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6 Places to Cruise Without a Passport

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Table of Contents

1. Alaska-Canada

2. the bahamas, 4. u.s. northeast-canada, 5. other caribbean islands, book smart: get travel insurance, can you cruise without a passport.

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. 

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

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?

Before you embark on any sort of trip, consider travel insurance, which can protect your nonrefundable deposit in case something derails your plans. Purchasing cruise travel insurance or booking your trip with a credit card that includes coverage can also mitigate the risks of travel emergencies.

Some travel cards also offer cruise benefits, so it can be a smart money move to book your trip with a card that offers these perks along with travel insurance. Here are some cards that offer cruise and travel insurance perks:

on Chase's website

on Bank of America's website

on American Express' website

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

• Get 25% more value out of your points when you book cruises through Chase.

• Book with your card to get automatic travel protections for your cruise.

• Redeem miles as a statement credit to cover spending on cruises.

• Book with your card to get automatic travel insurance coverage for your cruise.

• Earn 2x points on travel spending, including cruises and some ship excursions.

• Book with your card to get trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation coverage and other travel assistance services.

• Get American Express Cruise Privileges Program benefits when you book at least five nights with eligible cruise lines.

• Cruise program benefits include $300 credit redeemable toward dining and spa services plus amenities like wine, chocolates and champagne.

Terms apply.

There are many more credit cards that offer travel insurance so if you're thinking about relying on a card to protect your cruise, it can be a good step to get familiarized with your options so the your trip is covered.

You can also purchase a standalone travel insurance policy if you feel that the protections provided by the card aren't sufficient. Either way, being aware of your options can bring some peace of mind, and not having to bring a passport to one of these destinations can make going on the trip even simpler.

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). Being aware of your travel insurance options can also be a smart money move. Also check if the credit card you already have offers travel insurance or consider getting a card that includes this coverage for free.

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.

AMERICAN EXPRESS DISCLAIMERS

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

• Carnival Cruise Lines

Questions about cruising without a passport.

By watermelonqueen99 , March 6, 2022 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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watermelonqueen99

So I've finally talked my sister and brother-in-law into cruising with us. Neither one have passports, nor will they be getting one. I know they need a valid driver's license and a birth certificate to cruise. My question is, does the birth certificate need to be official, with the raised seal? Also, my sister's birth certificate will obviously have her maiden name, will that be a problem? Also, my BIL is adopted and was born in another state, will that be an issue? Sorry for so many questions, just a little confused!

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All it needs to be is the state issued BC, not something from a hospital or church.  If it is official it will have some sort of seal which can be raised or stamped. 

The maiden name is the case for virtually every woman that has been married.  Many carry a copy of the marriage license to bridge the BC to the current ID.

As for your BIL, as long as the BC matches the ID it does not matter what state they are from.

cruisingguy007

You need a long birth certificate from vital records. Nothing else will work. Don't believe the hype.  Order two copies from vital records and sail on. 

Birth certificate with marriage record will suffice as well. 

4 hours ago, cruisingguy007 said: You need a long birth certificate from vital records. Nothing else will work. Don't believe the hype.  Order two copies from vital records and sail on. 

Any form of a government issued BC will work for a closed loop cruise, long form only applies for passport applications. 

Just carry ALL certification paperwork that could possibly be useful!

Better to not need it and have it, than vice versa.

Bureaucracy needs to be drowned in paperwork ...

Just dont have a stop in colon Panama. I've just read you can only get off the ship there now with a passport.

Knights on the Beach

For accurate info, look at What travel documents do I need to bring?

https://www.carnival.com/help

Thanks everyone, I think we got it all figured out

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8 Cruise Destinations That Don’t Require a Passport

No passport? No problem — here are cruises you can take without a passport.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruising is back after a few years of rough seas, figuratively speaking. Cruise lines worked behind the scenes during the pandemic, planning for their return to the world’s waterways. New ships , creative amenities, engaging shore excursions, a wide range of itineraries, and meticulous health protocols are now attracting first-time cruisers as well as long-time cruise fans. From mega-ships to smaller expedition vessels, there’s a voyage for every type of traveler. 

If you’ve been thinking about a cruise — perhaps you received an invitation from a friend to join an upcoming trip, or you noticed a last-minute cruise bargain — you’ll want to make sure you have all of your travel documents ready to go. If your passport has been gathering dust for the last two years, it may be expired. Does that mean you won’t be able to take the cruise? Not necessarily — here’s what you need to know about taking a cruise without a passport. 

You can cruise to quite a few destinations without a passport, as long as you have proof of citizenship and a government-issued photo ID. A variety of documents are accepted as proof of citizenship, including a state-certified U.S. birth certificate. A complete list is provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and their recent publication also explains the requirements for taking a cruise without a passport. Note that enhanced driver’s licenses are issued in very few states at this time, so it’s important not to assume that yours qualifies as identification and proof of citizenship.

The cruises must be “closed-loop,” meaning they begin and end at the same U.S. port. A one-way cruise that boards in a U.S. port and disembarks in a different U.S. port does not qualify. While you may leave and enter the United States on a closed-loop cruise with the required identification and proof of citizenship, you should be aware that some countries on your itinerary may require a passport. (Your cruise line should provide that information when you book your trip.) It’s still a good idea to bring your passport on a cruise if it’s up to date, but if it’s not, we’ve got you covered. Here are eight destinations that you can cruise to without a passport (and don’t forget to renew your passport so you’ll always be ready to travel).  

Places to Cruise Without a Passport

The good news is that you can cruise to quite a few popular destinations without a passport, including Alaska, the Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, Hawaii, the Caribbean , Canada, and New England. Just be sure that your cruise begins and ends in the same U.S. port, and double check your identification and proof of citizenship documents.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The majority of closed-loop cruises to Alaska originate and return to Seattle. However, American Cruise Lines ’ Southeast Alaska cruise boards in Juneau and returns to the same port after visiting Glacier Bay and several Alaskan towns.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a seven-day cruise from Seattle aboard Norwegian Bliss with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Glacier Bay, and Victoria before returning to Seattle. Holland America Line ’s seven-day Alaskan Explorer departs from Seattle and cruises the Puget Sound and Stephens Passage.

Courtesy of Disney

Florida’s ports of Miami, Port Everglades (in Fort Lauderdale), and Port Canaveral (about an hour east of Orlando) offer the majority of closed-loop cruises to the Bahamas. In addition to those departure ports, Carnival Cruise Line sails to the Bahamas from Florida ports in Jacksonville and Tampa, while Royal Caribbean has departures from Tampa, Baltimore, Cape Liberty, New Jersey, and Galveston, Texas.

