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Cruise line gift cards: Where to buy them, how to spend them

If you're racking your brain to come up with the perfect gift for your cruise-loving family member or friend, consider buying them a gift card or certificate from their favorite cruise line.

Cruisers will appreciate a gift they can use toward purchasing their cruise fare or splurging on a beverage package, specialty restaurant or spa treatment. Don't rule out the first-timers on your list; you can help them fund their first foray into cruising or surprise them with something extra to make their upcoming trip special.

If you're a cruiser, you may also want to purchase a gift card for yourself, especially when you can find a deal. AARP sometimes offers digital gift cards for cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean at a savings of up to 10%.

Gift cards purchased with Target's RedCard receive a 5% discount. You can also look for Black Friday sales on Disney gift cards at Sam's Club and other promotions offered through the cruise lines or retailers.

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

Not every cruise line offers gift cards, and some have alternative ways to help pay for a portion of someone else's vacation. However, if you're in the market for cruise line gift cards, read on to find out which seven lines offer them, where to buy them and how to use them.

Holland America Line

Holland America offers gift cards in denominations between $5 and $2,000 that are available to buy on its website. You can either purchase a physical card to send enclosed with a personal message or choose a digital version that the recipient can open online with personalized audio and photos.

The line offers one or two sales a year that feature an added perk, such as a $100 bonus card with a $1,000 purchase.

You can use the cards to pay for cruise bookings, pre-cruise expenses or onboard charges covering specialty dining, beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments, gratuities and other purchases. They can also be used to buy Holland America's "Have It All" bundle, which includes a beverage package, shore excursion credit, Wi-Fi and specialty restaurant meals.

Holland America's gift cards are also available at online retailers, including Amazon, Target and Walmart, in preset amounts. Certain banks feature credit card programs where you can redeem points for the cruise line's gift cards. If you prefer to shop in person, you'll find gift cards in stores such as Target, Publix, Kroger and Giant Eagle.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

Gift cards are only available in U.S. dollars. Gift cards are activated upon receipt, and they cannot be resold. In addition, buyers cannot purchase an aggregate amount exceeding $10,000 in one day.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises also offers gift cards on its website in denominations between $5 and $2,000. Buyers can personalize the line's eGift Card with photos and audio for the recipient. Princess Classic Gift Cards arrive by mail, with free shipping on cards over $100. Expedited shipping is also available.

You can use Princess gift cards to pay for your cruise, including fares with the Princess Plus and Princess Premier all-inclusive packages .

Recipients can also settle part or all of their onboard bill with gift cards at the end of the cruise at the passenger services desk. That means gift cards can essentially pay for meals in specialty restaurants, shore excursions, spa treatments and other onboard splurges.

You cannot use the gift card to pay for land excursions as part of a cruisetour, flights booked through Princess or gratuities.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

You can find Princess gift cards in grocery stores like Kroger, Harris Teeter and Giant Eagle and online at retail sites such as Amazon, Target and Best Buy.

Gift cards are only available to residents in the U.S. and Canada. Classic Gift Cards cannot be mailed to Canada, so Canadian residents should choose the eGift Card option.

Buyers are limited to a $10,000 online aggregate purchase in one day and a maximum of five transactions a day. Anyone can use the gift card since there's no name on the card.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line 's online gift cards are customizable from $100 up to $1,000. You can purchase a physical card that's mailed and even have it wrapped and delivered in a tin for an additional $1.99 (for up to five cards). If you prefer, you can choose an e-gift card that's sent to the recipient online.

The gift card can be used toward a cruise booking, pre-purchased shore excursions or spa treatments. You can also apply it to beverage packages and gratuities. If you'd like to use the card as an onboard credit, you must go to the guest services desk or Sail & Sign kiosk to apply the gift card as payment for your onboard bill once you're on the ship.

Related: Cruise onboard credit: What it is, where to get it and how best to use it

Carnival's gift cards are available in over 9,000 retail outlets, including Best Buy, Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, Lowe's, Safeway, Winn-Dixie and Publix. You can also purchase gift cards on board Carnival's ships. You can buy as many cards as you'd like, but there is a maximum online transaction of five gift cards at one time.

All gift cards are in U.S. dollars and not accepted on ships using a different onboard currency. You can transfer the gift card to another user since there are no names on the cards.

Disney Cruise Line

Gift cards for Disney Cruise Line are sold online at shopdisney.com in preset amounts, from $25 to $500. You can choose from over 60 Disney designs of physical gift cards and have them shipped, or you can send a themed eGift Card.

Gift cards are also sold at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Disney retail locations throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada. If you're purchasing them in person, you can load them for any amount from $15 to $1,000. The cards are reloadable with as little as $5 and up to $1,000. They can be reloaded at any location that sells the gift cards. That option is not available online.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Use Disney gift cards to purchase a cruise, shore excursions, merchandise on the ship and other onboard expenses. You can also spend the cards at Disney-owned properties, like Disney's Vero Beach Resort; on trips or cruises with Adventures by Disney; for Disney on Broadway; and at retail stores and other Disney businesses.

You'll also find them in preset amounts at retailers like Target, Walmart and Best Buy.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line ended its gift card program in 2021, but you still can send gifts to cruisers in the form of an onboard credit or spa credit. Onboard credit is available in $25 increments up to $100. Mandara Spa certificates are offered in amounts of $25, $50 and $100.

To send the gift, you'll need to know some personal information, including the birth date of the recipient or the reservation number for the booking. You can order the gift of onboard credits on Norwegian's website.

CruiseFirst certificates are another gift option. These advance purchase vouchers can be used to pay for cruises of six days or longer and are valued at double the price. For example, you'll pay $150 for a certificate worth $300. You can transfer these vouchers to another person as a gift without a charge.

You can purchase up to 10 certificates per person at a time, and they can only be applied to new reservations on voyages scheduled at least 120 days out from the purchase date of the certificate. Only one certificate can be used per sailing — and there are a few other restrictions. These vouchers expire within three years of the purchase date.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is another line that uses a gift certificate program rather than gift cards. Certificates are available in the following U.S. dollar increments: $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $1,500, $1,700 and $2,000. These certificates must be redeemed at least 10 days before the cruise.

Use them to pay the cruise fare, with some restrictions, or apply them toward onboard credit to cover specialty dining, beverage packages, spa treatments, gift shop purchases and other items. If you want to apply the gift certificates as payment for expenses on the ship, you'll need to redeem them online 10 days before the sailing date. They cannot be used for government taxes, fees, gratuities or casino play.

