closed loop cruise from miami

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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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Closed Loop Cruise: Passport Requirements & Destinations

Got a few free days and looking to go on a trip, but don’t have a passport? Don’t worry, you still have plenty of options! If you passport has expired, or you never got a passport in the first place, you are still able to visit several foreign countries as a U.S. citizen. The answer to your “problem” is a closed loop cruise.

These types of cruises allow you, as an American, to sail to amazing destinations without a passport. Below, we take a look at what closed loop cruises are and tell you exactly which places you can visit on a closed loop cruise.

What Is a Closed Loop Cruise?

First things first, though—what is a closed loop cruise? The answer is right there, in the name. Closed loop cruises have “closed” itineraries, meaning that they start and end in the same U.S. port. On the way, however you may visit some other destinations, whether within the United States or in other countries. All closed loop cruises are round-trip cruises from the same port in the United States.

Places You Can Go on a Closed Loop Cruise (Without a Passport)

Even though closed loop cruises can’t take you wherever you want to go, the destination choices may be more diverse than you’d expect. From the beaches of the Bahamas to the wilderness of Alaska, these are the greatest place you can visit on a closed loop cruise without a passport.

Explore the rugged coasts of Alaska on a closed loop cruise from cities like Seattle and San Francisco . Visit the historic coastal towns of Skagway, Sitka and Juneau, and see iconic wildlife, from orcas and whales to brown bears and bald eagles.

Cruise around the Hawaiian Islands and soak up that glorious tropical sunshine. See waterfalls and rainbows, enjoy amazing Polynesian food and hit the waves on a surfboard. Cruises to Hawaii start in most major West Coast cities, such as San Diego , Los Angeles and Seattle.

New England and Eastern Canada

Discover the rocky coasts of New England and eastern Canada on a closed loop cruise from Boston or New York City. Indulge in world-class seafood, see beautiful lighthouses, visit seaside villages and explore important historic sites.

One of the most accessible tropical islands from the U.S. East Coast, Bermuda is a popular destination for closed loop cruises. You can visit this gorgeous, historic island on round-trip cruises from Boston and other East Coast ports. Swim with dolphins , visit the Royal Navy Dockyard or scuba dive to a shipwreck.

The Bahamas

Blessed with near-perpetual sunshine and stunning beaches, the Bahamas are one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations. As a Caribbean island nation, it’s an excellent place to visit without a passport on closed loop cruises. Departure ports include Baltimore , Charleston, Jacksonville, Miami and other southeastern U.S. cities.

The Caribbean

Comprised of the Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean Island, the greater Caribbean region is home to some of the greatest beach destination on the planet. Go on a closed loop cruise from Florida and visit such stunning islands as St. Lucia, Barbados, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Martinique and Bonaire. Remember, however, that some of these island nations may require you to have a passport to enter.

Whether it’s a Baja California cruise from San Diego or L.A., or a cruise to Cozumel from the East Coast, Mexico is a great closed loop cruise destination. Discover ancient temples and architecture, sample classic Mexican cuisine, sunbathe on amazing beaches and partake in endless outdoor adventures. Check out the best time to cruise to Mexico here .

So, for example, you can board a cruise ship in Miami, Florida , stop at least one foreign port in places like Mexico, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, and return to the port of Miami afterwards. This is a closed loop cruise. As a U.S. citizen, you will not need a valid passport to leave and re-enter the United States this way.

If, however, you depart from Miami, sail through the Panama Canal , visiting a foreign port on the way, and disembark in Los Angeles, you have not been on a closed loop cruise, even though both your departure and arrival ports are in the United States. These kinds of one-way cruises require all passengers to have a valid passport.

Good to know: Maritime laws state that cruise ships not sailing under the American flag must stop in at least one port of call outside the United States. Great examples of this include a stop in Canada on Alaska cruises , a stop in Bermuda on a round-trip from Boston, or a stop in Cozumel from Fort Lauderdale.

Remember: The start and end point of your cruise must be the same U.S. port.

Do I Need a Passport on a Closed Loop Cruise?

American citizens do not need a passport to go on a closed loop cruise. They can leave and re-enter their own country without a passport. However, it is important to know that another proof of citizenship will be required instead.

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Information Center , other valid proofs of citizenship you can use to go on closed loop cruises besides a passport are:

• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL);
• Government-issued birth certificate; or
• Government-issued certificate of naturalization

If you’re 16 or older, you will also need a valid government-issued driver’s license or picture ID that contains your photo, name and date of birth.

U.S. citizens younger than 16 may use an original, notarized or certified copy of their birth certificate to go on a closed loop cruise. They do not need other documents to leave and re-enter the USA.

Note, however, that this does not necessarily mean that the countries on your itinerary, especially in the Caribbean, won’t still require you to have a passport to enter. If that’s the case, your cruise line might already require you to have a passport to board the ship—even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection does not.

If you aren’t sure, please ask your cruise line about this in advance. A closed loop cruise refers only to U.S. immigration regulations and passport requirements for U.S. citizens. It does not reflect those of the destinations on the closed loop cruise.

How Do I Know If My Cruise Is Closed Loop?

This is pretty straightforward. As we’ve mentioned above, a closed loop cruise is a cruise that departs from and returns to the same port in the United States. It’s really that simple.

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Closed-Loop Cruises: Everything You Need to Know

By Sue Bryant

Last updated: November 6th, 2023

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Have you ever found yourself with a few days to spare and an overwhelming desire to escape to the balmy Caribbean, or on an Alaskan adventure, then realized that you don’t have a passport, or your passport has expired? As a U.S. citizen, you can take advantage of the convenience of what’s called a closed-loop cruise—with no passport required.

What is a closed-loop cruise?

A closed-loop cruise is a cruise that departs and ends in the same U.S. port, for example, Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale, or round-trip to Alaska from Seattle.

Prospect Point in Stanley Park, Vancouver

These cruises have to meet certain criteria to qualify.  Every voyage on a ship that’s not U.S. flagged, departing from and returning to a U.S. port must, according to maritime law, visit one foreign port of call. This is why you’ll find Alaska cruises stopping in Vancouver, or Western Caribbean cruises calling in at Cancun.

To qualify as closed-loop cruises, the places these itineraries can include must be contiguous territories of the United States. That includes Mexico and Canada, because both share land borders with the U.S., and several of the islands of the Caribbean .

Do I need a passport for a closed-loop cruise?

Key West, Florida

In most cases, you don’t need a passport for a closed-loop cruise. This is one of the reasons why these itineraries are so popular. You can, of course, use your passport or passport card as an ID if you have one. But in the case of closed-loop cruises, U.S. citizens are allowed to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship.

According to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, this includes an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth.

The Enhanced Driver’s License allows you to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean and is valid at land and sea border crossing but not airports.

Different documentation is acceptable for minors under 16, including an original, notarized, or certified copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Voter registration cards and Social Security cards are not considered proof of citizenship.

Falmouth, Jamaica

There are different rules still if you’re a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) of the U.S. While the U.S. government does not require you to have a passport, destinations on the itinerary may have different rules, so it’s always advisable to check. If you are an LPR, you’ll need your I-551, or Green Card, to re-enter the U.S. And if you’re not a U.S. citizen or a U.S. LPR, you’ll need a passport regardless of whether you’re on a closed-loop cruise or not.

If you do choose to take advantage of this opportunity to travel without a passport, there are a couple of warnings to bear in mind. Say, for example, something goes wrong and you have to return to the U.S. by air. In this case, you’d need a passport to board a flight.

Also, if you miss the ship in one of the ports, you’ll have to make your own way home or to catch up with the cruise, which could be difficult without a passport. If you book an excursion through Celebrity Cruises, that won’t happen, since the ship is guaranteed to wait for you.

What are some of the best closed-loop cruise itineraries?

Fort lauderdale to bahamas, mexico and grand cayman.

Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas

Cruise from Fort Lauderdale on the fabulous Celebrity Edge, one of the most innovative and impressive ships afloat, bound for the Bahamas and the warm, blue waters of the Caribbean. You’ll spend a day in colorful Nassau, on New Providence Island, with plenty of time to hit the powder-sand beaches, snorkel over dazzling reefs, shop for crafts in the Straw Market, or enjoy an adrenaline rush on one of the dramatic water slides at the glitzy Atlantis Resort.

After a day at sea to enjoy the ship and its magnificent Resort Deck, you’ll arrive at Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico . A vast array of choices beckons here, like relaxed tubing at the freshwater Bacalar Lagoon, where you’ll drift over cenote-fed water that’s an astonishing shade of aquamarine.

Or you could try rafting, sail-and-snorkel tours, and even a healing session with an authentic shaman. There’s Mayan history here, too, at the Chacchoben Ruins, a short drive from the port.

Watch: Discover Cozumel With Celebrity Cruises

From Cozumel , you could join an excursion to the magnificent Mayan ruins at Tulum set against a backdrop of the turquoise sea. Try a salsa and margarita-making masterclass, or paddle a glass-bottomed kayak over rainbow-colored reefs.

This seven-night cruise also calls at Grand Cayman , where you can experience dazzling white beaches, pristine reefs, and unusual wildlife encounters, like swimming among stingrays in the warm, shallow waters of Stingray City.

Browse Caribbean Cruises on Celebrity Edge

Seattle to Alaska, the Inside Passage, and Dawes Glacier

Celebrity Solstice

Spend seven nights exploring the wild beauty of Alaska on Celebrity Solstice , the perfect ship for such dazzling scenery, with its abundance of outside space and top-deck Lawn Club.

You’ll visit pretty Ketchikan, from where you could join a bear-spotting tour, try kayaking, join an expedition to fish for king crab, or just explore the colorful town. Next, there’s a full day slowly cruising the 30-mile Endicott Arm Fjord , past tumbling waterfalls and chunks of floating ice that have broken off the magnificent Dawes Glacier, a 600-foot tall wall of blue-white ice. The spectacle of this vast river of ice meeting the sea is a highlight of the day.

Mendenhall Lake in Juneau, Alaska

You’ll also visit Juneau , the perfect spot for whale-watching, hiking, and thrilling flightseeing trips over snow-covered mountains. In Skagway, you’ll have the chance to ride the spectacular White Pass and Yukon Route railroad, heading high over rugged passes, following the trail of hardy prospectors from the Gold Rush days.

As Celebrity Solstice heads back to Seattle, there’s a day on board to relax as the ship threads its way through the narrow channels of the Inside Passage , between forested islands and rock-strewn beaches, with great opportunities for spotting whales and bears from your vantage point on deck.

There’s also a call at historic Victoria on Canada’s Vancouver Island, where you can experience a pleasing blend of elegant, British colonial architecture, cool shops, and craft breweries before you return to Seattle.

Browse Alaska Cruises on Celebrity Solstice

Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera

Watch: Discover the Mexican Riviera With Celebrity Cruises

Sail round-trip from Los Angeles to the glamorous Mexican Riviera on the recently revolutionized Celebrity Millennium. From buzzing Puerto Vallarta, you could join a whale-watching tour, browse the arty stores, or kick back at the beach to enjoy the soft sand and azure waters of the Pacific.

At Cabo San Lucas , there’s more whale-watching along the wild, rocky coast, or watersports ranging from kayaking to snorkeling. Explore the Art District and old adobe buildings in nearby San Jose del Cabo, or explore the Baja desert on a 4×4 off-road adventure.

Read: Where to Go Whale Watching in Mexico

From Ensenada, you could snorkel over underwater rock formations at Todos Santos island, or join a wine tasting tour to Calafia Valley, Mexico’s wine-growing region. Closer to port, join a walking tour of the cosmopolitan town to sample tequila and tacos .

