leading cruise lines .

Each cruise line has specific guidelines to ensure guests can enjoy a smooth, enjoyable journey and make the most of their travel itineraries.

Below, we outline the passport rules for American citizens and required travel documents for the most popular cruise lines.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line , often hailed as “America’s Cruise Line,” is a leading figure in the world of cruising. Established in 1972, it has since evolved into the most favored cruise line globally. The company boasts a fleet of 26 ships, each offering unforgettable vacation experiences.

Carnival Cruise Lines currently offers 13 cruise destinations for guests to choose from. Each cruise is packed with a wide array of entertainment choices , from stage shows and live music to deck parties and casinos , ensuring fun-filled days and nights. 

Travel Requirements

The cruise type determines the travel document requirements for American travelers:

• Open-loop cruises: These cruises start at one U.S. port and finish at a different one. Guests must present and carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end date of their cruise.
• a boarding pass, and
• a government-issued photo ID if they are 16 years or older (such as a driver’s license)

There are some exceptions to these general rules. Some cruises might include stops at foreign ports that require a valid passport book to leave the ship. Also, if a cruise starts or ends in a foreign country, including Canada, or if it starts and ends at different U.S. ports, a valid passport book is always required .

Please note that if the cruise includes a visit to Colombia or Greenland, a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of travel is required .

• an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) , 
• a government-issued birth certificate, or
• a valid passport book

Passport Requirements and Validity for American Citizens and Children

Carnival Cruise Line strongly advises having a valid passport book while traveling . A passport book is not only the most reliable form of identification but if guests unexpectedly need to fly to or from the U.S. during their cruise, not having a passport book could cause big problems and delays.

• Do you need a passport in a hurry? Expedite your passport in as little as 24-48 hours !

Visa Requirements

Requirements for travel visas depend on your cruise destinations. All guests are responsible for obtaining appropriate visas to cruise. Check with the embassy or consular offices of the destination countries for more information.

• Need a travel visa ? Find out how to get your travel visa— fast!

It’s always a good idea to check with Carnival Cruise Line or your travel agency for the most up-to-date information. For more information on travel requirements for Carnival Cruise Lines, visit the What travel documents do I need to bring? page for a complete explanation.

Royal Caribbean International

Founded in 1968, Royal Caribbean International is a leading cruise line brand and a subsidiary of the Royal Caribbean Group. Based in Miami, it’s the largest cruise line by revenue and the second-largest by passenger count.

The company boasts a fleet of 28 ships, including the world’s five largest cruise vessels. Royal Caribbean Cruises journeys to over 300 destinations in more than 60 countries across 6 continents . They provide a plethora of onboard activities , top-notch dining options , captivating entertainment , and luxurious accommodations that are tailored to both adults and families .

For American travelers, the following travel documents are required:

• Open-loop cruises: These cruises start and end at different U.S. ports, oftentimes these cruises embark or disembark in a foreign country. For these cruises, guests must present and carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months after the day the cruise ends.
• a government-issued birth certificate, and
• a laminated government-issued picture ID (such as a driver’s license)

While U.S. citizens aren’t currently required to have passports on closed-loop cruises, Royal Caribbean International highly recommends travelers carry a valid passport book as it is the most reliable form of identification. Additionally, if an unforeseen situation arises where guests have to take a flight to or from the U.S. during their cruise, not possessing a valid passport book could result in substantial delays and challenges.

• Do you need a passport fast? Expedite your passport in as little as 24-48 hours !

Guests are responsible for figuring out and getting all required travel visas before their cruise starts. Travelers should reach out to the embassy or consular services of each country they’ll visit on their cruise to understand specific visa requirements, details, forms, and fees. 

• Need a travel visa for your cruise? Visit our guide to getting your travel visa expedited .

These requirements may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with Royal Caribbean or your travel agency for the most up-to-date information. For more in-depth information regarding required travel documents for getting on board Royal Caribbean International, see the Getting Onboard with The Right Travel Documents page.

Norwegian Cruise Line

For over half a century, Norwegian Cruise Line has been a trailblazer in the global cruise industry. It operates three brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Together, these brands boast a fleet of 28 ships with nearly 60,000 berths, offering travel itineraries to more than 490 destinations across the globe.

Aboard their ships, guests are treated to a diverse array of dining options , both complementary and specialty. Entertainment includes a variety of live music and comedy to Broadway-style shows .

Accommodations cater to all types of travelers. Their Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises , in particular, are renowned for their luxury .

For American travelers taking cruises aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line, the travel requirements vary depending on the type of cruise:

• Open-Loop Cruises: For these cruises, passport books must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of travel.
• U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable), 
• a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization, and
• a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)

Children under 16: U.S. or Canadian children under 16 are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. Instead of a passport book, they can use:

• a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate, 
• a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or 
• a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S. by land or by sea

Even though passports aren’t currently required for U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line strongly recommends traveling with a valid passport book . This is because a passport book is the most reliable form of identification. Also, if travelers need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise, they may face significant delays and complications without a valid passport book.

• Visit our expert guides to learn how to get a new passport or passport renewal quickly.

Regarding travel visas , each traveler must check with the embassy or consulate offices for travel visa requirements and get the necessary visas. This applies to all countries they plan to visit on their journey, including any countries they might stop at during connecting flights.

• Visit our guide to expediting travel visas and get your passport in time for your cruise.

Please note that these requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information on the Norwegian Cruise Line’s website before your trip.

Princess Cruises

Established in 1965, Princess Cruises , a prominent name in the cruise industry, began its journey with a single ship heading to Mexico. Today, it boasts a fleet of 15 state-of-the-art ships, offering a variety of onboard amenities and top-notch service, serving millions of passengers annually. 

Princess Cruises provides a global experience, covering over 100 countries across all seven continents , including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It offers a wide range of travel itineraries, from a week to over 3 months , visiting more than 380 ports and including over 100 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in their destinations.

For U.S. citizens traveling aboard Princess Cruises, travel requirements vary depending on the type of cruise:

• Open-Loop Cruises: A valid passport book is required for all international itineraries , including Africa, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Europe, India, Central and South America, Panama Canal (partial and full transit), Caribbean (any sailings that visit Martinique or Guadeloupe), South Pacific & Tahiti, and World Cruises. The passport’s required validity is based on the destination; however, it is strongly advised to carry a passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining after the date of return.
• a Permanent Resident Card (ARC/I-55 card), 
• a temporary ARC/I-55 card, and 
• a valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver’s license), or
• a passport book with an “ARC” stamp
• U.S. passport card , 
• U.S.-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) , 
• U.S.-issued Identification Card (issued to minors and non-drivers) 

In all cases, traveling with a valid passport book is highly recommended , as unexpected situations may arise requiring you to leave the ship. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of your travel and contain blank pages for endorsements and visas. Princess Cruises also recommends carrying a second government-issued photo ID while in port.

• Expedite a new passport application or a passport renewal in less than a week !

If needed, U.S. citizens can find travel visa requirements in the ‘Notices’ section of their Travel Summary . Visas can be acquired directly from the embassy or consulate of the countries to be visited. The requirements for visas and other documents can differ based on the destination and may change without any advance notice. Guests should double-check the visa requirements with the consulate 14 to 30 days before the cruise starts .

• Expediting travel visas can ensure you get the travel documents you need in time for your cruise.

Travel requirements are subject to change. It is imperative to check for the most current information by visiting Princess Cruises’ FAQs: Travel Document Requirements page before your trip.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line , a branch of The Walt Disney Company, has been providing unique oceanic journeys since 1996. It boasts a fleet of 6 luxury liners, each offering state-of-the-art amenities , exceptional service , and exclusive Disney activities . The fleet, which includes Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, and the latest addition, Disney Treasure, provides a range of onboard experiences from thrilling water slides and themed dining to Broadway-style shows and children’s clubs making it the most popular cruise line for families and Disney fans alike.

The cruise line operates in over 100 countries across all 7 continents , with voyages ranging from 2 to 15 nights . It is acclaimed for its meticulous attention to detail , playful character interactions , and creative dining experiences.

American citizens traveling aboard Disney Cruise Lines must follow the travel requirements outlined by their specific type of cruise:

• Open-Loop Cruises: For all international itineraries, U.S. citizens must have a valid passport book with at least 6 months of validity remaining after the end of the trip.
• a valid U.S. passport book, 
• a U.S. passport card , or
• a Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST).

U.S. citizens aged 15 and younger can travel with:

• a valid U.S. Passport ,
• U.S. Passport Card , 
• a Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, FAST), or
• a state-issued birth certificate, and
• Domestic Cruises: The same rules as closed-loop cruises apply.

In all cases, Disney Cruise Line recommends guests carry a valid passport book during their voyage. A passport is not just a dependable means of identification, but it’s also crucial in case guests need to unexpectedly travel by air to or from the U.S. during their cruise. The absence of a passport could lead to significant issues and delays. Passport books should be valid for at least 3 months or 6 months after the end of the cruise , depending on the destination countries’ requirements. Disney Cruise Lines also suggests travelers carry a second government-issued photo ID while in port.

• Do you need passports soon? You can expedite your passport and passports for children and be ready for travel in a week or less!

As for travel visas , it is the guest’s responsibility to identify and obtain all the necessary travel visas before embarking on the cruise.

• Our guide to expediting travel visas can ensure your whole family is ready for their Disney cruise.

It’s important to remember that these requirements may vary, so it’s recommended to verify the most recent information on the Disney Cruise Line’s website or consult with the relevant authorities or travel agent before your journey.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line , founded in 1873, operates 11 ships offering over 500 cruises to 470+ ports in 98 countries . Their cruises range from short trips to 128-day voyages , covering all continents . They’re known for their quality service , excellent food , elegant decor, and diverse entertainment . Their ships feature modern amenities like high-tech shows and extensive art collections . Holland America Line is lauded for catering to multi-generational groups making it an ideal cruise line for families .

The travel requirements for American citizens aboard Holland America Line depend on the type of cruise and the destination countries: 

• Open-Loop Cruises: Valid passport books are mandatory for cruises that start in one U.S. port and end in another. Passport books must have at least 6 months of validity remaining after the end date of the cruise.

For Holland America cruises that stop at islands in the French West Indies, a valid passport book is required, regardless of the departure port.

• proof of citizenship (e.g.,  an original or certified copy of a government-issued birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID)
• a valid passport book, or 
• a passport card  
• a standard government-issued photo ID (such as a valid driver’s license)
• Real ID, 
• permanent resident card, or

U.S. citizens under 16 are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. Instead of a passport, children can use an original or certified copy of a U.S. state-issued birth certificate . However, when minors are traveling with only one adult, Holland America requires all passengers to have a valid passport book .

Regardless of cruise type, Holland America strongly advises all guests to carry a passport book that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of their travel date . This is because passengers who need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise will likely face significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the U.S. if they do not have a valid passport.

• Departing soon? Expedite your new passport application or passport renewal today.

Travel visa requirements differ based on the destination. It is the individual guest’s responsibility to confirm travel visa requirements with the destination’s embassy or consulate .

• Our expert guide to expediting travel visas has all the information you need to get your visa in time for your trip.

Please remember that these are general guidelines and specific requirements may change based on the exact cruise itinerary. Always check the most recent information before your trip. For more detailed information, you can visit the Holland America Line’s official website’s Identification Requirements page .

Regardless of your chosen cruise line, the key to a smooth and hassle-free voyage lies in understanding and compliance with the travel document requirements and U.S. passport policies of your chosen cruise line . It’s evident that all cruise lines strongly advise guests to carry a valid passport during their voyage , as passports are the most dependable form of identification. They are also necessary for entry into destination countries and in case you need to fly back to the United States . By being well-prepared and knowledgeable about these specific guidelines, you can ensure a smooth sailing experience on your ocean adventure.

Preparing for Your Cruise: Passport Tips and Best Practices

Taking a cruise abroad is an unforgettable experience and an amazing way to see the world. To help you better prepare for your voyage, here are a few passport tips and best practices to follow when planning your international cruise .

First-Time Passport Applicants

If you’re new to the passport application process, we can help! Our guide on How to Obtain a U.S. Passport offers essential step-by-step instructions on the entire process from filling out the right application form and gathering your supporting documents to choosing the right passport service and finding the best passport application acceptance location that fits your needs. 

Need your new passport in a hurry? We can help with that too! Our instructions on How to Expedite a New Passport Application: A Complete Guide is a comprehensive manual on everything you need to know and do to get your new passport—fast! 

Currently, routine passport processing is about 6 to 8 weeks , expedited processing takes about 2 to 3 weeks and rushed expedited processing is possible within 14 days .

Visit our page, How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport? , for the most up-to-date application processing times.

Don’t miss out on making the most of your cruise’s travel itinerary, get your passport book now and get excited to explore the world!  

U.S. Passport Expiration Requirements for Cruises

When a valid U.S. passport book is required, the validity of the passport book is recommended with either 3 months or 6 months (most common) of validity remaining beyond the last day of the cruise. 