Related: 35 Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks that will make your voyage better

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has an online store where you can purchase onboard credit to celebrate someone's birthday, honeymoon, anniversary or other memorable occasion while on their cruise.

Gift certificates are available in $25 increments. These certificates can be purchased online if you know the recipient's reservation information, or you can call Celebrity's Store Customer Support team to place an order.

Note that gift cards cannot be used to pay shipboard charges, including gift shop purchases, casino debts, shore excursions or gratuities.

You can also give specialty dining certificates for $45 each. If the amount charged is less than that, the remaining sum will be applied to the passenger's onboard account.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

Purchase Cruise Next Certificates Question

By ryanbarckley , January 4, 2021 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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ryanbarckley

Hello! I've been a Royal Caribbean cruiser for most of my life thanks to my grandmother. They've done quite a bit to tick me off with the way they've handled some things during all this, and my friend is interested in booking an NCL cruise for 2023. 

I see they are currently offering a next cruise certificate with a value of $500 for $250. I have a couple of questions.

1. If I purchase that, do I get it instantly? 

2. If I am interested in booking a specific cruise, is it worthwhile to buy that certificate, and then immediately book the cruise applying it to that? (which would basically get me $250 off that cruise).

3. Are there any restrictions or gotchas as a result of doing that? (like Im not allowed to reprice the cruise if the price drops - or anything like that).

Thanks in advance for your help and my apologies if these questions have been answered before, the search function on here does not help very much.

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1 hour ago, ryanbarckley said: Hello! I've been a Royal Caribbean cruiser for most of my life thanks to my grandmother. They've done quite a bit to tick me off with the way they've handled some things during all this, and my friend is interested in booking an NCL cruise for 2023.    I see they are currently offering a next cruise certificate with a value of $500 for $250. I have a couple of questions.   1. If I purchase that, do I get it instantly?  2. If I am interested in booking a specific cruise, is it worthwhile to buy that certificate, and then immediately book the cruise applying it to that? (which would basically get me $250 off that cruise). 3. Are there any restrictions or gotchas as a result of doing that? (like Im not allowed to reprice the cruise if the price drops - or anything like that).   Thanks in advance for your help and my apologies if these questions have been answered before, the search function on here does not help very much.

1) It may take a day or two for them to appear on your account, but generally they will be available to you once you return home.

2) You can apply a CruiseNext to an existing cruise. If a special is being run, sometimes you can apply two.

3) No restrictions or gotchas.

FWIW...CruiseNext Rewards have a value of $250. The example you use ($500 for $250) would be for TWO certificates...you buy two ($500) and you get $250 in OBC on your cruise.

Also...you can only buy these from NCL onboard your cruise otherwise you have to be find someone willing to sell and transfer theirs to you (the negotion of which is a CC "no-no").

24 minutes ago, SeaShark said:   1) It may take a day or two for them to appear on your account, but generally they will be available to you once you return home.   2) You can apply a CruiseNext to an existing cruise. If a special is being run, sometimes you can apply two.   3) No restrictions or gotchas.   FWIW...CruiseNext Rewards have a value of $250. The example you use ($500 for $250) would be for TWO certificates...you buy two ($500) and you get $250 in OBC on your cruise.   Also...you can only buy these from NCL onboard your cruise otherwise you have to be find someone willing to sell and transfer theirs to you (the negotion of which is a CC "no-no").

Thanks for the response!

It looks like they are running a deal right now where I can buy a $500 certificate paying $250 for it. See HERE  thats more specifically what I was asking about.

3 hours ago, ryanbarckley said: Hello! I've been a Royal Caribbean cruiser for most of my life thanks to my grandmother. They've done quite a bit to tick me off with the way they've handled some things during all this, and my friend is interested in booking an NCL cruise for 2023.    I see they are currently offering a next cruise certificate with a value of $500 for $250. I have a couple of questions.   1. If I purchase that, do I get it instantly?  2. If I am interested in booking a specific cruise, is it worthwhile to buy that certificate, and then immediately book the cruise applying it to that? (which would basically get me $250 off that cruise). 3. Are there any restrictions or gotchas as a result of doing that? (like Im not allowed to reprice the cruise if the price drops - or anything like that).   Thanks in advance for your help and my apologies if these questions have been answered before, the search function on here does not help very much.

@ryanbarckley , let me preface this with the caveat that I haven't yet used my CruiseFirst certificate -- but this is my experience so far.

1.  I think you're referring to the Cruise First certificates that you can purchase only through a TA or maybe through an NCL rep.  They're described on the NCL website as being available through 1/4/2021, right?

2.  I bought a Cruise First Certificate in the end of November; the certificate showed up in my Latitudes account the next day.  I couldn't use it on an existing reservation, but could apply it to a new reservation. 

3. I haven't used it yet, but don't believe that its use will impact any subsequent repricing.   I would say definitely buy it before you make the reservation.

MeHeartCruising

7 hours ago, ryanbarckley said:   Thanks for the response!   It looks like they are running a deal right now where I can buy a $500 certificate paying $250 for it. See HERE  thats more specifically what I was asking about.

It is relatively new that they have promoted this as a web offer.  Previously, it was an offer sent to guests via email just after they got off the ship from a cruise.  Be sure to take note of the terms and conditions link at the bottom of the web page.  That tells you the terms, in case you hadn't read that yet.

It sounds like they will credit them to your NCL Latitudes account, which is usually created automatically after your first NCL cruise.  Do you already have a Latitudes account?  If not, I would call the number and ask how to deal with that.  They probably can create it for you before selling you the certificates, but who knows.  It may be a different department that does that.

I would expect the certificates to show up within a day or 2 after purchasing them.  But the agent should be able to clarify that for you.

Yes, once you have the certificate, you can then apply it to a new cruise reservation.  It looks like the terms of the certificate indicate it must be a cruise at least 120 days into the future, which doesn't seem like an issue for you.  You should be able to book that cruise yourself or by calling NCL.  The certificates can be applied as your deposit either way.

To my knowledge, using the certificate doesn't impact any of your abilities for the cruise.  You can still reprice up to final payment date, cancel, etc.  If you cancel, the certificate should be redeposited back into your account (unless there was a term/condition that said otherwise -- I didn't memorize that list).  CruiseNext certificates get redeposited, so I would expect CruiseFirst certificates would too. 

Midlothian Cruiser

What you are talking about is actually a Cruise FIRST certificate which you can buy on line.    The Cruise NEXT certificates you can only buy while on a cruise.  The terms of the cruise FIRST certificates are...