Read: Best Things to Do in Ensenada

Celebrity Millennium Suite

You’ll have three full days at sea on this itinerary to soak up the Pacific sunshine and enjoy Celebrity Millennium . Why not upgrade to The Retreat for a true taste of luxury? You’ll enjoy a luxurious suite and dine in the beautiful, fine dining Luminae restaurant, exclusive to guests of this tranquil enclave.

Browse Mexican Riviera cruises on Celebrity Millennium

Fort Lauderdale to Key West, Belize, and Grand Cayman

Set sail from Fort Lauderdale on the brand new Celebrity Apex , the second in Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Edge series. You’ll spend a day at quirky, colorful Key West, where you can try stand-up paddleboarding or join a cycling tour through the palm-lined streets of this happily eccentric place. Explore Ernest Hemingway’s former home, and don’t miss a chance to sample the island’s iconic key lime pie.

Tropical Belize is all about adventure, from cave tubing to ziplining high above the rainforest canopy. Mayan antiquities have been absorbed by the forest, making their setting even more dramatic. Visit mysterious Lamanai, one of Mesoamerica’s largest ceremonial sites, or join a tour to the ancient hilltop ruins of Xunantunich and the temple of El Castillo.

Read: Unforgettable Adventures in Belize

Stingray City in George Town, Grand Cayman

This cruise also visits the beach paradise of Cozumel , for all manner of watersports, shopping, and sizzling Mexican cuisine. There’s even a chance to join a taco-making class.

Celebrity Apex then sets a course east to the island of Grand Cayman, famed for its magnificent beaches and marine life, like the tame stingrays that congregate around the Stingray City sandbar waiting to be fed tidbits of squid.

Celebrity Edge Magic Carpet

You’ll have one more day at sea to soak up the tropical sun on deck and enjoy the many features of the ship. Lounge at the Magic Carpet with a cocktail; this multipurpose platform is cantilevered over the side of the ship, with water on three sides, so you’ll feel as though you are flying. Or relax in the leafy serenity of Eden, or dine al fresco in the lovely Rooftop Garden Grill.

Browse cruises to Key West, Belize & Grand Cayman on Celebrity Apex

Cape Liberty to Bermuda

Charge your champagne glass and raise a toast to Lady Liberty on this seven-night voyage from Cape Liberty, New Jersey to chic Bermuda and back. As your ship, Celebrity Summit, edges out of port, you’ll have magnificent views of the Manhattan skyline as you sail right past the Statue of Liberty and then out under the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, setting a course south-east to balmy Bermuda .

Jobson’s Cove Beach, Bermuda

Here, on this enchanted island where the sand is pink and the policemen wear knee-length shorts, you’ll have two and a half days to explore, which means two overnight stays .

There’s plenty to do, from snorkeling to golf, exploring the shops and galleries in Hamilton, the pastel-hued capital, and visiting the island’s forts. Hike the historic Railway Trail, consisting of 18 miles of scenic pathway following the course of an old railroad line.

Set sail on a catamaran trip at sunset, or join a pub crawl of Hamilton’s bars after dark. One of the most unique things to do in Bermuda is to sample a Dark ‘n’ Stormy, the powerful local specialty made of dark rum with ginger beer and a slice of lime.

Browse Bermuda cruise itineraries

Fort Lauderdale to Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Kitts

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Sail to the sun on Celebrity Apex, departing Fort Lauderdale, Florida for vibrant Puerto Rico , where an afternoon and evening in port mean you’ll see two faces of charismatic San Juan. Explore the chunky fortress, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and the brightly colored streets of Old San Juan, or visit the Bacardi distillery to learn about and sample the famous rum.

Mount Liamuiga, St. Kitts

You’ll find plenty of military history at St. Kitts , like the rugged Brimstone Hill Fortress, a massive compound built by the British in 1690. This tiny island packs a real punch, with an enormous variety of things to do.

Trundle through the sugarcane fields on a scenic train journey, or hike Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcano at the island’s center. Learn how to make your own gourmet truffles at a chocolate workshop. Visit neighboring Nevis and see the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the U.S.

At Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas , you’ll find it impossible to resist exploring the crystal-clear water via snorkeling, kayaking, or sailboat. For an afternoon basking on the gorgeous Honeymoon Beach, the lush, low-key island of St. John is an easy hop across the water.

Browse itineraries to Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Kitts on Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Apex

Start planning your closed-loop cruise today and browse cruise itineraries on our website.

Sue has been writing about cruising for 20 years and is lucky enough to have sailed all seven continents. She lives in London, where she is cruise editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, as well as a freelance contributor to magazines and websites worldwide.

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Complete Guide to Closed-Loop Cruises (and Open Jaw Itineraries)

Cruising, as you may know, is one of the best ways to explore the world’s coastlines and nearby cities. But what if you lack a passport or your passport has expired? Exactly what are the passport requirements to cruise? 

As a United States resident, you may benefit from the ease of a so-called closed-loop cruise and not need a passport for a cruise vacation at all. Let’s dive in.

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

What is a Closed Loop Cruise? 

First, let's define a closed loop voyage. 

The itineraries of closed-loop cruises begin and end in the same port. For purposes of this conversation, that port is in the United States (even though the term “closed loop cruise” could be used to describe a cruise that starts and ends in the same city in another country). 

Think of it like a closed circuit, with the ship literally closing a geographical loop, even if that loop is an imperfect shape. However, along the route, you might stop at a few other places, either in the United States or abroad. 

The benefit of taking these “round-trip cruises” is that American travelers don’t necessarily need a passport as long as the trip begins and ends at the same U.S.A. port. However, you must understand the nuances of the itinerary you choose if you don’t have a passport, even if you have a travel agent to help guide you. 

That’s why we stress how imperative it is to read the detailed information below about identification requirements.

Closed Loop Cruise Origins

So how did closed-loop cruises come about? Well, in order to comply with U.S. maritime rules and the Passenger Vessel Services Act (also known as the Jones Act), all foreign-registered cruise lines leaving from American ports are required to include a port abroad. 

Nearly all cruise ships are foreign-flagged, so they must stop outside the nation. ( US River Cruise ships are an exception to the foreign-flagged generalization.) These destinations are usually contiguous United States territories such as Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean islands.

Example of a Closed-Loop Cruise

Here’s an example of a closed-loop cruise itinerary that starts and ends in a United States Cruise Port :

• A 4-night cruise departs from the Port of Miami in Florida.
• It makes a port of call in Nassau, in the Bahamas…
• …then sails onto Half Moon Cay.
• The cruise returns to Miami to disembark, where it departed from. 

Disney Cruise Line has a very similar 3-day or 4-day itinerary, usually departing from Port Canaveral, which is on Florida’s Space Coast near Cape Canaveral . It leaves, returns to Port Canaveral, and stops at Disney’s Castaway Cay island and Nassau in between. 

While these 3 or 4-day itineraries are considered short, there are plenty of longer sailings with more Port of Call available across many cruise lines. 

Most of the itinerary options are on bigger ships with 1,500+ passengers. 

If a Cruise Starts and Ends in the United States but From Two Different Ports, is it a Closed-Loop Cruise?

No. If a cruise starts in San Diego but ends in Los Angeles, for example, it is an open-jaw cruise, not a closed-loop cruise. 

Another example: If a cruise starts at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale but ends in the Port of Miami, it is not a closed-loop cruise.

What is an Open Jaw Cruise or Itinerary? 

Perhaps you’d prefer to explore beyond the destinations of a closed-loop cruise. 

A cruise that departs from one port and arrives/ends at a separate port of call is known as an “Open-Jaw Cruise.” Sometimes they’re referred to as “Open Loop” or “Repositioning” cruises. 

While these ocean trips on the high seas require a passport, you can access many more countries. 

On a map, such a trip may appear as a triangle or an “open jaw.” For example, you may do a yacht cruise on the Mediterranean as we did that departs from Athens, explores Greece, then heads to Sicily and ends on mainland Italy, and takes a flight home from Rome.

Without geographic restrictions, ships with an open itinerary can travel farther and often stop at more ports. This may also entail visiting places that other cruises would not have the time or ability to visit, such as more exotic locations.

Do you Need a Passport for a Closed Loop Cruise? 

A passport is typically not required for a closed-loop cruise for United States citizens if the cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. port. 

For example, this has made Hawaiian Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Alaska cruises very popular.

You Need Valid Government Identification, Even if Not a Passport

However, valid identification to board the ship is required; you must also show that identification upon reentry to the US. Such ID includes proof of citizenship and a government-issued ID. If you happen to have a valid passport, it’s the only ID required.

Shop for Cruise document Holders

Stay organized with a dedicated container, book, or pouch for all your cruise documents, including your identification.

Ensure that this remains in your carry-on bag as you embark and disembark the ship.

Check it out >

What Documentation Is Needed For A Closed-Loop Cruise? 

Nervous about going on a cruise without a passport? While it’s true that you don’t need a passport for most US closed-loop cruises, you must present two forms of ID to board a closed-loop cruise ship. 

These forms of ID should be carried with you when you disembark at each port of call. 

Two Forms of ID

As we mentioned, adults must have two ID forms to board a cruise if they don't have a passport. The two documents must fall under the two categories listed below.

1. Proof of Citizenship

One form of ID must be your proof of US citizenship. For example, this can be a government-issued birth certificate. 

2. Government-Issued ID with Requirements 

The second acceptable piece of identification must be a government-issued ID with your photo, full name, and date of birth. A driver’s license will suffice.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers a comprehensive list and details the criteria for taking a cruise without a passport, including what constitutes a government-issued photo ID.

Always check to see the latest details of the requirements before you book your cruise, while you await your cruise, and about four weeks before your cruise to make sure you’re good to go. 

While U.S. Customs recommend an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) as a passport alternative, very few states offer this form of government-issued ID. 

It’s also important to mention that as an ID, driver’s licenses are only accepted at land border crossings and sea border crossings, not airports for international destinations. You can also only use a valid driver’s license to re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Closed-Loop Cruise Documentation

• Voter registration card/ID
• Social security card
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth

Enhanced Driver's License vs. Real ID

Is a Real ID the same thing as an EDL? No. It is not.

The short answer is that EDLs can be used for limited border crossings and is only available in specific border states. Whereas a Real ID is available in all states, it cannot be used to cross borders like an EDL or passport.

A Real ID does not have an additional cost to obtain. It differs from previous driver's licenses because it shows a star icon in the top corner of the license.

An EDL is only offered in a handful of states and costs an additional $30.

The Department of Homeland Security states the following about an EDL:

Enhanced Drivers Licenses (EDLs) are state-issued enhanced drivers licenses that provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship. They are issued in a secure process, and include technology that makes travel easier. EDLs are a low-cost, convenient option for entering the United States from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry, in addition to serving as a permit to drive. DHS Enhanced Driver's Licenses: What Are They?

EDLs are only available to residents of the following states:

Real IDs are available in 55 states and territories, however, it is not a viable document to cross a border, including for international sea cruise travel.

REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel. From “Real ID FAQs” on the Department of Homeland Security

Children Under the Age of 16

For children traveling under the age of 16, a variety of forms of identification, including an original birth certificate or a copy that has been notarized or certified, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization, are acceptable. 

What is Not Acceptable as a Form of ID? 

As per the US Government's regulations, documents proving voter registration and social security cards are not recognized as proof of identity. 

Lawful Permanent Residents

There are specific rules if you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) of the United States. 