• What does that mean? It means that the expiration date on your passport book must be at least 3 or 6 months past the last day of your cruise. 
• 3-Month Rule – Country Requirements & More
• 6-Month Rule for U.S. Passports

If your passport book does not meet this requirement, you may be denied boarding or entry into certain countries, even if your cruise ship is your primary means of travel. Furthermore, you could be denied entry when returning to the United States if you had to return by air. Therefore, it’s crucial to check your passport’s expiration date well in advance of your cruise departure date.

Travel Requirements for Cruises with Kids

Children are not permitted to travel alone on a cruise. Cruise line policies vary, but generally, children (under 18 years old) must be accompanied by an approved adult (21 years or older) within the same travel group . To verify age requirements and rules for minors, check the age policies of the cruise line you are traveling with.

If you’re an adult traveling with a minor (under 16 years old)—by land, air, or sea—you must be able to prove that you are the parent or legal guardian of the child. Otherwise, you must present and carry a notarized minor travel consent form that has been signed by the minor’s parents or legal guardians . For more information, see our Free Minor Travel Consent Form page. 

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection , some countries require a notarized consent letter for children traveling without both parents or a legal guardian . It’s important to check the specific requirements of the destination country by contacting its embassy or consulate in the U.S.

In some cases, children aboard international cruises are required to have a valid passport book . If your child needs a U.S. passport, follow our complete guide on how to get a passport for a minor in just 3 steps .

Need a child’s passport sooner? Find out how to expedite your child’s passport . 

Taking a Cruise As A Group Getaway

International cruises are a wonderful getaway for families and groups of friends. Many cruises have such a wide array of activities and experiences—not to mention unforgettable destinations—that there’s always something for everyone in your party to enjoy. 

While traveling abroad with a group can create lasting memories, organizing such trips can be challenging—especially when everyone needs passports. The passport process can be complex and time-consuming. In our experience, the easiest and most convenient solution is to hire a passport expediting service .  

Passport expediters are professionals who specialize in speeding up the passport application process . They help group travelers get their passports quickly and efficiently, making them a valuable resource for those traveling on short notice or those who wish to avoid the complexities of the passport process. A reliable passport courier can manage the logistical challenges and multiple appointments required for obtaining numerous passports on a tight schedule. A credible passport expeditor can make planning a group cruise a lot smoother and less stressful.

The Benefits Of Carrying A Passport On A Cruise

Passport book requirements vary on the type of cruise you take; however carrying a passport while cruising, even when it’s not explicitly required, provides several advantages:

• Simplified Travel: A passport book, being a globally accepted travel document, streamlines the process of getting on and off the cruise ship. It’s a straightforward way to prove your identity and citizenship, making the embarkation and disembarkation procedures smoother and faster.
• Quicker Customs Clearance: When it comes to going through customs, having a passport book can speed up the process. Customs officials are familiar with passport books, and having one can expedite your passage through these checkpoints compared to using other, multiple forms of identification.
• Prepared for Emergencies: Unforeseen situations or emergencies can happen. An urgent situation might necessitate disembarking in a foreign country and flying back home. In such scenarios, having a valid passport book is required. Other forms of identification and even a passport card cannot take the place of a valid US passport book. It’s the most reliable form of identification for international travel and is mandatory for international airline travel.
• Greater Flexibility: Some countries mandate a passport for entry, regardless of whether you’re arriving by air or sea. Possessing a passport book offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore all the international stops on your cruise itinerary without worrying about entry requirements.

While some cruises may not mandate a passport, it’s always smart planning to carry one. A valid passport acts as your ticket to a hassle-free and enjoyable cruising experience.

Passport Policies for Cruises – FAQs

Q: Do infants and children need passports for cruises?

A: The requirements for travel documents for minors, including infants, largely depend on the type of travel and the cruise line’s specific age policies and travel document requirements.  

For closed-loop cruises, guests of all ages do not typically need a passport to travel. However, valid passports are required for open-loop cruises and international cruises that stop at ports outside the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Some cruise lines, like Holland America and Princess Cruises, require any minor traveling with only one adult to carry a valid passport. Please check with your specific cruise line to confirm travel documents and age requirements for infants and children.

If you need to obtain a passport for an infant, see our guide: How To Get A Passport For An Infant: A Complete Guide To Baby Passports .

Q: What are the risks of cruising without a passport?

A: Cruising without a passport, while sometimes possible, carries several risks. 

• Traveling without a passport can limit your options ; you may not be able to explore certain ports that require a passport.
• Some countries mandate a passport for disembarkation , even for cruise ship passengers. 
• If you miss your cruise due to unexpected events like flight delays, a passport may be needed to join the ship at the next port, or else you could miss your entire vacation.
• In emergencies that necessitate a return home by air, a passport is required , and without it, you could be stranded abroad.

Therefore, even if a cruise doesn’t require a passport, it’s advisable to have one to avoid these potential issues.

Q: How does the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative affect cruise travelers?

A: The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) impacts cruise travelers, especially those from the U.S. The WHTI requires all travelers to present a valid passport or other approved document that denotes identity and citizenship when entering the U.S. American citizens can use various approved documents like the U.S. Passport, Passport Card , or Enhanced Driver’s License .

For closed-loop cruises (those starting and ending at the same U.S. port), U.S. citizens can enter the U.S. with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. However, a passport may still be needed to enter the countries visited during the cruise.

The WHTI aims to bolster border security while making entry into the U.S. more efficient for U.S. citizens and legitimate international travelers. It’s always advisable to check the specific requirements of your cruise line and the countries you’ll be visiting.

Q: Can I use a passport card instead of a passport book for my cruise?

A: While a passport card can be used for some cruises and in some travel situations, it has limitations:

• Travel Restrictions: Passport cards are valid only for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. They’re not valid for international air travel or entry into many foreign countries.
• Cruise Type: U.S. citizens can use a passport card for closed-loop cruises (those starting and ending at the same U.S. port). But it’s not usable for cruises from international homeports.
• Emergency Situations: In emergencies requiring a flight home from a foreign port, a passport card isn’t enough. A passport book is mandatory to fly internationally.

Always check your cruise line’s specific travel document requirements for more information on whether a passport card is an acceptable form of identification for your specific cruise.

Q: What is the best way to get a passport for a cruise in 3 weeks?

A: To get a passport in 3 weeks, we highly recommend that you expedite the process . 

Traditional expedited service can take up to 3 weeks —not including mailing times. To skip potential postal service delays, you could make an appointment with a local passport application acceptance center ; however, this option may not get you a passport in 3 weeks. 

Rushed expedited service is a better choice when you have a tight schedule. Rushed service can be completed within 14 days —also not including mailing times. Again, to avoid potential delays with the postal service, you could make an appointment at the nearest Regional Passport Agency .

If neither of these two choices fits your short timeline, we recommend using a trusted professional passport expeditor to get your new passport in as few as 24 to 48 hours . A professional expeditor can easily navigate the passport application process on your behalf and make sure that you get your new passport in time for your trip. 

Q: Do I need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?

A: While a passport book or a passport card is generally required for travel beyond Mexico’s border and for sea travel, there are exceptions. U.S. citizens entering Mexico by sea for short visits to port towns may not need a passport but should have one if traveling beyond these towns.

For closed-loop cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port), a passport isn’t required to re-enter the U.S. However, a passport might still be needed depending on the cruise’s other stops and the cruise line’s requirements.

Always check with your specific cruise line for travel document requirements. Find further information on traveling to Mexico by land, air, or sea: Mexico Entry Requirements – Required Travel Documents for Travel to Mexico .

Still have questions? We’re here to help! Contact us for support in preparing for your next voyage!

About the Author: For over 20 years, the U.S. Passport Service Guide team has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers with their travel document questions and shared advice about how to make traveling abroad simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.

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Consider downloading this  Cruise Ship Travel Tips PDF  to take with you while you travel.  

Special Notes for Cuba Travel: 

• Ensure shore excursions and purchases comply with  U.S. regulations . 
• U.S. credit and debit cards do NOT work in  Cuba . Bring enough cash to cover your stay. This includes payment for hotels, restaurants, taxis, souvenir shops, etc. 

Before your cruise: 

• Make sure you review the latest  CDC guidance on cruise ship travel . 
• Read our  Traveler’s Checklist  . 
• Check our  country information pages for the countries you will be visiting to learn about important health and safety precautions to take. Write down the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of an emergency. 
• Always carry your passport book with you in case of an emergency. You may need your passport in the event of an unexpected medical evacuation or if the ship docks at an alternate port. You should bring your passport even if your cruise says you won’t need it. 
• Apply early for your  passport , or make sure your current one will be valid at least six months beyond your travel dates and has two or more blank pages. Your cruise company may also require you to have a passport even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or foreign port of entry does not. 
• Have the right foreign visas for all stops on your cruise, if required, even if you do not plan to disembark in those locations. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . You will get important safety and security info. Follow us @TravelGov on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram for travel and security information. 
• Make sure you have medical and emergency evacuation insurance that will cover your trip. Consider buying supplemental insurance. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. 
• You may also need other insurance for unexpected travel expenses when abroad. Check with your cruise line or travel agency to see if they provide such coverage. You can also check with your health or homeowner’s insurance providers and credit card companies, which sometimes provide this coverage overseas. If not, consider buying supplemental insurance.
• Have a contingency plan for returning home if you must remain in a foreign country longer than expected. Make color copies of your passport photo page, foreign visas, and itinerary. Leave one copy with a trusted family member or friend and carry one separately from your actual documents. Make sure to take a photo of your travel documents with your phone to have electronic copies as well.

Medication and vaccination requirements: 

• Check with your doctor to make sure that traveling abroad to your destinations is  medically safe  for you and whether you need any vaccinations and/or assistive devices on your trip.  
• Check with the foreign country's embassy in the United States. They can tell you whether your medications are legal in each country you visit. Also, find out if there are limits or special instructions for bringing them in. For some medications, you may need a letter from your doctor. Carrying it in the prescription bottle might not be enough “proof.” Remember, you are required to follow the local laws of the countries you visit, including with respect to medications, even if those laws differ from the laws of the United States.
• Ensure you have enough of your  prescription medications  to last beyond your trip dates, in case of possible delays. Some countries may not have equivalents of your prescription and over-the-counter medications. 
• Carry a written copy of all your prescriptions with you in case a country requires it, or you need to replace your medications. 

Ask Your Cruise Line: 

• What their procedures are in case of emergency. 
• How family members can contact you in an emergency, such as cell or satellite phone coverage and/or an e-mail address for emergencies. 
• What types of medical services your ship can provide, such as basic or urgent care, hospitalization, dialysis, etc. 
• Check your cruise line’s prohibited items list when considering what to take with you. 

During Your Cruise: 

• Remain vigilant and exercise normal precautions aboard a cruise ship and on shore, as you would whenever traveling abroad. 
• Limit your alcohol intake.  
• Ensure cabin safety and make sure the door and balcony are properly locked at all times.  
• Consider storing your travel documents and other valuables in a secure spot, such as a safe in your room or the ship’s safe. 
• Talk to the security personnel on board if you are the victim of a crime. The cruise ship should have procedures in place for handling a crime onboard. 
• Follow local laws and customs. If you break the law, you may be arrested and prosecuted.
• If you are the  victim of a crime on shore , report it to local authorities, the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate , and to cruise ship security personnel. 
• If you lose your passport, report it right away to the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate . Make plans to get a new passport as soon as possible.  
• Follow  CDC guidance  after you disembark.

Other Things to Keep in Mind:

Check our travelers page to learn more about specific issues you might face abroad. These include special considerations for older travelers, those with disabilities, women, and LGBTQI+ travelers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

I heard you can use a passport card for a cruise, is that true.

You can use the passport card to reenter the United States at seaports of entry from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. However, if you cannot return on the cruise ship for any reason, you will need a passport book to fly back to the United States. 

Unexpected circumstances that can make it important you have a passport book include:

• Illness or Injury – Depending on how severe your illness or injury is, you may have to be admitted to a local hospital overseas. If you cannot be discharged before the cruise ship is scheduled to depart, the cruise ship may leave without you. In this case, you would need a U.S. passport to fly home upon clearance from your doctor. 
• Damage to cruise ship – Occasionally cruise ships are damaged or have mechanical issues that cannot be fixed during your trip. In these cases, you might need to go ashore in a country which requires a passport and/or you would need a U.S passport book to fly home.

Your cruise company also may require you to have a passport, even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the foreign country’s border agency does not. 

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Find Out if You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise

Last updated: February 28th, 2022

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Figuring out if you need a passport to go on a cruise isn’t quite as straightforward as you might think. The answer largely depends on the destination of your cruise, which port you’re embarking and disembarking from, and which forms of ID you already have.

We always recommend you bring a U.S. passport onboard, regardless of your cruise itinerary. Traveling with a passport will always make your trip easier, especially if you encounter any unforeseen circumstances during your vacation, such as an unexpected stop at an unscheduled international port due to bad weather or a family emergency that would require you  to book a last-minute plane ticket home.

That being said, if you’re a U.S. citizen and want to know if you need a passport to go on your upcoming cruise, we’ve compiled some useful information to help you figure out which specific destinations and cruise itineraries require you to bring a passport and which ones don’t.

Do you need a passport if you fly to an international cruise departure port?