• CruiseFirst certificates are valid for new reservations ONLY that are booked within 3 years of original certificate purchase date. Voyage date must be more than 120 days from original purchase date. Not applicable towards canceled / rebooked reservations. If a guest with an existing reservation cancels and rebooks the same ship and sail date with a CruiseFirst certificate, the additional value of the CruiseFirst certificate will be removed.
• CruiseFirst certificates expire 3 years after purchase date and become null and void at expiration. Limit one CruiseFirst certificate that may be used per reservation. No black-out dates will apply. Reservations are subject to availability. CruiseFirst certificates are not combinable with CruiseNext, chartered sailings, employee discounts, friends and family pricing, Sailaway, interline and travel agent rates.
• Pay $250 and receive a CruiseFirst certificate valued at $500 applied to your Norwegian Cruise Line Latitudes account. Your CruiseFirst certificate(s) may be redeemed as a deposit or as a payment towards your new reservation’s grand total with a sail date greater than 120 days from purchase date.
• CruiseFirst certificates are NON-REFUNDABLE, have no cash value, and are not redeemable or exchangeable with Norwegian Cruise Line for cash.
• CruiseFirst certificates are transferable to another guest at no charge. CruiseFirst certificates remain subject to all CruiseFirst certificate terms and conditions after transfer. Original CruiseFirst certificate owner forfeits all rights of ownership once transfer has been completed.
• CruiseFirst certificates are charged in either USD or CAD dollars. You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or receive a transferred CruiseFirst certificate. Credit card payments accepted only and only one credit card per transaction is permitted. A maximum of ten (10) CruiseFirst certificates may be purchased per person. CruiseFirst certificates can only be applied in full and cannot be divided as payment for multiple reservations.
• CruiseFirst certificates are only valid for sailings of six (6) days or longer.
• CruiseFirst certificates satisfy full deposit requirement for stateroom categories up to Club Balcony Suite or can be applied as partial payment towards higher categories.

I was about to purchase a couple of cruise next certs on ebay, butI just saw this ad for the cruise first on the NCL website.  I was going to pay over $300 for the cruise next certs (was going to get two because there is a current double up promo), but now can pay $250

I just purchased one of these this morning per the offer mentioned above by calling the phone number. It was added to my account while on the phone and I hung up with them and then booked a cruise with it 10 minutes later.

11 minutes ago, maren91 said: I just purchased one of these this morning per the offer mentioned above by calling the phone number. It was added to my account while on the phone and I hung up with them and then booked a cruise with it 10 minutes later.

I had almost the same experience. Called the ncl rep this morning, got the certificate, transferred to the casino to book, was able to use the certificate on that booking. 

I also called about three hours ago, and the credit is already in my account

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10 Questions and Answers to Using a Birth Certificate to Cruise

Can I use a birth certificate to cruise? Do I have to get a passport?

Frankly, the rules around the documents you need to set sail can get confusing. We are here to lay them all out in plain English.

First things first, if you are leaving the United States on a cruise, be prepared. Traveling abroad means you need some sort of identification — not only for getting into a foreign country, but also for getting back into the United States. These documents aren’t just to tell who you are, it’s also to prove your citizenship.

For many people, this identification is a passport. Getting a passport is by far the simplest way to have the needed citizenship identification to travel to and from the United States . That’s why we recommend everyone cruise with one (as do Customs and Border Patrol agents we’ve spoken with) .

However, if you are on a tight schedule, a passport may not be feasible. Routine processing for a new passport is currently 6-8 weeks . If you pay to expedite the process, it can be 2-3 weeks.

Then there is the expense. A first-time passport holder can expect to spend a minimum of $165 to get a passport. The costs can rise when you include photos and expediting the process should you need a new passport quickly.

The good news? You don’t have to hold a passport to go on most cruises from the United States if you’re an American citizen. Instead, your birth certificate and government-issued identification is all that’s needed.

Closed-Loop Cruises Usually Don’t Require Passports

Most cruises operate as “closed-loop” cruises . Put simply, closed-loop cruises are those that begin and end at the same port. So if your trip departs Miami, sails the Caribbean (including stopping at a foreign port) and returns to Miami at the end of the trip, it’s considered a closed loop.

With closed-loop cruises that head to The Bahamas and Caribbean, you aren’t usually required to have a passport to return to the United States. Instead, you can return with just a birth certificate and a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license. (Just to be sure, it’s a good idea to confirm your trip is suitable for a birth certificate with your cruise line well in advance.)

If, however, your cruise doesn’t begin and end at the same port (e.g. sails from New York, stops at a foreign port, and then ends in Miami), then you’ll have to use a passport.

While it might seem simple at first blush, there are actually some good questions that come up when talking about using your birth certificate for a cruise.

For example, does the document have to be notarized ? Or can you use a copy of your birth certificate instead of the original ? 

We answer these questions and more below…

What Do I Need To Cruise If I Don’t Have A Passport?

As mentioned above, U.S. citizens taking a closed loop-cruise can usually travel using a birth certificate and a non-expired government-issued ID with photo, name, and date of birth (if 16 years old or older). This is usually a driver’s license or government-issued ID card.

There are some exceptions, however.

You might have heard about Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) . This is a special type of driver’s license that has a proof of citizenship component. Currently it’s only available from a handful of states (Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington).

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, if you have one of these, it can act as your proof of citizenship/ID for a cruise, and you don’t need your birth certificate.

Keep in mind that the Enhanced Driver’s License is different from a REAL ID that all states are switching to due to federal rules. Driver’s licenses that comply with REAL ID rules can’t be used for proof of citizenship.

If you aren’t sure if you have an Enhanced Driver’s License or a REAL ID, then just pack your birth certificate to be safe.

Does My Birth Certificate Have To Be An Original?

No. The birth certificate can be an original or an official copy. However, for copies we would recommend you have a copy issued by the local health and vital statistics department. In other words, you don’t want to just make a photocopy of your actual birth certificate and use that to board the cruise (although some lines do allow that).

If you no longer have your birth certificate, you can get in touch with the city or county you were born to get a certified official copy to use on your cruise. There’s usually a small fee and waiting period, but it’s faster than getting a passport.

Does My Birth Certificate Have To Be Notarized Or Certified To Cruise?

It depends on the cruise line . For instance, Carnival states that a copy of the birth certificate doesn’t need to be notarized or certified while Royal Caribbean says that “it must be a state-certified birth certificate issued by the government.”

For cruising purposes, we recommend your birth certificate be a notarized copy with some sort of official seal . This can help ensure there are no issues getting back into the country.

If your birth certificate looks like something that a person could make at a local copy shop, then it could raise questions on its validity.

Will The Hospital Birth Certificate Work For A Cruise?