Even though the US Government doesn’t mandate that you need a passport, it is always advisable to double-check as some locations along your cruise journey may have various requirements, including having a visa. 

If you are an LPR, you must have your I-551, or Green Card, in order to re-enter the US. 

A valid passport from your nation of residence is required if you’re not a U.S. citizen or a LPR of the United States of America.

Closed-Loop Cruises: Popular Port Cities from the United States 

U.S. departure ports are plentiful, from coast to coast.

The most popular port cities on the East Coast are Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, the Port of Miami, and Port Everglades, respectively. 

On the West Coast, San Francisco sees the most cruise ships pass through every year. Quite a few other city ports are offering closed-loop cruises from the US, so let’s take a look.

West Coast Closed-Loop Cruises

An Alaskan cruise is one of the most popular closed-loop cruise options in the US. If departing from the United States, Alaska cruises depart from Seattle, San Francisco, or Los Angeles. They often stop in Vancouver, British Columbia (in Canada), to pick up more cruise passengers.

Mexican Riviera and Hawaii closed loop itineraries are accessible from the West Coast, departing from the cities of San Pedro and Long Beach, San Francisco, and San Diego.

East Coast Closed-Loop Cruises

If you’re looking to head somewhere warmer such as the Bahamas, look to sail from: 

• Florida: Either from Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades, the Space Coast’s Port Canaveral, the Port of Miami, or Tampa.
• Maryland: Baltimore.
• Northeast and New England area: Manhattan in New York City, Cape Liberty in New Jersey, or Boston, Massachusetts.
• Texas: Galveston.

Some of these itineraries even stop in Bermuda if you take a closed loop cruise from Boston, Manhattan, Baltimore, or Cape Liberty. 

Of course, you can’t forget about a Caribbean cruise! There are quite a few port options if you want to travel to the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. The main cruise port options with itineraries sailing there are from Port Canaveral, Manhattan, Port Everglades, Baltimore, Charleston, New Orleans, Cape Liberty, Galveston, or Tampa. 

Popular Cruise Lines Offering Close Looped Cruises

Though cruise ships and their contracted ports of call may change annually, here’s a list of cruise lines and expected ports they sail from. 

Princess Cruises

Princess is one of our favorite cruise lines for a mature audience! It’s not great for traveling with kids but if you’re adults, it’s a wonderful option.

With Princess Cruises , you can travel to Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, Mexico, or the Bahamas from the United States. They operate many cruises from Fort Lauderdale or off the West Coast, where you can sail from Los Angeles to Mexico or Hawaii.

In fact, we sailed on a wonderful closed-loop California itinerary that stopped in San Francisco, San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Ensanda before heading back to Los Angeles. 

Celebrity Cruises

Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Florida, are popular ports for Celebrity Cruises . You can travel to Mexico, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean from here.

It’s another one of our favorite cruise lines, offering class and sophistication to a generally younger audience than Princess Cruises.

We absolutely love their class offerings – our favorite is “in “ The Retreat ” – and recommend booking a suite if you sail with Celebrity. 

Disney Cruise Line

Who doesn’t love a Disney cruise, especially when you can sail to Bermuda, the Bahamas, or the Caribbean with all your favorite characters? But even if the characters don’t pique your interest, sailing as adults, only, is always fun with Disney. We’ve cruised on DCL without kids many times! 

Castaway Cay, Disney's private island, is an incredibly popular destination that only Disney Cruise Line sails to.

Most Disney Cruises in the United States set sail from the East Coast, with the most popular ports being Port Canaveral and Miami. However, there is often a west coast cruise itinerary each year, like from San Diego. 

Holland America Line

The majority of Holland America Line (HAL) closed loop cruises leave Fort Lauderdale and head to the Caribbean. But if you’re looking for an incredible Alaskan experience, head out west to Seattle and catch a trip to The Last Frontier with HAL.

Royal Caribbean 

An incredibly popular cruise line, Royal Caribbean departs from 14 ports across the US. The most popular closed-loop itineraries leave from Port Canaveral and Miami, where they sail to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

People love to visit Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island.

Norwegian Cruise Line 

Despite its name, many cruises with Norwegian actually depart from the US. Amongst their popular itineraries is a Hawaiian closed-loop cruise from Honolulu, that tours around the Hawaiian Islands. 

To visit the Bahamas or the Caribbean with Norwegian Cruise Line, choose the Port of Miami as the departure port.

Carnival Cruises

Miami, Galveston, Tampa, and Port Canaveral are the port of call where most closed-loop Carnival Cruises sail from. The top itineraries for all three ports will lead you to the incredible island nations of the Caribbean.

MSC Cruises

Dip your toes in Caribbean sand when you set sail from Port Canaveral or the Port of Miami. MSC Cruises offers hundreds of closed loop cruises each year.

Margaritaville at Sea

If you want a very short, low-cost cruise option that sails from the Port of Palm Beach, look into Margaritaville at Sea . 

Closed-Loop Cruises in Popular European Cities  

The United States isn’t the only region that offers closed loop cruises. Numerous cities in Europe also have such itineraries, although they aren’t always referred to as a closed loop cruise in marketing material. 

Rather, you’ll see terms like “return trip cruise” or “two-way cruises.” Check each itinerary very closely. 

However, it’s worth noting that while these cruises are technically closed-loop, because they start and end in the same port of call as our Emerald Cruises did in Amsterdam in The Netherlands, you need a passport to sail in Europe or Asia, for example, if you’re a United States citizen traveling abroad. You’ll also need a passport to fly there at an international airport.

One of the closed itineraries growing in popularity in Europe is a cruise to Iceland. Departing and ending at Rotterdam, in The Netherlands, you’ll get to explore this true wonder of the world. Cruises to Iceland also commonly include a port of call in Ireland as well.

The port of Civitavecchia in Rome, Italy, also offers a number of return trip cruises. These itineraries include stops in Greece, Turkey, and Italy. Or you can sail in a loop from the port of Ravenna in Venice, Italy, to see cities in Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

MSC offers popular cruises in the Mediterranean with return trips from Marseille, France . On these journeys, you will stop in places such as Genoa, Palermo, Ibiza, Valencia, Barcelona, and Naples.

Closed-Loop Cruises FAQs

What are the advantages of a closed loop cruise.

There are many, especially if you don’t have a passport!

What are the Disadvantages of a Closed Loop Cruise?

The main disadvantage is that fewer ports of call are available to you. Along with this, depending on your taste and travel preferences, your experience diving into different cultures and historical sites is lessened if you can only explore closed-loop cruise options. 

How Do I Know If My Cruise Is Closed-Loop? 

Two main things indicate if your cruise is closed loop and you won’t need a passport  (but don’t forget – you need other valid identification): 

• For Americans looking to travel without a passport, the first piece of information to note when investigating whether or not a cruise is closed-loop is if it departs from and arrives back at the same US port. 

In order for it to be considered a closed-loop cruise that you don’t need a passport for the ship must leave and return to the same exact American port. 

• The second criterion to check for is: Are all ports of call on the itinerary within the Western hemisphere? 

Today, the majority of cruises that are closed-loop and you don’t need a passport for as a US citizen are within the Western Hemisphere only.

The idea of a closed-loop cruise originated with the creation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) . 

The objective of WHTI was to enhance and fortify American border security after 9/11 in 2001. However, there was also the added objective of streamlining and improving entry procedures into the United States. Several aspects of the initiative also deal with easing entry for residents of Bermuda, Canada, and Mexico. 

Can You Leave the Ship on a Closed-Loop Cruise Without a Passport?

The answer is yes and no. It depends on the port of call. 

It’s important to check the itinerary for your trip because there are a few places, even on a closed-loop cruise, that do require a passport to disembark. This is particularly common in the Caribbean in nations including Guadeloupe, the island of Martinique, St. Barts, Barbados, and others. 

Below is a list of Caribbean nations you can travel to without a passport on a closed-loop cruise (meaning you can disembark the ship if your cruise ship stops there and you do not have a passport):

• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Netherlands Antilles
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Turks and Caicos

If you travel to any of these countries without a passport, however, it’s a good idea to take your valid forms of ID with you when you walk around the port in case you encounter any problems. 

Precautions to Keep in Mind Traveling Outside the United States Without a Passport

Keep a few things to keep in mind if you travel on a closed-loop cruise without a passport. 

Imagine, for instance, that something goes awry, and you need to fly back to the United States from a foreign country for a medical emergency. In this situation and in the case of an emergency, you will need a passport in order to travel through an international airport and board an airplane traveling internationally.

Additionally, without a U.S. passport, getting home or catching up with the trip could be challenging if you miss the ship in one of the ports.

An Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) allows you to re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. However, an EDL is only accepted at land and sea border crossings, not for air travel.

A closed loop cruise is a wonderful sea travel option for United States residents and citizens who want a vacation in multiple cities without needing a passport. (It’s an especially good option if you’re waiting for your new passport to arrive and you’re aching to go on a cruise, asap!) 

However, there are things to be aware of when you’re looking into going on a closed-loop cruise from the United States. With the important information we have provided here, you’ll be an informed traveler who can make the best decision for your’s and your family’s next cruise.

Interested in cruises? Read this next:

• River Cruise vs Ocean Cruise: What’s the Difference?
• How to Decide the Best Cruises to Book
• Guide to Mississippi River Cruises: Discover The Heart of America

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Where can I find information concerning actual open jaw/repositioning cruises please? All I saw here was a definition of what they are…………..

Hi John – there are an innumerable amount of cruises available and they’re constantly changing in availability and price, so it’s hard for us to list them out in an article like this. That is why, instead, we help people understand what they are. Then, you have the tools to research open-jaw or closed-jaw cruises on your own on any of the dozens and dozens of cruise line websites. If you go to any website for a cruise and search by port, you can find the itinerary. If it starts and ends in different ports, it’s considered an open-jaw cruise. Best of luck! – Mikkel

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Where Can I Cruise Without A Passport? The Best Closed-Loop Sailings From US Ports.

By: Author Elaine Warren

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories CRUISE PLANNING , Travel Documents

Cruising with a passport will usually be the best option, if you have one. But, sometimes you can’t quite pull it off. Perhaps there is no time to get a new or renewed passport (or perhaps you forgot to bring them at all !). Or, perhaps there are other obstacles to timely acquisition of a passport . You may ask yourself, “Where can I cruise without a passport?” There’s no need to panic! You still have many options for a fabulous vacation! Read on for where you can cruise without doling out money for new passports.

Why You Don’t Need A Passport To Cruise To Some Countries

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) agreement entitles all US citizens to travel on closed-loop cruises to a limited amount of international destinations.

A closed-loop cruise is one that departs and returns to the same port U.S. port. So, for instance, all of those round-trip cruises out of Miami and Fort Lauderdale are closed-loop cruises. All closed-loop cruises embark accept any of the following WHTI-permitted forms of US identification: a passport card, Enhanced Driver’s License, Trusted Traveler Program ID (FAST, SENRI, and Nexus), or an I-872 American Indian ID in place of a passport book.

WHTI passport cards are convenient and affordable because you don’t have to travel with your birth certificate and ID. 

However, a passport card is only a valid form of identification for a closed-loop cruise. It may not be used for flights to foreign destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, Bermuda, or Canada. So, if your vacation plans include flying to any of those destinations, you would need a valid US passport book.

Should you travel with your kids under 16 , they will only need an original or a copy of their birth certificate (preferably certified). Or other forms of identification like a Naturalization Document or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad document.