Disney Cruise Line offers a three-night Bahamian cruise from Port Canaveral aboard the spectacular Disney Wish with a day in Nassau and a day at Disney Castaway Cay before returning to Port Canaveral.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Closed-loop cruises to Mexico depart from Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Galveston. From East Coast ports, cruise ships visit the Yucatan Peninsula’s Costa Maya and the island of Cozumel in the Caribbean Sea. From West Coast ports, destinations along the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez include Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Manzanillo, Loreto, La Paz, Guaymas, and Topolobampo.

Celebrity Cruises ’ 12-night New Orleans & the Caribbean cruise departs from and returns to Tampa after stops in New Orleans, Key West, and Honduras as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel. Princess Cruises offers a seven-day Mexican Riviera with La Paz voyage that includes Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, and La Paz.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Located 570 miles east of North Carolina in the Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda is a convenient cruise destination from the East Coast ports of New York City, Baltimore, Charleston, Boston, Port Canaveral, Miami, and Norfolk, Virginia. 

Carnival ’s six-day Bermuda from Norfolk cruise spends two days at sea and three days in Bermuda. Bermuda Bliss, a seven-day Oceana cruise from New York City, visits Hamilton and St. George in Bermuda and includes two days at sea.

The Hawaiian islands are about 3,700 miles from the West Coast, so cruises from the mainland to Hawaii and back involve four or five days at sea in each direction. Closed-loop cruises depart from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and San Diego. There are also cruises that originate in Honolulu and tour the other islands. 

Princess Cruises' 16-day Hawaiian Islands voyage from San Francisco visits Hilo, Honolulu, Kauai, and Maui before five days at sea and a stop in Ensenada on the return to San Francisco. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a seven-day Hawaii inter-island cruise that boards in Honolulu and visits Maui, Hilo and Kona on the Big Island, and Kauai before returning to Honolulu.

The Caribbean

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Departure ports for closed-loop Caribbean cruises include Tampa, Miami, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Baltimore, New Orleans, and New York City. Cruises also depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Regent Seven Seas features the Wonders in the Caribbean cruise that departs from Miami with stops in the Cayman Islands, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and Key West. Royal Caribbean ’s seven-night Southern Caribbean Holiday cruise embarks in San Juan and visits Barbados, Trinidad, Tobago, St. Vincent, and St. Maarten.

Canada and New England

Canada and New England are typically grouped together on itineraries that originate in Boston, New York City, and Cape Liberty, New Jersey. 

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a seven-day Canada & New England cruise from New York City with visits to Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine, before a day at sea and a return to New York City. 

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Answered: How to Cruise Without a Passport

There’s a major reason people love to take cruises. Yes, cruises are one of the best values for a vacation. And yes, the sun and the fun are huge draws.

But more than anything, people love to cruise because it’s easy. You just pack your bags, find your cabin, and then you’re whisked away to exotic ports while everything you could want on vacation is just a few steps away. What could be simpler?

Well, if you don’t have a passport, then it’s not always so easy.

Every cruise line has warnings that every passenger should travel with a valid passport. In fact, we also suggest that every cruise passenger have a passport.

But what many people don’t know is that in most cases you don’t have to have a passport to cruise.

That’s good news if you have a trip coming up and don’t already have one.

Why Many Cruise Passengers Want to Sail Without a Passport

Frankly, if you are only an occasional traveler, we can understand why you wouldn’t have a passport already nor be very eager to get one.

For one, new passports are somewhat expensive. A passport book costs $110, plus a $35 “execution” fee for adults. For kids, it is $80 plus a $35 fee.

So if you are taking a family of four on a trip for the first time and want to supply them all with passports, that’s more than $500 spent before you even set foot on a ship:

You can get a passport card (basically a fancy driver’s license) for only $30 ($15 for kids), plus the $35 fee. It’s cheaper, but not as versatile as a traditional passport.

For example, if something happens on your cruise and you need to fly back, the passport card does no good. It’s only valid for land and sea entries from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

Of course, all of these options suppose that you have the time to get a new passport before your cruise. As you can see below, it can take several weeks before you can expect yours to arrive after ordering. Some people may simply not have enough time before their trip.

Processing times vary, but routine service is currently at 10-12 weeks , or roughly three months. Expedited process is available for a higher fee, but will still take 4-6 weeks.

Luckily, a little known law helps most people from having to deal with the time or expense of getting a new passport for their cruise.

Do I Need to Have a Passport to Cruise?

If you don’t want to sail with a passport, then you’re in luck. Most people don’t need one.

That’s because of something called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, or WHTI for short. Put simply, this rule says that if you embark and debark from a cruise at the same port in the United States, then you can enter the U.S. using only a birth certificate and a driver’s license.

Here’s the official language:

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. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.

(Note that kids under 16 can travel with just the birth certificate on closed-loop cruises. They don’t need the photo ID.)

Most cruises fall under this umbrella. So if you’re leaving from Miami, headed around the Caribbean for a week and then back to Miami, it’s considered a closed-loop cruise. For that, you only need ID and a birth certificate.

Why Suggest a Passport If You Don’t NEED It?

So if this is the case, why are the cruise lines — and Cruzely — so adamant about getting a passport in the first place?

There are a couple of reasons.

First, if anything were to happen that made you have to find alternate transport home, then you’d be in deep water without a passport. For example, if you had to fly home from a foreign port due to a family emergency, then you’d have trouble returning without a passport.

With the recent health crisis, this is more important than ever. While it’s not definite, it’s been seen that on some cruises, passengers that are positive for COVID have had to debark the ship. That means they have to find an alternate way home, such as flying.

Second, passports can make the debarkation process faster.  

Not all terminals have the technology yet, but many are switching over to automated passport screening. In the old way of doing things, you leave the ship and then have to wait in line for a Customs & Border Patrol agent to check your documents before letting you into the country.

With automated screening, you scan your passport, take a quick photo, and you’re on your way. Instead of waiting in a long line, the processing takes seconds. However, those with a birth certificate still have to wait in line and have their documents manually checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Do I Show My Birth Certificate or Passport? For the most part, you’ll keep your birth certificate locked away in your cabin safe or in your luggage as you travel. You’ll need to show it only when you check-in before you get on the ship and when you disembark at the end of your trip. Other that, you won’t likely show it anywhere else.