No. The birth certificate must be one issued by a local or state government. If you have a hospital birth certificate (so-called “baby feet” certificate), it will not work. Remember — you want something that’s officially issued by the city, county, or state as this will be used to prove your citizenship.

What If My Name Has Changed From My Birth Certificate?

If you’ve had a name change (for example, you changed your name once married) to where it doesn’t match your birth certificate, then you will need to also bring along some proof of the name change.

This can be a marriage license (again, the original or a notarized copy is best) or if you’ve had a name change unrelated to marriage, your documents that prove the change. Carnival says plainly on their website “failure to bring documentation bridging the name differences could result in denial of boarding.”

What If I Don’t Know Where My Birth Certificate Is?

Lost your birth certificate? Don’t worry, it’s common. You can contact the city or county of your birth and follow procedures to get a new one. There’s usually a small fee, but it’s considerably cheaper and faster than getting a passport.

What we actually suggest if you have the time and money, is to get your birth certificate and then turn around and use that to get your passport. That way you’ll have the passport for your upcoming cruise.

Do I Need Identification In Addition To The Birth Certificate?

Yes, as mentioned above, you must have a government-issued ID with your name, photo, and date of birth. It must not be expired. This is only required of passengers 16 years or older. The best idea is just to use your driver’s license. Kids don’t need photo ID.

You can see more about the requirements on the USCBP website here .

What About Kids? Do They Need Birth Certificates?

Yes. If you are sailing with kids (even babies), then they will need a birth certificate to leave and re-enter the country.

One thing to know is that kids under 16 don’t have to show any identification. The ID requirement only applies to those 16 years or older.

Do I Show My Birth Certificate When I Get On And Off The Ship in Port?

No. The only time you’ll need to show your birth certificate is during the boarding check-in process and when you leave the ship as you arrive back home. Apart from that, you should keep it secure in your cabin safe.

When you get off and on the ship in ports of call, you’ll just need to have your ID and your cabin keycard. The cruise ship takes care of the immigration process for passengers arriving in a foreign port. You just get to come and go as you please.

Why Is Having A Passport Better Than Cruising With a Birth Certificate?

The rules around identification and birth certificates for a cruise can get complicated depending on the cruise and where it goes. It’s far easier just to have a passport, which serves as the only citizenship document you need.

As well, having a birth certificate is only valid for closed-loop cruises. If you have a different route, then you need a passport. Plus, if something happens and you have to fly home during your cruise unexpectedly, then you’ll need a passport; birth certificates aren’t valid proof of citizenship for air travel.

Finally, most ports have moved toward faster screening of passengers with passports. Today, those with passports simply take an “exit” photo as they leave the cruise terminal and are on their way out of the building immediately.

Those with birth certificates have to wait in a line to have their documents checked by an agent before being allowed to leave. So not only is a passport more flexible, it could get you off the ship and back home faster.

Note: If you have specific questions about your documents or situation, it’s best to contact your cruise line.

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I’m going on a cruise from the US to the Bahamas. I was only able to get a short form birth certificate due to a change being made on the original. Is this acceptable as long as I have a valid US drivers license? Also, my drivers license is in my married name which is different from the birth certificate of course. Do I need to provide my marriage license also?

Should be fine, but you can contact the cruise line. I’d bring proof of marriage if the names are different.

I have a closed loop from Orlando to Bahamas, my birth certificate has one letter off at the end of it. In the name it should be a “W” but instead it has an “R”. My FL license has my name correct, but Birth certificate doesn’t, will it be an issue?

We aren’t the authorities, so can’t tell you for sure. That said, having one letter off but everything else matches seems minor in our opinion. If you’re worried, you can call the cruise line and ask.

my wife has a State of California Certified Court Order Delay Registration of Birth It shows the Court Order Number from Los Angeles Superior Court dated May 14, 1981 She was born in Mexico in 1965 but due to death of parents she was raised by relatives in United States who are US citizens. Is this document acceptable for a closed loop cruise?

I don’t know that one. You’ll want to contact the cruise line.

No ID but i have birth certificate what can I go

I will be going on a closed loop cruise in March 2024. I went and got a copy of my birth certificate and noticed that my mother’s madian name is not spelled correctly. Will I be able to board the cruise like it is? Everything else is correct on my birth certificate.

It should be fine since the birth certificate is to prove your citizenship, so that’s the real important information.

But if you’re worried, you can contact the cruise line.

We booked a cruise with Royal Caribbean in October. I do not have time to get even an expedited passport but was told since it is closed loop cruise birth certificate and drivers license is all I need. My question is, my birth certificate and drivers license have different last names due to marriage. I’ve been married twice so my current marriage license has my first husband’s last name (not my maiden name). If I bring my marriage license from my first marriage (that has my maiden name), divorce decree, and then marriage license for my current marriage will that suffice to bridge the gap from maiden name, to first married name, to current married name?

Sounds like it should do it. There just needs to be proof to show you are a citizen (birth certificate) and then that the person on the birth certificate is who you are (photo ID). Those documents to walk through the name change will allow them to see that path. I’d highly recommend calling the cruise line to confirm, however.

My birth certificate is very old but has a stamp. It’s really small too, compared to the other birth certificates.. Will this work?

My boyfriends birth certificate says “Jr” on it but his drivers license doesn’t. Will this be ok to cruise to the Bahamas?

I’d think it would be fine, but you might call the cruise line just to be sure.

Ok, new idea. What if we disembarked in Vancouver, rented a car and drove to Seattle, and flew home from there? It seems that we can cross the Canada border by land or sea with an enhanced drivers license (for the 18 year old) and a birth certificate (for the 15 year old).

Great info! My wife and I have passports, but we have an 18 year old and a 15 year old that do not possess passports. We are booking an Alaska cruise this summer that departs in Alaska and disembarks in Vancouver Canada. The cruise line has told me that they only need government issued ID’s and birth certificates, but I am skeptical and want to preempt any issues at the Vancouver airport.

Oh, I’d definitely want a passport for everyone in that case. I’ve only heard of the birth certificate being good on closed-loop cruises. It may be ok, but I wouldn’t want to risk it.

Great article with lots of info. I’m curious about one part though. You quoted the Carnival website about denial of boarding for failure to account for a name bridge. However, the first part of that section indicates that they’re talking about situations where the name in the ID doesn’t match the name on the cruise ticket/reservation. There’s no mention of a birth certificate at all in that section. Can you review that part? I’ve copied for your reference.