If you’re doing any international air travel to get to your cruise, then you are required to bring a valid U.S. passport book in order to board the plane.

A U.S. passport book is a government-issued document that allows U.S. citizens to travel internationally by air, land, and sea.

A valid U.S. passport book is mandatory even if you’re flying to or from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean from the United States.

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to the Bahamas?

If you are cruising to the Bahamas from the U.S., the following documents are acceptable: passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are traveling to the Bahamas on a closed-loop cruise, which is a cruise that starts and ends at the same U.S. port, you may travel with a state-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and an original U.S. birth certificate.

Children under 16 can also travel to the Bahamas on a cruise with an original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. Children under 19 can use these same documents only if they are traveling with a school, church group, sports team, or other organization with adult supervision.

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Mexico?

If you are planning a cruise to Mexico , make sure you bring one of the following documents: U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are cruising to Mexico on a closed-loop cruise, (a journey that starts and ends at the same U.S. port), you can enter without a passport and show a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate instead.

Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

If you are cruising to the Caribbean , you will need to enter with either your U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you are aboard a Caribbean closed-loop cruise, (a cruise that departs and ends at the same U.S. port), you can travel with a state-issued ID (for example: your driver’s license) and an original birth certificate. You must have both of these documents in order to be able to travel without a passport.

The following Caribbean countries require the above documentation: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks and Caicos.

Read: Best Beaches in Antigua

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to Alaska?

Even though Alaska is part of the United States, most cruise itineraries will require you to travel with a U.S. passport.

If you’re on a cruise to Alaska that begins or ends in Canada, you are required to carry a passport book or passport card. (If you are traveling by plane to get to your departure port in Canada, you must travel with a U.S. passport book.)

If you’re traveling on a closed-loop cruise to Alaska that starts and ends in the same U.S. port, you can travel with a passport card or a state-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and an original birth certificate.

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Hawaii?

Even though Hawaii is a U.S. state, all of our cruise itineraries require you to travel with a U.S. passport book or card.

Our Hawaii cruise itineraries either depart or end in Canada, so U.S. citizens are required to bring a passport book or passport card. (If you are traveling by plane to get to your departure port in Canada or are flying back into the United States, you must travel with a U.S. passport book.)

Do you need a passport for a cruise to Bermuda?

If you are cruising to Bermuda , then you don’t necessarily need a U.S. passport book, but can use any of the following documents instead: U.S. passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST card), or an enhanced driver’s license.

If you take a closed-loop cruise to Bermuda, you can leave your passport at home and travel instead with a state-issued ID and an original birth certificate.

Regardless, we always recommend traveling with a U.S. passport book, in case there are any inconveniences during your trip.

What’s a passport card and should you get one?

If you’re traveling by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, you can bring a U.S. passport card instead of a passport book. However, a passport card does not work for air travel into Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean.

There are some advantages to traveling with a passport card rather than a passport book, mainly cost and portability. Currently, a passport card costs only $65 to issue, while issuing a passport book is $145. For adults, both are valid for 10 years before you need to renew them. For children under 16, both are valid for 5 years.

Another benefit of a passport card is its smaller size. A passport book is 5” x 3.5” when closed and contains several pages, while a passport card can easily fit into a wallet, money belt, or pocket. (Just make sure it’s a secure pocket with a zipper so it doesn’t fall out.)

That being said, we always recommend bringing a valid passport book on your cruise. If you don’t make it back to your cruise ship on time after visiting a port, or if a family emergency requires you to fly back home from one of your cruise destinations, a passport card won’t allow you to travel on a plane. In case there are any unforeseen inconveniences, a passport book will always work as a valid travel document via air, land, and sea.

Do kids need a passport for cruises?

If children under the age of 16 are traveling internationally by air, they will need a valid U.S. passport.

If they are traveling to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by sea on a cruise, they can travel with a U.S. passport, passport card, trusted traveler card, or an original birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship. Children under 19 can use these same documents only if they are traveling with a school, church group, or other organization with adult supervision.

In addition, be sure to review other requirements for children, such as a signed and notarized letter from a missing parent if the child isn’t traveling with both parents, or a written letter of consent if the child is traveling as part of a group without an adult that is 21 or older.

When do you need a passport book to cruise?

You will always need a passport book if you are starting and ending your cruise in different ports. Even if your cruise starts and ends in U.S. cities, you will still be required to have a valid U.S. passport book in order to board.

You will also always need a passport book if you are traveling on a cruise that requires you to take an international flight to get to your departure port, such as those cruises departing from Europe, South America, or Asia. You won’t be able to board an international flight without a passport book.

If you are cruising to a destination not located within Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, you need to bring a U.S. passport book; a passport card will not be allowed as a valid travel document.

Even if you are traveling on a closed-loop cruise (one that starts and ends in the same port) to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, it is always recommended that you bring a passport book in case of an emergency or unforeseen situation that might require air travel. 

Do you always need a passport card or passport booklet to cruise?

We always recommend carrying a passport book or a passport card while vacationing on a cruise. That being said, there are certain types of cruises where you’ll be able to board with other types of documentation if you do not have either a passport book or passport card.

U.S. citizens traveling on closed-loop cruises to either Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, or the Caribbean can travel with the following documentation:

• U.S. passport book or card
• Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, FAST)
• Enhanced Driver’s License
• An original copy of your government-issued birth certificate or naturalization certificate and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license)

Should you bring a passport on closed-loop cruises?

While some cruises don’t require you to travel with a U.S. passport book, we always recommend you bring one on your trip, even on a closed-loop cruise . If you need to fly back to the United States during your cruise, you’ll only be able to board a plane with a passport book.

If you happen to miss the ship’s departure time during an international excursion, it will be much harder to meet your ship in the next port without a passport book on you. (Keep in mind that a shore excursion booked through Celebrity Cruises will always guarantee you’ll make it back to your ship on time.)

Also some ports of call may require a passport to enter even if you don’t need one to board your cruise. It’s always wise to research your itinerary and find out what kind of documentation each country requires of U.S. citizens in order to enter.

What else should you know about cruising with a passport?

Having a passport doesn’t mean your vacation is a go yet. You’ll also want to double check when your passport expires, as many countries require a passport to be valid for six months after the date of your planned departure. If you’re on a cruise, this means making sure your passport is still valid for another six months following the last day of the cruise.

Another thing you’ll want to check is the amount of blank pages in your passport. You should have at least one blank page for each country you’re visiting. If you don’t have enough pages left for stamps, you’ll need to renew your passport before your trip.

One major advantage of traveling on a cruise is that international customs are mostly handled for you. Before boarding, you’ll provide your passport number and other applicable information to the cruise line, which then provides this information to customs authorities in the international ports of call you’ll visit. Once this is arranged, you’ll simply get off the ship and enjoy your destination without having to go through customs each time. However, you should always double check what the passport protocol is for the cruise ports you’re visiting.

It is also your responsibility to obtain any necessary visas you may need during your cruise. Be sure to research the visa requirements for each country you’ll be visiting during your itinerary. You’ll also be in charge of any fees relating to the visa.

Note: For some itineraries, the cruise line may hold onto your passport during the duration of your trip in order to expedite the clearance formalities at each port of call. In those cases, we recommend making color photocopies of your passport to carry with you during visits to international ports.

How do you keep your passport safe on a cruise?

The most popular way to keep your passport safe while on a cruise is to store it inside a money belt or passport necklace. A money belt is a soft pouch with a zipper that can fit your passport, some cash, and a couple of credit cards. The pouch is connected to a belt that sits comfortably around your waist.

A passport necklace is similar, but is worn around your neck and inside your shirt instead. It’s not usually as discreet as a money belt, but is often more convenient and allows for easier access to your travel documents and money.

Traveling with a passport cover is also wise since it helps to keep your passport in pristine condition. Some countries won’t accept a damaged passport in customs.

What if you lose your passport during a cruise?

If you lose your passport while on a cruise, the first thing you need to do is notify the nearest U.S. consulate in order to get a replacement passport issued. Also, contact the guest relations department on your cruise ship so they can provide guidance on how to handle the rest of your cruise before you get your replacement passport.

If you lose your passport on the ship, you should fill out a lost property report with the guest relations department on board.

To help eliminate any chance of losing your passport while on the ship, we recommend keeping it in your stateroom or suite. The in-room safes are easy to use and will keep your passport in a secure place at all times. When you’re on your cruise, there is no need to carry a passport on you since you’ll use your Sea Pass card for all transactions.

Grab That Passport and Book Your Cruise!

Do you have all the right documentation in place for your preferred cruise itinerary? Then you’re all set to book your cruise and start a wonderful vacation. Browse our cruise itineraries or call one of our vacation specialists at 1-800-852-8086 to get started.

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Do you need a passport for a cruise: An essential travel guide

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your very first nautical escapade, one question always comes to mind: Do you need a passport for a cruise? This guide will answer your concerns and help you unravel the passport puzzle.

Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Passport Needed?

Highly recommended

Blank pages needed

Passport validity

Duration of the cruise

Visa tourist needed

Usually not

This depends on various factors , such as your destination or the itinerary of the cruise. Cruises can be of different types: Closed-loop cruises and cruises that drop you to another city or country.

Closed-loop cruises

If your cruise starts and ends at the same U.S. port, it’s a “closed loop” cruise . You may not need a passport. For instance, a cruise that departs from Miami, Florida, to at least one foreign port of call, such as Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, before returning to Miami, Florida, is a closed-loop cruise.

Cruises that drop you to another city or country

You need a valid passport for a cruise that begins in one U.S. port and drops you in another city or country . For instance, a cruise that starts in Miami and ends in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, or another U.S. port is an open-loop or open-jaw cruise. You’ll need a passport for that voyage.

Can you go on a Caribbean cruise without a passport?

Yes, you can go on a Caribbean cruise without a passport, depending on the specific circumstances of the cruise. If it’s a closed-loop cruise, you can travel without a passport . You’ll need a passport if the cruise starts in a U.S. port and ends in any Caribbean destination.

Can I get off the cruise ship in Mexico without a passport?

U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises can get off a cruise ship in Mexico without a passport. You can use other forms of identification , such as a government-issued birth certificate, a government-issued driver’s license, a picture ID, or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL). However, we recommend carrying a valid passport, which may be useful in case of unforeseen situations.

Can you go on a cruise with just an ID?

You can go on a cruise with just an ID if your cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. port , visiting destinations such as Bermuda, Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean. Travelers can provide documents, such as an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or a government-issued birth certificate.

Is a travel visa needed to go on a cruise?

This depends on the destination country or port of call you’re visiting and your citizenship status. Some destinations don’t require a U.S. citizen to have a visa, but require a U.S. lawful permanent resident (LPR) to have one. U.S. citizens will not need a visa for most cruises that start and end in the United States.

What are the cruises that don’t require a passport?

Most closed-loop cruises don’t require a passport for U.S. citizens. Popular journeys that don’t require a passport for U.S. citizens include closed-loop cruises with ports of call along the Caribbean (Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands), Mexico (Cancun and Cozumel), and Canada . You can find other destinations for summer travel .

KAYAK’s travel tips to enjoy a Caribbean Cruise

Set sail on an unforgettable Caribbean adventure with KAYAK’s essential travel tips.

Best month February

Avg Temperature 80 °F

Don’t forget Sunglasses

What to pack in your suitcase?

Having been on several Caribbean cruises, I’ve learned that packing strategically can greatly enhance the experience. I recommend packing:

• necessary travel documents
• lightweight clothing
• a reusable water bottle
• and charging devices.

What are the best places to make a port of call during your Caribbean cruise?

I’ve come to appreciate certain port-of-call destinations that offer a diverse and unforgettable experience . They include Grand Cayman , the Bahamas , Antigua , St. Thomas , and the U.S. Virgin Islands .

What is the food you should absolutely try?

Through my many culinary experiences when cruising, I’d recommend salt fish, jerk chicken, and conch fritters on Caribbean cruises, Ceviche on Mexican cruises, and Poutine on Canadian cruises.

What are the 5 best activities during a cruise?

In order to enjoy your cruise to the fullest, I’d recommend attending live shows, exploring the ship, sampling dishes, relaxing by the pool, and socializing for an entertaining voyage.

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise? While some cruises may allow for alternative forms of identification, carrying a valid passport offers peace of mind. For further information on essential travel documents and tips for a cruise experience, check KAYAK guide on why you may be a cruise person .

The foregoing article was last updated on the 16th of October 2023. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information. Sources: https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-74?language=en_US https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/cruise-ship-passengers.html

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How to Get Your Passport Book Stamped on A Cruise

Alyce Meserve

6 January 2019

P assport stamps help travelers remember their trips. It’s a rite of passage to possess a passport book full of international stamps. It proves that you visited exotic and foreign places.

On a cruise, you may not get a single passport stamp. Most ports do not require cruises visitors to pass through immigration.

If you cherish passport stamps, you’ll have to seek them out. Here’s how to get them.

Why cruise passengers don’t get passport stamps

Cruise passengers rarely pass through immigration when they enter a port.

Cruise lines process hundreds or thousands of visitors through their own security procedures. Port immigration must be quick because time in ports is limited. A ship may be in port for as little as 5 or 6 hours.