Do I Need to Bring My Birth Certificate Into Port? No, but it wouldn’t hurt to bring a copy of it with you, just in case (leave the original in the cabin safe). When you get off the ship in port, you don’t need your birth certificate to enter or leave.

You should bring a photo ID and your cabin keycard with you as they will be checked to make sure you are supposed to be on the ship when you return.

Do I Need a Passport or Birth Certificate if Cruising to Alaska? No, you don’t have to carry a passport to sail to Alaska. However, you do need some sort of citizenship proof, meaning either a passport or a birth certificate/ID. 

But why do you need that if you are cruising to Alaska, which is part of the United States?

Cruises on foreign-flagged ships (which almost all cruise ships are), must make a stop in a foreign port before returning to the United States. Thus, any trip to Alaska will have a stop in Canada included. Since you are leaving the country, you’ll need proof of citizenship to return home.

Are There Advantages to Using a Passport Instead of a Birth Certificate to Cruise? Yes. We discussed above how a passport gives you more flexibility if you need to return home in the middle of your cruise. While that’s rare, there is another advantage to having a passport: faster debarkation.

Today many cruise lines have switched to facial recognition to speed up debarking. You simply scan your passport, take a photo and then you are on your way off the ship. If you have a birth certificate, your documents will be manually checked and it takes much longer.

Our suggestion is to always sail with a passport that’s valid for at least six months after your cruise . But if that’s not possible, then you can sail with a birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID.

If there are any doubts, be sure to contact your cruise line well in advance of your trip. 

Related Articles:

• 10 Questions and Answers to Using a Birth Certificate to Cruise
• Do I Need a Passport for an Alaskan Cruise?

Cruise 101: Getting a Passport for Your Cruise

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What are the benefits of taking a closed-loop cruise?

There are several benefits to taking a closed-loop cruise. First, it’s more affordable than taking a cruise to an international destination. You won’t have to pay any passport fees or visa fees. Second, it’s more convenient. You don’t have to go through the hassle of applying for a passport and going to the embassy. Third, it’s more flexible. If you have to cancel your cruise at the last minute, you won’t have to worry about any international travel restrictions.

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Where can you cruise without a passport?

There are many different cruise destinations that you can visit without a passport. Here are some of the most popular:

• Alaska:  Alaska is a beautiful state with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. You can see glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls, and you may even spot whales, bears, and other animals.
• The Bahamas:  The Bahamas is a tropical paradise with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. You can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or explore the many islands.
• Bermuda:  Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory with a unique culture and history. You can visit the capital city of Hamilton, explore the Royal Naval Dockyard, or simply relax on one of the many pink-sand beaches.
• Canada and New England :  Canada and New England offer a variety of cruise destinations, from the bustling cities of Halifax and Boston to the picturesque towns of Bar Harbor and Newport. You can visit historical sites, go shopping, or simply enjoy the scenery.
• The Caribbean :  The Caribbean is a popular cruise destination for a reason. It has something for everyone, from the white-sand beaches of Aruba to the lush jungles of St. Lucia. You can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, explore the islands, or go shopping.
• Hawaii:  Hawaii is a beautiful state with a unique culture and history. You can visit the volcanoes of Hawaii Island, explore the Polynesian Cultural Center, or simply relax on one of the many beaches.
• Mexico :  Mexico is a great option for those looking for a more affordable cruise destination. It has a variety of ports to visit, from the bustling city of Cancun to the historic town of Mazatlan. You can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, explore the Mayan ruins, or go shopping.

What are the best cruises without a passport?

There are many different cruise lines that offer closed-loop cruises. Here are a few of the most popular:

• Carnival Cruise Line:  Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of closed-loop cruises to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Mexico.
• Royal Caribbean International:  Royal Caribbean International offers a variety of closed-loop cruises to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
• Norwegian Cruise Line:  Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of closed-loop cruises to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Mexico.
• Disney Cruise Line:  Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of closed-loop cruises to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
• MSC Cruises:  MSC Cruises offers a variety of closed-loop cruises to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, and Mexico.

When to book a cruise without a passport

The best time to book a cruise without a passport is during the shoulder season (April-May and September-October). During this time, prices are typically lower and there are fewer crowds. However, it’s important to note that cruises to popular destinations like Alaska and the Caribbean can still be expensive during the shoulder season.

What to expect on a cruise without a passport

Cruises without a passport are similar to any other cruise. You’ll enjoy the same amenities and activities, such as dining, entertainment, and shopping. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• You won’t need a passport, but you will need other forms of identification.  When you book your cruise, you’ll need to provide the cruise line with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You’ll also need to bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID, to the port on the day of your cruise.
• You’ll be limited to certain ports of call.  Closed-loop cruises are only permitted to visit ports within the Western Hemisphere. This means that you won’t be able to visit Europe , Asia, or Africa on a closed-loop cruise.
• You’ll be subject to U.S. laws and regulations.  Even though you’re on a cruise ship, you’re still subject to U.S. laws and regulations. This means that you can’t bring any illegal drugs or weapons on board the ship.

Popular cruise itineraries without a passport

Here are a few popular cruise itineraries without a passport:

• Alaska:  7-night cruises from Seattle to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay
• The Bahamas:  3-night cruises from Miami to Nassau and Freeport
• Bermuda:  7-night cruises from New York City to Bermuda
• Canada and New England:  7-night cruises from Boston to Halifax, Bar Harbor, Sydney, and Newport
• The Caribbean:  7-night cruises from Miami to Nassau, St. Thomas, and San Juan
• Hawaii:  7-night cruises from Honolulu to Hilo, Kona, and Nawiliwili
• Mexico:  7-night cruises from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta

Things to do on a cruise without a passport

There are many things to do on a cruise without a passport. Here are a few ideas:

• Relax on the beach.  Many cruise ships have private beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and play in the sand.
• Go swimming in the pool or ocean.  Most cruise ships have pools and hot tubs where you can relax and cool off.
• Explore the ship.  Cruise ships are like floating cities, with many different things to see and do. You can explore the shops, restaurants, bars, and casinos. You can also see shows, movies, and play games.
• Visit the ports of call.  When the ship docks at a port of call, you can go on shore excursions or explore the town on your own. You can visit historical sites, go shopping, or simply enjoy the local culture.

Tips for planning a cruise without a passport

Here are a few tips for planning a cruise without a passport:

• Book early.  The most popular cruises tend to sell out quickly, especially during the peak season.
• Be flexible with your dates.  If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you’ll have more options and may be able to get a better price.
• Choose a cruise line that offers closed-loop cruises.  Not all cruise lines offer closed-loop cruises. Be sure to check the cruise line’s website before you book to make sure they offer cruises to the destinations you’re interested in.
• Research the ports of call.  Before you book your cruise, research the ports of call to see what there is to do. This will help you plan your shore excursions and make the most of your time on shore.