Names on Travel Documentation It is important that the guest’s full name (first name and last name) on the cruise and airline tickets be the same as the guest’s non-expired government-issued photo I.D. they plan to use for travel identification. In the event of a different name on the cruise/airline ticket and the guest’s photo I.D. as a result of a marriage, divorce or a legal name change, documentation (original or clear, legible copy) supporting this change is required (at embarkation), such as a marriage certificate, marriage license or legal name change court document. Failure to bring documentation bridging the name differences could result in denial of boarding.

Sorry, but not sure what you’re asking here. If your documents don’t match the name for the cruise ticket or your birth certificate doesn’t match the ID name, then you’ll want to have something that shows the name change. That passage may not directly talk about the birth certificate, but you definitely want those to match. If not, you want to show evidence of the change so that officials know you are who you say you are.

If I bring a 16 yr old on the cruise what does the letter need to look like from the parent for them to be able to get on the cruise?

I’d refer you to the cruise line. I’d think something basic with the name of each parent and the child, along with details of the specific sailing and something definitive stating they give their approval to travel with the other parent. However, the cruise line will be able to give you the best details for what they require.

my passport wont be here on time for my cruise in 4 days. I ordered a new certified copy of my birth certificate to take with me as identification. Years back, I legally changed my last name. My birth certificate now has my old last name with a strike through it and the new name written in. There is also a note written by the courts stating that it is amended, and the probate judge changed the name. Is this fine to take or will I still need proof of name change from the courts as well to cruise on Royal Caribbean?

I would take everything you have to prove your name change. If you’re not sure, the cruise line is the best resource to call!

My son is 10, his mom and I are not together and I was not there to sign his birth certificate. We have joint custody 50/50. Will it be an issue that my name is not on his birth certificate. We do share the same last name.

Here is what Carnival says about the situation (not sure your cruise line):

Traveling with Minors

When traveling with a minor where one parent or both parents or legal guardians are not cruising, we strongly recommend bringing an original signed letter from the absent parent(s) or legal guardians authorizing the minor to travel with you. If there is no second parent with legal claims to the minor (due to sole custody, deceased, etc.) other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, death certificate, birth certificate naming only one parent, would be useful to bring in place of a signed letter. This will expedite processing by the Department of Homeland Security.

We only have a copy (not certified) of my son’s birth certificate. The passport agency still has his original and has been in processing for 10 weeks now. We are going on closed loop with Carnival. Do you think we can still get on?

Carnival says the following is acceptable, so it looks like you’d be good to go. You can call the cruise line to confirm.

– “A clear, legible copy (photocopy) of a birth certificate that was originally issued by a government agency (state/county/city) or the Department of Health and Vital Statistics. The copy does not need to be notarized or certified.”

https://www.carnival.com/help?topicid=3409

I don’t have my birth certificate but my son have my name in information on his certificate will that work

No, that definitely wouldn’t work.

We are going on an Alaskan cruise in mid July. Starting and ending in Seattle. My moms birth certificate has a different middle name than her drivers license , ss card , marriage license and all other legal documents. Never been an issue before. Should we be concerned and try to have the birth certificate changed? She wasn’t able to get a real ID because of the discrepancy.

We are driving to depart on cruise and have three children under 12. Have copies of all three birth certificates , digital copies of all three but just realized only two originals. Is this going to be problem

You’ll have to ask the cruise line. They normally ask for the original copies with seal.

Hi I have a question! So I’m wanting to go on a Carnival cruise to the Bahamas from Florida, in May. I recently got married and I already changed my license to my new name, so my name on my birth certificate will be different. I heard that I would have to bring a copy of my marriage license to prove that my name was changed, but the kicker is, I also just applied for a new passport for my new name, but I had to send my marriage license with my old passport, so I don’t have my marriage license to prove my name! I’m not sure if the passport will be back in time, so what do I do?!

If it’s already sent, there is a good chance the passport should be in by then. If not, can you go to the county office and get a registered copy of the marriage license?

My son is a 10 years old US Citizen. We’ll be cruising on a closed-loop cruise from Seattle to Alaska|Victoria and back to Seattle with Norwegian Cruise Line. My son’s US Passport book has not arrived yet, only the US Passport card we have in possession. Will his birth certificate and US Passport card be sufficient?

Yes, the birth certificate would be enough for a closed-loop cruise. Having the passport card will be even easier.

My friend had his dad last name added to his he has the sealed court ordered document he had the name added to his Id but not his birth certificate do you think that would be ok if he brings the court ordered document

My daughter is 18 and has a AZ Graduated Instruction Permit. Which has her picture DOB and everything else a DL has. Would this work when combined with a certified BC for a closed loop cruise out of LA?

My Husband has his birth certificate from the Caribbean. He has his citizenship and a Drivers License. Will that be ok on a closed loop Cruise? Hi Passport expired last year and we won’t get a renewal in 3 weeks. Should we take the expired one along with birth certificate and DL?

My birth certificate and drivers license have different last names due to marriage. I’ve been married twice so my current marriage license has my first marriage name. Is that a problem? What kind of paper trail do I need?

I was born in Germany. Military Kid. My Birth Certificate says “Certification of Birth Abroad of a citizen of the United States” The signature has a stamp that says Vice Consul of the United States. I do not have a passport and I don’t have time to get one but my upcoming cruise is close loop. Departing and arriving back in Galveston. Going to Honduras, Costa Maya, and Cozumel. Will I be okay? We forgot my birth certificate last year and I wasn’t able to board the Carnival Cruise ship for my honeymoon so I am nervous. It’s the original B.C. not a copy and we are sailing with Royal Caribbean

That should be fine. It’s an official birth certificate document that shows citizenship. If you’re nervous, you can call the cruise line ahead of time.

I have the same question.. what happened with your cruise?

I have a closed loop cruise out of Miami, going to Aruba, Bonaire, La Romana and amber cove. I DO have my certified birth certificate issued from the local state department with a seal. However, my birth certificate only has my maiden last name on it. I do not have a first name on my birth certificate, only my last. (It has alway been this way.) I also have a certified marriage certificate, my social security card with my full name, first and last maiden name. Along with my current DL (married last name). Will it be an issue that my certified B.C does not have my first name on it? With having all my other documents will that pass? Will there be an issue boarding or going to ports and re-boarding? Thank you in advance!

I think you should be good, but why risk it? If you’re worried about it, I’d suggest calling the cruise line to be sure.

Is a passport not an option? It would be much, much easier than having to carry all those different documents.

A passport is not an option at the moment. The passport agency said that my full name needs to be on my B.C. I have mailed my addendum to Sacramento to add my full name, but it will not be corrected before my trip.