If you are planning on using any WHTI-approved forms of identification like a birth certificate and driver’s license. Please ensure that the full name on your cruise reservation is the same as your forms of identification. It could delay your boarding process if the variable names don’t correspond.

Most importantly, closed-loop cruise port entry requirements are not set in stone. So, review your travel itinerary in detail. Some Caribbean destinations like Guadeloupe and Martinique require valid US passport books or cards.

The Best Family Cruise Destinations Without A Passport

Now that you know how to conveniently travel to international destinations without the hassle of applying for passports, let’s look at the top travel destinations that are open to you.

Tropical Caribbean Cruises

With its sun-drenched platinum sandy beaches, aqua-hued balmy waters, fun water sports, and educational activities, the Caribbean is a prime family cruise destination.

There are numerous Caribbean cruise packages to choose from for 3-15 nights from several ports in Florida, Galveston (Texas), New Orleans (Louisiana), Charleston (South Carolina), and New York City, to name but a few.

Carnival cruises are ideal as they cater to families with budget-friendly rates. Although, should you be willing to spend a little bit more for better amenities and fun activities, consider booking a cruise on the Royal Caribbean or a Disney cruise. 

While you can use WHTI identification for cruising to most Caribbean nations, especially US islands like Puerto Rico, St Croix, St. Johns, and the St. Thomas islands, it is still advisable to check your itinerary’s port entry requirements. Some Caribbean islands such as St. Martin, Haiti, Guadeloupe and Barbados still have rules that require that visitors carry passports. Also, different rules apply to non-U.S. citizens, including green-card holders and lawful permanent residents.

Cruise To Mexico 

With its spectacular tropical beaches, delicious food, and abundance of cultural excursions to ancient Mayan ruins, our southern neighbor, Mexico, is an ideal family cruise destination.

Several 3-15 day closed-loop cruises depart from ports like Miami and Galveston to Mexico’s stunning Pacific and Caribbean coastal regions like Progresso and Cozumel. 

Many major cruise line operators like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, offer Mexican Riviera cruises departing from Los Angeles ports all year round.

There are also seasonal Mexico cruises on the Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, Disney, and Holland America cruise lines that depart from the West Coast.

Cruise To Stunning Hawaii

Many of you may be wondering why we would include Hawaii in this post. Although it is exotic, it is one of the fifty United States and no passport should be required. A cruise that sails exclusively among the individual islands of Hawaii will not require a passport. But, the analysis changes if your ship stops at any non-U.S. ports.

With its outstanding natural beauty, pristine tropical islands, and laid-back coastal living, exquisite Hawaii offers visitors a plethora of fun and cultural family excursions. 

So, if Hawaii sounds like the perfect destination, you can choose between two closed-loop cruising options that vary in length.

If you have a limited time, you can fly to Honolulu and embark on a 7–10-night cruise on  Norwegian’s Pride of America cruise liner. 

A longer, 14-18-night Hawaiian cruise, is offered by Princess, Holland America, and Carnival cruise lines. They depart from ports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. These cruises are longer as they need time to cross the Pacifica Ocean from California.

Although, if you are planning on traveling with WHTI documents, tread with caution regarding 20-night closed-loop cruises to Hawaii with the likes of Viking, Princess, and Holland America. 

While they depart and return to the West Coast, their itineraries include South Pacific Island stopovers in locations like French Polynesia that require passports. 

Balmy Bahamas Cruises

With its all-year-round sunny tropical climate, friendly locals, and fantastic beaches, the Bahamas are the perfect destination for scuba diving adventures and brightly colored cocktails.

Due to the Bahamas’ proximity to the US East Coast and its popularity, several cruise liners travel from Florida’s eastern ports in Miami, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale.

There are numerous 2-15 night closed-loop cruises to choose from. In addition, if you reside in Florida, you may get significant discounts or benefit from other promotional packages.

Most of the more extended Bahamas cruise options stop there on the way to the Caribbean. They depart from ports in Manhattan, Bayonne, Charleston, Baltimore, Galveston, New Orleans, and Tampa. 

You can shop around for Bahamas cruises at all the major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, and Disney. In addition, Holland America, Celebrity, and MSC Cruise offer closed-loop cruises to the Bahamas as well.

Canada and New England Cruises

North America’s breathtaking East Coast cruises are steeped in history with panoramic views from Nova Scotia’s rugged cliffs and drenched in Quebec’s fabulously French culture.

Most 7-night closed-loop cruises along the US and Canadian coastline depart from ports in New York City, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Boston, Bayonne, and Baltimore, and infrequently from Norfolk, mainly during the fall, albeit some 8–10-night cruises operate during other times of the year.

There are also several cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, Holland America, and Princess cruises, that also offer East Coast routes, so you can compare their rates to get a great deal. 

Why Cruising With A Passport Is Still A Good Idea

Even though you can legally cruise to several prime destinations without a passport, it’s essential in emergency medical evacuations or when your cruise ship is forced to stop over unexpectedly in a port that does not recognize the international WHTI agreement.

Another benefit of having a passport is if you miss your cruise embarkation, you can fly from the US to the ship’s first scheduled port stopover.

And in case of a family or business emergency, you will be permitted to disembark the ship earlier than expected and fly back to the US if you have a valid passport.

In stark contrast, should you not have a passport, you may be stuck in a foreign port and need to apply for a temporary passport to fly back home.

Frequently Asked Questions

So, now that you know the benefits and risks of traveling without a passport, the following information will address any lingering questions you might still have.

Do You Need A Passport For An Alaska Cruise?

Like all the previously mentioned travel destinations, you only need WHTI-certified forms of identification for close-looped cruises to Alaska from San Francisco and Seattle, including ports in Long Beach and Los Angeles, in southern California.

Although, should you travel without a passport, and book shore excursions between Alaska and Canada, like the Yukon Route and White Pass train rides, they will be limited to only 3 hours.

Do You Need A Passport To Go On A Disney Cruise?

Fortunately, you don’t need a passport book to travel to the previously mentioned international destinations on Disney cruises.

While you will need the WHTI-approved identity documents, reviewing your itinerary’s port entry requirements before departure is essential.

Do You Need A Passport To Go To Bermuda On A Cruise?

If you are cruising to Bermuda , you don’t necessarily need a US passport. Instead, you can use the following documents: a US passport card, a Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST card), or an enhanced driver’s license.

Do I Need A Passport For A Cruise To Cozumel?

Cozumel is one of the most accessible cruise destinations for US citizens. You don’t need a passport to embark on any round-trip cruise, and you can step on board with any government-issued proof of identity document. It’s as easy as that!

Do You Need A Passport To Go To Jamaica On A Cruise?

Even though a US passport is not required to take a cruise to Jamaica. The US embassy advises against traveling without one as it may delay your disembarking process upon your return.

Closing Thoughts

It turns out there are quite a few options for where you can cruise without a passport. Book a closed-loop cruise, and you can cruise to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico, to name a few. Of course, we always recommend confirming any travel plans and documents required with your chosen cruise line.

Elaine Warren

Founder & Crew Chief

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Closed Loop Cruise: What Is It? Everything you need to know

Closed Loop Cruise: Have you ever had a few days to spare and an intense urge to travel to the warm Caribbean or on an adventure in Alaska, only to discover that you are missing your passport or that it has expired? You can benefit from the ease of a closed-loop trip as a citizen of the United States—you don’t even need a passport for this.

A Closed Loop Cruise: What Is It?

The cruise ports in Cozumel are home to the massive cruise ships Carnival Valor and Carnival Conquest.

Beginning and ending in the same U.S. port is a closed-loop trip. Take a voyage that starts and ends in Miami, Florida, or sail nonstop from Seattle, Alaska.

A cruise that starts and ends in different ports in the United States (such as Miami and Fort Lauderdale) is not considered a closed-loop trip.

Typically, a closed-loop cruise would leave from Miami, Florida, make her way to Bermuda and the Caribbean, and then return to Miami.

Miami, Florida, is home to an MSC cruise ship. Cruises that depart from the United States and are round-trip must fulfill certain requirements.

Ships flying foreign flags are required by U.S. maritime law to make a minimum of one port call in a foreign nation.

Because most cruise ships operate under foreign flags, Alaskan itineraries often involve a stop in Canada, and Hawaiian cruises are rather uncommon.

Since most Caribbean and Bahamas sailings already entail international travel, they don’t need to worry about the need.

The cruise must start and conclude in the United States to be eligible for closed-loop classification. It can, however, travel to adjacent contiguous regions or islands, such as the Caribbean, Bermuda, Mexico, and Canada, that are part of the continental United States.

Cruise Ship Pilot: What is their Role and Responsibility?

Is a passport required for closed-loop cruises?

Passports are typically not required for closed-loop cruises. This is among the factors contributing to the popularity of these routes. Of course, if you have a passport or passport card, you can use them as identification. On closed-loop cruises, however, citizens of the United States are permitted entry and exit of the nation upon presentation of valid identification.

In addition to a birth certificate or passport, an enhanced driver’s license proves citizenship and identity.

They can be used to re-enter the United States at land, sea, and air border crossings, but not at airports.

The original, notarized, or certified copy of a birth certificate is acceptable for minors under 16.

Social Security numbers and voter registration cards are not accepted as evidence of citizenship.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the United States, there are still additional regulations. Although the U.S. government does not mandate passport ownership, it is always wise to check the regulations at the places on the itinerary, as they may change. To re-enter the country if you are an LPR, you will require an I-551 or Green Card. And whether or not you’re on a closed-loop cruise, you’ll need a passport if you’re not a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States.

What is a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship and does it work?

There are a few things to be aware of if you decide to take advantage of this chance to travel without a passport. For instance, let’s say something goes wrong and you have to take a plane back to the United States. In this scenario, boarding an airplane would require a passport.

Additionally, you’ll have to find your way home or catch up with the trip if you miss the ship in one of the ports, which could be challenging without a passport. That won’t occur if you reserve an excursion with Celebrity Cruises, as the ship will wait for you.

What Documents Are Necessary for Non-US Nationals on a Closed-Loop Cruise?

For U.S. citizens, the majority of Caribbean islands just demand a picture ID. They may, however, demand a photo ID and a Permanent Resident Card from a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) (also known as a green card or I-551).

Should you not be a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident, you will need to provide the necessary paperwork, which may include a passport. Passports are required for all cruises, even closed-loop sailings, for non-citizens of the United States.

According to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, U.S. citizens can enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID, including:

• U.S. Passport
• Passport Card
• Birth Certificate
• Enhanced Driver’s License
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)
• U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders
• U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business
• Form I-872 American Indian Card
• Enhanced Tribal Card

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What Is A Closed-Loop Cruise: ID, Tips, Best Itineraries

There are many types of cruises, but in recent years one that is becoming more popular is the closed-loop cruise. One reason for this is simple; there are no passport requirements.

However, travelers do need appropriate government-issued documentation when they cruise. This particular type of itinerary begins and ends in the same U.S. port. and sails entirely within the Western Hemisphere.

They are considered round-trip cruises that start and end in U.S. ports.

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) 

The  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  (WHTI) is where the concept of a closed-loop cruise started. The WHTI is a result of the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission following the terrorist attacks in 2001. 

The goal was to improve and strengthen border protection for the United States. However, an additional goal was to make the process of entering the U.S. more efficient and convenient. 

Several parts of the initiative deal with citizens from Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda, in addition to the United States.  

The WHTI introduced the concept of a ‘closed-loop cruise’ as a cruise that begins and ends in the same U.S. port. This type of sailing was granted special documentation requirements to simplify travel.