When I cruised on Royal Caribbean, I typically set foot in port within 5-10 minutes after leaving my cabin.

I can’t speak for the other lines because it’s been years since I cruise with Carnival and Holland America.

Where to get your passport book stamped

Most ports have a special desk or office for tourists where you get your passport stamped.

Sometimes you can get an official immigration stamp. In other places, you may get a souvenir stamp made just for cruise visitors.

It’s usually free to get a stamp. However, it’s possible there could be a $2-3 fee.

Now you can admire your passport book! Show it off to your friends and watch them envy the date and location of your visit.

How to find the stamp desk

Stop by your ship’s guest services during a slow time. Ask them where to get passport stamps in each of your scheduled ports.

Ask the security officers as you leave the ship.

If you’re already in the port, ask port security or the information desk.

Don’t forget to take your passport off the ship with you when you visit the port.

Some are more difficult to get than others

On my southern Caribbean cruise in 2018, I successfully collected passport stamps in all 5 ports. But it wasn’t without some trouble.

Difficulty: Hard

The first port, Curacao, had an information desk in the port, and they instructed me to walk up the street under the bridge.

They didn’t tell me I had to go through a secure area to get to the official immigration office. For a while I starting to regret embarking on this adventure because the port looked sketchy.

After walking under the high rise bridge as instructed, I found the immigration office. The kind woman stamped my book and sent me on my way.

It was about a 2.25 mile (3.6 km) round trip.

Difficulty: Easy but annoying

Aruba was one of the simplest stamps to get. Just go inside the port building (mostly shopping stalls) and visit the immigration office.

This one frustrated me though, because I went to see the woman in the office she kept saying to come back later. She couldn’t take 20 seconds and stamp my book so I could get on with my day?

First, she was in her office using the PC. Second, she was in a closet gossiping with a young woman. Third, she was back in her office eating and watching videos on her phone. At last, the officer completed my request.

Maybe I annoyed her (I hope so), but I was thrilled with the lovely stamp.

Diffculty: Easy

Fortunately, Bonaire was very easy. I asked at the information desk where to get a stamp and they said “right here!”

She pulled out the souvenir stamp and I was all set. Unfortunately, the stamp lacked a date, so I wrote it in.

Castries did not have an immigration office at or near the port. I took a taxi into town to get something from a grocery store, so the driver took me to the immigration office too.

The government building is in the downtown area with no nearby parking. The office I needed is on the top floor (no elevator).

After I asked 4 people for help, someone finally took me to the correct person. Once I found the right person, it was no problem. (Hint: it’s the second door)

The taxi ride cost $25.

Antigua & Barbuda

Difficulty: Easy

Antigua was relatively easy. I walked into the port early and asked security where to get a stamp. She pointed to the gray building in front of us, but indicated they would not open until noon. Island time, amirite?

I returned around 1 pm, after a swim on the ship and lunch, just as she said, the office was open. At last, the lady stamped my passport, but was a bit rude. Maybe she was still a little tired.

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Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise? What You Need to Know

Posted on Last updated: March 6, 2024

Setting sail on the vast seas, with horizons stretching endlessly, is an exhilarating experience.

But before you embark on this journey, there’s a crucial question to address: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

In this guide, we’ll navigate the intricate waters of cruise passport regulations , helping you sail confidently into your next adventure.

Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise? The Quick Answer

For U.S. citizens, closed-loop cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port might not require a passport, allowing travelers to use a government-issued photo ID and a birth certificate instead.

However, for international cruises, which either start or end in a foreign port or include visits to foreign destinations, a passport is typically necessary.

It’s crucial to verify the specific requirements of both the cruise line and the visited countries, as regulations can differ, and possessing a passport is advised for smoother travel and emergency contingencies.

The Basics of Passports and Cruises

The anticipation of a cruise vacation can often overshadow the more mundane aspects of preparation.

However, just as you’d pack the right outfits or sunblock, ensuring you have the appropriate travel documentation is paramount.

Let’s delve deeper into the fundamentals.

What is a passport and its primary use?

A passport is a government-issued document that certifies a person’s identity and nationality. It’s an essential tool for international travel, allowing you to enter and leave countries.

Within its pages, border control stamps or visas showcase your travel history.

A passport doesn’t merely grant access; it serves as a universally recognized piece of ID, providing personal details like your photograph, date of birth, and nationality.

Different types of cruises: closed-loop vs. open-loop

Understanding the difference between closed-loop and open-loop cruises can clear up the confusion regarding passport requirements:

• Closed-Loop Cruises: These begin and end at the same U.S. port. Imagine setting sail from Miami, stopping by several Caribbean islands, and then returning to Miami. For such cruises, U.S. citizens might find that their passport requirements are more lenient. But, as we’ll discuss in the upcoming sections, having a passport is still a good idea.
• Open-Loop Cruises: These cruises might start from one port and end at another. Suppose you start your voyage in San Francisco but conclude it in Vancouver, Canada. For these types of cruises, a passport for U.S. citizens is typically mandatory, given that you’re disembarking permanently in a foreign country.

To answer our main question, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?”, one must first identify the type of cruise and the specific passport regulations associated with the countries involved.

While the basics provide clarity, it’s the details that will guide your exact documentation needs.

Closed-Loop Cruises: The Specifics

Closed-loop cruises are a favorite among many travelers, often because of their convenience and straightforward itineraries. But, when it comes to documentation, there’s a bit to unpack. Here’s what you need to know.

Definition and details of closed-loop cruises

Closed-loop cruises are voyages that begin and end at the same port within a single country. For many, this might be embarking and disembarking in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or another popular port within the U.S .

The journey might encompass several international destinations, but you’ll return to your starting point.

Do you need a passport for a cruise that’s closed-loop?

The straightforward answer for U.S. citizens cruising from a U.S. port is: not always.

U.S. Specifics

According to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises can travel with just a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) and an original or copy of their birth certificate (with a raised seal). This combination allows re-entry into the U.S. after the cruise concludes.

However, this doesn’t account for the individual countries you might visit during your cruise. Some destinations may require a passport for entry, regardless of the closed-loop nature of your cruise.

Other Countries’ Regulations

For travelers from other countries or for cruises that originate outside the U.S., passport requirements can vary. It’s essential to check with the cruise line and the specific countries’ consulate or embassy to get accurate information.

While closed-loop cruises might seem more lenient with passport rules, travelers should be aware of the risks. Using only a birth certificate and photo ID might limit your ability to fly out of a foreign country if an emergency arises. In such cases, having a passport becomes indispensable.

So, in answering our recurring query, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?”, if it’s a closed-loop from the U.S., not necessarily. But it’s always a good practice to carry one, as it offers greater flexibility and security on your journey.

Open-Loop Cruises: The Specifics

Open-loop cruises, with their varied starting and ending points, offer a unique exploration experience to many cruise ports . They’re a chance to begin your adventure in one country and conclude it in another, perhaps even on a different continent.

However, with this variety comes a different set of documentation requirements.

Definition and details of open-loop cruises

Open-loop cruises are voyages that start from one port and conclude in another, different port. This could mean setting sail from Los Angeles , California, and finishing your cruise in Tokyo, Japan , or beginning in Barcelona, Spain , and disembarking in Rome, Italy.

These cruises not only provide a richer travel experience but also necessitate careful attention to entry and exit requirements for multiple countries.

Do you need a passport for a cruise of this type?

Almost always, yes. Here’s why:

• Entering a New Country: Unlike closed-loop cruises, where you return to your point of origin, open-loop cruises require you to enter a new country at the end of your journey. Most countries mandate a passport for entry, especially if you’re arriving by sea.
• Transiting Through Different Nations: Your cruise might have several stops across various countries before reaching the final port. Each of these nations can have distinct entry requirements. In most cases, a passport is the universally accepted document.
• Emergencies and Plan Changes: If for any reason you need to leave the cruise early and fly back home or to another destination, having a passport is non-negotiable. Airlines require passengers to have a valid passport for international flights.
• Re-Entry Into Your Home Country: For U.S. citizens, re-entering the U.S. after an international journey typically requires a valid passport, especially if flying. For citizens of other countries, a passport is a standard re-entry requirement.

It’s also crucial to check visa requirements. Some countries might not just ask for a passport but might have specific visa regulations for visitors, even if the stay is brief. It’s always a good idea to consult with your cruise line and the embassies or consulates of the countries on your itinerary.

In conclusion, for open-loop cruises, the answer to “Do you need a passport for a cruise?” is a resounding yes. It’s not just about adhering to rules but ensuring that your journey remains uninterrupted and hassle-free.

The Benefits of Having a Passport on a Cruise

Even when it’s not a strict requirement, carrying a passport on a cruise offers numerous advantages. A passport is not just a document; it’s a key to many doors when you’re traveling, making your journey smoother, more flexible, and safer.

Let’s explore the myriad benefits of having this golden ticket onboard.

Emergencies and Unexpected Stops

Life is unpredictable. From personal medical emergencies to unexpected ship detours due to weather or technical issues, unforeseen circumstances can arise.

In such situations, if you need to fly back home or to another country, a passport is indispensable. It ensures that you can deal with emergencies without added stress.

Exploring Port Cities In-depth

While your cruise ship might have arranged for land excursions that don’t demand a passport, maybe you’re someone who cherishes spontaneity. Fancy a last-minute guided tour? Or perhaps an overnight stay to delve deeper into a port city?

With a passport in hand, you have the liberty to make impromptu plans and enjoy unscheduled adventures.

Re-Entry into Your Home Country

When your cruise concludes, re-entering your home country, especially if flying, is usually more straightforward with a passport. While alternatives might be acceptable, having a passport can expedite processes and reduce questioning at border controls.

Peace of Mind

There’s an intangible yet invaluable benefit to carrying a passport – peace of mind. Knowing that you’re equipped to handle changes, whether they’re fun new plans or unexpected challenges, makes the journey more enjoyable.

You’re free to immerse yourself in the experience, without nagging concerns.

Increased Travel Options Post-Cruise

What if you decide to extend your vacation? Having a passport means you can hop on a flight to a neighboring country or take another mode of international transport without heading home immediately.

Universal Recognition

While some countries may accept other forms of ID for entry or specific activities, a passport is universally recognized. It’s your global ID, reducing the need to carry or present multiple documents.

It’s a Travel Diary

Every stamp in your passport tells a story. Over time, it becomes a cherished memoir of your adventures, filled with memories of the places you’ve visited and the experiences you’ve gathered.

In answering the central question, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?” – the technicalities might vary. But when considering the benefits, it’s evident that possessing one amplifies the cruise experience. It offers freedom, security, and a tangible connection to the world beyond the ship’s deck.

Alternative Documents: Can They Replace a Passport?

In the realm of travel, few documents are as universally accepted as a passport. However, under certain circumstances, especially with specific cruise types, alternative documents may be permissible.

Let’s dive into these alternatives and explore their potential and limitations.

Birth Certificates

For closed-loop cruises originating and terminating in the U.S., citizens can often use a government-issued birth certificate combined with a photo ID.

• Benefits: It’s an accessible document for many, and when combined with a photo ID, it’s often acceptable for re-entry into the U.S. post-cruise.
• Limitations: A birth certificate lacks photo identification and is not universally recognized outside the U.S. If an emergency arises and you need to fly out of a foreign country, a birth certificate won’t suffice.

State-Issued IDs

These can include driver’s licenses or other official photo identification cards issued by a state or territory.

• Benefits: In conjunction with a birth certificate, they can help establish identity and citizenship for closed-loop cruises.
• Limitations: Alone, they do not prove citizenship and are not valid for international air travel. Also, not all countries visited during a cruise will recognize a state ID as valid identification.

U.S. Passport Cards

A more compact alternative to the traditional passport book, designed primarily for land and sea travel within North America.

• Benefits: It’s wallet-sized, making it more convenient to carry. It’s valid for entering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry.
• Limitations: It’s not valid for international air travel. If you need to fly out of a foreign country during your cruise, the passport card won’t be accepted.

Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)

Issued by some U.S. states, EDLs are designed for U.S. citizens to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries.

• Benefits: Functions as a driver’s license and proof of citizenship. It has a vicinity Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, aiding in quicker border inspections.
• Limitations: Valid only for specific countries and not for international air travel. Availability is limited to participating states.

Trusted Traveler Programs

Cards such as the Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI can expedite the customs process.

• Benefits: Speedier processing through customs and border protection.
• Limitations: They don’t replace the need for a passport or visa during international travel.

In answering our focal question, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?”, while alternative documents can sometimes be used in place of a passport, especially for closed-loop cruises, their scope is limited.

They often lack the comprehensive acceptability and versatility of a traditional passport. Before relying on these alternatives, ensure thorough research and verification with your cruise line and the countries you intend to visit.

Understanding alternative documents underscores the significance of planning and the importance of ensuring you’re equipped with the most suitable documents for your journey’s specifics.

The Risks of Cruising Without a Passport

Choosing to embark on a cruise without a passport, even if it’s technically allowed, introduces several potential complications. Beyond the logistics of entry and exit points, there’s the broader aspect of ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free voyage.