Hello my birth certificate has some lines cross has the birth certificate since i was bored will that be okay to aboard the cruise

I have a cruise for Royal Caribbean in 2 weeks

Got my Birth certificate today and noticed I have an added middle name that isn’t on my ID.

Will this be a problem boarding ?

That shouldn’t be an issue I wouldn’t think assuming the rest of the name/birthdate matches.

I don’t have a birth certificate. I have a certificate of “US citizen born abroad” from the military. Will that be acceptable to cruise?

You’ll want to call the cruise line, but that sounds like it proves citizenship so I would think it would be acceptable with photo ID.

Hi. We’re cruising tomorrow from Florida to the Bahamas. It’s a closed loop trip. My wife does not have her birth certificate, but has our marriage certificate, Social Security Card and Drivers License. Will we be able to sail?

You’ll want to contact the cruise line, but typically it’s passport or birth certificate as those show proof of citizenship.

I have a drivers license and I’m a US citizen but I’m adopted. My birth certificate is from the Caribbean. Will that serve as a second form of identification?

You’ll want to contact the cruise line, but if you are a U.S. citizen, then some sort of proof of citizenship will likely be required.

Im taking a cruise from Florida to the bahamas can i use a copy of my birth certificate or does it have to be the original.

Typically a photocopy isn’t a good idea. Something official from an issuing authority is what you want.

Wife lost her drivers licence sometime between checkin in terminal and ship. Wondering what going to need to get off ship. Checked with guest services no luck on it beingfound.

Yes, ports require some sort of ID to get back to the ship (not just the keycard). Not sure what to do in that case, but Guest Services should have been able to explain your options.

I have my original birth certificate and my marriage license, my marriage license does not have my married name on it, just my maiden name will that be a problem? I am cruising to the Bahamas. I also have my social security cards maiden name and married name and a copy of my passport. I sent my passport in to renew and haven’t received it back yet and not sure if I will get it back before this last minute cruise.

I’d suggest calling the cruise line, but with all those documents, I wouldn’t think it would be an issue.

Hi my husband won’t get his passport in time we plan on taking his birth certificate however it’s not a certified copy it’s a general photo copy carnival stated that will do but we worry about his return back home. Will it cause any issues?

The cruise line is the best source for this. If they say it’s ok, then it should be fine.

I cant get my birth certificate. I am a US citizen. It is a closed loop cruise going from Seattle to Seattle. I have a SS card voters card ID and other items to prove that i live in the US. Would that be enough.

I do not believe so.

My cruise will sail on 12 12 21 to san quan Puerto. Passport are behind not sure it will be back in time. I am a us citizen. May I use my birth certificate and driver’s license if passport do not arrive.

We’d suggest a call to the cruise line to ask. Normally “closed loop” cruises allow you to use a birth certificate and driver’s license, but it’s always a good idea to make sure.

My sister’s birth certificate has her name spelled incorrectly. It has her first name spelled “LaDrick” and it should be “LaDrich”. Our mother’s h’s look like k’s, and the person who typed the name typed it wrong. It was never changed, and my sister was able to get her driver’s license, SS card and passport with the correct spelling without any problems. She renewed her passport unfortunately but won’t get it back in time to have it for our cruise so she will have to use her birth certificate and ID card. Is this going to be a problem for her getting on the ship.

I can’t say for sure, but if it were me, I wouldn’t be too worried. If you have a couple of pieces of ID with the correct name, it should help if there is any question.

We are doing a closed loop Royal Caribbean Alaskan cruise the first week of June (leaving and returning to Seattle). My husband’s birth certificate has his birthdate listed incorrectly as September 16, 1947. It was never corrected to his actual birthdate of September 17, 1947. He is 72 years old and has used his real (09-17-47) birthdate his entire life and that date is on all of his official records, including driver’s license, military documentation, law enforcement certifications and ID’s, and his social security information. No one ever told him to change the date on the birth certificate. We went on a Carnival cruise out of Galveston 6 years ago and were able to board the ship even with the date discrepancy between birth certificate and his driver’s license, although it was questioned. There is not enough time to get the date changed on the birth certificate before our Alaskan cruise in June as we would be required by the State of Texas to get a court order to change it and the processing itself is a long process. Do you think Royal Caribbean would have a problem with the date difference? The name on the birth certificate and driver’s license is exactly the same and he could bring other documents with his name listed as the same if needed. I know this is confusing, but would appreciate your opinion. Thank you.

Thanks for writing. Sounds like a doozy. Our opinion is that it’s likely not a big deal given that the dates are so close, but then again, we aren’t government officials, nor do we work for the cruise line.

We think the best thing to do would be to get it fixed so you don’t have to worry about it. Short of that, your idea of bringing other documents to verify identity seems like a good one.

My husbands birth cert is old ripped worn and raggedy but still readable should we just request another one before our cruise?

We actually suggest people always travel with a passport if at all possible. If you’re going to request a document, get a passport. Otherwise, yes it would be a good idea to get a new birth certificate. It’s something that will be good to have anyway.

What if birt cert days Jr. and ID does not, is that a problem?

My sons birth certificate is a delayed birth certificate. Can he use this for a close looped cruise ID?

Not sure what a delayed birth certificate is. If it’s the official birth certificate (such that they would use for any other identification purposes), then it should be fine… but call the cruise line to be sure of their policy.

My cruise starts Aug. 25 .My Birth certificate is 1952 issued from hospital in Phoenix Ariz. With seal and states to use for future use to prove citizenship and to obtain a passport . Can I use for my trip Sat in Galveston to cozemel and yuk.?

Should be just fine. However, if you’re worried about it then give the cruise line a call.

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This Cruise Certificate must be used in accordance with the following terms and conditions:

1. Complimentary Cruise Certificates are valid for redemption on Royal Caribbean International for the qualified recipient (“Recipient”) and one (1) guest, based on double occupancy, based on the ships, sail dates, and itineraries offered in the stateroom category offered on the certificate, unless the Recipient instead elects to apply the trade-in value, listed on the certificate, to the purchase of a sailing not offered on the certificate. Recipients may upgrade the stateroom category offered or add a third and fourth guest, based on availability at prevailing rates and additional applicable fees.

2. Dollars Off Cruise Certificates are valid for the dollars off value, listed on the certificate, toward the purchase of a Royal Caribbean International cruise of your choice for the qualified Recipient and one (1) guest, double occupancy on any ships, sail dates, and itineraries, but are subject to the “booked by” and “sail by” dates located on the front of the certificate.    