Specifically, on a closed-loop cruise, U.S. citizens were required to have only a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID.

This was a significant difference as not all Americans want the hassle or expense of getting a passport. Being able to travel without a passport encourages international exploration.

As Canadians who love to travel, my wife Karen and I have had passports since we were young adults. Also, since Karen was born in Singapore to British parents (her Dad was in the British army), traveling is in her blood! 

However, passports may be unnecessary for millions of Americans born and raised in states such as Florida, California, or Texas. They could drive to the nearest cruise port, take a closed-loop cruise, and see another part of the world.

The only restrictions are that the cruise ship must remain within the Western Hemisphere and return to the same cruise port they departed from.

The Jones Act And the Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA)

The Jones Act and Passenger Vessel Services Act were established over 100 years ago in 1886. These  two acts  of maritime law restrict cruise ships that are NOT U.S.-built, owned, and documented.

A cruise company that does not register its ships in the U.S. must include an international port in its itinerary if it departs and returns from a U.S. port. A typical example of this is Alaska cruises that sail out of Seattle.  

These Alaska cruises typically stop in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, to comply with the Jones Act. If they don’t, the cruise line will face USD 778 per passenger fines! 

To have reduced regulations impacting their operations, virtually all cruise companies have their ships registered in tax havens such as the Bahamas.

As a company in a foreign country, this enables them to have a more cost-effective operation and offer lower prices to customers.

Norwegian’s Pride of America is one cruise ship that maintains U.S. documentation and registration. This ship cruises exclusively around the Hawaiian Islands but is considered a U.S.-based cruise ship and not within the restrictions of the Jones Act.

Are U.S. Territories Eligible As U.S. Ports?

Yes, permanent residents or U.S. citizens residing in any U.S. Territories can sail in a closed-loop cruise from their ports of call.

This includes the following territories:

• Puerto Rico
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• American Samoa
• Swains Island
• Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Old San Juan , Puerto Rico, is a popular embarkation port because it puts you further south in the Caribbean.

What Are the Benefits of a Closed-Loop Cruise?

There are many benefits to these cruises. Here are a few reasons you may want to book this type of cruise:

• Begin and end at the same port.
• Many options since they are the most popular type of cruise.
• You can park close to the port and retrieve your vehicle at the same location.
• Book round-trip flights.
• Planning is simple.
• Great for international travel.

You can use one word to describe these cruises –  Simple ! They are easy to travel to since you need just a round-trip flight. 

If you live within driving distance of the cruise port, you can have your car waiting when you disembark. The majority of cruises from the U.S. are closed-loop.

It’s easy to book multiple (back-to-back) cruises in regions like the Caribbean. Book a 2nd cruise with a different itinerary leaving from the same port.

Pre-Covid, we had booked three back-to-back cruises, all sailing from Fort Lauderdale and Miami. This enabled us to try different cruise lines and different ships but with a single flight from Vancouver to Florida.

Travel Documentation Requirements

Although a passport is not required, you should still plan on bringing other government-issued photo IDs and proof of citizenship.

Proof of citizenship can be one of the following:

• Birth Certificate – original or copy is acceptable.
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
• Certificate of Naturalization.

A photo ID can be one of the following:

• Green Card.
• Enhanced Driver’s License.
• U.S. Passport Card.

Note the photo ID cards all use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to reduce time during screening or at checkpoints.

What Is An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)?

An enhanced driver’s license is a low-cost travel document that indicates both your identity and citizenship.

The application cost varies by state but is typically USD 40-60 in addition to the price of a primary driver’s license.

However, only Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington currently issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses.

What Is A U.S. Passport Card?

A United States Passport Card is a low-cost, limited-use travel document produced by the Department of State. It is not accepted for international air travel.

At the time of this writing, the application fee is USD 30.

Where Can You Cruise From?

You can take a closed-loop cruise from any cruise port in the United States. Here are a few of the most popular U.S. cruise ports:

• Fort Lauderdale
• Los Angeles
• New York City
• San Francisco

What Countries Can You Visit?

Since these cruises stay within the Western Hemisphere, this provides a broad list of available countries.

The Western Hemisphere includes Northern America, Central America, South America, Polynesia, Greenland, Western Africa, and parts of Europe.

The following countries are in the Americas and lie entirely within the Western Hemisphere region:

Outside of the Americas, there are other countries within the boundaries of the Western Hemisphere. The following countries or territories are also within and available for cruising from a U.S. port.

• Northern Ireland

However, most cruises that would be round-trip from a U.S. port to these destinations would not qualify as a closed loop. These cruises would likely include ports beyond the Western Hemisphere.

Popular Cruise Options

Here are a few cruises that qualify as closed-loop according to the WHTI guidelines.

Alaska Cruises

Cruising to Alaska is on the bucket list of many travelers. We love it so much that we cruised there twice last year!

Alaska cruises depart from Vancouver or Seattle , as well as San Francisco and Los Angeles. However, only Seattle and San Francisco qualify as closed-loop cruises within the WHTI guidelines. 

San Francisco cruises are a minimum of 10 days due to the extra distance in sailing from California. Seattle cruises are typically seven days but can be up to 14 days in a close-loop format.

Due to the arctic climate, the Alaska cruise season is short and only from May to September. You can get the best price if you’re willing to cruise on the fringe season in May or September. 

Caribbean Cruise

The Caribbean is a  perfect January cruise  for anyone wanting to escape the winter cold. Most Caribbean itineraries sailing out of Florida and Texas are continuous loops because they depart from and return to the same port.

According to Marine Insight, the Port of Miami, Port Canaveral, and Port Everglades, all in Florida, are the Top Three Largest Cruise Ports in the World.

Mexican Riviera

For those U.S. citizens living on the west coast or in California, the Mexican Riviera is an excellent closed-loop cruise. Most cruises depart from Los Angeles, but some also depart from San Diego or San Francisco.

The most popular  Mexican Riviera cruise ports include Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta on 7-day cruises. However, La Paz, Loreto, and Manzanillo are popular on longer cruises of 8-14 days.

The Mexican Riviera cruise season is year-round, with the winter months of December to April considered peak season.

New England

Travelers love New England because it experiences four seasons and is rich in history. This region is served primarily by American Cruise Lines (ACL), with smaller ships carrying less than 200 passengers.

Departure ports include Boston, Providence-Rhode Island, and Portland-Maine. Cruise length ranges from 6-11 nights with all destination ports within New England.

South Pacific/ Polynesia

Another exotic continuous loop cruise includes Hawaii and Polynesia. Just south of the Equator, Polynesia and year-round warm temperatures and gentle Pacific breezes.

The cruise departs and returns to Los Angeles, and typical itineraries are 28 to 32 days.

World Cruises

A world cruise is on the bucket list for many cruisers, but the cost can be prohibitive. Many world cruises start and end at the same U.S. port, such as Los Angeles, Miami, or Fort Lauderdale.

However, only partial world cruises can be considered “closed-loop.” This is due to the restriction that the itinerary must be exclusively in the Western Hemisphere.

This partial world cruise shown above is a 74-night cruise leaving Fort Lauderdale and includes all of South America and the Antarctic. This itinerary is a closed-loop cruise because it remains in the Western Hemisphere and starts and ends from a U.S. port.

As a closed-loop cruise, you would not need a passport according to WHTI requirements. However, you would benefit by having a passport in case some countries require one.

Regardless, this shows the rich itineraries possible in a closed-loop cruise. There are many exciting cruises available that can be considered a closed loop.

What Cruise Lines Offer Closed Loop Cruises

All major cruise lines that sail from U.S. ports of call offer these types of cruises. Here’s a short list of cruises lines you can consider:

• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Royal Caribbean
• Princess Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America
• Disney Cruises
• MSC Cruises

Luxury and premium cruise lines such as Silversea, Oceania, Cunard, or Regent Seven Seas also offer closed-loop cruises. However, their fleet of ships is usually limited, with fewer options for itineraries.

How To Book Your Cruise

You can book the same as you book any other cruise. Book through your local travel agent if you want to let a professional handle all the details. Just let them know you want a ‘Closed-Loop Cruise,’ and they will find what you need.

Travel agents can book your transfers, excursions, flights, and more. The cost may be slightly higher than booking yourself, but you’ll feel less stressed by leaving it to the experts.

One of our favorite sites for booking online is  VacationsToGo . They claim to be the World’s Largest Cruise Agency, but I shop there for the prices! 

When booking through their site, select a region within the Western Hemisphere and check the box for “Return to Same Port.” Also, if you have a cruise port near you, select that as your departure port to focus your search. 

Other popular online sites include Expedia.com, CruiseCritic.com, iCruise.com, and many others. You can also book through the cruise lines’ site, but they frequently have higher prices.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the worst day cruising is still better than the best day “back in the office!” However, we are lifelong cruisers, and I may be biased.

Closed loop cruises are a specific category of cruise that makes it a bit easier to cruise. There are so many potential destinations that you could do 10 or 20 closed-loop cruises that were all different.

Consider Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, or even a partial world cruise. All of these can be compliant with WHTI’s guidelines if booked correctly.

If you haven’t cruised before, a closed-loop cruise is a great way to get started. I hope you’ll eventually love cruising as much as we do!

Thursday 3rd of August 2023

Some of your information seems to conflict with what I read on the US Customs and Border Protection page. It's my understanding that a passport is required for sea travel on closed loop cruises that travel to South American countries.

Forever Karen

Sunday 6th of August 2023

The US Customs and Border Protection Page says "U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) are able to enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Please be aware that you MAY still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting." Emphasis on the word "May."

Privacy Overview

You don't have to wait for a passport to travel: What to know about closed-loop cruises

When Chanel Sims graduated college, her mom rewarded her achievement by treating her daughter to a trip with Carnival Cruise Line .

But the July 2022 sailing – shortly after her graduation in May – didn’t leave Sims much time to get a key travel document: her passport.

Sims, now 24, had never gotten one. She tried once before to study abroad but was dissuaded by long wait times , and traveling internationally for fun wasn’t on her radar.

“I was a broke college student. I wasn’t going anywhere,” said Sims, who lives in Los Angeles and works for a life insurance agency.

Luckily for her, there was an alternative: She sailed with her family from Miami to the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and back with just her photo ID and birth certificate.

In many cases, travelers can sail without a passport on round-trip voyages from the U.S. Here’s what to know.

What is a closed-loop cruise?

Closed-loop cruises are those that start and end at the same U.S. port and travel within the Western Hemisphere.

U.S. citizens booked on those sailings can leave and enter the country with proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate and – if 16 or older – a government-issued photo ID, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection .

They can also use an enhanced driver’s license , which denotes both proofs of identity and citizenship, though those are available only in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington for now. Travelers can reenter the country from Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico with an EDL, but the documents are valid for border crossings only by sea or land.

Travelers under 16 can show an “original, notarized or certified copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by Department of State, (DOS) and/or Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS),” according to Customs and Border Protection’s website.

Cruise lines may require you to have a passport anyway, however.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, for example, requires passports for all voyages no matter the ports of call or countries visited, and destinations may call for them as well.

Carnival, which Sims sailed with, allows U.S. citizens to sail without a passport on qualifying cruises but "highly recommends that all guests travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond completion of travel," according to its website .

How do I know if I can sail without a passport?

Cruise lines typically provide guidance for travelers on the requirements of their sailing, according to Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of travel agency franchise Dream Vacations. A travel adviser can also help fill in any blanks.

Cruising without a passport can be risky, though. The State Department encourages having one "in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port," according to its website .