Cruises without a passport are a great way to see the world without having to worry about getting a passport. There are many different cruise lines that offer closed-loop cruises to a variety of destinations. With a little planning, you can have a wonderful cruise vacation without a passport.

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Here are the 10 most asked FAQs about cruises without a passport:

1. What is a closed-loop cruise?

A closed-loop cruise is a cruise that begins and ends in the same U.S. port. This means that you don’t need a passport to board or disembark the ship. Closed-loop cruises are available to all U.S. citizens, regardless of age.

2. What are the benefits of taking a closed-loop cruise?

3. Where can I cruise without a passport?

• The Bahamas
• Canada and New England
• The Caribbean

4. What are the best cruises without a passport?

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises

5. When to book a cruise without a passport

6. Tips for booking a cruise without a passport

Here are a few tips for booking a cruise without a passport:

• Book early. The most popular cruises tend to sell out quickly, especially during the peak season.
• Be flexible with your dates. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you’ll have more options and may be able to get a better price.
• Choose a cruise line that offers closed-loop cruises. Not all cruise lines offer closed-loop cruises. Be sure to check the cruise line’s website before you book to make sure they offer cruises to the destinations you’re interested in.
• Research the ports of call. Before you book your cruise, research the ports of call to see what there is to do. This will help you plan your shore excursions and make the most of your time on shore.

7. Do I need a passport if I’m on a closed-loop cruise that visits a foreign country?

No, you don’t need a passport if you’re on a closed-loop cruise that visits a foreign country. However, you will need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.

8. Can I fly to the departure port of my closed-loop cruise without a passport?

No, you will need a passport to fly to the departure port of your closed-loop cruise. However, you can fly back to the United States from the departure port of your closed-loop cruise without a passport, as long as you have a government-issued photo ID.

9. What happens if I lose my government-issued photo ID while on a closed-loop cruise?

If you lose your government-issued photo ID while on a closed-loop cruise, you should contact the cruise line’s security office. They may be able to issue you a temporary ID that you can use to disembark the ship and return to the United States.

10. Can I take a closed-loop cruise if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

No, only U.S. citizens are eligible to take closed-loop cruises. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport to take any cruise, regardless of the destination.

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Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Do you need a passport for a cruise? The answer is both yes and no.

Whether you need a passport depends on numerous factors, including where you embark and disembark the ship, where you're sailing to and which line you're cruising with. There's no definitive answer -- and it can be confusing.

If you're planning a cruise and have questions about where you can travel without a passport, here's everything you need to know before you go.

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

Where can I cruise without a passport?

If you're a U.S. citizen and don't have a passport, you actually have quite a few cruise options.

You may be surprised to learn that U.S. citizens don't need a passport to sail on "closed-loop" cruises with lines like Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , Carnival Cruise Line , Princess Cruises and others.

These voyages sail round trip from U.S. ports to destinations in North America such as the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Mexico, Central America, Alaska and Hawaii. They depart from such home ports as Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles, Galveston, Texas and New York City.

Related: Eastern vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

The rules also apply to Caribbean islands that are U.S. territories. For instance, you won't need a passport to fly to and cruise out of San Juan, Puerto Rico , or St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

However, if you embark in one U.S. port and disembark in another, it's not the same as a closed-loop sailing. For example, a Panama Canal cruise that begins in Miami and ends in San Diego will require a passport. Longer cruises, like grand voyages, that sail round trip from the U.S. but visit countries outside North and Central America, will also require a passport.

Any cruises where you need to fly to or from a foreign country, including Canada, will necessitate a passport.

Are there exceptions for needing a passport on a closed-loop cruise?

Yes. Even if you're on a closed-loop sailing, certain islands in the Caribbean – Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Barts, Barbados and others -- require a passport for entry. It's your responsibility (not your cruise line's) to learn the requirements of each of the destinations you're visiting before you go.

If you don't have a passport and your ship stops at one of these islands, you'll have to stay on board. If you want to cruise without a passport, choose itineraries where you know you can get off the ship and enjoy your day in port.

To make things even more confusing, you can get off the ship in port in Vancouver, British Columbia during an Alaska cruise without a passport, but to cross over into the Canadian province by rail, you'll need one. You can visit Alaska on a round-trip Seattle cruise without a passport. But if you wish to book a rail journey excursion on the White Pass & Yukon Route, which takes you from Alaska into Canada, choose the shorter White Pass Summit tour; you'll need a passport for the longer trips.

There are also exceptions when you're traveling with children. Princess Cruises and Holland America require that at least one parent carry a passport, even if you're on a closed-loop sailing. Some lines always require a passport for all travelers, no matter the itinerary, including Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Azamara , Windstar Cruises , Silversea Cruises , Oceania Cruises and Seabourn .

What type of ID do you need to carry for a closed-loop cruise if you don't have a passport?

The U.S. Customs & Border Protection agency states that if you're cruising without a passport, you'll need proof of identity and U.S. citizenship in the form of a state-issued birth certificate. It also requires a government-issued driver's license or a photo ID with your name and date of birth.

Another option is a passport card , which is a photo ID issued by the government that proves your citizenship and permits border crossings by land and sea from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. (This card cannot be used for international air travel and therefore costs less than the traditional passport book.)

An enhanced driver's license is another alternative that you can use for land and sea port crossings, but not for international flights.

If you don't have a passport, these documents may also be sufficient to show customs officials in some Caribbean islands. For example, if you disembark in St. Maarten (on the Dutch side) and then take a boat over to Anguilla on an excursion, you will need a passport, a certified birth certificate and photo ID, a passport card or an enhanced driver's license. St. Maarten doesn't require the documents, but Anguilla does.

It's best to check the requirements not just for each island that you'll be sailing to, but also to additional destinations you may visit on a port call. They may require different documentation for entry.

If you are cruising with kids under age 16 on a closed-loop cruise, you'll need to bring a certified copy of their original birth certificate for identification. They do not need a photo ID.

No matter which documents you bring, it's a smart idea to take copies of them (either paper ones or photos on your phone) when you leave the ship, in case something happens while you're ashore. Always carry some type of photo identification, like a driver's license, when you head into port.

What happens in case of an emergency if I don't have a passport?

If you had an emergency and were forced to disembark due to illness or other reason in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, the Bahamas, Bermuda or Canada you would need a passport to return home by plane. On the rare occasion of a ship evacuation or a diversion to another country to disembark, a passport would also be essential for getting home.