3. All certificates are applicable to NEW bookings only and are not applicable to any group bookings or charters. All sailings are subject to stateroom availability and casino capacity limits.  All additional cruise fare, if applicable, port expenses, taxes, and fees must be paid in full in order to receive a stateroom confirmation.  All additional items added to the reservation are subject to Royal Caribbean’s Deposit and Cancellation policy located in our brochures, ticket contract, and at www.royalcaribbean.com .  If reservations are made within the time period when a penalty applies, per the ticket contract, any changes or cancellations may result in a forfeit of the Cruise Certificate.  Travel Protection is strongly advised.  

4. All Cruise Certificates are offered by invitation only from our Casino Partner, can only be redeemed by exclusively booking at Royal Caribbean’s Casino Royale Reservation Center and are not valid for booking with a Vacation Agent, Direct, or online with Royal Caribbean.

5. Complimentary Cruise Certificates shall cover the cruise fare, at double occupancy, complimentary dining options and entertainment.  Dollars off Cruise Certificates shall cover the dollars off value applied toward the purchase of the cruise, complimentary dining options and entertainment.  Exclusions include, but are not limited to, additional cruise fare, if applicable, all taxes, fees and port expenses, gratuities, applicable fuel surcharges, upgrades, additional guests in the stateroom, additional staterooms, air and ground transfers to/from the embarkation and debarkation ports, and onboard expense account items for products and services rendered.  

6. Complimentary Cruise Certificate qualified Recipients within the same household from the same promotional event may combine their offers on the same sail date for 1 category upgrade not to exceed a Junior Suite. Additional upgrades on combined certificates will be subject to the cruise fare difference between the one (1) category combined upgraded stateroom price and the stateroom they select to be berthed in. Qualified Recipients in the same household may redeem for separate cruises although they may not redeem for two staterooms on the same sailing.    

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B oarding a cruise, especially if you have never done it before, comes with a little more stress than checking into a hotel. The process is easier if you do everything you can before your cruise.

That starts with digital check-in. Download your cruise line's app and begin the check-in process as soon as it allows you.

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Doing that benefits you in multiple ways. First, the earlier you check in, the more choice you have of boarding times. Landing an early boarding slot gives you more time onboard — it literally makes your vacation longer.

In addition, checking in properly before your cruise allows you to do things like attach a credit card to your account, take a security photo, and share other needed documents.

Exactly what those documents are is a question many newer cruisers have. The biggest question is "Do I need to have a passport in order to cruise?"

The answer for that isn't exactly simple, because there are cruise destinations that require one, but that's not usually the case when sailing from US ports. On most cruises, you can sail with a driver's license and an original birth certificate.

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There are cruises from other parts of the world that require a passport. Carnival Cruise Line CCL Brand Ambassador John Heald recently addressed some passport misinformation he has seen shared in multiple places online which has been confusing passengers.

Carnival offers clarity on passport rules

People love to spread bad information on social media. It's hard to know when it's intentional and when it's just people not knowing. This can cause real problems as it's hard for people planning a cruise to know what to believe.

It's also an issue because some cruise policies are a little loose. The answer to "Do I have to wear pants in the main dining room?" is technically "yes," but practically, "probably not." That creates confusion for people deciding what to pack and causes problems when a rarely enforced rule actually gets enforced.

Passport rules, however, are not fluid. They can change, but they're very specific and Heald made that clear in a recent Facebook post.  

"Over the last week or so I have been answering multiple questions on the subject of an alleged passport requirement for Alaska. Someone had posted on Book Face, Tube Tock, Tit X, or You Critic that everyone must have a passport to cruise to Alaska and yep, many believed her," he wrote.

That's most decidedly not the case as passports are not required for travel within the US. Canada, which all Alaska cruises visit, offers the same option of either having a passport or a license and an original birth certificate.

Heald was adamant on the issue.

"I responded over and over again to everyone saying this was not correct and think I may have become a bit exasperated because in one answer I used the words “ trust me.” Big mistake because I know these days trust is not something many people give, well, anyone," he added. 

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Carnival shares a social media warning

"Trust is just something we no longer have. We do not trust politicians, obviously. We don’t trust doctors because we’ve asked Uncle Google our symptoms and it’s obvious that we have an undiagnosed case of Cleveland Palus Febris et Cacat which the Doctor won’t have covered at medical school," he shared.

Some of that is Heald bringing levity, but there's a serious message under that.

"We are also constantly shown that we must be vigilant for online scamming bastards. At Carnival, we are taught 'cyber awareness' and the real dangers of 'fhishing" or is it phishing? Regardless of the spelling it all comes down to do not trust anyone, ever, or open an email from anyone," he wrote.

The Brand Ambassador also made a more direct point about cruising.

"My point here is this. If you see a social media post about Carnival charging $5 if they lose their room key or that we are serving Yak as part of our Vegan menu or that someone was thrown off the ship for wearing a T-shirt supporting a certain politician you may think you have a pretty good grasp of the Carnival news. But you haven’t," he added.

Related: Get the best cruise tips, deals, and news on the ships from our expert cruiser

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Explore the newest amenities onboard including surf simulators, fine dining and more.

The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is set to debut in 2024.

The world's biggest and most ambitious cruise lines never stop building out their fleet of ships, and Royal Caribbean International is no exception. The Florida-based cruise line currently boasts 28 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, including the four newest ships that have been added to the fleet since 2021. An even newer ship, Star of the Seas, is also being constructed with a planned launch date during the summer of 2025.

If you're interested in trying out one of the most over-the-top cruise ships sailing the world today, consider Royal Caribbean's newest vessels from the last few years. Read on to learn about the brand-new Icon of the Seas, the jaw-dropping action offered on the Wonder of the Seas, the Utopia of the Seas and the Odyssey of the Seas and all the amenities and unique experiences they have to offer.

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Icon of the Seas

Scheduled to set sail in early 2024, the Icon of the Seas is one of the most celebrated and anticipated new cruise ships across all the major cruise lines. This Icon Class vessel was built to dazzle and entertain cruise passengers of all ages, and it features eight unique neighborhoods, seven pools and the largest waterpark at sea.

In total, Icon of the Seas offers 2,805 individual staterooms with space for 7,600 guests at maximum and 2,350 crew members. The vessel is 1,198 feet long with gross tonnage of 250,800.