If travelers get stuck at a port of call, there will be “a lot of red tape you have to get through” to make it home without one, Daly said.

In those cases, they should contact the U.S. Embassy and local immigration authorities, he said. Daly also recommended taking a photo of your government IDs, which can be helpful backups when dealing with officials.

A travel adviser can hold travelers’ hands through the process, though Daly noted “it’s not something that happens a lot.”

Sims, for her part, was able to easily get off the ship at ports like Nassau with just her Sail & Sign card, she said, which acts as both a room key and means of charging items to your onboard account. After showing her birth certificate and photo ID during the initial boarding process, she kept them in a suitcase.

There are other advantages to having a passport. For instance, the document gives travelers who don't board their cruise in time more flexibility to meet the ship at its next stop. “You can’t fly to Mexico without a passport,” Daly said.

Routine processing of passports currently takes between 10 and 13 weeks, and seven to nine weeks for expedited service, according to the State Department . But most travelers who book with Dream Vacations plan their cruises at least six months out, according to Daly, which should give them plenty of time to get one: “So, we still highly encourage that.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected] .

7 Places to Cruise Without a Passport

You've decided you want a vacation, but there's a problem -- you're a U.S. citizen and you don't have a passport. Maybe you've never had the time, money or desire to travel abroad previously, or perhaps your old passport has expired. Whatever the reason, you still have choices.

One option is to take a closed-loop cruise -- a round-trip sailing that leaves from and returns to the same U.S. port. For that, you need only a birth certificate and a driver's license (or other acceptable, government-issued photo ID).

You can't cruise just anywhere on a closed-loop sailing, but the choices are more interesting than you might expect. Below, we've compiled a list of seven places to visit without a passport, from scenic Alaska to the beachy Caribbean.

On This Page

Canada and new england.

If you love the great outdoors and want to surround yourself with nature, an Alaska cruise is perfect. Sail past glaciers; spot whales, moose and bald eagles; capture breathtaking photos on a mountaintop train ride; and cuddle with sled dog puppies. Or just enjoy a meal of fresh salmon or crab while you're ashore -- no passport needed.

Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles are the only U.S. departure ports that offer closed-loop Alaska sailings. Sailings departing from Vancouver, Canada and Victoria require a valid passport to enter Canada. One-way sailings from Vancouver to Alaska or vice-versa also require a valid passport for entry into Canada.

Home to beaches, water sports, casinos and the famed Atlantis resort, cruising to the Bahamas is great for traveling without a passport. Cruisers can find short, affordable sailings out of Florida .

A number of East Coast and Gulf Coast homeports offer round-trip Bahamas cruises. They include Baltimore, Bayonne (Cape Liberty), Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Galveston, Jacksonville, New York (Manhattan), Miami, Norfolk and Orlando (Port Canaveral).

For anyone who'd prefer a passport-not-required destination that can be explored during a short amount of time in port, cruising to Bermuda is a natural fit. It's a fairly small island, and since several itineraries offer overnights (some that span more than one night), you'll have time to learn your way around, have dinner in town and check out the nightlife.

Residents of the East Coast have several choices when it comes to homeports, which include Baltimore, Bayonne (Cape Liberty), Boston and New York (Manhattan). Additionally, Miami, Norfolk, Charleston and Orlando (Port Canaveral), sometimes offer one-off cruises to Bermuda.

Known for everything from shopping and sunbathing to history and adventure activities like ziplining, waterfall swimming and quad bike riding, the Caribbean is a solid bet if you'd like a wider variety of closed-loop itinerary choices and departure port options. The Caribbean can be broken down into the following sub-regions:

Eastern Caribbean: U.S. Virgin Islands, French West Indies, British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic, as well as ports like Grand Turk, St. Kitts, Antigua, St. Lucia and others

Southern Caribbean: the ABC Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, French West Indies, the Dominican Republic, Grand Turk, Antigua, St. Kitts, Barbados, St. Barts, St. Vincent, Bequia, San Juan, Dominica, Grenada and others

Western Caribbean: Jamaica, Honduras, Mexico, Cuba and others

U.S. departure ports vary widely; they include Baltimore, Bayonne (Cape Liberty), Charleston, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Galveston, New York (Manhattan), Miami, New Orleans, Orlando (Port Canaveral) and Tampa. Los Angeles and Norfolk also offer occasional one-off, closed-loop sailings to the Caribbean .

One thing to note: Some ports, including Martinique and Guadeloupe, will not allow cruisers to get off the ship and enter the country without a passport. While you might not need your passport for the other ports or the cruise in general, you could find yourself needing one -- even on closed-loop voyages -- in order to visit these ports.

Cruises to Canada and New England are every autumn-lover's dream. Known for their leaf-peeping opportunities, maritime history and ultra-friendly locals, these voyages don't necessitate passports. From Nova Scotia's famed Peggy's Cove to lobster in Bar Harbor, there's plenty to enjoy about these sailings.

Baltimore, Bayonne (Cape Liberty), Boston and New York (Manhattan) are the embarkation ports that serve these itineraries. Keep in mind, however: one-way cruises between New York and places like Montreal and Quebec City will require passengers to have passports, as these sailings conclude in Canada.

Part of America but still exotic enough for an ideal getaway, Hawaii offers black-sand beaches, volcanic vistas, surfing opportunities, amazing food and, of course, hula dancing. A closed-loop cruise to this part of the map often means flying to Honolulu, which you can do passport-free, but airfare can be pricey. Closed-loops from the West Coast are also available, but they involve a large number of sea days, and they must include at least one foreign port before returning to the West Coast, due to maritime laws for foreign-flagged ships.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America and UnCruise's Safari Explorer , both U.S.-flagged vessels, are the only cruise ships based in Hawaii. Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu , while Safari Explorer offers cruises between Molokai and the Big Island. Other lines and ships offer there-and-back Hawaii itineraries from ports like San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Mexican Riviera voyages are a great choice for passport-less would-be cruisers who live on (or cruise from) the West Coast. Not only does Mexico offer some spectacular food and culture, but sailings to the region tend to be more affordable than those to Hawaii, a region that's also frequently accessed via West Coast homeports.

Mexico cruises most frequently depart from Los Angeles (San Pedro and Long Beach), San Francisco and San Diego.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Here's When You Need (and Don't Need) a Passport to Cruise

T o 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

Copyright 2023 U.S. News & World Report

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6 Places to Cruise Without a Passport

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If you thought you needed a passport to head overseas on every single trip, think again. Those long waits for passport applications or renewals , even if you finally secured an in-person appointment , aren't needed for some cruise vacations. 

Yes, it can come as quite a surprise that you can cross a U.S. border and visit a foreign country without this important document, but it’s true. The secret: closed-loop cruises. These are cruises that depart from a U.S. port, visit other countries, then return to a U.S. port of entry.

This loophole, if you want to call it that, is the result of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative designed to allow travel to and within North American countries on a cruise ship. Instead of a passport, passengers will need to carry a valid U.S. driver’s license and proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or certificate of U.S. naturalization should suffice). 

Armed with this piece of advice, international travel aboard these no-passport cruises can be your ticket to a unique vacation. You no longer have to deal with bureaucracy and long waits for first-time applications or renewals.

Here are six cruises that don’t require a passport.

Places to cruise without a passport 

1. alaska-canada.

Wait a minute, you’re thinking. Alaska is a U.S. state. True, but Alaskan cruises can sometimes make stops in parts of British Columbia, like Victoria. If so, you can still visit as long as the cruise you take begins and ends in the U.S. 

Alaska is a popular vacation destination for its majestic scenery, glacier-filled landscape and outdoor adventures from dog-sledding to helicopter rides over the mountains. Seeing this part of the country by ship is one of the most convenient and beautiful ways to get around.

You can also find Alaskan cruises that start and end in Vancouver, British Columbia, which don't technically qualify as passportless cruises unless you cross the border from the U.S. into Canada by land using two pieces of approved government identification: an enhanced driver’s license (currently available to residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington state only) and a U.S. birth certificate.

With those two approved documents and traveling overland into Canada, it is possible to do a one-way cruise starting or ending in Vancouver as an American without a passport. Note that flying across the border would require a passport, however.

Royal Caribbean’s seven-night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier cruise aboard Radiance of the Seas, for example, departs from Vancouver and disembarks in Seward, Alaska.

2. The Bahamas

The Bahamas is a Caribbean nation of islands and a popular cruise destination. Because of its proximity to the U.S., there are often shorter three-night cruises from Florida that make it easy to snag a good deal on a whim. Plus, it qualifies as an option for cruises without passports.

For many people without or in between passport applications, it can be disappointing to have to ignore last-minute deals . That’s no longer the case when you take advantage of cruises you can go on without a passport.

There's excellent shopping, dining and water sports activities in many ports like Nassau and Freeport. Another popular option is buying a day pass to mega resorts like Baha Mar and Atlantis , both of which welcome cruise visitors for the day.

Three-day cruises aboard Carnival Conquest depart Miami for the Bahamas, but return back to Miami. This means U.S. passengers don't need a passport for this closed-loop sailing.

Cruises to Bermuda are almost always closed-loop sailings from a U.S. port, save for a few transatlantic trips. This means you can visit the British territory without the worry of having a valid passport.

Bermuda has beautiful golf courses, historic forts and excellent dining. Many cruises overnight here to give passengers time to get out and explore. 

There are sailings aboard Celebrity Cruise Line's Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Eclipse that don't require passports as they depart a U.S. port, travel to Bermuda for a few nights, then return to a U.S. port.

4. U.S. Northeast-Canada

If you’re looking for culture and history in the northeast, cruises that depart New England for parts of Canada are a great option.

Closed-loop cruises that depart and end in the U.S. negate the need for a passport (despite stops in Canadian ports), and like Alaskan cruises, one-way sailings remain an option if you choose to drive across the U.S.-Canada border and hold an enhanced driver’s license to cross.

From urban destinations like Boston and Halifax to picturesque destinations like Bar Harbor, Maine, and Saint John, New Brunswick, cruises like these trade palm trees and sunscreen for evergreens and rain jackets. This itinerary on Celebrity's Celebrity Summit ship doesn't require a passport because of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

» Learn more: Your guide to the U.S.-Canada border crossing

5. Other Caribbean islands

There are a lot of options when it comes to visiting Caribbean islands.

U.S. cruise ports line the coastline including places like:

Fort Lauderdale.

Port Canaveral.

Galveston, Texas.

Mobile, Alabama. 

New Orleans.

As long as your cruise departs and returns to a U.S. port, you won’t need to bring a passport.

Various cruises that depart locations like these visit several islands in the region, including:

Grand Cayman.

St. Maarten.

Aside from water sports and outdoor adventure, you can visit markets, explore historic sites, meander through the town center on some islands and discover what makes the Caribbean a diverse region.

If you are wary about taking advantage of this benefit (perhaps some people in your party have a passport and others don’t), consider a cruise to U.S. island territories instead. These include Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John). Traveling by plane or ship to these island paradise destinations is considered a domestic trip. 

Carnival offers many Caribbean cruise options including sailings that depart and return to U.S. ports like Baltimore, Norfolk and New Orleans. These don't require a passport as they are closed-loop sailings.

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You can find cruises from either U.S. coast to Mexico with its glittering beaches, historic landmarks and incredible cuisine.

As long as the ship you are taking departs and returns to a U.S. port, these are some of the cruises that don’t require a passport. Passport-free, you can visit ports like:

Cabo San Lucas.

Puerto Vallarta. 