Related: 7 ways to prepare for any kind of travel disaster

If you find yourself without a passport but in need of one, you would need to contact and locate the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and request an emergency limited validity passport in order to fly home. The process requires explaining your urgent situation, completing an application, and showing your travel documents, photo identification and proof of citizenship.

You will also need to have a passport size photo taken and pay the required fees. While this type of passport can be issued within as little as a day, it could take up to a week to receive it.

Bottom line

Cruise lines recommend that every passenger have a passport when traveling, even on closed-loop cruises when one isn't strictly necessary. It's the best way to prove your identification and citizenship and is an essential item if you unexpectedly get stranded abroad. It's also less cumbersome than carrying the required documents and papers with you wherever you go.

There's no better time to apply for a passport than now. It can take eight to 11 weeks (expedited wait times are five to seven weeks) for a routine passport to be issued, so you always want to plan ahead.

The cost for a first-time passport holder is $165, plus the photo fee; the steep fee alone is why many Americans choose to go without one. The good news is that an adult passport is valid for 10 years – and you can travel to most places in the world with just a passport and no visa.

While it is possible to cruise without a passport, it's worth the peace of mind to know that you can get off the ship and do what you want to do while on vacation and then be able to get home again should anything unexpected happen. However, if you don't have a passport, or don't wish to get one, you can still cruise — you're just limited to North American cruises sailing round trip from U.S. departure ports.

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
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

• Food & Drink
• How to Plan
• Shore Excursions
• Onboard Activities
• What to Expect

Places to Cruise Without a Passport

By Carnival Cruise Line

The Bahamas

New England and Canada

• The Caribbean

Baja, Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Caribbean  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Top Places to Cruise Without a Passport

Did you know it's possible to cruise without a passport? Many people don't know that as a U.S. Citizen, you can take advantage of the benefits of no-passport cruises for itineraries that begin and end at a U.S. Port.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Although you do not need a passport to visit these destinations as a U.S. citizen, Norwegian Cruise Line strongly recommends all guests to obtain a passport for their cruise vacation.

Vacation planners are always wondering if you need a passport for a cruise. When sailing from and back to the same US port, there are a surprising number of cruise destinations you can visit with Norwegian. Our top places to cruise without a passport include:

Sporting one of the youngest fleets to sail along the spectacular coastline of British Columbia, Norwegian will take you in style as you cruise from Seattle to ports of call such as Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria.

Think: whale spotting, dog-sledding or thrill riding on a jet-powered catamaran. Or maybe unprecedented photo ops, wildlife viewing, and glacier watching are more your thing. Whatever you're looking to do, Alaska is definitely nature at its best.

You’ll be living on island time in no time with the Bahamas' close proximity to the US mainland! You can sail from Port Canaveral or Miami on a 3-, 4- or 7-day cruise on board the newly refurbished Norwegian Sky .

You can visit Norwegian's pristine private island, Great Stirrup Cay , or destinations like Nassau. If you've got some extra time to spare, be sure to take advantage of available Florida pre- and post-cruise stays, because, after all, you're on vacation! So, why not make the most of it?

When you get to spend 3 full days on the beautiful, oh-so-British (and pink!) island of Bermuda , it's no wonder Norwegian was voted as having the Best Bermuda Itinerary !

You can cruise without a passport from Boston on board Norwegian Dawn , or from New York on Norwegian Escape or Norwegian Breakaway , to Bermuda where those gorgeous pink sands await you. And with 3 days to explore , you can cover the island at your leisure while visiting shops, restaurants and even golf courses ‘til your heart's content.

4. Canada & New England

See Mother Nature at her best when the autumn months turn seemingly ordinary trees into a striking array of crimson and gold. As an added bonus, a cruise to Canada & New England is a history lover's delight!

You can embark from Boston on board Norwegian Dawn or from New York on Norwegian Gem or Norwegian Escape , where highlights can include visiting the historical destinations of Quebec City, Halifax, and Charlottetown, along with Portland and Bar Harbour.

5. The Caribbean

With so many picture-perfect islands, a wide variety of ships to choose from, and multiple convenient departure points including Boston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Port Canaveral, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Tampa, it's not surprising Norwegian has retained its title as the Caribbean's Leading Cruise Line for the past 10 years!

RELATED CRUISES: 10-Day Caribbean Cruise: Bahamas & Bermuda on Norwegian Joy 9-Day Alaska Cruise: Skagway & Juneau on Norwegian Sun 12-Day Hawaii Cruise: Kauau, Maui & Moorea on Norwegian Spirit

With so many choices, you'll be grooving to those alluring Caribbean island rhythms in no time! And of course, we can't forget the fantastic array of duty-free shopping and the delicious Caribbean cuisine . Oh, and the colorful tropical fish you'll see when snorkeling and scuba diving. And…okay. You get the idea.

6. Mexican Riviera

See more of Mexico and all it has to offer on a Mexico Cruise. Norwegian will take you from Los Angeles to a variety of ports that will offer you a combination of adventure and relaxation that you could not get anywhere else. Sail aboard some of our newest ships, including Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy .

Ports of call can include Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo, where you'll find that charming Mexican vibe, along with water sport and adventures galore.

Voted to be the Best Hawaii Cruise Itinerary, the Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu while offering 4 islands during her 7-day cruise, including 2 overnight stays, which means you'll be able to maximize your island time in port while visiting the Big Island, Kauai, Maui, and Oahu. Your tropical Hawaiian paradise experience awaits! And if you want even more from your vacation, consider adding a 4-day Land Tour in Oahu . Because why? That's right, you're on vacation!

Required Documents in Leau of No Passport

Even though you'll be sailing on a no-passport-required cruise, you're still required to carry the following 2 pieces of identification :

Proof of Citizenship (as outlined below) AND Government-issued photo ID

• State certified U.S. birth certificate
• (Baptismal paper, hospital certificates of birth, and Puerto Rico birth certificates issued prior to 7/1/10 are not acceptable.)
• Original certificate of U.S. naturalisation
• Original certificate of U.S. citizenship
• U.S. Consular report of your birth abroad

WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative)-compliant documents (click here to for more information.)

*A U.S. citizen under the age of 16 does not require a government-issued photo ID.