Here, we unravel the risks associated with cruising sans passport.

Denied Entry at Foreign Ports

While your cruise might assure you of no need for a passport, individual countries can have distinct entry requirements. You could face denial of entry, which would limit your ability to explore or even disembark at certain ports.

Emergencies and Unplanned Disembarkations

Should an emergency arise—personal, health-related, or pertaining to the cruise ship itself—you might need to disembark and fly home or to another destination. Without a passport, international air travel becomes impossible, potentially leaving you stranded.

Changes in Itinerary

Cruise lines reserve the right to modify itineraries. A change might include stops in countries with strict passport requirements. Without one, you’ll be confined to the ship, missing out on explorations.

Loss of Freedom and Flexibility

A spontaneous decision to stay longer in a port city or take an unplanned excursion might demand a passport. Lacking one reduces your freedom to make impromptu choices.

Potential Additional Costs

If you’re stuck in a foreign country without a passport, the process to obtain emergency travel documents or navigate complex situations can be time-consuming and costly.

Legal Complications

In rare cases, if legal issues arise in a foreign country, not having a valid passport could complicate matters, making resolutions more challenging.

Stress and Anxiety

Travel is meant to be enjoyable. Constantly worrying about whether you’ll be allowed to disembark or if you’ll face challenges re-entering your home country can dampen the experience. The peace of mind a passport offers is invaluable.

Delays Upon Return

Even if you embarked on a closed-loop cruise and are returning to the U.S., re-entry might involve more extended questioning or verification processes without a passport. This can lead to delays and longer waiting times.

In pondering the question, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?”, considering these risks offers a broader perspective. While there may be scenarios where cruising without a passport is possible, the potential challenges and uncertainties make having one highly advisable.

The essence of travel is exploration and relaxation. Being adequately prepared, especially with essential documents like passports, ensures that the journey remains pleasurable, without unforeseen hitches clouding the experience.

How to Get a Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide

Obtaining a passport might seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process when broken down step-by-step.

For those asking, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?” and have decided to get one, here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a seamless application process for U.S. citizens.

1. Gather Necessary Documentation

• Proof of U.S. citizenship : This could be an original birth certificate, a previously issued passport, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship.
• Proof of identity : Valid driver’s license, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID.

2. Get a Passport Photo

• Your passport application requires a 2×2 inch color photo taken within the last six months. Many drugstores, post offices, and photography studios offer this service. Ensure your photo meets the specific U.S. Department of State requirements.

3. Fill Out Form DS-11

• This is the “ Application for a U.S. Passport ” It’s crucial to fill it out accurately but do not sign it until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.
• You can find this form online on the U.S. Department of State’s website or at U.S. Department of State agencies.

4. Calculate the Fee

• Passport fees vary based on age and the type of passport (book, card, or both). Check the U.S. Department of State’s website for the most up-to-date fee information.

5. Submit the Application in Person

• First-time applicants must submit their forms in person. You can do this at passport acceptance facilities, which include many post offices, public libraries, and other government offices.
• Don’t forget to bring your filled DS-11 form, your passport photo, proof of citizenship, and photo ID.
• You will be asked to sign the DS-11 form in front of an acceptance agent.

6. Pay the Application Fee

• As of the last update, you can pay via personal checks, money orders, and some other methods. Some facilities may accept cash or credit cards, but it’s advisable to check in advance.

7. Wait for Processing

• Standard processing times can range from 4-6 weeks, though expedited options are available for an additional fee.

8. Receive Your Passport

• Your new passport (and any original documents you submitted) will be mailed to you. Make sure to verify all the details in your passport for accuracy upon receipt.

9. Sign and Store Safely

• Once you receive your passport, sign it with a pen in the designated area. Store it in a safe place, ideally a fireproof safe or safety deposit box, until your travels.

By following this guide, the process of obtaining a passport becomes more manageable and less intimidating. Having this crucial document not only answers the query, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?” but also opens doors to countless global adventures.

A passport is more than just a travel document; it’s your key to the world. Whether you’re planning a cruise or dreaming of future journeys, having a passport in hand ensures you’re ready for any adventure that calls.

The journey of understanding the intricacies of the question, “Do you need a passport for a cruise?” has navigated through various perspectives, from the nuances of cruise types to the undeniable benefits of possessing a passport.

While there may be instances where alternative documents could suffice, a passport remains the gold standard in ensuring a seamless, flexible, and enjoyable cruising experience.

As the world beckons and the waves invite, having your passport ready is not just about fulfilling a requirement; it’s about embracing boundless opportunities with open arms and a spirit ready for adventure.

Embark on your fun cruise with the world in your pocket and the horizon ahead. Safe travels!

FAQs on Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Navigating the waters of cruise travel can be tricky, especially when it comes to documentation. Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the topic and provide quick answers for those prepping for their next voyage.

1. If my cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. port, do I need a passport?

• Not necessarily. This is known as a closed-loop cruise. While a passport is recommended for the reasons discussed, U.S. citizens can often use a government-issued birth certificate and a photo ID.

2. What if my child is cruising with me? Do they need a passport?

• Children under the age of 16 traveling on a closed-loop cruise can use their birth certificate as proof of citizenship. However, for most international air travel, a passport is required regardless of age.

3. How long before my cruise should I apply for a passport?

• Ideally, apply at least 10-12 weeks before your cruise to allow for processing and potential delays. If you’re in a rush, expedited services are available for an additional fee.

4. Is a passport card the same as a passport book? Can I use it for my cruise?

• A passport card is valid for land and sea travel within North America (Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda). However, it’s not valid for international air travel. Depending on your cruise itinerary, a passport card might suffice, but a passport book offers broader utility.

5. My passport is expiring soon. Can I still use it for my cruise?

• Many countries require your passport to have at least six months of validity beyond your date of entry. It’s advisable to renew your passport if it’s close to expiration.

6. What if I lose my passport while on the cruise?

• Report the loss immediately to the ship’s security and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can assist in obtaining emergency travel documents.

7. Can I use my enhanced driver’s license (EDL) for the cruise?

• EDLs are designed for U.S. citizens to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. Depending on your cruise’s itinerary, an EDL might be acceptable. Still, always check with your cruise line and the countries you’ll be visiting.

8. Do all countries have the same passport requirements for cruises?

• No. Each country has its own entry and exit requirements. While your cruise line will provide general guidance, always check with the specific country’s consulate or embassy for the most accurate information.

9. What if I’m on a back-to-back cruise? Do the same passport rules apply?

• Yes. Even if you’re sailing consecutively, the requirements remain consistent with the nature of the cruise (closed-loop or open-loop) and the countries visited.

10. If I’m a U.S. permanent resident but not a citizen, do I need a passport for a cruise?

• Yes. U.S. permanent residents (green card holders) should always travel with their passport from their country of citizenship, along with their U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).

11. Can I board the cruise without a passport and then show it upon re-entry into the U.S.?

• It’s risky. While U.S. re-entry might be your concern, the cruise line often requires verification of travel documents before boarding. Not having the appropriate documents can result in denied boarding.

12. If I have a visa for a specific country, does that replace the need for a passport?

• No. A visa is an endorsement or stamp placed within a passport. You still need the passport to hold the visa. Always carry both for countries that require a visa.

13. How long does it typically take to receive my passport after applying?

• Standard processing times can range from 4-6 weeks, but during peak times or unforeseen circumstances, it might take longer. If you need your passport sooner, expedited services are available.

14. What should I do if there’s a mistake in my new passport?

• If there’s an error in your passport issued by the U.S. Department of State, contact the National Passport Information Center or return to the place where you applied to report and correct the mistake.

15. Can I use a digital version of my passport during the cruise?

• While digital passport apps and backups are gaining traction for backup and record-keeping, the physical passport remains the primary document for travel. Always carry your original passport.

16. If I’ve recently changed my name, do I need a new passport?

• If you’ve legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, you should update your passport before traveling to avoid discrepancies and potential complications.

17. Do I need separate passports if I hold dual citizenship?

• Yes. If you hold citizenship in two countries, you should have a passport from each country. Remember to enter and exit a country on the passport of that respective country.

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On most shore excursions, you can leave your passport on the ship and bring a photocopy (paper or digital) with you.

6 tips to keep your passport safe when taking a cruise

How to safeguard your most valuable document while traveling abroad.

Danielle Fear

Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.

CruiseClout score: 95.0

Your passport — your ticket into magical foreign lands and your proof of identification. The freedom that comes with owning a passport is incredible, but lose it while exploring one of those magical foreign lands and you could find yourself in a situation that is not only incredibly inconvenient, but one that could end up costing you a small fortune.

In the video below, globe-hopping Sonia of Sonia's Travels has some quick tips on how you can protect your passport when traveling abroad.

I've been keeping my own little list of advice on how to ensure your passport is kept safe at all times when traveling abroad on a cruise. I'd love to hear your tips too! 

Here are my big 6 tips for safeguarding your passport while traveling:

Never put your passport or any other important items like credit cards in the back pocket of your pants or shorts. This is the first place a pickpocket will look and if they find it, you probably won’t know anything about it until several hours later.

 Don’t keep your passport stored in an outer pocket on your bag or backpack. If you do keep it in your bag ensure it is in a hidden, inside compartment and make sure main zip on your bag is closed. An open bag is an open invitation and it defeats the point of hiding your valuables in the first place.

If you don’t need to take your passport ashore, then don’t! Leave it locked securely in your safe within your stateroom. There is no point risking loss or theft.

Where possible, hide your passport on your immediate person. In some countries passports are hot property and are worth a small fortune on the black market. Usually these are also the countries in which you will face the biggest problems should your passport be lost or stolen. My advice: Hide it on your body. You can buy discreet travel underwear, the ideal option for hiding important documents, or you could just hide it in a hidden money belt under your clothes. So long as it's on your body and out of sight.

Most of the time you will not need to show your passport when going ashore, however, it is still sensible to take some form of identification with you and I suggest bringing a photocopy of your original passport. You may be stopped by a police officer or need to show proof of I.D. when boarding a train, and a photocopy of your passport will work perfectly. If you'd prefer, you could always memorize your passport number and expiration date as these too should be accepted if accompanied by a photo I.D. card. Another option is to photograph your passport I.D. page with your phone or digital camera and then email it to yourself. This way you don’t need to carry extra documents and the image will always be easily accessible.

If you venture ashore independently and use a local bus or train service then be sure to remove all documents and cash from your bag if you plan on using the luggage compartments. Never EVER leave your passport unattended!

Safeguarding your most valuable document

The above tips should help keep your passport and other belongings safe when ashore, but please always remember — if you don’t need it then leave it on board!

Should something go wrong and you find yourself without your passport, then you must contact the local police immediately followed by your cruise ship. It is vitally important to contact the local police as you will need the crime reference details to pass on to your embassy. Once you have these details, contact the local embassy or consulate and complete any paperwork promptly. Your passport will then be cancelled and provisions made to issue you with an emergency passport to get you back home — hopefully before your ship sails!

How about you?  Have you ever lost your passport abroad? What tips do you have for keeping your passport safe? 

Updated from an earlier post. See anything wrong? What did we overlook? Be a co-creator!

Danielle Fear Travel writer and social media professional based in Newcastle, UK. I've been cruising since since 2007. Follow me on Twitter at @CruiseMiss.

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Do I need a passport to cruise?

Everyone will need to present an accepted form of identification to board the ship. We strongly recommend that all guests present a passport as their form of ID on boarding day, and for some guests a passport is required.

The passport must be valid for six months after the day your cruise ends. The name on your passport should match the name on your reservation. What if my name doesn’t match?

While some other forms of ID may be accepted for your cruise, a passport is the very best option and here’s why:

• A passport is the hassle-free, gold standard for traveling between countries.
• Boarding and disembarking through customs with a passport is usually faster than other types of ID documents.
• If you have an issue while exploring a foreign port (such as missing the ship), it’s best to have a passport with you.

Guests who do not bring required documents may be denied boarding.

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

Editor's Note

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

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Home » Cruise Tips » What Should I Do With My Passport on a Cruise?

What Should I Do With My Passport on a Cruise?

Is it best to bring your passport with you when going ashore in a port of call? We discuss what you should do with your passport on a cruise.

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Among the cruise community, there’s long been a debate about whether it’s best to bring your passport with you when you get off the ship in a port of call. If you leave it on board and are in a foreign port, you are technically heading into a different country without the document needed if you want to travel back home but miss the ship for some reason. But if you bring it, you run the risk of losing your passport or having it stolen. This dilemma is the reason there are people on both sides of the coin in this discussion.

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Should I bring my passport into port with me?

Since there are pros and cons to bringing your passport into port, what’s the best answer to this question? Most of the time, the answer is no.

There may be certain ports or instances where it’s best (or required) to bring your passport ashore with you, but most of the time you can leave it in your cabin on the ship.

This question was posed recently to Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador John Heald. He replied saying that you “should not take your original passport with you when you go ashore.”

What happens if you can’t make it back to the ship in time or have a medical emergency in port? For at least some cruise lines — including Carnival — there’s a policy in place.