This four-night departure aboard Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas makes a visit to Cozumel before returning back to Texas.

» Learn more: Is cruise travel insurance worth the cost?

Can you cruise without a passport?

Yes, there are several cruises without passport requirements that you can book. This is welcome news for those whose passports may have expired, for families who want to opt out of buying short-term passports for children , or haven't had a chance to renew their passport. 

However, it is preferable to have a passport with you (in the event you need medical care and have to stay in the country, for example). Purchasing cruise travel insurance or booking your trip with a credit card that includes coverage can also mitigate the risks of travel emergencies.

A cruise is an easy way to visit many new places without having to unpack and pack again. When you discover a place you want to return to, you can plan another trip, perhaps with a new passport in hand.

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What Is A Closed-Loop Cruise And Do You Need To Pack Your Passport?

Travel by train, vehicle, or airplane has its perks, but adventurers looking for time on the waves often choose to cruise instead. Luxury and fun on the high seas continue to be something that increasingly appeals to travelers worldwide. It's projected that by 2028, the global cruise market will become an industry worth over $15 billion.

Some of this market growth can be attributed to the cruise industry's commitment to customized sailing. Travelers have more options than ever when it comes to themed cruises designed to focus on health, adventure, or family fun. Travelers can also enjoy a variety related to the type of cruise they book with ocean cruises, river cruises, and casual, and luxury experiences alike all readily available.

Over 30 million passengers globally choose to cruise each year. While the Caribbean and the Bahamas top the list of popular destinations, the Mediterranean follows closely behind, as well as Alaska, Australasia, and mainland Europe.

There are currently more than 2,000 ports worldwide for travelers to explore. However, before boarding a ship with international destinations on the itinerary, it's likely the right identification is required. The U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs recommends all travelers departing from the U.S. have a passport book in hand.

The exception to this rule is the closed-loop cruise. Ships within this category must satisfy strict regulations to achieve closed-loop status. Once they do, it's a cruise option that can be a viable solution for those who aren't passport holders.

A route to cruising passport-free

U.S. Customs and Border Protection defines a closed-loop cruise as one that both begins and ends at the same U.S. port. As long as these cruises return to the place they started, they can cruise to destinations such as islands and territories that are within proximity to the continental United States. These destinations often include Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

There are some real advantages for travelers booking a closed-loop cruise. Because these cruises start and end at the same port, those flying in to board their ship can easily book round-trip flights. Passengers driving in will find that options to park directly at the point of departure can make the trip that much more convenient.

Additionally, U.S. travelers on closed-loop cruises won't typically have to worry about having a passport to enjoy the experience. Instead, U.S. Customs and Border Protection allows U.S. citizens 16 and older to enter and leave the country using alternative proof of citizenship. Approved forms of identification include a birth certificate or a government-issued photo ID, with additional documentation requirements in place for travelers 16 and under.

Closed-loop cruise considerations to keep in mind

Exploring Alaska, Mexico, Grand Cayman, the Caribbean , or the Bahamas on a closed-loop cruise can be thrilling. It can also be a convenient option when passport-free travel is a priority. That said, there are always important exceptions to consider when it comes to passport requirements and a closed-loop cruise is no different.

A prime example would be if a closed-loop cruise stops at a port of entry on the island of Martinique. This destination requires all U.S. citizens to hold a valid passport to enter the country. Passengers without a passport would be required to stay onboard the ship at this point in the cruise which could put a damper on the fun if it's something unexpected.

Another consideration to keep in mind is that it is cruise line policy to depart on time at all times. Passengers who don't keep track of the ship schedule while exploring ports of call face the real possibility of being left behind. When this happens, passengers are responsible for flying themselves home or to the next port of call. Unlike closed-loop cruises, airlines do require passports for international travel, which can prove to be a difficult scenario for those cruising without this form of identification.

For those without a passport, a closed-loop cruise can be a great option. Simply make sure to double-check your itinerary and the U.S. Department of State website before departure. This will ensure setting sail is as stress-free as it should be.

On These Cruises, You Don’t Need a Passport

There are plenty of wonderful sailings you can take that don’t require a passport, including to foreign countries..

• Copy Link copied

Sail to Bermuda on a closed-loop cruise from the East Coast and a passport isn’t mandatory.

Courtesy of Unsplash

If you get the urge to cruise and your passport has expired , or you have made a last-minute decision to take the kids and they don’t have passports , you may be wondering, do I need a passport to go on a cruise? In select destinations, you do not need a passport to go on a cruise. Whether you should cruise without a passport is another matter (there are some risks that we’ll get into below).

To cruise without a passport, you need to stay in the Western Hemisphere and sail from the United States on a “closed-loop” itinerary , which means you leave from and come back to the same U.S. port. The rules for sea travel were established under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative . Cruises to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Canada, New England, Mexico, Bermuda, and Hawai‘i all fit these criteria.

Keep in mind the “closed-loop” bit. If your ship is not returning to the same port—for instance, if you are eyeing a one-way Panama Canal sailing from Los Angeles to Miami—you do need a passport. You will also be limited on some Caribbean itineraries, as select islands such as St. Bart’s and Martinique do require a passport, which means your cruise line will require a passport before you board the ship.

If there is a passport requirement, each person needs to have one, including infants and toddlers.

All cruises everywhere else in the world that sail in destinations outside the United States require a passport.

What I.D. you’ll need instead of a passport

If you are on a closed-loop cruise that begins and ends in the U.S. and visits Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, all you need to do is prove you are a U.S. citizen , and this applies to everyone in your party. Options here, in lieu of a passport, include an Enhanced Driver’s License , which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of U.S. citizenship (currently available only to residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington); a government-issued birth certificate; or an official Certificate of Naturalization . Note that the birth certificate can’t be the cute one with the baby’s footprints issued by the hospital; it needs to be issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the child was born.

If you are age 16 and up, and without a passport, you will also need to present a photo I.D. such as a state-issued I.D. or driver’s license. The photo I.D. must include your photo, name, and date of birth.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides a detailed description of the requirements . If you have any questions, check with your travel agent or cruise line. You don’t want to be turned away at the pier for lack of proper identification.

The risks of not bringing a passport on an international sailing

Even on closed-loop sailings in North America, cruise lines typically strongly recommend that you have a passport. The reason: While you’re in a Caribbean country, Canada, or Mexico, you could encounter issues if for any reason you need to cut your trip short and fly home. Passports are required to fly back to the U.S.

This point should be top-of-mind especially because of COVID-19 and any other medical emergency that would require the trip to be altered or a medical evacuation. You’ll also be glad you have a passport if you encounter other unforeseen circumstances such as a family emergency or a sailing cut short due to bad weather or technical issues.

If you don’t have a passport, you will also run into problems should you miss boarding your ship at the correct time and need to fly home or to the next port of call.

Passport cards, a form of government I.D. that is cheaper than a passport book, can get you on the ship but are valid for entering the USA by land and sea only. They don’t work for air travel.

Where you can cruise without a passport

You can cruise Alaska either on closed-loop sailings from Seattle that stop in Canada along the way, or fly to Alaska and take a cruise that remains within the state.

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

See a glacier calve, spot whales, and explore wilderness towns on “closed-loop” sailings from Seattle on lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , and Princess . The sailings visit Canada for a day, but no passport is required.

For small-ship fans, other options include sailings that do not leave Alaska, such as those of UnCruise Adventures , Lindblad Expeditions , and Alaska Native–owned Alaskan Dream Cruises .

Kick back on the beach at Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay in the Bahamas.

Photo by Peter Hansen/Unsplash

Quick three- to five-day hops to the Bahamas bring you to white-sand beaches and cruise lines’ private islands at an affordable price, with no passport required. If you are on a longer cruise that visits other Caribbean islands, you’ll want to check with your cruise line about any passport requirements.

Among the many options are Disney Cruise Line sailings from Port Canaveral (near Orlando) that visit Disney’s private island Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, and Miami that head to the extravagant waterpark at the line’s private island CocoCay. Virgin Voyages’ ships are limited to age 18 and up and bring you to Virgin’s classy Beach Club at Bimini. For a fancy small ship, check out sailings on the 298-passenger Evrima , the first yacht from the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, sailing to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale.

Closed-loop cruises from New York City, Boston, Baltimore, and Port Canaveral from lines such as MSC Cruises , Norwegian , Celebrity , and Royal Caribbean head to the famous pink-sand beaches and golf courses of Bermuda. In October, Disney does sailings from New York that add the bonus of Halloween activities with special spooky movies and “ghoulish treats” for passengers of all ages. Other lines sailing to Bermuda on closed-loop itineraries include the foodie-focused upscale brand Oceania Cruises , also from New York.

Caribbean cruises to the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico are a safe bet for those who don’t have a passport.

Photo by Ethan Jameson/Unsplash

Year-round Caribbean cruises are ideal vacations for sun-seekers looking for blue skies, powdery sand, and time spent relaxing under swaying palm trees. Round-trip itineraries that don’t require a passport embark from ports that include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa in Florida; Mobile, Alabama; New Orleans; and Galveston, Texas, on all the big ship lines, including Royal Caribbean’s mega-ships , the largest in the world.

You won’t run into any passport requirements on tried-and-true routes from U.S. ports such as those that visit Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands—St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John—which are all part of the United States. You can also fly in to embark on cruises from these destinations.

However, when looking at small ships and larger ships on more expansive routes, keep in mind some islands—including Martinique, Guadeloupe, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and St. Bart’s—do require a passport.

Head up the Eastern seaboard for dramatic shoreline views.

Photo by Julie Haider/Unsplash

New England and Canada

If your calling card is lobsters, rugged coastline, whale-spotting, colonial history, or fall colors, all are accessible on itineraries that sail round-trip from Boston, New York, and Bayonne, New Jersey, on lines that include Celebrity , Norwegian , and Royal Caribbean .

On one-way sailings, such as between Montreal and Boston on Holland America Line , you will need a passport to fly to or from Canada.

Get a view of Kaua‘i’s stunning landscapes from the vantage point of the sea on any number of Hawai‘i cruises.

Photo by Braden Jarvis/Unsplash

There are two ways to cruise to the volcanoes, tropical forests, whales, and surfing beaches of Hawai‘i without a passport. One is on a cruise where you fly in and spend your entire vacation in and around the islands. The other is a long slog, closed-loop sailing from a California port or Seattle, with a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, and several days at sea getting to and from Hawai‘i.

The only big ship line with the fly-in option is Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2,186-passenger Pride of America , which is U.S.-flagged, a requirement for operating to and from a U.S. port without stopping in another country. (Foreign-flagged lines are not allowed to sail between U.S. ports without visiting another country under the Jones Act.) You can do a week on the ship from Honolulu and visit five Hawaiian Islands.

For a one-week small ship experience, book UnCruise Adventures , from Moloka‘i to the Big Island, stopping on the island of Lāna‘i and Maui. If cruising from California, with most sailings 14 nights or longer, your choices expand to such lines as Holland America , Celebrity , Viking Cruises , and Seabourn .

Sail down to Cabo from California.

Photo by Victor Hughes/Unsplash

No passport is required on western Caribbean closed-loop itineraries from the United States, offered by all the major cruise lines from Florida ports, New Orleans, Galveston, and elsewhere to places such as Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Progresso. Belize and Honduras, which are sometimes included on these itineraries, also waive their passport requirements for cruise ship passengers.