Although you do not need a passport to visit these destinations as a U.S. citizen, Norwegian Cruise Line strongly recommends all guests to obtain a passport for their cruise vacation for the following reasons:

• If you miss your ship at its scheduled U.S. departure port and need to travel outside the U.S. to meet your ship.
• You unexpectedly need to depart the ship from a foreign port prior to the end of sailing, a passport would be required to leave or re-enter the U.S. by air.
• If you need to obtain a passport quickly, please contact VisaCentral at 844-834-5702 and reference account 75006 for discounted VisaCentral service fees. VisaCentral can obtain a passport in as little as 48 hours.

For more on required travel documents, visit our Cruise Travel Documents page .

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published on November 15, 2017. It has been updated to show related content and itineraries.

Where can I cruise without a passport?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

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

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

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

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

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

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

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

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

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

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
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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

The 8 Cruise Destinations That Don’t Require a Passport

Embarking on a cruise adventure can be a thrilling experience, and the great news is, you don’t always need a passport for this journey. The idea of setting sail into the horizon, with the promise of new experiences, can be enticing and liberating, especially when it’s hassle-free.

Imagine the ease of traveling without the need to go through the lengthy process of passport renewal or application. This possibility opens up a world of travel opportunities, inviting you to explore and indulge in the wonders of cruising.

Cruises that don’t require a passport offer the perfect blend of convenience and exploration. These trips often begin and end in the same port within the United States, termed as ‘closed-loop’ cruises.

Such cruises are a boon for those looking to take a break from the ordinary, offering a getaway that’s both accessible and extraordinary. The key lies in the simplicity of the process – less paperwork, and more enjoyment.

With just a few basic travel documents, including a government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship, you can embark on these unique cruises. This simplified documentation process makes these cruises especially appealing to those who prefer not to or cannot use a passport.

Cruise Destinations That Don’t Require a Passport

The caribbean.

The Caribbean is a treasure trove of sun, sea, and diverse cultures. With options for closed-loop itineraries from numerous U.S. cities, including Miami, New York, and New Orleans, the Caribbean offers a wide array of experiences.

From the historic and adventure-packed Eastern Caribbean to the vibrant and nature-rich Southern Caribbean, and the culturally diverse Western Caribbean, there’s a slice of paradise for every traveler. Engage in activities like ziplining, waterfall swimming, and quad bike riding, or relax on pristine beaches.

Not just a destination for leisure, the Caribbean offers a journey through history and culture, with opportunities to explore ancient ruins, rainforests, and engage in wildlife encounters. This destination caters to a broad spectrum of interests, making it a perfect choice for a passport-free tropical getaway.

Cruising along the West Coast of the United States offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of California, Washington, and Oregon without needing a passport.

These cruises typically meander along California’s stunning coastline, allowing you to experience the iconic beauty of places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Up north, Seattle, Washington, and Astoria, Oregon serve as scenic ports, each with its own charm.

Seattle, known for its coffee culture and markets, and Astoria, with its adventure-rich history, provide distinct experiences. West Coast cruises are ideal for those looking for a quick getaway or for first-time cruisers wanting a taste of the Californian lifestyle and the broader West Coast.

Whether it’s for a short break or a longer voyage, these cruises offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and sightseeing along America’s stunning Pacific coastline.

Set sail to the Bahamas, a dreamy destination for a passport-free adventure! Embrace the joy of tropical escapades right from various U.S. ports along the Atlantic Coast. Here, the sparkling waters and sun-kissed beaches of Nassau invite you to dive into its vibrant coral reefs and explore pastel-colored British colonial architecture.

Freeport offers a unique blend of local culture and natural beauty, with opportunities to kayak through the mangroves at Lucayan National Park or indulge in some serious shopping at Port Lucaya Marketplace. For an exclusive resort experience, head to Princess Cays at the southern end of Eleuthera.

Each of these Bahamian gems is accessible through a variety of closed-loop cruises, ranging from short weekend getaways to more extended voyages from ports like New York, providing a plethora of options to suit every traveler’s schedule and preference​.

Bermuda, a slice of paradise for those seeking a blend of British charm and island ease, offers a unique escape. Depart from East Coast ports like New York City, Baltimore, or Charleston and immerse yourself in this idyllic destination known for its pink-sand beaches and crystalline waters.

Here, you can engage in a variety of activities, from snorkeling to sunset rum-tasting cruises. Its size allows for ample exploration within a short timeframe, and several itineraries offer overnight stays, letting you experience both the serene days and lively nightlife of Bermuda.

With historical sites like St. Peter’s Church and the National Museum of Bermuda, you can delve deep into the island’s rich past while enjoying its present-day beauty and cultural offerings. When cruising to Bermuda, you’re not just visiting an island; you’re stepping into a blend of history, luxury, and natural splendor.

Mexico, a vibrant land of rich culture and stunning natural beauty, is another splendid destination for a passport-free cruise. Depart from Californian cities like San Francisco, San Diego, or Long Beach and set course for the Baja Peninsula.

Along the way, you might stop at Catalina Island, where outdoor activities like kayaking, zip-lining, and parasailing await. Once in Mexico, be ready to explore attractions from the flamingo lagoons of Yucatán to the historical allure of Cozumel.

These Western Caribbean locales offer an array of activities such as swimming with dolphins, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, and thrilling zip-line adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for cultural exploration or seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, Mexican Riviera voyages from the West Coast provide an eclectic mix of experiences.

Panama Canal

A cruise to the Panama Canal is a journey through one of the modern world’s most impressive engineering feats. For travelers without a passport, there’s an option to embark on a round-trip cruise from Florida that avoids making port in Colombia, adhering to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

This route allows you to experience the awe-inspiring Panama Canal without needing a passport. As you navigate through this engineering marvel, you’re surrounded by lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Panama Canal is not just a passage between oceans; it’s a gateway to a myriad of natural wonders and historical significance. This cruise is an adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the marvels of modern ingenuity, making it a must-see destination for travelers.

Alaska cruises are a feast for the eyes and soul, perfect for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Embark from Seattle or San Francisco and journey to the mesmerizing ‘Land of the Midnight Sun’.

Your Alaskan adventure includes visits to quaint waterfront towns like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Experience the grandeur of icy glaciers, either by boat or seaplane, and keep an eye out for majestic whales.

Activities like dog sledding add to the excitement. Plus, a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, adds an international flair to your journey, offering a mix of historical and modern attractions, from castles to trolley rides and lush gardens. This cruise guarantees a vacation filled with remarkable memories and breathtaking sights.

Hawaii, an American gem, promises an exotic and exhilarating experience. This tropical haven is known for its black-sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Hawaiian cruises offer diverse activities, from surfing and snorkeling to sampling the local cuisine and experiencing traditional hula dancing.