Heald’s post continued: “Your passport would be collected from the guest cabin (including retrieving it from the safe) and by our housekeeping officers, a Guest Services officer and someone from our security team. We would then return the passport to the ship’s agent. We have one in every single Port who takes care of the ship’s needs during the time there. The agent would return the original passport to you.”

While this is Carnival’s policy, don’t assume this is the policy of every cruise line. We have heard of other instances where someone is left in port and had to get a new passport at the U.S. Embassy in that country to get back home. However, for the lines that do this, it’s certainly a policy that provides additional peace of mind about leaving your passport on the ship and not worrying about something happening to it during a day ashore.

If you still feel the urge to bring your passport with you, consider buying a hidden money belt, undergarments with secret pockets, or some other accessory that goes under your main clothes to conceal it. If that’s not a good option, put it in the interior-most pocket of your purse or backpack.

What identification should I bring into port?

Since you need identification of some form to get back on the ship during a port day (in addition to your cruise card), you may be wondering what’s best to use since we don’t recommend using your passport.

For most guests, we recommend using your driver’s license or an equivalent government-issued ID card. Some cruisers have both a passport book and passport card. And they suggest leaving your passport book on the ship but bringing the passport card ashore.

It’s also a good idea to store a photo of your passport on your phone and/or have a photocopy of your passport to take ashore with you for emergencies. Additionally, this could possibly work as ID to get back onto the ship in a pinch (but don’t rely on it).

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Do I really even need a passport for a cruise?

While we won’t go into great detail here, it is true that not all cruises require a passport . For U.S. citizens, a passport is not essential for a cruise that begins and ends in the same U.S. port. On these closed loop cruises, a birth certificate and a government issued ID are the only forms of documentation you will need in addition to a valid boarding pass. 

If you are looking to cruise without a passport, there are  quite a few cruise destinations  that don’t require one.

However, we still always recommend that cruisers travel with one. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, it will make it easier to return home to the United States.

Should I leave my other valuables on board?

Discussing passport safety, it’s also worth talking about how to handle other valuables while on a ship and in port.

It’s one thing to leave your clothes and toiletries out in plain sight in your cabin, but another thing entirely when it comes to your wallet, electronics, fine jewelry, and other valuables. For things like your wallet, expensive jewelry, watches, and yes — your passport — we recommend leaving it in your safe most of the time unless you actively need it or are using it.

Consider leaving smaller electronics such as mini tablets or headphones in the safe during the day too. You’ll want to tuck away larger things like laptops and designer purses while you’re out of your cabin for the day, perhaps in your suitcase under the bed, the closet, or a drawer.

We aren’t making these recommendations to suggest that stateroom attendants and any other cruise ship crew members who may have access to your cabin are not trustworthy. In our experience, we have wonderful stateroom attendants who we haven’t had any reason not to trust. However, our overall trust shouldn’t negate precautionary measures entirely.

You don’t really know anything about the people working hard to make your cruise happen — and 99 times out of 100 they’re wonderful, trustworthy people. With that said, there are still people with ulterior motives out there. It’s better to be safe rather than sorry.

What valuables should I leave at home?

On the topic of traveling with valuables, it’s a good idea to evaluate which items you should take along with you on the trip. Some people choose to leave their pricier sunglasses, watches, and even their real engagement or wedding rings at home. Instead, they opt to bring less expensive, less meaningful versions. This way if you lose items or they’re stolen, it won’t be as big of a deal.

Also, when traveling with valuables including important paperwork relevant to where you’re staying/what you’re doing on your trip, make sure to keep those items with you at all times. For example, on embarkation day , keep your boarding passes, trip insurance paperwork, passport, wallet, and electronics in your hand luggage. Don’t pack those things in your suitcases that you will hand off to the porters at the terminal.

The same goes for flying. Keep those things in the luggage that will stay with you, not the ones that you’re checking at the airport. The more you can keep your valuables close, the smaller chance of them being lost, stolen, or broken somewhere en route to your destination.

Do you agree with John Heald’s response? What do you do with your passport on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share whether you take it with you or leave it on the ship.

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Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Four Reasons You SHOULD Cruise With A Passport Even If It’s Not Required

by Prof. Cruise · March 15, 2024

Introduction: Is A Passport Required To Cruise?

One of the most common questions I receive from Americans is:

Am I required to have a passport to cruise?

In most cases, the answer is no. Why? Because the vast majority of cruises sailing from United States ports are closed loop cruises, meaning they depart from and return to the same U.S. port. United States citizens sailing on closed loop cruises, even if visiting foreign ports (which they all have to do by law), can usually sail with both a valid form of U.S. government I.D. (if under 16, this isn’t required) and a certified birth certificate (or certificate of U.S. naturalization) in lieu of a passport.

*Cruisers should ALWAYS double, triple, quadruple check the document requirements of their specific cruise line and itinerary!*

However, even if you can cruise without a passport, should you ? While ultimately the decision is yours and you have to consider your unique circumstances and the level of risk you’re comfortable with, here are four reasons you should consider cruising with a passport, even if one isn’t required:

Four Reasons To Cruise With A Passport

1. you can’t fly home from a foreign country without one.

While nobody on a closed loop cruise from an American port expects to need to fly home from a foreign port, it does happen, probably more than you would expect. Here are four scenarios that would necessitate you fly home from a foreign port:

• You become seriously ill on your cruise and must receive medical treatment at a hospital on land in a foreign country.
• You’re injured on the ship, on an excursion, or in an (auto, boat, plane, helicopter, ATV, etc) accident at port and must receive medical treatment at a hospital in a foreign country. I listed this one separately because often young, healthy people don’t expect to need medical treatment on a cruise. However, accidents and injuries happen, some serious, that might land you in a foreign hospital for treatment because they are beyond the capabilities of a ship medical center.
• You miss the ship at your last port of call. I’ve cruised well over 50 times and on nearly every cruise I’ve either observed “pier runners” (late passengers running up the pier trying to catch the ship before it sails away without them) or heard a cruise director announcement near sail away time asking that so and so passengers kindly contact guest services (this means those passengers have not been scanned back on the ship yet and they are double checking to see if there is an error with the ship’s scanning machines or records or if those passengers really aren’t back onboard). Many factors can lead to missing the ship that are totally out of your control. Unexpected traffic delaying the return of your excursion or tour, an accident or mechanical breakdown, a stopped watch (oops!), you drank too much and passed out on the beach in a puddle of your own urine and vomit (okay, that one’s on you and we really don’t want you back onboard anyway). The point is, it happens. And it’s not always within the cruiser’s control.
• A close family member or friend back home suffers a medical emergency or dies suddenly. This is one most people don’t think about (or want to think about), but it does happen. Let’s say you’re on day 2 of a 7 day cruise and you receive a frantic and/or devastated message from a loved one back home that someone close to you is critically ill or injured or has passed away. You can’t or don’t want to wait another five days to get to them. Having a passport could be a matter of being able to say goodbye to a dying loved one or not. Or being there to grieve and make arraignments for a loved one who has already passed.

So, what happens if I get stuck in a foreign port on my cruise without a passport? In that situation you would need to contact the United States embassy. They would assist you in securing a passport, allowing your return to the United States. However, you may be waiting a long time and responsible for accommodations and additional expenses while you wait. Yes, getting a passport is an expense (especially for a large family) and a hassle, but by comparison it’s nothing!

*A note on Canada. While you can cross the Canadian/United States border with a passport card or enhanced driver’s license via car, bus, or train, United States citizens cannot fly into or out of Canada without a passport book . I mention this because of an unfortunate situation I witnessed on a one-way cruise itinerary my family did from Honolulu to Vancouver. A couple on our cruise had passport cards, but no passport books. They’d booked non-refundable return plane tickets from Vancouver to Iowa and were turned away at the airport. They had to scramble to book a bus from Vancouver to Seattle (which is where we met them) and then last minute (very expensive) plane tickets from Seattle to Iowa. This error cost them thousands of dollars and a great deal of stress and hassle. For those wondering about docking in Victoria, BC on a closed-loop cruise from Seattle or Los Angelos, you will be permitted to sail and visit Victoria with a government issued photo I.D. (for those 16 and over) and a certified birth certificate (but again, I urge everyone to travel with a passport for the reasons I discuss in this article).

2. You’ll Spend Less Time Waiting In Line On Debarkation Day

While I love almost everything about cruising, there’s one big disadvantage to cruising over most land-based vacations. Lines. Lines to check in and board on embarkation day. Lines to disembark and re-board the ship at port. Lines for dining venues and onboard activities. And lines to disembark on the last morning. So why add another, unnecessary line to the list? Once off the ship on debarkation day, every passenger must be processed through customs, even on closed-loop cruises that depart and return to the same United States port. Those with passports will be directed to one area and, with new facial recognition technology, will usually sail right through very quickly (sometimes not even needing to show their passport). However, those without a passport will be directed to a (sometimes looooong) line to present their alternative documents.

3. You’ll Be Able To Participate In Certain Excursions

I’ve become somewhat of an Alaska cruise expert, having cruised there dozens and dozens of times on every cruise line and itinerary and one of the questions I’m asked most often is: do I need a passport to cruise to Alaska? While all of the information I’ve presented so far usually applies to Alaska cruises (but please double check with your cruise line), there is one additional consideration. Even if you’re on a closed loop Alaska itinerary, many popular excursions from Alaska ports (especially Skagway) actually travel up into Canada and require a passport.

4. It Will Open Up More Cruise Itineraries

While most first-time cruisers choose a closed-loop cruise to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, or Mexico, having a passport will open up so many more itineraries. I rarely cruise to those three destinations anymore, instead opting for longer, more interesting one-way itineraries or itineraries departing from foreign ports. While it can be a bit intimidating to branch out, I strongly urge you to get a passport so you can try something outside your normal cruising comfort zone. Once you do it for the first time and see that it’s not as challenging or expensive as you expected, it literally opens up the whole world to you.

And with that…

Class Dismissed!

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Homework (10 points): Do you cruise with a passport? Share your experience to the comments.

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I always travel with a passport. You never know what can happen. Have had a passport since I joined the military. Gives you peace of mind.

Yes, I totally agree! And thank you for your service to our country!!!

We cruise and travel abroad a lot! Always have our passports and always have trip insurance. The first time we used it was on a trip to China. Nothing happened to us, but a close family member died unexpectedly. The insurance got us plane tickets home and reimbursed us for the part of the trip we missed. We’ve used it many times since then (cruising and hurricane diverted our embarkation to Louisiana from Florida, canceling a trip to Europe during Covid, stuck in AZ when flights got canceled, and having to cut short a trip to Disneyland because one of the kids got sick). It is just a life saver and totally worth just the peace of mind! But it has saved us thousands of dollars now too. You have to be careful not to over-insure on things that they won’t reimburse you for … but when your trip gets interrupted or canceled it is just so worth it.

Appreciate the tips! We take our passports with us every time we leave the ship. Would you recommend that, or is that going “overboard”?

What I always do is take a copy of my passport and leave the original in the safe on the ship. I worry a bit about losing it or having it stolen at port. In the event of an illness or injury that would require you stay at port for treatment and fly home, the ship will assist in getting your passports (and luggage) out of your cabin and to you. I also think it’s fine to take the original with you if you can be sure it stays with you in a secure spot at all times. In that case, I’d have a copy of the passport back on the ship, just in case.

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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• What to Expect

Places to Cruise Without a Passport

By Carnival Cruise Line

The Bahamas

New England and Canada

• The Caribbean

Baja, Mexico

As luck would have it, you’ve suddenly got a few open days in your schedule and a yearning to travel somewhere exotic. Don’t let your lack of a passport stop you. Consider a cruise . If you take closed loop cruises (meaning your trip begins and ends at a U.S. port), you can sail to a variety of dreamy destinations as a U.S. citizen without a passport.

For “closed-loop” cruises, U.S. citizens will need to provide:

• A boarding pass
• A government photo I.D. if 16 years of age or older
• And a certified birth certificate or certificate of U.S. naturalization

Starting and ending in Seattle or San Francisco, an Alaskan cruise takes you to charming waterfront cities and villages like Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. In Alaska, also known as the Land of the Midnight Sun, you can see spectacular, icy glaciers by boat or seaplane, watch for whales and try your hand at dog sledding.

A stop in Victoria, British Columbia offers a whole new set of adventures. Visit castles, take a ride on a horse-drawn trolley, stroll through beautiful Butchart Gardens or get your fill of shopping and dining downtown. When you arrive back in Seattle or San Francisco, take time to explore those cities for even more vacation fun.

You can cruise to The Bahamas from a number of U.S. ports along the Atlantic Coast. Located just southeast of Miami in the Atlantic Ocean, The Bahamas offers an ideal island getaway. With soft-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and pastel-colored British colonial architecture , the Bahamian capital of Nassau makes a popular port of call for cruisers. In Freeport , you can shop till you drop at the Port Lucaya Marketplace or kayak through the mangroves at Lucayan National Park. At the south end of the island of Eleuthera, Princess Cays offers island resort living at its finest.

If you’re looking for cruises that don’t require a passport, take a round trip sail to Bermuda from New York City , Baltimore , Charleston or one of two Florida ports of call. As Britain’s oldest colony, Bermuda offers wonderful historic attractions and plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun. Pink-sand beaches, beautiful blue waters and colorful coral reefs deliver the perfect recipe for sunning, swimming, sailing and snorkeling. Cap off a day of adventure in Bermuda with a sunset rum-tasting cruise .