You can also cruise to the Mexican Riviera—destinations such as Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán—without a passport. These round-trip sailings typically embark from Los Angles, Long Beach, San Diego, and San Francisco. If your cruise also visits other countries, you may be required to have a passport on hand—usually the cruise lines will ask to see it but you likely won’t need it on shore. Lines doing the sailings include Princess , Holland America , Disney , Norwegian , Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean .

Passports for Closed Loop Cruise

by ML (Eden Prairie, MN )

Return to Passports for Cruises.

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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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From the Wynwood art scene to the world-renowned shores of Miami Beach, the Magic City is a perfect collision of relaxation and cultural exploration.

The atmosphere beyond the pier

The picture painted on television — clad with string bikinis, frozen drinks, and catchy 90s songs that echo its namesake — doesn’t quite do Miami justice. Sure, South Beach still radiates the colorful electricity of a gorgeous and multicultural beach not found elsewhere in the United States, but there’s so much more to uncover of Miami’s diverse identity.

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We have even more in our curated catalog., miami is the only us city that was founded by a woman — julia tuttle., port sweet port.

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• Royal Caribbean International

Closed Loop Cruise

By barbie5401 , April 4, 2010 in Royal Caribbean International

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Is the cruise from Miami that goes through the canal considered to be closed-loop, I know it goes from Miami and returns to Miami, but one of the stops requires passports. Any thoughts. Don't say get a passport, that isn't the question. Thanks.

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cruisenfever

Which cruise is leaving Miami and going through the PC? RCI has nothing listed on their website.

If you are starting in a US port and returning to the same port, then yes, it would be considered to be closed loop.

Sorry it is a 10 day from Ft. Lauderdale, it doesn't go thru the Panama Canal, Jewel of the Seas, looking at an option for next year.

I don't care what the question is.......

GET A PASSPORT!! :p ;)

Thanks for your helpful response!

madforcruising

I have not looked at the itinerary of the cruise you are talking about, but here´s my thought on it. Starting and ending in Miami would make it a closed loop cruise and thus you may not need a passport for leaving and re-entering the US. However you state there´s one port on the itinerary that requires a passport and that brings me to a point that seems often be missed in a lot of these passport discussions.

Passport in many cases are not needed first thing to leave and re-enter your home country, but to enter other countries. So even if a passport is not needed for your own home country it might well be needed for your port of call visit. It´s really not only a case of US regulations.

If you happen to get off at one of the ports, and just miss the ship for some reason, you will sure wish you had a passport with you.

Are you asking because you want to take the cruise without a passport? I believe you need a passport. While it begins and ends in the same US port, I believe this cruise goes too far to fall under the exemption. Panama is not a contigous territory nor an adjacent island. Here's some info from a website:

"Closed loop cruises are defined as U.S. based cruises with itineraries that both originate and terminate in the United States. But these cruises must be returning from contiguous territories or adjacent islands.

• What are Contiguous Territories? – Countries that share a border with the United States are considered contiguous territories, such as Canada and Mexico. For example, an Alaska cruise that sails roundtrip out of Seattle would not require passengers to present a passport, because it visits only Alaska and Canada (a contiguous territory). The same rule applies for a Mexican Riviera cruise that departs from Los Angeles and finishes in Los Angeles.
• Which are Considered Adjacent Islands? – Most of the Caribbean islands are considered adjacent by definition. A more comprehensive list can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Basically, a Caribbean cruise that originates and terminates in the same U.S. port, such as Miami, is not required to present a passport if the cruise is returning from any of these adjacent islands."

Havingfun2010

Well, if the stop requires a passport, it would seem you have no choice but to have one, so exactly what is the question??????

FLACRUISER99

Passports are not required for cruise passengers (US Citizens specifically) (who are generally considered to be "in transit") in any of the ports on the Jewel's itinerary. The passport requirement for Panama applies to visitors who arrive by air or land and who are staying in the country for more than a few hours. If the ship is a 'closed-loop' cruise that begins and ends in the same US port, the rules are pretty clear - no passport is required. There are a number of good reasons to have a passport but there is a difference between it being a good idea and it being "required". We need to recognize and acknowledge that difference.

The OP didn't say they didn't have a passport nor whether they planned to carry it or not they were just verifying the "closed loop" definition... :cool:

I am curious as to which port requires a passport though...:confused:

Are you asking because you want to take the cruise without a passport? I believe you need a passport. While it begins and ends in the same US port, I believe this cruise goes too far to fall under the exemption. Panama is not a contigous territory nor an adjacent island. Here's some info from a website:   "Closed loop cruises are defined as U.S. based cruises with itineraries that both originate and terminate in the United States. But these cruises must be returning from contiguous territories or adjacent islands. What are Contiguous Territories? – Countries that share a border with the United States are considered contiguous territories, such as Canada and Mexico. For example, an Alaska cruise that sails roundtrip out of Seattle would not require passengers to present a passport, because it visits only Alaska and Canada (a contiguous territory). The same rule applies for a Mexican Riviera cruise that departs from Los Angeles and finishes in Los Angeles. Which are Considered Adjacent Islands? – Most of the Caribbean islands are considered adjacent by definition. A more comprehensive list can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Basically, a Caribbean cruise that originates and terminates in the same U.S. port, such as Miami, is not required to present a passport if the cruise is returning from any of these adjacent islands."

there are NO countries in the Caribbean that require a US citizen to have a passport when arriving by cruise ship AND on a closed loop cruise.

NEGC - thanks, I will contact RCCL and book the JEWEL. This is one cruise I am very anxious to go on. Thanks.

Panama requires passport! and since the cruise stops there I was wondering, would love to do the West Coast to East Coast, but that isn't consider "closed loop" because it is two different US points.

Panama requires a passport if arriving by air or land NOT cruise ship. And no if you do a full transit and leave from say Fort Lauderdale and end up in San Diego then it is NOT a closed loop so then you would need a passport.

• 1 month later...

Rather than start new thread I'll tack on to not too old one on the topic of Closed-Loops.

My parents are planning (and paying) for a cruise for their anniversary (60th) and taking my brothers and our spouses. We all have passports except for one of my brothers. The cruise will be Southern Caribbean from Puerto Rico (US territory) so I have been trying to convince him to save the money and just get a certified original Birth Certificate and take his photo DL per the Closed-Loop details in the RCI literature. He would have to get the BC anyway for a passport. They are very cash strapped and highly unlikely to ever use the passport again. So saving the fee would go a long ways towards the other expenses.

So, San Juan to San Juan with stops in BVI, St. Maartin, St. Kits, Dominica and Barbados would have no need for passport? For sure?

No need for a passport unless something happens and they either miss the ship at a port or something happened and they would have to fly home. Could you and your other brothers chip in and splurge for a passport for this one? It really would be easier for them.

I hate to throw a wrench in to this, but a cruise going to Panama is not a closed loop cruise. Panama is not contiguous territory, nor is it listed as an adjacent island.

ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS: U.S. citizens traveling by air to and from Panama must present a valid passport when entering or re-entering the United States. Sea travelers must have a valid U.S. passport (or other original proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified U.S. birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID) . Complete information for American citizens is available on the Passport Information page at travel.state.gov or by calling 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778) for information on applying for a passport.

Here is a link to the State Department website...http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_994.html

No need to wear seatbelts in your car..... UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS!

No need to pay for insurance... UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS!

No need to lock you doors at home....UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS!

No need to protect your children from preditors....UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS!

WHY DON'T YOU JUST GET A PASSPORT???????

Stop this insane debate over this looooooooong dead horse!

cruiseguy1016

Rather than start new thread I'll tack on to not too old one on the topic of Closed-Loops.   My parents are planning (and paying) for a cruise for their anniversary (60th) and taking my brothers and our spouses. We all have passports except for one of my brothers. The cruise will be Southern Caribbean from Puerto Rico (US territory) so I have been trying to convince him to save the money and just get a certified original Birth Certificate and take his photo DL per the Closed-Loop details in the RCI literature. He would have to get the BC anyway for a passport. They are very cash strapped and highly unlikely to ever use the passport again. So saving the fee would go a long ways towards the other expenses.   So, San Juan to San Juan with stops in BVI, St. Maartin, St. Kits, Dominica and Barbados would have no need for passport? For sure?

No need to wear seatbelts in your car..... UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS! No need to pay for insurance... UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS! No need to lock you doors at home....UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS! No need to protect your children from preditors....UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS!     WHY DON'T YOU JUST GET A PASSPORT ??????? Stop this insane debate over this looooooooong dead horse!

Sequim88 stated that the brother is very cash strapped and that he probably would never use the passport again. The bottom line is, a passport is not NEEDED for his cruise. Many of us here (myself included) strongly recommend having one but the fact of the matter is that a passport is not required for the cruise he is planning on taking. There are too many people on this board that insist on everyone needing a passport. We do not know their particular circumstances surrounding their decision. We have given them THE FACTS about whether or not a passport is NEEDED. We should leave the decision to them.

Sequim88 stated that the brother is very cash strapped and that he probably would never use the passport again. The bottom line is, a passport is not NEEDED for his cruise. Many of us here (myself included) strongly recommend having one but the fact of the matter is that a passport is not required for the cruise he is planning on taking   UNLESS SOMETHING HAPPENS!! There are people out there that are strapped for cash and driving a car. Does that mean they don't have to have insurance? It's no excuse.... They paid for a $1000+ cruise - spend another $75 and protect yourself!   There are too many people on this board ....Blah Blah Blah.....

Everyone should have a passport for travel - even if it is limited travel.

Are you asking because you want to take the cruise without a passport? I believe you need a passport. While it begins and ends in the same US port, I believe this cruise goes too far to fall under the exemption. Panama is not a contigous territory nor an adjacent island. Here's some info from a website:     "Closed loop cruises are defined as U.S. based cruises with itineraries that both originate and terminate in the United States. But these cruises must be returning from contiguous territories or adjacent islands. What are Contiguous Territories? – Countries that share a border with the United States are considered contiguous territories, such as Canada and Mexico. For example, an Alaska cruise that sails roundtrip out of Seattle would not require passengers to present a passport, because it visits only Alaska and Canada (a contiguous territory). The same rule applies for a Mexican Riviera cruise that departs from Los Angeles and finishes in Los Angeles. Which are Considered Adjacent Islands? – Most of the Caribbean islands are considered adjacent by definition. A more comprehensive list can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Basically, a Caribbean cruise that originates and terminates in the same U.S. port, such as Miami, is not required to present a passport if the cruise is returning from any of these adjacent islands."

BUT if the ship stops at a Contiguous Teritory or an Adjacent Island on it's way back to the US, then it is returning from a Contiguous Teritory or an Adjacent Island and the cruise becomes a closed loop cruise

cruisinfanatic

sounds obvious to me too.

If the port requires one you would not be allowed to board.

I don't know of any though on a closed loop

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Baltimore cruises to reroute after bridge collapse pauses port traffic

Carnival, royal caribbean 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 Tuesday 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.”

On Thursday, the cruise company said the current sailing would end in Norfolk.

“Our guests on board will be provided compensation and complimentary shuttle transportation as well as Wi-Fi and phone calls to adjust their travel arrangements,” Royal Caribbean said.

Upcoming cruises on April 4 and 12 will sail from Norfolk as well, and passengers will be compensated for the change. The ship was already scheduled for maintenance in the Bahamas after the April 12 cruise.

“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.

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

How it happened: Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship . 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 have recovered the bodies of two construction workers , officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . A mayday call from the ship prompted first responders to shut down traffic on the four-lane bridge, saving lives.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, which provides about 20,000 jobs to the area . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

Rebuilding: The bridge, built in the 1970s , will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars to rebuild , experts said.