The state’s allure isn’t just in its beaches and volcanoes; its culinary scene and cultural experiences are equally enchanting. With Hawaii’s welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, your vacation there is bound to be unforgettable.

This destination proves that you don’t have to leave the U.S. to find a paradise that feels worlds away. A Hawaiian cruise is an ideal choice for those seeking a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Final Thoughts

Exploring the world by sea is a thrilling experience, and the great news is, you don’t always need a passport for these adventures. From the rugged beauty of Alaska to the sun-kissed shores of the West Coast, the options are diverse and exciting.

Each destination offers its unique blend of culture, scenery, and experiences, proving that incredible journeys await just a cruise away, even without a passport. These destinations not only cater to diverse interests but also make cruising more accessible, inviting everyone to indulge in the joys of travel​.

U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

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KKR vs PBKS Highlights, IPL 2024: Punjab Kings Script World Record With Massive Successful Chase vs Kolkata Knight Riders

Ipl 2024, kkr vs pbks highlights: jonny bairstow starred as punjab kings registered a world record against kolkata knight riders at eden gardens on friday..

IPL 2024, KKR vs PBKS Highlights: Jonny Bairstow starred as Punjab Kings registered a world record against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Friday. The opener anchored the PBKS innings with an unbeaten 108 off 48 as the side scripted history with the highest-ever successful chase in T20s. Chasing a mammoth target of 262, PBKS reached home in 18.4 overs. Earlier, KKR scored an imposing 261 for 6 after getting an invitation to bat first. KKR rode on a 138-run partnership between openers Phil Salt (75 off 37 balls) and Sunil Narine (71 off 32 balls). However, the night belonged to PBKS, who dominated the game in the second innings and eventually sealed an 8-wicket win. ( Scorecard | Points Table )