If you’re looking for a different kind of cruise, explore parts of New England and Canada with New York City as an exciting starting and ending point. Spend a day soaking up history in Boston, Massachusetts, and tour the Charles River aboard an amphibious duck vehicle. Experience lighthouses, lobster bakes and craggy sea cliffs in Portland, Maine, and enjoy a trip to Saint John, a beautiful city on the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, Canada. A stop in the charming fishing village of Halifax, Nova Scotia offers beautiful gardens, more delicious seafood and double-decker bus tours . After you pull into port in the Big Apple, make sure to see a Broadway show, visit the Empire State Building and take a stroll through Central Park.

The Caribbean  

The Caribbean makes a popular destination for travelers considering a tropical cruise. For an easy round trip, you can begin and end in a number of U.S. cities including New York City, Galveston , Mobile , New Orleans and Tampa .

Western Caribbean locales in Mexico like Yucatán and Cozumel deliver exciting attractions, from ancient Mayan ruins to flamingo lagoons, and activities like swimming with dolphins, dune buggy rides, sailing, snorkeling, diving and zip lining.

In the Eastern Caribbean, find dream destinations like Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos archipelago. In Amber Cove, you can tour the Dominican outback, soak up the sun on Coconut Cove Beach, or ride the Waterfalls of Rio de Damajagua . On Grand Turk, enjoy swimming with stingrays, riding horses along the coast, or touring the island by ATV. The opportunities for adventure on a Caribbean cruise are endless.

When it comes to domestic cruises, nothing beats a trip to Hawaii . Explore beautiful spots spread across Maui , Kauai and the Big Island, and drink in the natural beauty only Hawaii delivers. On this exciting trip, you can deep sea fish for marlin, explore forest caves and waterfalls, soak up the sun on a black-sand beach and attend a traditional luau. U.S. departure ports for enjoyable Hawaiian cruises include San Francisco , San Diego , Long Beach and Honolulu .

Depart from the Californian cities of San Francisco, San Diego or Long Beach for a quick but memorable cruise to the Baja Peninsula in northern Mexico . Along the way, stop by Catalina Island for a day packed full of outdoor enjoyment . Kayak in and out of secret coves, zip line through the trees or try parasailing. In Ensenada , the “Cinderella of the Pacific,” you can ride horses along mountain trails, tour the wine country, shop for souvenirs and taste the local tequila.

When traveling outside of the U.S. a passport is always recommended, but cruises are the exception to the rule. As long as you book a closed loop cruise, you can travel to certain destinations without a passport. Because international cruises in Europe and Asia require air travel, these vacations also demand a passport. When embarking on adventures by sea that don’t require a passport, make sure you have the proper cruise documentation.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

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https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

• Cruise Advice

5 Caribbean Ports to Get Your Passport Stamped

Sarah Phillips

• September 30, 2013

By Sarah Phillips

To me, one of the best things about having a passport is collecting all the cool stamps. One day, my goal is to fill an entire passport with stamps. With my first passport, I managed to collect some pretty cool stamps while cruising throughout the Caribbean.

While sailing in the Caribbean, you don’t typically get your passport stamped as Customs usually clears the entire ship, not each individual person. But, with just a little bit of effort, there are several ports where you can get passport stamps.

Here are 5 places to spruce up your passport:

1. Grand Cayman. This is one of the coolest passport stamps in the whole world (at least I think so!); it’s a peg-leg turtle pirate. Yes, seriously, a peg-leg turtle pirate. This one’s pretty easy to get, too.

Once you’ve arrived in port, after tendering in, there’s a small building with Customs officials who will stamp your passport. The building’s usually pretty easy to find, but we did stop to ask and make sure it was the right one before we went in.

This one is also a two-for-one – if you head over to Hell, Grand Cayman, they’ll give you a novelty stamp saying you’ve been to Hell.

2. Aruba and Curacao. When sailing on the Carnival Miracle a few years ago, we hit the jackpot of Passport Stamps. We got both of these on one sailing.

In both Aruba and Curacao, we just asked where the Customs house (or office) was and then walked over. They do keep normal business hours, so you’ll have to do it during the daytime. Both islands were happy to stamp our passports, though.

3. Cozumel, Mexico. This stamp is one of the few that’s not within walking distance. You’ll need to take a taxi into downtown to get your stamp here.

I don’t have this one yet, but it’s on my list to get…soon! When you get downtown, check out the main post office, and your stamp is waiting for you.

4. Nassau, Bahamas . This is another stamp that’s located in/near the port and is usually not too difficult to get. As you’re heading back into the building to go through the security lines, there’s a building past the chain link fence and guard.

You’ll need to show your sail pass and then head to the building for the passport stamp.

Bonus: you should be able to walk back to the ship at this point and not have to wait in security lines.

5. Roatan, Honduras. This setup is very similar to Grand Cayman. There’s a small official building right as you debark the ship in port, where you can ask to have your passport stamped. This one’s a simple stamp (kinda like a novelty stamp), but it does say Isla Roatan and has the date you visited the island.

Just to note, on some cruise lines, you can take your passports to the Purser’s Desk or Guest Services, and they’ll get the passports stamped for you. However, please be aware that not every ship or cruise line offers this service.

What are some of your favorite passport stamps? Ever fill up an entire passport and have to order extra pages?

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• Ask a Cruise Question

Do you take your passport off the ship?

By bandjwayne , January 5, 2019 in Ask a Cruise Question

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We're having first time cruisers join us on a cruise in a few weeks (Eastern Caribbean).  They were wondering if they should bring their passports off ship with them.  In the past we've personally left our passports on the ship, but took a paper copy of them with us.  This is because I was worried our bag might get stolen.  Now I'm rethinking this as I'm not sure a paper copy would help me much if I actually needed the passport.  What do you do with your passport???

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JBSteelerfan

You will probably get a 50-50 split here.  We always leave ours locked in safe, with a note on outside cabinet door noting passports are in safe (if we were late and security came to retrieve them) and then we take a color photo copy of passports with us when we get off ship.  Of course we always try to plan our days not to run too close to all aboard time.  

We take ours with us.  That's why we have them.

Other than at Labadee, yes. Some people around here are so worried that something will happen to their passports I am surprised they even take them out of their homes.

I never leave the ship without our passports.  I keep them in an RIF holder in a travel neck purse with a steel cord that cannot be cut.  I wear it under my clothes, or across my chest, and keep credit cards and cash in it, too.

It's the only way to truly identify yourself as an American citizen, and the only way to get out of a country if you miss the ship.  A paper copy will help to get your passport replace by the US Embassy, but that means waiting for the new passport in that location, instead of going to the airport or ferry and getting to the ship's next stop.

I've never understood the logic of taking a passport on a trip and not keeping it with you.

Yes we take ours with us

clean1owner

Used to keep them locked in the safe and carry a color copy, but now just take them with and leave the color copies in the safe. 

You never know what could happen in port.

cruisemom42

I do not carry my passport ashore unless the particular country I'm visiting requires it. 

If you leave your passport in your safe, it will be retrieved and left with the port agent should you, for some reason, miss the ship.

In 40 years of cruising I have never come close to missing the ship. Whereas I have been pickpocketed twice. I'd rather not take the risk...

(Some cruise lines even hold your passport on cruises in certain areas -- so carrying it isn't an option.)

lenquixote66

50 minutes ago, bandjwayne said: We're having first time cruisers join us on a cruise in a few weeks (Eastern Caribbean).  They were wondering if they should bring their passports off ship with them.  In the past we've personally left our passports on the ship, but took a paper copy of them with us.  This is because I was worried our bag might get stolen.  Now I'm rethinking this as I'm not sure a paper copy would help me much if I actually needed the passport.  What do you do with your passport???

We never take ours off the ship. In fact on our cruise last month we were never asked for photo id upon returning to the ship area,only our sea pass cards.

I don't like carrying things with me that I don't need to carry so I leave them in the safe unless they are required by local law. Everyone has to make the decision that is right for them and there is no right or wrong answer that is universal. 

sloopsailor

We never take them out of the safe unless required to. No need to carry such a valuable document when it is unnecessary. We do carry a copy in case we are unexpectedly asked to "show our documents" (which has NEVER happened in all our years of traveling). 

Cruise lines know it is in their better interest to provide the simple courtesy of checking the room safe for passports if they know you will miss the ship. No cruise line I know of would knowingly turn their backs on assisting their customers in this way. At least, no cruise line I would ever patronize.

If Cruise Critic members were left stranded without their passports, you can bet they would come here and complain loud and clear. And they don't. 

30 minutes ago, sloopsailor said:     If Cruise Critic members were left stranded without their passports, you can bet they would come here and complain loud and clear. And they don't. 

Actually, anyone who has been around CC for a while would know better than to come back here and admit that they missed the ship. They know there would be post after post of unempathetic "seasons cruisers" telling them how irresponsible they were for missing the ship in the first place. 😉 🙄

22 minutes ago, sloopsailor said: We never take them out of the safe unless required to. No need to carry such a valuable document when it is unnecessary. We do carry a copy in case we are unexpectedly asked to "show our documents" (which has NEVER happened in all our years of traveling).    Cruise lines know it is in their better interest to provide the simple courtesy of checking the room safe for passports if they know you will miss the ship. No cruise line I know of would knowingly turn their backs on assisting their customers in this way. At least, no cruise line I would ever patronize.   If Cruise Critic members were left stranded without their passports, you can bet they would come here and complain loud and clear. And they don't. 

Here's what has happened to us in our 45 years of cruising:

On our cruise in October 2018 I was chasing my husband down the street in San Juan, Puerto Rico, because I realized he was going back to the ship to get something without his passport.  I caught up with him at the gate to the dock, arguing with the security guard about not letting him pass without it.  Security measures in many ports are getting tighter, and what used to be the usual procedure is no longer.  It's hit-or-miss as to which port, and it depends on the security alert level on that particular day.

Yes, the staff on board the ship will most likely go to a cabin and retrieve the passport, give it to the port authority, and sail away without the passenger(s) not checked-in.  Personally, I don't want to be one of those passengers needing to deal with finding the port authority with my passport (I'm not going to assume they will be standing on the dock waiting for me; it could be hours before I get back).  Then, I'd have to find my way to the next port.  

If what is described above doesn't happen, then I have to find the US Consulate or Embassy and get my passport replaced.

We were stranded in a foreign country after a cruise due to a port closure, along with the passengers from 5 other ships.  Even with a passport it was a nightmare getting home 3 days later.  I would NOT have wanted to deal with that AND replacing my passport.  We just happened to be stranded over a holiday weekend where there were no hotels available except about 50 miles away. 

You just never know what's going to happen:  plan for the worst; hope for the best.  Keep the passport with you to eliminate that extra step in a bad situation.

We never take ours unless required. 

We take a photo of the passport, a DL and of course our cruise card.

2 hours ago, bandjwayne said: We're having first time cruisers join us on a cruise in a few weeks (Eastern Caribbean).  They were wondering if they should bring their passports off ship with them.  In the past we've personally left our passports on the ship, but took a paper copy of them with us.  This is because I was worried our bag might get stolen.  Now I'm rethinking this as I'm not sure a paper copy would help me much if I actually needed the passport.  What do you do with your passport???

I only take my passport off the ship in those ports that I am required to have the passport while ashore.  That's been about 2 or 3 times in 23 cruises.  The rest of the time the passport remains onboard, in my safe.

Beyond that, I take my ship's card and driver's license (photo ID).  

This merry-go-round has started up yet again. Consider the fact that there are two camps vehemently opposed: the "never take a passport off the ship" camp and the "always take my passport ashore" camp. Given that, use your own judgement and never mind what anyone else does. Polling on this subject is a waste of time.

payitforward

I agree with Shorex. There are two different camps on this issue. Both believe they are correct, and neither is going to change their minds.

But, since you asked what we personally do, I leave mine in my stateroom safe. I am far more likely to lose it or have it stolen than I am to miss the ship. That said, I also have the mobile passport app, so I do have a photo of my passport in my phone.

1 hour ago, Shmoo here said: I only take my passport off the ship in those ports that I am required to have the passport while ashore.  That's been about 2 or 3 times in 23 cruises.  The rest of the time the passport remains onboard, in my safe.   Beyond that, I take my ship's card and driver's license (photo ID).  

And also take the ship's newsletter for that day which will have the phone number of the port representative so you can call if you know in advance you will be late.

Always take it with me anywhere I go. Even have it with me when I work.

Some places I go sometimes require 2 forms of Real ID for identification.

Sometimes I never know when I may have to fly last minute.

Would hate to be in Vegas, hit a jackpot and can't get that private jet to Mexico because I left the passport at home.

Oh,,, but it might get lost, misplaced, or stolen.

That could also happen to my credit cards, wallet, and drivers license.

But those can be replaced

Actually a lost passport is easier to replace than lost credit cards or drivers license. Only takes a day or 2.

34 minutes ago, payitforward said: I agree with Shorex. There are two different camps on this issue. Both believe they are correct, and neither is going to change their minds.    