• Sails to: The Icon of the Seas will offer alternating seven-night sailings between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The vessel's Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas . The alternative itinerary also stops at the cruise line's private island , as well as Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and Charlotte Amelie in St. Thomas. All itineraries will depart from Miami .
• Cabin types: Cabins on the Icon of the Seas are spread across eight unique neighborhoods with their own themes and amenities. Cruisers will find the basic interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms they would expect. The ship also features 179 suites that vary in size and in terms of their features, with some really spacious and over-the-top options. For example, the vessel's Ultimate Family Townhouse (UL) is more than 1,700 square feet with three stories, a multi-level slide, an outdoor space with a ping pong table and more.
• Dining options: Icon of the Seas offers 11 included dining options plus room service that's available 24/7. There are also nine unique specialty restaurants on board, including options like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, the Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille Steakhouse. A Starbucks is also available.
• Features: The Icon of the Seas boasts the largest cruise ship pool at sea, as well as seven pools and nine whirlpools in total. There are also six record-breaking waterslides located in what Royal Caribbean says is the largest waterpark at sea. Nightlife and entertainment options run the gamut from the ship's dueling piano bar to its jazz and blues club to its AquaTheater with mesmerizing shows that feature incredible diving feats and acrobatics.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas is another vessel that is set to debut in 2024 with sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. This Oasis Class ship will offer up a total of 2,834 guest rooms and is 1,188 feet in length and 236,860 gross tons in size.

The ship has space for 5,668 passengers at double occupancy and eight different neighborhoods with cabins for guests. Interestingly, this huge ship will not offer seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean and will instead focus on offering three-night and four-night itineraries, at least at first.

• Sails to: The all-new Utopia of the Seas will offer shorter sailings to the Bahamas. The ship's three-night sailings will stop only at the cruise line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, whereas four-night sailings from Port Canaveral stop at the cruise line's private island and at Nassau, Bahamas.
• Cabin types: The Utopia of the Seas has interior rooms, ocean view rooms and balcony rooms just like other ships. Upgraded room options also abound and include a range of luxury suites at sea. For example, you can book the iconic Ultimate Family Suite, a Solarium Suite with Wraparound Windows, a Royal Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: There are 10 different included dining experiences on the Utopia of the Seas, with room service also offered 24 hours a day. These include a Main Dining Room experience, several cafe options, a pizzeria, a coastal kitchen with California and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and more. In addition, there are 10 different specialty restaurants that can also be booked on the Utopia of the Seas, and a Starbucks is on board. Special dining experiences include a hibachi and sushi restaurant, a seafood restaurant, a Chef's Table experience for up to 16 diners at a time, a Johnny Rockets and more.
• Features: Utopia of the Seas has everything you would expect in a new Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean. For example, passengers will find five huge pools, eight hot tubs, three water slides, 23 different bars and two on-board casinos. Other features include an ice-skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, a basketball court, two FlowRider Surf simulators and of course the line's famous AquaTheater. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Utopia of the Seas also features special spaces for kids and teens, including dedicated clubs, an Imagination Studio and an on-board arcade.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

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Wonder of the Seas

Sailing the friendly seas since March 2022, the Wonder of the Seas boasts more individual rooms and suites than Icon of the Seas. The Oasis-class ship features 2,867 staterooms with a total guest capacity of 7,084. There are also eight unique neighborhoods for cruisers to choose from, each with its own decor and flair.

This Royal Caribbean vessel is also huge at 1,188 feet long and 235,600 gross tons. A total of 2,204 crew members run the ship and assist guests.

• Sails to: Wonder of the Seas is currently sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida and offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Eastern itinerary includes stops in Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay. Meanwhile, the Western loop stops at the cruise line's private island as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.
• Cabin types: Wonder of the Seas also offers all the normal cabin types you would expect, including interior rooms, sea view rooms and balcony staterooms. There are also over-the-top suites to choose from, including an Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Suite, an Owner's Suite and more.
• Dining options: Nine complimentary dining options are included on the Wonder of the Seas, with a main dining room, a buffet option and plenty of other eateries available to grab a bite to eat. There are also 11 unique specialty restaurants on board, including a steakhouse and a seafood restaurant, a Johnny Rockets, a sushi and hibachi restaurant and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. For coffee lovers, a Starbucks is also on board.
• Features: The Wonder of the Seas has its own Central Park, along with 11 different bars, as well as special kids and teens-only areas like a social club and an arcade. Other notable features include the vessel's AquaTheater, rock-climbing walls, whirlpools, laser tag and more. There are also 19 swimming pools, an ice rink and a casino on the Wonder of the Seas.

Read: The Top Cruises for Teens

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship that's smaller than the other newest vessels from the line. The impressive ship completed its first sailing in 2021 when it became the first ship of its class to sail from the United States. Odyssey of the Seas currently departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and other ports and offers a range of six-night and seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean in the coming months.

Up to 4,198 guests can sail on the Odyssey of the Seas with double occupancy, and 1,612 crew members are on board to tend to their every need. The ship is approximately 1,138 feet long and is 167,704 gross tons.

• Sails to: Odyssey of the Seas will depart from various ports in the United States and elsewhere in the world in the coming years. For example, there are upcoming six-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale that include stops in Labadee, Haiti and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in addition to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The vessel will complete a 14-day transatlantic cruise in April and May of 2024, which begins in Fort Lauderdale and ends in Rome, Italy. From there, the vessel will offer Greek Islands cruises from Rome before moving back to Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey in the fall of 2024. At that point, itineraries will include stops in Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Cabin types: Odyssey of the Seas offers interior staterooms, ocean view rooms and balcony staterooms. Guests can also book interior rooms with a virtual balcony that boasts a floor-to-ceiling virtual view of the outdoors. Over-the-top suites available on the Odyssey include an Owner's Loft Suite, a Royal Loft Suite, a Grand Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: As a smaller vessel with considerably fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class ships, Odyssey of the Seas has fewer dining options overall. Guests can dine at seven included eateries including a main dining room, a bistro, a cafe and the main ship buffet. There are also seven specialty restaurants and experiences on board including the Chef's Table, a Chops Grille and a sushi and hibachi restaurant. Like other newer ships from Royal Caribbean, the Odyssey also has its own Starbucks.
• Features: The Odyssey has eight dedicated bars and lounges on board, bumper cars, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor movie screen and a casino, along with kid and teen features like an arcade, a kids' splash area and a social club. A FlowRider surf simulator is on board, as well as a sky diving simulator. Note that the Odyssey of the Seas doesn't have an AquaTheater like Oasis Class ships.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Look Out for Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is already offering limited information about its newest ship, the Star of the Seas. This vessel will also be an Icon Class ship like the Icon of the Seas, meaning it will be big and beautiful with all the bells and whistles.

The Star of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert and content creator who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised dozens of times with most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to write this article, along with information provided by Royal Caribbean.

You might also be interested in:

• Icon of the Seas Review
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival
• Cruise Line Drink Packages
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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