Here are the Highlights of IPL 2024 match between KKR and PBKS -

• April 26 2024 23:31 (IST) A look at highest successful chase in Men’s T20 cricket - 262 - Punjab Kings against Kolkata Knight Riders in Kolkata in IPL 2024 259 - South Africa against West Indies in Centurion in 2023 253 - Middlesex against Surrey at The Oval in T20 Blast 2023 244 - Australia against New Zealand at Auckland in 2018 243 - Bulgaria against Serbia in Sofia in 2022 243 - Multan Sultans against Peshawar Zalmi in Rawalpindi in PSL 2023 facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 23:20 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: PBKS win!!! Punjab Kings have defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 8 wickets. They have registered the highest-ever successful chase in T20 history for the win. This is a much-much special win for PBKS. PBKS 262/2 (18.4) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 23:14 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: PBKS are almost there! This is absolute carnage from Punjab Kings. Harshit Rana has been hit for 25 runs in the penultimate over. Punjab Kings need 9 runs in 12 balls. PBKS 253/2 (18) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 23:08 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Big over Shashank Singh slammed three sixes in the over of Dushmantha Chameera and Punjab Kings are well and truly strong in this chase. They need 34 runs in 18 balls. It is gettable as PBKS have 8 wickets in hand. What a game this is! PBKS 228/2 (17) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 23:01 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Century for Bairstow! Jonny Bairstow has raced to his century in 45 balls. What a knock this has been from the Punjab Kings opener! However, the work is not done yet. He should stand there and finish this game for his side. PBKS need 52 runs in 24 balls. PBKS 210/2 (16) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:53 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: PBKS need 61 in 30 Only 5 runs came off Sunil Narine's last over. Jonny Bairstow and Shashank Singh managed to save their wickets in the over. Punjab Kings need 61 runs in 30 balls. With a set opener at the crease and also eight wickets in hand, this is PBKS' match to lose.  PBKS 201/2 (15) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:48 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Punjab Kings back in command Punjab Kings are going really smartly in this chase. Shashank Singh slammed Varun Chakaravarthy for two consecutive sixes in the first two balls of the over. Once the asking rate dropped under 11, Shashank went on to look for singles and doubles. PBKS need 66 runs in 36 balls. PBKS 196/2 (14) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:42 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: OUT! First he starred with the bat and now Sunil Narine is making an impact with the ball. He has got the wicket of Rilee Rossouw. Punjab Kings need 84 runs in 45 balls. PBKS 178/2 (12.3) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:39 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: PBKS on a roll! Varun Chakaravarthy was smashed for 17 runs in the 11th over and Andre Russell followed him with a 24-run over. Jonny Bairstow has put PBKS in superb control in this mammoth chase of 262. Punjab Kings need 89 runs in 48 balls. The target seems gettable now. PBKS 173/1 (12) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:29 (IST) IPL 2024 Live Score: A historic feat in IPL! This is the first time in IPL history that openers from both the teams have registered a fifty-plus score. Sunil Narine and Phil Salt did it in the first innings of this game, while Prabhsimran Singh and Jonny Bairstow to crossed the mark in second innings. Punjab Kings need 130 runs in 60 balls. PBKS 132/1 (10) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:23 (IST) IPL 2024 Live Score: Fifty for Bairstow! Jonny Bairstow raced to his half-century on the fifth ball of the 9th over with a six. It didn't come right from the middle of of Bairstow's bat but the long-off dropped the tough chance. The ball eventually sailed over the fence for a six. Punjab Kings need 142 runs in 66 balls. PBKS 120/1 (9) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:14 (IST) IPL 2024 Live Score: What an over from Narine! This is what makes Sunil Narine special. He saw an opportunity there and bowled an economical over. Only one run came off it and the asking rate is close to 13 now for Punjab Kings. They need 168 runs in 78 balls. PBKS 94/1 (7) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:10 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: OUT! That is poor running from the PBKS openers and Prabhsimran Singh is gone. What a horrible way to get out! Bairstow got an inside edge on the final ball of Anukul Roy's over and the PBKS batters wanted to steal a single. A direct hit from Sunil Narine at the striker's end saw Prabhsimran being run out. Punjab Kings need 169 runs in 84 balls. PBKS 93/1 (6) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 22:01 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Prabhsimran slams fifty! Prabhsimran Singh races to his half-century in 18 balls. He slammed Sunil Narine for a four and a six in the first two deliveries of his over to reach the milestone.  PBKS 67/0 (4.2) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:55 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Prabhsimran on fire! Prabhsimran Singh has set the tone for PBKS' chase with a sensational start. He is batting on 36 off 13 balls. 23 runs came off Dushmantha Chameera's second over and KKR are under pressure now. PBKS 45/0 (3) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:44 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: The chase begins 8 runs came off the first over of the PBKS innings. Dushmantha Chameera bowled the over. PBKS 8/0 (1) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:33 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: KKR post 261 for 6! KKR have posted their second-highest total in the history of IPL. The Shreyas Iyer-led side has put 261 runs on the board. Meanwhile, this is the highest score at the Eden Gardens. facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:16 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: OUT! Arshdeep Singh claimed the wicket of Shreyas Iyer in it. A total of 10 runs came off the over. KKR are only one run away from the 250-run mark. Harshal Patel will bowl the final over of the innings. Here we go... KKR 249/4 (19) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:10 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Expensive over Sam Curran conceded only two singles off the first two balls but what followed was absolute carnage from Shreyas Iyer. He slammed the PBKS stand in captain for three sixes and a four in the remaining four balls. KKR 239/3 (18) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:06 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Can KKR get past 250? KKR are scoring at 12.65 runs per over. They have Shreyas and Venkatesh in the crease with Angkrish and Rinku yet to come. The side can target a total of 250 plus as it has enough batting fire power.  KKR 215/3 (17) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 21:01 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: WICKET! Arshdeep Singh bowled an expensive over but managed to get the wicket of Andre Russell in it. 16 runs came off the over. Russell got out on the third legal delivery of the over. It was s short ball directly at the body of Russell and the batter top-edged it. KKR 206/3 (16) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:50 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: 7-run over This is good bowling from Rahul Chahar. He conceded only 7 runs in the over. Someone between Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer needs to charge now as KKR should maintain their dominance after such a solid batting so far. KKR 176/2 (14) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:43 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: OUT! A big big wicket for PBKS. Philip Salt hammered Sam Curran for two consecutive sixes before the PBKS stand-in skipper took his revenge. Curran bowled a fast yorker to rattle the off stump of Salt, who fell for 75 off 37 balls. KKR 163/2 (12.3) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:35 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: OUT! Only seven runs came off the Rahul Chahar over and a big wicket of Sunil Narine. On the second bal of the over, Narine failed to time his shot well and that fell into the hands of Bairstow at long-on. The KKR opener fell for 71 off 32. KKR 144/1 (11) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:29 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Bizarre delivery from Harshal! Harshal Patel, under pressure, bowled a delivery even outside the pitch. As per the rules of cricket, it was given a no-ball by the umpire. A total of 19 runs came off the over. KKR 137/0 (10) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:22 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: What a review! A brilliant review from Sunil Narine helped him save his wicket after umpire raised his finger over an LBW appeal. Later in the over, Phil Salt raced to his half-century.  KKR 118/0 (9) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:16 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Fifty for Sunil Narine! Sunil Narine raced to his half-century in 23 balls in the over of Kagiso Rabada that saw KKR fetching 22 runs. After Narine slammed the fifty, KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan gave a thumbs up to the bowler. KKR 105/0 (8) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:10 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Another catch dropped! On the fifth ball of Rahul Chahar's over, Kagiso Rabada dropped Philip Salt's catch which was the third drop by PBKS in this innings. Their fielding has been really poor tonight.  KKR 83/0 (7) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 20:05 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: End of powerplay! This is just another flying start for KKR. Sunil Narine is batting on 38 off 15 while Phil Salt is on 35 off 21. This partnership is now turning out to be too dangerous for PBKS. They need a breakthrough to bounce back, they badly need it. KKR 76/0 (6) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:58 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: KKR flying high 32 runs have come off the last two overs for KKR. Kagiso Rabada was hit for 21 before Sam Curran followed it up with an 11-run over. KKR 70/0 (5) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:48 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Expensive over Harshal Patel leaked 18 runs in his first over. Philip Salt slammed two sixes and a four in the over. KKR 38/0 (3) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:43 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: 13-run over Two poor balls in the over against Sunil Narine and Arshdeep Singh paid the price of it. The first one was a short ball that was pulled over square leg for a six by Narine while the next one was a slower full toss that was hit over the mid-on for a four.   KKR 20/0 (2) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:36 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Good start for Sam Curran Sam Curran bowled smartly in the first over and that saw him conceding only 7 runs in it. Despite trying a lot, Sunil Narine could hit only one four in the over. KKR 7/0 (1) facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:31 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live Score: Match starts! Sam Curran with the new ball in hand. Phil Salt is on strike. Here we go... It's a dot ball to start with for Curran. A back of length ball on the stumps and Salt was happy to defend it. facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:13 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Impact subs - Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh, Rishi Dhawan, Vidhwath Kaverappa, Shivam Singh, Prince Choudhary Kolkata Knight Riders: Suyash Sharma, Anukul Roy, Manish Pandey, Vaibhav Arora, Rahmanullah Gurbaz facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:09 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: Playing XIs - Punjab Kings: Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran(c), Rilee Rossouw, Jitesh Sharma(w), Shashank Singh, Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh Kolkata Knight Riders: Philip Salt(w), Sunil Narine, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Shreyas Iyer(c), Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Dushmantha Chameera, Varun Chakaravarthy, Harshit Rana facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:07 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Here is what the two captains said - PBKS stand-in captain Sam Curran said: "We will have a bowl. We had 4 games at home, unfortunately lost all four, guys are ready for the away games though. We know what we need to do from here, just go out and play. Liam Livingstone misses out, Jonny Bairstow is back." KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer said: "We've had different players stepping up at different times, that's the thing I'm pleased about this season. Starcy got a cut on his finger in the last game, Dushmantha Chameera replaces him. Need a great start and then convert it into a big score, hoping to continue the same form and momentum." facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 19:05 (IST) KKR vs PBKS Live: KKR opt to bowl Punjab Kings stand-in captain Sam Curran wins toss, opts to bowl against Kolkata Knight Riders in an IPL 2024 match. facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 18:39 (IST) IPL 2024 Live: Venkatesh yet to impress this season Only Venkatesh Iyer's poor form has stuck out like a sore thumb and Nitish Rana's finger fracture has not only robbed KKR of a master player of spinners but also a very handy off-break bowler. facebook twitter Share Link
• April 26 2024 18:21 (IST) Live Score: PBKS' top-order woes While KKR top-order has done the bulk of their scoring, it's the opposite in case of Punjab Kings who have struggled to get it going from the outset. The likes of Prabhsimran Singh, Liam Livingstone, Rilee Rossouw and Jonny Bairstow have failed to get into the act. It's their uncapped duo of Ashustosh and Shashank who have salvaged the team from precarious situations with their astonishing powerhitting. facebook twitter Share Link

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