I never try to change someone else's mind on this issue. What someone else does with their passport has absolutely no affect on me at all.

1 hour ago, Shorex said: This merry-go-round has started up yet again. Consider the fact that there are two camps vehemently opposed: the "never take a passport off the ship" camp and the "always take my passport ashore" camp. Given that, use your own judgement and never mind what anyone else does. Polling on this subject is a waste of time.

True, made up minds will never change on this subject. But it is still worthwhile expressing one's personal opinion, from either position, in order to assist someone who is unsure what might be best for themselves, such as the OP.  Best to offer that opinion without passive insults to people with other points of view as was done with a recent post an hour ago that has since been removed. 

Brief answer for me, no, but I respect others opposite view on this issue and won’t say anyone is right or wrong 

taglovestocruise

Never, unless required to.  Once in Tunisia we were told to turn them over to the port authorities. 

The point I'm trying to make is the world is changing, and what was true for decades might be different now.  The two experiences I related were in 2005 and 2018:  one in Spain, and the other in Puerto Rico.  Just making up your mind and not taking in new facts is not wise when traveling.  Policies, laws, security, etc. are fluid and can change.

4 hours ago, cruisemom42 said: I do not carry my passport ashore unless the particular country I'm visiting requires it.    If you leave your passport in your safe, it will be retrieved and left with the port agent should you, for some reason, miss the ship.   In 40 years of cruising I have never come close to missing the ship. Whereas I have been pickpocketed twice. I'd rather not take the risk...   (Some cruise lines even hold your passport on cruises in certain areas -- so carrying it isn't an option.)

Agree with cruisemom42...exactly what I wanted to say.

Note: Regarding a photo of my passport (or driver's license)...the security guard in Nassau refused to accept the "phone photo" at the gate...my mistake.  Lesson: If the ship tells you to bring a photo ID along with your seapass card..bring both.

We've also asked several airlines if they will accept "phone photos"...answer: "no".  Would appreciate any information from anyone where a "phone photo" was accepted...thanks.

Finally, next time we're overseas and walk by a U.S. Embassy, we'll make sure to go in and ask if having a "phone photo" of our passport will help us in the event it was lost or stolen. 

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Baltimore cruises to reroute after bridge collapse pauses port traffic

Carnival will move some operations to norfolk while baltimore recovers from key bridge collapse.

Cruise lines are scrambling to make alternative plans and avoid the Port of Baltimore while officials suspend vessel traffic amid cleanup and rescue efforts around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.

Three major cruise lines sail from Baltimore, though no ships were in port Tuesday morning. The next cruise was scheduled to depart Sunday, but its operator confirmed late Tuesday afternoon that the voyage would instead head out from Norfolk.

Amira M. Hairston, a spokeswoman for the Baltimore port, said in an email that the status of the upcoming cruise ship schedule is not yet known.

“At this time we do not know how long vessel traffic will be suspended. As soon as that is determined we will provide an update. Until then please keep those involved in your prayers,” Hairston wrote.

Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas left Saturday for a 12-night southern Caribbean cruise with plans to return April 4. The cruise line said in a statement that it was “closely monitoring the situation, and our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas’ ongoing and upcoming sailings.”

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and extend our heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” the company said. Royal Caribbean International will contact guests and travel partners once plans are final, the operator said.

Carnival Legend set off Sunday for a seven-day Bahamas cruise; the ship was scheduled to return March 31 and depart for its next sailing the same day. Instead of coming back to Baltimore, Carnival said late Tuesday, it will end its trip in Norfolk, and free buses will bring passengers back to Baltimore.

The ship’s next seven-day cruise will leave Norfolk and return to the port. In a news release , Carnival said it would temporarily move Baltimore operations to Norfolk “while Key Bridge rescue and cleanup efforts continue.”

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said in a statement. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.”

Carnival Pride is supposed to start sailing from Baltimore next month, mostly to the Bahamas and eastern Caribbean.

Norwegian Cruise Line does not have cruises scheduled out of the port until later this year. American Cruise Lines, a U.S. river cruise operator, has Chesapeake Bay trips on small vessels scheduled from Baltimore starting in May. The cruise line said it will monitor developments “and make adjustments if needed.”

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) said it was “deeply saddened” by the bridge collapse and was closely following the situation. “Right now, the most important thing to do is to allow the emergency workers to do their work,” the group wrote in a statement.

This year, 12 ships are scheduled to make a total of 115 calls at the Port of Baltimore, the industry association said. With room for roughly 2,000 or 2,100 passengers at double occupancy, most Baltimore-based ships are much smaller than the record-breaking behemoths that sail from Florida ports.

“Any adjustments to current cruise activity at the port will be announced as soon as available by the individual cruise lines,” CLIA said in its statement.

A news release issued last month by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s office said that more than 444,000 individuals cruised out of the Port of Baltimore last year, the most since 2012. The Maryland Port Administration said in a news release last year that the cruise industry generates nearly 400 jobs and $63 million in revenue every year for local businesses.

The port positions itself as a convenient option for cruising year-round, thanks to its location off Interstate 95 and plentiful parking. More than 40 million people live within a six-hour drive of the city, the port administration says.

Baltimore bridge collapse

Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship , sending at least eight people from a construction crew into the water. Follow live updates and see photos from the scene .

How it happened: The container ship lost power shortly before hitting the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said. Video shows the bridge collapse in under 40 seconds.

Victims: Divers recovered the bodies of two construction workers who died , while finding other vehicles trapped and probably containing the other victims, officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . The entire crew aboard the container ship Dali survived . First responders shut down most traffic on the four-lane bridge after the crew issued an urgent mayday call. It saved lives, Moore said.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge, which severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, adds a fresh headache to already struggling global supply chains . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

History: The Key Bridge was built in the 1970s and spanned the Patapsco River. Rebuilding the bridge will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars, experts said.

The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Carnival Cruise Passenger Captures Ship Fire on Video After Reports of Lightning Strike

The incident marks the second time in two years this particular ship has caught fire. It has caused the cancellation of two upcoming voyages

A Carnival cruise ship’s exhaust funnel caught fire on Saturday during a trip to the Bahamas, causing the company to cancel its next two voyages.

This is the second time in less than two years that the Carnival Freedom, based in Port Canaveral, Fla., has been impacted by a fire.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations, told Florida Today in a statement. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

PEOPLE has reached out to Carnival, but did not immediately hear back.

MALCOLM DENEMARK/FLORIDA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK (2)

While the cause of the fire is still being investigated, Carnival noted in a post on X Saturday that eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike.

One of the cruise’s passengers, Heath Barnes, posted footage of the incident on Facebook Saturday afternoon.

In a statement to TMX, Barnes said it had been storming on and off and he was on one of the ship’s upper decks when he experienced “the loudest thunder and lightening [sic] I have ever heard.”

After he returned to his cabin for about 15 minutes, his nephew and two friends came to tell him the ship was on fire.

“I thought they were giving me a hard time but I got up and went out on the balcony and sure enough the flames and smoke was pouring out of the tail,” he continued, adding that he took the videos from his balcony before travelers were asked to stay indoors.

MALCOLM DENEMARK/FLORIDA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK

Carnival's brand ambassador John Heald addressed the incident on Facebook, acknowledging that those impacted by the cancellations “will be feeling very disappointed.” 

“And I want to add my apologies and my assurances that when you rebook using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the Fun you deserve,” he added.

In May 2022, the Carnival Freedom caught fire during a five-day cruise to Turks and Caicos.

At the time, Carnival Cruise Line verified that a fire broke out in the funnel of the ship while it was in Grand Turk.

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

The company said its "emergency response team quickly activated and extinguished" the flames.

"All guests and crew are safe, and the ship's guests were cleared by local authorities to go ashore," Carnival added.

The 948-foot Carnival Freedom, built in 2007, can hold just over 3,500 passengers, according to Cruise Mapper .

Related Articles

Baltimore bridge collapse wasn't first major accident for giant container ship Dali

Propulsion failed on the cargo ship that struck the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday as it was leaving port, causing it to collapse into the frigid Patapsco River. Its crew warned Maryland officials of a possible collision because they had lost control.

“The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the vessel” and a collision with the bridge “was possible,” according to an unclassified Department of Homeland Security report. “The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.”

An official speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed to USA TODAY that the DHS’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is working with federal, state, and local officials “to understand the potential impacts of this morning’s collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.”

Clay Diamond, executive director, American Pilots’ Association, told USA TODAY power issues are not unusual on cargo ships, which are so large they cannot easily course correct.

“It’s likely that virtually every pilot in the country has experienced a power loss of some kind (but) it generally is momentary,” Diamond said. “This was a complete blackout of all the power on the ship, so that’s unusual. Of course this happened at the worst possible location.” 

The ship in Tuesday's crash, Dali, was involved in at least one prior accident when it collided with a shipping pier in Belgium.

That 2016 incident occurred as the Dali was leaving port in Antwerp and struck a loading pier made of stone, causing damage to the ship’s stern, according to VesselFinder.com, a site that tracks ships across the world. An investigation determined a mistake made by the ship’s master and pilot was to blame.

No one was injured in that crash, although the ship required repair and a full inspection before being returned to service. The pier – or berth – was also seriously damaged and had to be closed.

VesselFinder reports that the Dali was chartered by Maersk, the same company chartering it during the Baltimore harbor incident.

The 9-year-old container ship had passed previous inspections during its time at sea, but during one such inspection in June at the Port of San Antonio in Chile, officials discovered a deficiency with its "propulsion and auxiliary machinery (gauges, thermometers, etc)," according to the Tokyo MOU, an intergovernmental maritime authority in the Asia-Pacific region.

The report provided no other information about the deficiency except to note that it was not serious enough to remove the ship from service.

Follow here for live updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship strike; construction crew missing: Live Updates

Why did Dali crash into the Baltimore bridge?

Officials said Tuesday they’re investigating the collision, including whether systems on board lost electricity early Tuesday morning, which could be related to mechanical failure, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Accidents at sea, known as marine casualties, are not uncommon, the source told USA TODAY. However, “allisions,” in which a moving object strikes a stationary one with catastrophic results, are far less common. The investigation of the power loss aboard the Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel, will be a high priority.

In a video posted to social media, lights on the Dali shut off, then turned back on, then shut off again before the ship struck a support pier on the bridge.

Numerous cargo and cruise ships have lost power over the years.

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires all international vessels to have two independent sources of electricity, both of which should be able to maintain the ship's seaworthiness on their own, according to a safety study about power failures on ships , citing the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

The Dali's emergency generator was likely responsible for the lights coming back on after the initial blackout, Diamond said.

“There was still some steerage left when they initially lost power,” he said. “We’ve been told the ship never recovered propulsion. The emergency generator is a diesel itself – so if you light off the generator, that’s also going to put off a puff of exhaust.”

Under maritime law, all foreign flagged vessels must be piloted into state ports by a state licensed pilot so the Dali's pilot is licensed by Association of Maryland Pilots .

Diamond described the incident based on information from the Maryland agency that licensed the pilot aboard the ship. His organization represents that group and all other state piloting agencies in the US.

“The pilot was directing navigation of the ship as it happened,” he said. “He asked the captain to get the engines back online. They weren’t able to do that, so the pilot took all the action he could. He tried to steer, to keep the ship in the channel. He also dropped the ship’s anchor to slow the ship and guide the direction.

“Neither one was enough. The ship never did regain its engine power.”

How big is the Dali ship?

The Dali is a 984-foot container vessel built in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. With a cruising speed of about 22 knots – roughly 25 mph. It has traveled the world carrying goods from port to port.

The ship, constructed of high-strength steel, has one engine and one propeller, according to MarineTraffic.com.

The Dali arrived in Baltimore on Sunday from the Port of Norfolk in Virginia. Before that, it had been in New York and came through the Panama Canal.

It remains at the scene of the collapse as authorities investigate.

Who owns and operates the Dali?

It is owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean Pte Ltd but managed by Synergy Marine Group, also based in Singapore. It was carrying Maersk customers’ cargo, according to a statement from the shipping company.

“We are deeply concerned by this incident and are closely monitoring the situation,” Maersk said in the statement. 

Synergy, which describes itself as a leading ship manager with more than 600 vessels under its guidance, issued a statement on its website acknowledging the incident and reporting no injuries among its crew and no pollution in the water. There were two pilots on board and 22 crew members in all, according to Synergy, all of them from India.

USA TODAY reached out to Synergy on Tuesday, but the company did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Contributing: Josh Susong

Baltimore Port: What impact will bridge collapse have on shipping?

PORT FEATURES

Current status of cargo ships inside port, cruise ships, london metal exchange warehouses, bunker fuel.

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World Court orders Israel to halt Gaza famine; fighting flares at hospital

The World Court on Thursday unanimously ordered Israel, accused by South Africa of genocide in Gaza, to take all necessary and effective action to ensure basic food supplies to the enclave's Palestinian population and halt spreading famine.

An Israeli court on Thursday ruled that a former Mexican diplomat who has been accused of sexual abuse and rape in one of his home country's most prominent #MeToo cases is extraditable.